Dreaming of second residency. Golden visas make that a reality for many. These investment-based residency schemes offer a fast track to living in another country—without needing to work or have family ties there.

Some programmes are complex or expensive. Others are straightforward, quick, and surprisingly affordable. Below, we highlight the five easiest golden visa options in 2025. These countries offer the best mix of accessibility, speed, and benefits.

Portugal: The Classic Easy Option

Simple but effective process. Portugal’s golden visa is famous for being accessible. While changes in 2023 removed real estate as a qualifying investment, other easy options remain.

Investment options include:

• €500,000 into an approved private equity or venture capital fund.
  
  
• €250,000 donation to cultural heritage.
  
  

Why it’s easy:

• Application takes only 6–9 months.
  
  
• Just 7 days of stay per year required.
  
  
• Family reunification included.
  
  

Extra perks: Portugal offers a pathway to permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after that—with no requirement to live there full-time.

? Learn more: Easiest Golden Visa Programs

Greece: Low-Cost Entry and Fast Processing

One of Europe’s most affordable. Greece’s golden visa is ideal for those who want a foothold in the EU with minimal paperwork.

Investment option:

• €250,000 in real estate (or €500,000 in selected areas as of 2024 changes).
  
  

Why it’s easy:

• No physical stay requirement.
  
  
• Can rent out the property immediately.
  
  
• Application processed in 2–4 months.
  
  

Extra perks: Residency includes Schengen access. Plus, Greece has no language requirement for residency renewal.

Best for: Property investors looking for sun, sea, and simplified bureaucracy.

United Arab Emirates (UAE): Investor-Friendly and Tax-Free

A non-European option. The UAE’s golden visa targets entrepreneurs, investors, and high-earning professionals. It’s a solid option if you want residency in a business hub.

Investment option:

• AED 2 million (~€500,000) in property.
  
  
• Or invest in a UAE-based company.
  
  

Why it’s easy:

• 10-year renewable visa.
  
  
• Fast digital application process.
  
  
• No income tax.
  
  

Extra perks: You don’t need to live full-time in the UAE. The country also offers top-tier infrastructure and lifestyle for remote workers and families alike.

Note: There is no path to citizenship, but the golden visa offers strong long-term residency security.

Panama: The Digital Nomad’s Golden Visa

For global entrepreneurs. Panama offers a mix of low-cost entry, territorial taxation, and strong financial privacy. Its “Qualified Investor” visa is one of the easiest globally.

Investment options:

• $300,000 in real estate.
  
  
• Or $500,000 in a fixed-term bank deposit.
  
  

Why it’s easy:

• Permanent residency granted immediately.
  
  
• No need to live in Panama full-time.
  
  
• Friendly tax system—no tax on overseas income.
  
  

Extra perks: English is widely spoken, and Panama uses the US dollar. The entire application can be handled remotely, with just one visit to activate it.

Spain: A Reliable Route to EU Residency

A solid backup plan. Spain’s golden visa offers flexibility for non-EU investors, especially those looking to spend more time in Europe.

Investment options:

• €500,000 in Spanish real estate.
  
  
• Or €1 million in Spanish bank deposits or shares.
  
  

Why it’s easy:

• No minimum stay requirement for residency.
  
  
• Fast-track visa appointments available.
  
  
• Family members included in one application.
  
  

Extra perks: Spain provides top healthcare, a relaxed lifestyle, and strong rental returns in many cities. While full citizenship requires 10 years, the visa is renewable indefinitely.

Conclusion: Which Golden Visa is Right for You?

Consider your lifestyle goals. The easiest golden visa doesn’t mean the same thing for everyone. Some value low investment. Others prefer quick processing or tax benefits.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Final tip: Choose a country that matches your investment style, travel habits, and long-term goals. Whether it’s Europe’s charm or the UAE’s fast pace, a golden visa opens new doors—without uprooting your life.

? For a deeper breakdown, check out the full guide on easiest golden visa programs