Greece vs Portugal Golden Visa: Which Is Better?

Greece Golden Visa and Portugal Golden Visa are both permanent residency-by-investment programs that allow non-EU nationals to live, travel freely within the Schengen Zone, and eventually apply for European citizenship. These programs attract global investors seeking a strategic gateway to Europe, offering lifestyle benefits, security, and long-term opportunities for their families.

Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa programs stand among the top Golden Visa options in Europe due to their strong real estate markets, high quality of life, and accessible residency pathways. That’s why choosing between them can often feel challenging, as each program has its unique advantages depending on your goals, whether it’s citizenship, lifestyle, or investment potential.

The key differences between the two programs lie mainly in eligibility, cost, and long-term benefits. Greece’s Golden Visa offers a lower entry point starting from €250,000, making it one of the most affordable residency programs in the EU. However, while it provides a path to citizenship after seven years, visa holders cannot work in Greece except for managing their own property. On the other hand, the Portugal Golden Visa comes with a higher investment threshold (starting from €500,000 for most real estate options) but offers the right to work, and a faster route to citizenship in just five years, making it highly appealing to investors seeking quicker integration into the EU.

In this article, we’ll compare both programs across several key aspects, including requirements, investment cost, residency duration, taxation, and citizenship eligibility, to help you clearly understand the pros and cons of each and determine which Golden Visa program best aligns with your goals.

Quality of Life

Both Greece and Portugal offer exceptional quality of life, but each caters to slightly different lifestyles and priorities.

Greece combines a rich ancient heritage with a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Residents enjoy over 250 days of sunshine a year, scenic islands, and a slower pace of life ideal for relaxation or retirement. The cost of living is relatively affordable, particularly outside major cities like Athens, and healthcare services have improved significantly, especially through private facilities. While education options in English are more limited compared to Portugal, international schools are available in Athens and Thessaloniki.

Portugal, on the other hand, ranks consistently among the top European countries for safety, healthcare, and education quality. It offers a more structured public system, widespread English proficiency, and a welcoming environment for expatriates and families. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer a vibrant mix of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and coastal beauty, though at a slightly higher cost of living compared to Greece.

In summary, Greece appeals more to those seeking an affordable, scenic, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, while Portugal suits families and professionals looking for strong infrastructure, excellent education, and a balanced modern European experience.

Residency Validity Period

Greece Golden Visa offers one of the most straightforward residency options in Europe. The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the property investment or qualifying asset is maintained.

In contrast, the Portugal Golden Visa initially grants residency for two years, followed by renewals every three years. This residency structure encourages deeper integration, particularly for those planning to pursue Portuguese citizenship later.

Investment Options

Greece Golden Visa and Portugal Golden Visa both offer multiple investment routes, but they differ significantly in focus, cost, and flexibility.

The investment options for obtaining the Greece Golden Visa include real estate and financial investments. For real estate, the minimum investment is €250,000. Financial options include investing €800,000 in shares, bonds, or government bonds, €350,000–€500,000 in Greek companies or funds, or €500,000 in a fixed-term bank deposit. A newer option also allows a €250,000 investment in approved Greek startups.

Meanwhile, the Portugal Golden Visa no longer includes real estate purchases. Instead, investors can qualify through fund investments (minimum €500,000), business creation or job generation, scientific research funding, or cultural and heritage donations starting from €250,000.

In short, Greece focuses on tangible property investments with strong ROI potential, while Portugal targets fund-based and business-driven investments aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth.

Below is a comparison between the two Golden Visa Programs in terms of Investment options available:

Greece Golden Visa Investment Options

The Greek program focuses on accessible entry and flexibility across several pathways:

Real Estate Investment

• Tier 1: €500,000 minimum in high-demand areas such as central Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
• Tier 2: €400,000 in commercial-use property or in other parts of Greece.
• Tier 3: €250,000 in residential property in low-demand regions is the most affordable entry point.
• Alternatively, investors may lease a hotel or tourist residence for long-term use.

Capital Contribution

Invest €400,000 in a Greek company, including government or corporate bonds, or property-linked bonds.

Investment in Financial Instruments

Minimum €400,000 in shares, hedge funds, REICs, or Greek government bonds.

Capital Transfer

Deposit €400,000 in a Greek credit institution as a fixed-term deposit.

This program remains ideal for investors looking to combine EU residency benefits with tangible property ownership and rental income potential.

Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options

Since the real estate path ended, Portugal’s Golden Visa now targets innovation, culture, and job creation through these options:

Certified Investment Funds

Invest €500,000 in approved venture capital or private equity funds.

Cultural Heritage & Arts

Contribute €250,000 to national heritage restoration or cultural projects.

Scientific Research

Invest €500,000 in research activities conducted by public or private institutions.

Business Creation & Job Generation

€500,000 investment in a company, with a requirement to create or maintain 10 jobs (5 permanent).

Alternatively, direct creation of 10 jobs without the capital requirement (3 in low-density areas).

Portugal’s program thus appeals to investors who want to contribute to the country’s innovation ecosystem or expand their business presence in the EU.

In summary, Greece offers the most affordable and straightforward entry through real estate, while Portugal focuses on long-term economic growth through innovation, employment, and sustainability-driven investments.

Path to Citizenship

Both Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa programs can eventually lead to citizenship, but the timelines and residency conditions differ.

Greece Golden Visa holders/investors can apply for citizenship after seven years of continuous legal residence. However, to qualify for citizenship, the Visa investors must physically reside in Greece for the majority of those years and demonstrate integration into Greek society, including basic language proficiency and familiarity with Greek culture and laws.

The path to Portugal citizenship is faster and more flexible than in Greece. Portuguese Golden Visa Investors can apply for Portugal citizenship after five years of legal residence, provided they maintain their qualifying investment and spend an average of seven days per year in the country. 

In summary, Portugal offers a faster and more flexible route to citizenship, while Greece provides a more affordable residency option but requires longer residence and deeper integration for those pursuing citizenship.

Mobility

Both Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs grant investors and their families visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, which includes 27 European countries. This allows residents to move freely for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180 days without needing additional visas.

Family Inclusion

Both the Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs are family-friendly, allowing investors to include immediate family members under their residency permits. The eligibility conditions for children and parents under each program are as follows:

Children over 18

Under the Greece Golden Visa, children up to age 21 can be included if they are unmarried and financially dependent. This can be extended up to age 24 if the child is a full-time student in Greece.

The Portugal Golden Visa allows the inclusion of children of any age, as long as they are unmarried, full-time students, and financially dependent on the main applicant throughout the residency period.

Parents

In Greece, both the investor’s parents and the spouse’s parents can be included, regardless of age, and no dependency requirement applies to one of the most flexible policies in Europe.

In Portugal, parents can also be included, but typically only if they are aged 55 or older and financially dependent, or 65 and above, regardless of dependence.

Tax Regime

When comparing Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa tax systems, it’s important to understand that taxation is not directly tied to obtaining a Golden Visa. You only become subject to local taxation if you spend sufficient time in the country to qualify as a tax resident, generally defined as residing there for more than 183 days per year.

If you’re not a tax resident, you only pay taxes on income generated within the host country, such as rental income or capital gains from property. However, once you become a tax resident, you are required to pay taxes on worldwide income according to the respective country’s tax laws.

Greece Tax Regime

Greece maintains a corporate tax rate of 24% for most companies and a progressive personal income tax system ranging from 9% to 44%, depending on income level. Property owners are subject to the ENFIA annual property tax, which typically ranges from 0.1% to 1.15% of the property’s taxable value. The standard VAT rate is 24%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% for essentials like food, medicine, and tourism services.

Inheritance and gift taxes in Greece vary from 10% to 40%, depending on the degree of kinship and the asset value.

To attract foreign investors and retirees, Greece offers several notable tax incentives:

• Flat 7% tax rate for retirees transferring their tax residency to Greece, applicable on all foreign-sourced income for up to 15 years.
• Non-dom regime: Eligible investors relocating their tax residence to Greece may benefit from full tax exemption on global income, in exchange for a fixed annual contribution of €100,000.
• Tax relief for foreign professionals: Individuals relocating to Greece for employment may qualify for a 50% reduction in income tax for up to seven years under specific conditions.

Overall, Greece’s tax framework is increasingly competitive for investors seeking Mediterranean residency with manageable taxation and lifestyle benefits.

Portugal Tax Regime

Portugal applies a corporate tax rate of 21%, with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) benefiting from a reduced 17% rate on their first €50,000 of taxable income. Personal income tax (IRS) is progressive, ranging from 14.5% to 45%, depending on earnings.

