In 2025, the global investment migration landscape is witnessing a significant shift. Despite the introduction of the U.S. “Gold Card” visa program, European Golden Visa schemes continue to attract more interest from global investors, particularly those seeking cost-effective and flexible residency options.
The U.S. ‘Gold Card’ Visa: Ambitious Yet Controversial
In February 2025, President Donald Trump announced the “Gold Card,” offering U.S. permanent residency in exchange for a $5 million investment. This initiative aims to replace the EB-5 visa program, which had a lower investment threshold of $800,000. While the administration claimed that 1,000 Gold Cards were sold on the first day, interest in the program declined rapidly, with many investors turning their attention to more affordable European alternatives.
Critics argue that the high cost of the U.S. Gold Card may deter potential investors, especially when compared to more accessible European programs. Additionally, the program’s legal foundation is uncertain, as significant changes to immigration policy typically require Congressional approval. The lack of clarity regarding tax obligations for Gold Card holders further complicates its appeal.
Greece: A Mediterranean Magnet for Investors
Greece’s Golden Visa program has emerged as a top choice for investors seeking European residency. In 2024, Greece received a record 9,289 applications for its Golden Visa program, representing real estate investments totaling at least €2.32 billion. The program offers a five-year residency permit to non-EU nationals who invest in real estate, with minimum investment thresholds ranging from €250,000 to €800,000, depending on the property’s location.
The program’s popularity is particularly notable among Chinese, Turkish, and Lebanese nationals, with Chinese investors receiving over 6,000 Golden Visas as of January 2025. The surge in applications has led to a significant backlog, with over 50,000 pending cases, highlighting the program’s appeal despite administrative challenges.
Hungary: Europe’s Newest Golden Visa Contender
Hungary reintroduced its Golden Visa program in 2024, offering a 10-year residence permit to non-EU investors. The program requires a minimum investment of €250,000 in local real estate funds or a €1 million donation to an institution of higher learning. Notably, the program has no language, education, or residency requirements, making it an attractive option for investors seeking flexibility.
Hungary’s strategic location in Central Europe, coupled with its affordable cost of living and access to the Schengen Area, enhances its appeal to global investors. The program’s streamlined application process and long-term residency benefits position Hungary as a competitive alternative to more established Golden Visa programs.
Portugal: Adapting to Housing Market Concerns
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly concerning real estate investments. In response to housing market pressures, the government has eliminated the real estate investment option, shifting focus to other investment avenues, such as contributions to local businesses. Investors can now qualify for residency by contributing at least €500,000 to the authorized capital of a Portuguese company and creating a specified number of jobs.
Despite these changes, Portugal remains a popular destination for investors due to its favorable climate, high quality of life, and access to the Schengen Area. The program’s adaptability demonstrates Portugal’s commitment to balancing foreign investment with domestic housing concerns.
Malta: Navigating Legal Challenges
Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program has faced legal scrutiny from the European Union. In 2025, the European Court of Justice ruled that Malta’s program violated EU law by commercializing citizenship. While this decision impacts Malta’s citizenship initiatives, it does not affect residence-based investment programs in other EU countries, which continue to attract significant foreign investment.
The ruling has prompted discussions about the future of investment migration programs within the EU, highlighting the need for transparency and adherence to legal frameworks. Despite these challenges, Malta’s program remains a point of interest for investors seeking EU citizenship pathways.
Apex Capital Partners: Guiding Investors Through Complex Landscapes
As the investment migration landscape evolves, firms like Apex Capital Partners play a crucial role in guiding investors through the complexities of various programs. With expertise in navigating legal frameworks and investment requirements, Apex Capital Partners assists clients in identifying opportunities that align with their financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
By staying abreast of policy changes and market trends, Apex Capital Partners ensures that investors make informed decisions in an ever-changing global environment. Their commitment to providing personalized solutions underscores the importance of expert guidance in the realm of investment migration.
European Golden Visas: The Preferred Choice for Global Investors
The continued popularity of European Golden Visa programs underscores the importance of affordability, flexibility, and legal certainty in residency-by-investment schemes. While the U.S. “Gold Card” presents an ambitious approach to attracting wealthy investors, its high cost and legal ambiguities have limited its appeal.
In contrast, European programs offer more accessible investment thresholds, streamlined application processes, and the added benefit of Schengen Area access. As global investors seek secure and cost-effective pathways to residency, European Golden Visas remain the preferred choice in 2025.
