Lawyer
Specializes in international migration issues – registration of documents in Ukraine and abroad (Hungary, Romania, China, Türkiye, Israel, etc.) for citizens of Ukraine and foreigners.
Golden visa to Europe
In the context of global changes, the Golden Visa in Europe remains a reliable tool for Ukrainians seeking to ensure a secure future for themselves and their families.
This program allows for the legal obtainment of an official residence permit (RP), and in the long run, European citizenship, in exchange for financial investments in the economy of the chosen state.
Legislation is changing: some countries have abolished investments in housing, while others have raised thresholds. As an immigration lawyer, I will analyze the current regulations in detail and explain how to get a Golden Visa with the lowest risks.
What is the Golden Visa and how does this program work
The Golden Visa is a state migration program that offers foreign citizens an accelerated and simplified path to obtaining a residence permit (RP) through investment.
Unlike standard legalization procedures, investment residency does not require passing language exams or permanent residence in the country.
An investor contributes to legally defined assets: real estate purchase, venture funds, company shares, or startup support. For many, this is not just moving to Europe for Ukrainians, but also a powerful method of capital diversification within the stable legal system of the EU.
Advantages of obtaining investment resident status
Legal status in the European Union provides investors with the following privileges:
- Freedom of movement. The ability to travel across Schengen Area countries without additional visas (up to 90 days in every six-month period).
- Security for the whole family. The application can include the spouse, financially dependent children (up to 26 years old), and parents.
- Prospect of an EU passport. The Golden Visa is the foundation for obtaining EU investment citizenship after 5–7 years of naturalization.
- Tax optimization. A number of European states provide substantial preferential tax regimes for new residents on dividends and global income.
Who can apply: key requirements for applicants
European authorities thoroughly vet every candidate for integrity (Due Diligence).
Key legislative requirements in 2026:
- Legal age and no criminal record. The applicant must not be under sanctions or have a criminal past.
- Legality of funds. The investor is required to provide comprehensive documentation confirming the legal origin of the money (sale of business, dividends, tax declarations).
- Financial independence. Possession of a stable income outside the country of investment and international medical insurance.
Popular countries: current conditions and investment thresholds
Migration rules are changing rapidly. If the Golden Visa Spain was previously a leader due to the option of buying housing, this possibility is now almost eliminated. Similarly, the Golden Visa Portugal canceled the acquisition of real estate, shifting the focus to venture funds (from €500,000).
Conversely, the Golden Visa Greece remains very popular. Although the real estate threshold in Athens and Mykonos has increased to €800,000, buying housing in other regions is possible from €400,000. A favorable option is also available: investing from €250,000 in the conversion of commercial premises into residential ones.
Another interesting offer is Hungary, where a 10-year residence permit for investment (GIP) is issued for an investment of €250,000 in specialized funds or €500,000 in residential real estate.
Comparison of Investment Residency Programs in the EU
| Country | Minimum Investment | Main Investment Path (2026) |
| Greece | From €250,000 | Conversion of commercial real estate, shares |
| Portugal | From €500,000 | Shares in venture and investment funds |
| Hungary | From €250,000 | Real estate funds, residential real estate purchase (from €500,000) |
| Italy | From €250,000 | Investments in national innovative startups |
Stages and procedure for obtaining a residence permit
The procedure for obtaining status requires strict adherence to legal regulations. The general algorithm is as follows:
- Preliminary compliance. In-depth verification of the applicant’s reputation and the legal origin of their capital by lawyers.
- Object selection. Selection of a fund or real estate, opening an account, and obtaining a tax number.
- Transaction execution. Transfer of funds and legal formalization of the deal according to local laws.
- Application submission. Collection of biometric data, dossier preparation, and submission to migration authorities.
- Card obtainment. Formalization of the document that allows legal residence in Europe.
How a qualified immigration lawyer can help
Any error in documents or incorrectly chosen investment object can lead to the blocking of funds or refusal to issue a visa.
A professional immigration lawyer accompanies the client every step of the way: from financial audit to communication with European officials.
We analyze commercial deals, check the integrity of real estate objects, and protect your interests before state regulators, which guarantees absolute compliance with current EU norms.
Don’t postpone strategic decisions. Rules are becoming stricter every year. Order a consultation right now, and we will select the optimal program for your goals and budget, ensuring your move and legalization proceed quickly and safely!
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Are you in Ukraine?
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Are you located abroad?
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Do you have a valid international passport?
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Are you planning to include family on your visa?
Is it possible to buy real estate in Spain or Portugal for the Golden Visa in 2026?
No, Portugal has completely canceled the route through real estate, focusing on investment funds.
Spain has also initiated a refusal to issue visas for real estate purchases to solve the local housing crisis.
What is the validity period of the investment residence permit?
The terms depend on the specific jurisdiction. For example, in Greece, the status is issued for 5 years with the right of permanent renewal, as long as the investment is maintained. In Hungary, GIP status is granted immediately for 10 years.
Do I need to permanently live in Europe after obtaining the status?
Most “Golden” programs do not require permanent residency. For instance, in Portugal, it is sufficient to spend 14 days every two years.
However, if your ultimate goal is European citizenship, you will have to comply with the requirements for actual stay in the country (usually from 183 days a year before applying for a passport).
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