Property owners pay the IMI (Municipal Property Tax), which varies from 0.3% to 0.45% of the property’s taxable value, while property transfers incur the IMT (Property Transfer Tax) of 1% to 8%, depending on property type and price. The standard VAT rate is 23%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% for food, hospitality, and cultural services.

Portugal remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for expatriates and investors due to its tax-efficient programs and lack of inheritance or gift taxes, which significantly benefits family wealth planning.

Key tax advantages include:

• Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) Program: Offers up to 10 years of tax benefits, including exemptions on most foreign-sourced income (such as pensions, dividends, and royalties) and a flat 20% income tax rate for qualifying high-value professions.
• Capital gains tax exemptions for reinvestment in primary residence or within certain EU parameters.
• No inheritance or gift taxes, making Portugal highly attractive for wealth preservation and estate planning.

Portugal’s balanced tax regime, combining transparency, flexibility, and advantageous foreign income rules, strengthens its position as one of the most expat- and investor-friendly environments in Europe.

In short, Portugal provides broader tax exemptions. Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime offers unmatched advantages for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to minimize global tax exposure for a decade. Greece, on the other hand, offers longer-term predictability and lower fixed rates for foreign income. This makes Greece attractive for retirees or high-net-worth individuals seeking a long-term flat tax structure.

Business Opportunities

For businessmen and entrepreneurs seeking a Golden Visa to expand or establish their business in Europe, both Greece and Portugal offer distinct advantages shaped by their economic sectors, strategic location, and investment incentives.

Greece

Greece is rapidly emerging as a strategic business hub in Southeastern Europe, located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This geographic advantage makes it an ideal base for logistics, maritime trade, and regional expansion. The Greek government actively encourages foreign entrepreneurship through:

• Low corporate tax (24%) and attractive tax incentives for innovation, renewable energy, and tourism-related projects.
• A growing startup ecosystem, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki, is supported by EU funding and venture capital networks.
• Sector-specific opportunities in shipping, green energy, logistics, real estate development, and technology, all areas showing steady post-pandemic growth.
• Access to over 500 million EU consumers and ease of cross-border trade within the Schengen Zone.

Foreign investors can also establish Greek subsidiaries or partner with local companies under transparent EU business laws, benefiting from competitive labor costs and increasing foreign direct investment inflows.

Portugal

Portugal has positioned itself as one of Europe’s top destinations for entrepreneurs and investors, driven by its strong economy, tech-friendly environment, and international outlook. 

Key Advantages That Make Portugal an Attractive Place for Entrepreneurs:

• Business-friendly regulations and simplified incorporation procedures: Portugal has one of the fastest and most transparent company setup processes in Europe. You can register a company in as little as one to two days through the “Empresa na Hora” (Company in an Hour) online platform. Low minimum share capital requirements, straightforward tax registration, and efficient licensing make launching or relocating a business cost-effective and seamless for foreign entrepreneurs.

• Thriving innovation and tech ecosystem in Lisbon and Porto: Portugal has emerged as a top European startup hub, ranked among the Top 15 most innovative countries in the EU (European Innovation Scoreboard 2024). Lisbon hosts the Web Summit, one of the world’s largest tech conferences, attracting global investors and talent each year. Government-backed programs like Startup Portugal, Tech Visa, and Portugal Ventures provide funding, mentoring, and visa support to international founders looking to scale.

• Attractive corporate tax rate with strong R&D incentives: The standard corporate income tax rate of 21% (with potential reductions to 17% for SMEs) is complemented by generous R&D tax deductions of up to 82.5% under the SIFIDE II program. Businesses engaged in innovation, technology, or green solutions can also access EU-funded grants, reducing operational costs and increasing profitability.

• Strategic access to global markets: Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Portugal provides unrestricted access to the EU’s 450-million-consumer market, while also serving as a cultural and linguistic bridge to Lusophone markets like Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique economies with a combined population exceeding 270 million. This dual advantage enables businesses to expand across continents with one operational base.

• Skilled, multilingual, and affordable talent pool: Portugal’s workforce ranks among the most educated and multilingual in Southern Europe, with over 70% of young professionals fluent in English. The country produces thousands of STEM graduates annually, fueling growth in IT, biotech, and engineering sectors all at labor costs 30–40% lower than Western European averages, providing a strong competitive edge for startups and tech firms. 

