Recently, there’s been a surge in “golden” visas among affluent Americans, according to insights from Moe Bennis, an associate vice president at Arton Capital, a global financial consultancy. He noted that many see these visas as a protective measure during uncertain times.
Bennis highlighted five key destinations where his firm has seen a noticeable increase in interest for 2025. Here they are:
Portugal
In Portugal, the LXL Ventures Fund presents a five-year investment residency program tailored for non-EU nationals. This special visa enables individuals to live, work, and study in Portugal and travel sans a visa within the Schengen zone.
Interestingly, the program stipulates that holders only need to spend an average of seven days per year in Portugal. Bennis claimed, “Portugal remains the gold visa standard. Despite the longer processing times, it’s one of the easiest ways to secure EU residency, especially through fund-based options with minimal physical presence. For many investors, the long-term citizenship path outweighs short-term difficulties.”
There’s been a 571% rise in traffic from the U.S. to Lisbon-based Vida Capital in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year.
Greece
Bennis remarked that Greece is generating buzz regarding its golden visas in 2025. He pointed out that “the lower barrier to entry, quicker processing, and straightforward real estate options make it appealing for investors seeking clarity, speed, and quality of life all in one go.”
Greece has a two-tier system, which requires a minimum real estate investment of around $600,000 in popular areas like Athens, or approximately $300,000 in others. Golden visa holders here can also travel freely throughout the Schengen zone.
United Arab Emirates
Bennis stated, “The UAE is quickly becoming a prominent non-European choice.” Many affluent individuals are prioritizing long-term residency, tax benefits, and stability, all of which the UAE’s Golden Visa provides efficiently.
Notably, the UAE has a 0% income tax for both corporations and employees. To qualify for the Golden Visa as an investor, one must invest at least $545,000 in either a UAE fund or business, or hold an equivalent ownership interest in a local company. The visa is valid for 10 years, and the UAE has been recognized as the most stable country allowing for freedom of movement.
Malta
Mr. Bennis noted that Malta continues to attract families seeking desirable and strong legal residency options within the EU. One of the main benefits is the ability to include adult children as dependents, which is becoming important for families planning across generations.
To obtain a visa, one must either buy property in Malta for about $410,000 or rent at approximately $14,000 per year. Property should be held for at least five years, and there’s a government donation requirement of around $68,000 for rentals and about $33,000 for purchases.
Botswana
As the year 2025 wraps up and eyes turn to 2026, Botswana is emerging as a significant destination in Africa. Bennis mentioned that the government hasn’t fixed a minimum investment requirement, but applicants must showcase tangible business investment.
The Impact Citizenship Program is expected to launch in early 2026, but there’s already substantial interest, with over 1,000 applicants, many of whom are U.S. citizens. Investors are keen on Botswana due to its political stability and sound governance.
