Key Takeaways
- Hungary ranks as the best Golden Visa destination in 2026, with minimum investment from €250,000.
- Greece offers a historic restoration visa at €250,000 and visa-free travel across 29 Schengen countries.
- Cyprus grants permanent residency with no full-time stay requirement; Portugal provides a fast track to citizenship in 5 years.
- Experts warn: consider legal fees, tax residency rules, and “grandfathering” protections before applying.
Moving abroad is a dream for many, but the paperwork and costs can be daunting. However, Golden Visas—residency-by-investment programs—are making it easier than ever to secure a European backup plan.
With Spain ending its program in 2025, a new ranking by law firm Philippou Law highlights the five top European countries still offering these visas. The best part? Investments often start well below the average UK house price of £301,000.
Hungary: The Surprise Leader for 2026
Hungary has emerged as a top contender, offering a 10-year residency that can be renewed for another decade. The minimum investment is €250,000 (approx. £216,363), and the cost of living is nearly half that of the UK—around €2,265 per month for a family of four.
- Residency can lead to permanent status after three years of full-time living.
- Citizenship is possible after eight years.
- Holders and their families gain access to national healthcare.
- Known for low crime, strong education, and a relaxed pace of life.
Greece: Historic Restoration Visas at €250,000
Greece raised its standard Golden Visa threshold, but a special €250,000 Historic Restoration visa remains popular. This requires investing in real estate restoration or commercial-to-residential conversions.
- The residence permit is valid for five years, renewable every five years.
- Family members—spouse, children, and parents—can be included.
- Visa-free travel across Greece and all 29 Schengen countries.
- Citizenship pathway: seven years; living costs 30% lower than in the UK.
Cyprus: Permanent Residency from Day One
Cyprus is a favorite among British expats, offering permanent residency (not just temporary) for a minimum investment of €300,000 (approx. £259,644).
- No need to live full-time; only one visit every two years is required.
- Dependent children up to age 25 (in full-time education) can be included.
- Familiar Common Law system, transparent property rules, and over 3,400 hours of sunshine annually.
- Citizenship takes eight years; living costs are 25% lower than in the UK.
Italy: Long-Term Residency with Schengen Freedom
Italy’s Golden Visa grants a two-year permit, renewable as long as the investment is maintained. The minimum investment is €250,000, and the cost of living is about 15% lower than in the UK.
- Permanent residency possible after five years; citizenship after ten.
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
- High quality of life, excellent healthcare, and world-renowned culture and cuisine.
- Immediate family members—spouse, children, and dependent parents—can be included.
Portugal: Fastest Path to EU Citizenship
Portugal’s program has attracted over 15,000 investors since 2012. The minimum investment is higher—€500,000 (approx. £432,725)—but the payoff is significant.
- Citizenship in just five years—one of Europe’s shortest timelines.
- Only seven days per year required in Portugal to maintain residency.
- Living costs around 20% lower than in the UK.
- Multi-generational options: children, parents, and grandparents can be covered under one investment.
- English is widely spoken; international schools with British curricula are common.
What Experts Say: Know the Fine Print
Golden Visa rules are evolving rapidly. Nikolas Avgousti, Associate at Philippou Law, advises: “In 2026, we are seeing a shift—it’s no longer just a holiday home dream; it’s about having options and freedom. Secondary residency has become the ultimate insurance policy.”
Crucial considerations:
- Ensure your investment is “grandfathered” in case rules change for future applicants.
- The headline price is rarely the final cost—add legal fees, due diligence, stamp duties, and private health insurance.
- Residency status is different from tax residency; staying too long may trigger tax obligations in your new country.
Golden Visas offer a gateway to Europe, but thorough research and professional advice are essential to avoid unexpected costs and complications.