• Modern infrastructure and world-class digital connectivity: Portugal boasts EU-leading fiber-optic coverage, 5G networks, and top-tier logistics infrastructure supported by efficient ports, highways, and airports. Lisbon, Porto, and Braga have all been recognized as Smart Cities, with ongoing investment in green energy, AI research, and digital innovation ecosystems that make doing business efficient and future-ready.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Greece offers affordability, geographic advantage, and traditional sectors like shipping and tourism for entrepreneurs, while Portugal provides a highly developed innovation ecosystem, R&D incentives, and access to global markets.

If your business focus lies in tech, innovation, or international trade, Portugal may offer the edge. However, if you’re seeking strategic location, lower costs, and access to emerging logistics and maritime opportunities, Greece remains an equally compelling choice, particularly for those leveraging the Golden Visa as part of a broader EU business expansion plan.

Investment Opportunities

For high-net-worth individuals and global investors, both Greece and Portugal offer lucrative investment pathways through their Golden Visa programs, not just for residency, but for long-term financial growth and European market exposure. Each country presents a distinct investment landscape suited to different risk profiles and portfolio goals.

Greece

Greece has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for real estate and tourism-driven investments, offering a combination of affordability, rising property values, and strong rental yields. Key investing opportunities in Greece include:

• Real estate investments starting from €250,000 (depending on location), one of the lowest thresholds in Europe for Golden Visa eligibility.
• High ROI potential, especially in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Thessaloniki, where short-term rental demand and property appreciation remain strong.
• Tourism sector investments, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, are a field that consistently contributes over 20% of Greece’s GDP.
• Commercial property investments in logistics, retail, and office spaces, benefiting from growing international business presence.
• Renewable energy projects, particularly in solar and wind energy, are supported by EU sustainability funding.
• Maritime and infrastructure ventures, leveraging Greece’s global leadership in shipping and its strategic Mediterranean ports.

For investors focused on real estate profitability and long-term capital growth, Greece offers steady appreciation and flexible ownership rules, making it a top choice for property-based residency seekers.

Portugal

Portugal’s investment landscape offers exceptional opportunities for investors seeking both strong returns on investment (ROI) and long-term market growth within a stable EU economy. Beyond residency, the Golden Visa serves as a gateway to one of Europe’s most promising investment ecosystems, combining high profitability, regulatory transparency, and access to the broader European market.

Key high-ROI investment opportunities in Portugal include:

• Real Estate with High Capital Appreciation: Portugal’s real estate market continues to deliver some of the best returns in Europe, particularly in emerging inland regions and secondary cities such as Braga, Évora, and Setúbal. While Lisbon and Porto have become mature markets, properties in new development zones and touristic areas outside these hubs often yield annual returns between 6%–10%, alongside significant potential for capital gains.
• Tourism and Hospitality Ventures: With Portugal ranked among the world’s top tourism destinations, investments in boutique hotels, serviced apartments, and eco-resorts offer consistent occupancy rates and steady rental yields. Coastal and island regions such as Madeira and the Azores are seeing rising demand from international travelers and digital nomads.
• Venture Capital and Private Equity Funds: Portugal’s innovation-driven economy has led to a surge in tech, biotech, and renewable energy startups, supported by EU funding and strong government incentives. Investors participating in regulated funds (starting from €500,000) gain exposure to diversified portfolios with target IRRs of 8%–15%, often tax-optimized under Portugal’s favorable non-habitual resident (NHR) regime.
• Renewable Energy and Green Investments: Portugal is a European leader in solar and wind energy, with large-scale infrastructure and green hydrogen projects attracting global capital. Investments in these sectors combine environmental sustainability with strong long-term profitability, supported by government contracts and EU subsidies.
• Corporate Expansion and Entrepreneurship: For investors seeking to establish or expand businesses in Europe, Portugal provides a low corporate tax environment (21%), access to EU markets, and a growing talent pool in technology and services. Startup founders and investors benefit from government grants and innovation-friendly policies under programs like “Startup Portugal.”
• Cultural Heritage Restoration: Investors in heritage and cultural rehabilitation enjoy dual benefits: financial returns from tourism-linked assets and participation in projects that preserve Portugal’s national legacy. Renovated historical properties can later be repurposed as boutique hotels, museums, or event venues with strong cultural and economic value.

Conclusion

If your goal is affordable entry and tangible property ownership with strong ROI, Greece offers exceptional value through real estate and tourism-linked assets.

