Breakdown of Countries That Give You Residency

Buying property in another country can do more than give you a place to live or an asset to hold. In a growing number of countries, it can give you the legal right to live there and, in some cases, a pathway to citizenship.

These are called Golden Visa programmes, and they're more accessible than most people realise.

Here's a breakdown of the main countries and what their programmes offer.

Portugal

One of Europe's most popular Golden Visa destinations. Investment thresholds vary by region and investment type, with property in low-density areas qualifying at lower amounts. Holders get residency rights in Portugal and access to the Schengen Area. After five years of residency, citizenship is available.

Greece

One of the lowest property investment thresholds in Europe for residency. The Greek Golden Visa grants residency in Greece and Schengen travel. It doesn't require you to live in Greece to maintain the visa, making it attractive for investors who want residency rights without relocating.

Spain

Higher investment threshold than Greece, but Spain offers a large economy, strong infrastructure, and access to the wider EU. The Spanish Golden Visa also comes with Schengen Area access and a pathway to permanent residency after five years.

UAE (Dubai)

Dubai offers a property investment visa that grants long-term residency. No requirement to live there full-time to maintain it. Strong rental yields in certain areas make this particularly attractive for investors who want the residency as an option while the property generates income.

Turkey

One of the more accessible programmes globally. Investment in qualifying property grants Turkish citizenship directly, not just residency. Turkey has a strong passport with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a significant number of countries.

Caribbean (St Kitts, Grenada, Dominica, Antigua)

Citizenship-by-investment programmes that include property as a qualifying route. Processing times are faster than most European programmes. Grenada's passport includes access to the US E-2 visa, which makes it particularly sought after by investors.

How House48 helps

House48's Marketplace surfaces properties in Golden Visa qualifying markets, and the Concierge supports buyers navigating the application process alongside the property purchase.

Start exploring Golden Visa property at thehouse48.com