The European Union (EU) is a highly desirable destination for individuals seeking opportunities, security, and freedom of movement. A Golden Visa offers a pathway to residency, which, in some cases, can eventually lead to EU citizenship and the coveted EU passport. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to transition from a Golden Visa to EU citizenship.
What Is a Golden Visa ?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows individuals to reside in an EU country by making a qualifying investment, such as purchasing real estate, creating jobs, or contributing to government funds. Popular EU countries offering Golden Visas include Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta.The main benefits of a Golden Visa include :
- • Residency in an EU country.
- Access to education, healthcare, and business opportunities.
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
However, it’s important to note that a Golden Visa does not automatically grant citizenship.
Pathway to EU Citizenship
Acquiring citizenship after obtaining a Golden Visa requires fulfilling certain legal, residency, and integration requirements. Here’s how the process works :
Maintain Residency Requirements
To be eligible for citizenship, you must meet the minimum residency requirements set by the host country.
1. Portugal : A Flexible Pathway to Citizenship
Golden Visa Highlights
- Investing €280,000–€500,000 in real estate.
- Transferring €1.5 million in capital.
- Creating 10 jobs or investing €500,000 in research or culture.
Pathway to Citizenship
Residency Requirements : Stay in Portugal for only 7 days per year over 5 years.Timeline : Citizenship can be applied for after 5 years of residency.
Integration : Pass a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level) and demonstrate ties to the community.
Portugal’s program stands out for allowing dual citizenship and offering a clear pathway to an EU passport in just 5 years.
2. Malta: The Fastest Route to EU Citizenship
Golden Visa Highlights
Malta offers a direct Citizenship by Investment program (Malta Individual Investor Program – MIIP), as well as a residency pathway:
Citizenship Option :
Make a donation of €750,000–€900,000 to the national development fund, invest €700,000 in property or rent, and contribute €10,000 to a local NGO.
Residency Option: Invest €250,000 in government bonds or property.
Pathway to Citizenship
Residency Requirements : Citizenship can be granted in as little as 1 year with a higher investment or 3 years under standard terms.
Integration : Applicants must provide proof of residence, undergo background checks, and contribute to Malta’s economy.Malta offers the fastest route to an EU passport, with visa-free access to over 180 countries, including the US and Canada.
3. Greece : A Cost-Effective Golden Visa
Golden Visa Highlights
Greece’s Golden Visa program is one of the most affordable, requiring:
A real estate investment of at least €250,000 (increased to €500,000 in certain areas after 2023).
Alternatively, lease agreements for tourist accommodations.
Pathway to Citizenship
Residency Requirements : Applicants must maintain residency for 7 years before applying for citizenship.
Timeline : Citizenship can be granted after proving residency and ties to Greece.
Integration : Must pass Greek language and cultural knowledge tests.Greece’s program is popular for its affordability and visa-free access to the Schengen Area. However, the 7-year residency requirement may deter those seeking a faster pathway to citizenship.