Imagine opening up a world where elite status is attainable with investment, possibilities abound, and borders disappear. High-net-worth individuals who want independence, security, and access to new economic opportunities more than just a passport are still drawn to Golden Visa programs in 2025. But at what price? Due to the skyrocketing cost of obtaining residency by investment, only the wealthy can participate in these programs.
Access to these esteemed countries, which range from the sun-kissed beaches of Malta to the tall financial centers of Luxembourg, comes at a high cost. While some nations need large deposits into financial institutions, others want multi-million dollar investments in venture capital firms, real estate, and government bonds. These programs offer unmatched worldwide mobility, access to first-rate healthcare and education, and a stable financial future to the select few who can afford them.
However, which nations demand the most financial outlays? In 2025, these are the top eight most costly Golden Visa programs, arranged according to the minimum investment required. Are you prepared to investigate the most expensive routes to permanent residence abroad?
Luxembourg – Minimum Investment: €20 Million
Luxembourg requires a minimum investment of €20 million, making it one of the most expensive residency-by-investment programs. The investment is typically made as a lump sum deposit into a qualifying financial institution in Luxembourg. The program targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals, and the purpose is to attract wealthy investors who can contribute significantly to the country’s banking and financial sectors. This program doesn’t have a lower investment threshold, so it’s designed to cater only to billionaires.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Exclusive to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
- Primarily benefits Luxembourg’s banking and financial sectors.
- No options for lower investment amounts, making it out of reach for most people.
For more details, you can refer to Luxembourg’s Official Immigration Website.
Read Also: Most Expensive Golden Visa Countries in 2025
Australia – US$2.5 Million Investment
The Business Innovation and Investment Visa in Australia requires an investment of at least AUD 3.75 million (US$2.5 million) into approved funds, businesses, or government bonds. Australia is a high-demand destination for wealthy investors due to its strong economy, excellent healthcare, and top-tier education system.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Restrictive investment categories.
- Applicants must meet business turnover or management experience requirements.
- No direct citizenship pathway without extended residency, making it a long-term commitment.
More details can be found on Australia’s Immigration Website.
Italy – €2 Million Investment
Italy offers an Investor Visa program, which requires a minimum of €2 million investment, specifically in Italian government bonds. This investment provides visa-free travel within the Schengen area, but it takes at least 10 years to achieve Italian citizenship.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Investment must be tied up in low-risk government bonds.
- The pathway to citizenship is lengthy (10 years).
- Extensive due diligence and background checks.
For further information, visit Italy’s Investor Visa Website.
Jersey (Channel Islands, UK) – £1.75 Million (US$2.2 Million)
Jersey’s High-Value Residency Programme requires the purchase or lease of real estate worth at least £1.75 million. This provides residency benefits in the British Isles, but does not offer a direct path to UK citizenship. It’s popular among financial professionals due to Jersey’s low tax environment.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Strict financial scrutiny of applicants.
- No direct UK citizenship path.
- Real estate prices in Jersey are among the highest in Europe.
Learn more on Jersey’s Government Website.
Singapore – S$2.5 Million (US$1.8 Million) Investment
Singapore’s Global Investor Programme (GIP) requires an investment of at least S$2.5 million (~US$1.8 million) into approved businesses or funds. The program is highly selective and designed to attract high-caliber investors with a track record of success.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- The vetting process is stringent and selective.
- Strict background checks are conducted.
- Investment must be directed toward high-growth sectors.
For more details, visit Singapore’s Economic Development Board.
United States (EB-5 Visa) – US$1.05 Million Investment
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires an investment of US$1.05 million in most areas or US$800,000 in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs). The program grants U.S. permanent residency and can eventually lead to citizenship. Investors are also required to create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Long processing times (up to 5 years).
- Job creation requirements (must create 10 full-time jobs).
- Higher investment in urban areas.
More information can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Malta – Total Cost Up to €750,000
Malta’s Residency and Citizenship by Investment Programme combines government contributions, real estate purchases, and fund investments, totaling up to €750,000. Malta offers EU residency, and the investor enjoys visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- High government donation requirement.
- Long processing time (over 12 months).
- Strict due diligence and background checks.
Find out more on Malta’s Government Residency Website.
Portugal – €500,000 in Funds (Real Estate No Longer Eligible)
Portugal’s Golden Visa program was reformed in 2023, removing real estate as an eligible investment category. Investors are now required to invest €500,000 into qualifying venture capital funds. The program is attractive due to minimal residency stay requirements (just 7 days per year) and a fast track to citizenship after five years.
- Why It’s Expensive:
- Investment must be maintained for 5 years.
- Real estate investment option no longer available.
- The compliance and fund selection process is stringent.
Visit Portugal Golden Visa Program Website for more details.
Conclusion:
Golden Visa programs offer high-net-worth individuals unmatched access to first-rate healthcare, education, and economic possibilities, along with unrestricted travel. However, only the wealthiest investors can access them because to the significant financial requirements. Countries with high investment criteria that provide long-term advantages to those who can afford them, such as Luxembourg, Australia, and Malta, continue to lead the pack in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Golden Visa program?
Through a Golden Visa scheme, people can become citizens or residents of a country by investing a sizable sum of money, usually in venture capital, government bonds, or real estate.
Why are Golden Visa programs so expensive?
These schemes are intended for extremely wealthy people and necessitate large financial outlays, frequently in industries like government bonds, banking, business, and real estate. Rich investors who can boost the nation’s economy are drawn in by the exorbitant cost.