If you seek broader diversification through managed investment funds, innovation, and sustainable projects, Portugal stands out as the more sophisticated, future-focused choice.

For discerning investors, both countries open the door to European residency, stable returns, and global portfolio expansion. The right choice depends on your investment style and long-term wealth strategy.

Work Rights

When it comes to employment and business activity, Portugal and Greece differ in how much flexibility their Golden Visa holders enjoy.

• Portugal offers full work rights to Golden Visa holders. This means you can work, start a business, or be employed in any sector without additional permits. Whether you wish to launch a startup, invest in a company, or take a professional role, Portugal provides the freedom to live and work seamlessly within the country, a major advantage for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking an active lifestyle in Europe.
• Greece, on the other hand, grants residency only through its Golden Visa program; it does not automatically include work rights. Holders may, however, own and operate businesses in Greece or invest in companies, allowing them to earn income through ownership or self-employment rather than direct wage employment.

Application Fees

Generally speaking, the application fees for the Greece Golden Visa program is a more affordable; however, the visa application fees in Portugal are higher due to additional administrative and renewal charges.

Greece Golden Visa Fees

 Greece’s fees are relatively straightforward and lower compared to other EU programs, making it a cost-efficient option for families applying together. Below is the fee breakdown:

• Main applicant: €2,000 government application fee
• Dependents (spouse, children, parents): €150 per person
• Permanent residence card issuance: Approximately €16 per card
• Legal, translation, and notary costs: €1,000–€2,000 (estimated range depending on complexity)

Portugal Golden Visa Fees

 Portugal’s Golden Visa has one of the highest administrative fees in Europe. Below is the breakdown of the fees.

• Main applicant: €5,325 for the initial residence permit
• Dependents: €5,325 per person (same as main applicant)
• Renewal fee: €2,663 per person every two years
• Processing fee: €533 for the main applicant + €83 per dependent (at submission)
• Legal and documentation costs: Around €2,000–€3,000 (depending on the case)

Visa Processing Time

The visa processing time for Greece is much shorter than that of Portugal, offering one of the fastest approval rates in Europe. On average, the Greece Golden Visa is processed within 2 to 4 months, while the Portugal Golden Visa typically takes 9 to 12 months, sometimes extending up to 15 months due to administrative backlogs and high demand.

Greece Golden Visa Processing Time

Greece offers one of the fastest Golden Visa processing times in Europe, making it ideal for investors who want quick residency approval.

• Average timeline: 2 to 4 months after submission.
• Fast-track system: In many cases, investors receive their residency card within 60 days of submitting complete documentation.
• Digital process: Greece has modernized its system, allowing much of the process (including biometric appointments) to be handled efficiently through regional authorities.

Portugal Golden Visa Processing Time

Portugal’s processing time is considerably longer than Greece’s, but once approved, it provides work rights and a five-year path to citizenship, which many investors find worth the wait.

• Average timeline: 9 to 12 months, sometimes extending to 15 months due to high demand and administrative backlogs.
• SEF transition delays: The migration from SEF to the new AIMA agency has caused some temporary slowdowns in processing times.
• Renewals: Typically processed within 3–6 months after submission.

Eligibility

Both Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs are open to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens who wish to obtain residency through investment. However, each program has its own eligibility requirements and restrictions to ensure applicants meet legal, financial, and security standards.

Greece Golden Visa Eligibility

To qualify for the Greek Golden Visa, applicants must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a clean criminal record both in Greece and in their country of residence.
• Prove that the funds used for investment are legitimate and transferred through legal banking channels.
• Hold valid health insurance covering themselves and all dependents residing in Greece.
• Complete the minimum investment as defined by law (starting from €250,000 for real estate or other eligible routes).

Ineligible applicants for the Greek Golden Visa include individuals with criminal records, involvement in money laundering, terrorism financing, or those under international sanctions.

Portugal Golden Visa Eligibility

To qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa, applicants must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Make a qualifying investment (minimum €250,000 depending on the option chosen).
• Maintain the investment for at least five years.
• Provide proof of a legal source of funds.
• Have no criminal record recognized by Portuguese or international law.
• Possess valid health insurance in Portugal.

Ineligible applicants for the Portugal Golden Visa include individuals convicted of serious crimes, under sanctions, or whose investments are linked to suspicious financial activity.

Requirements

Both Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa programs are designed to attract foreign investors while maintaining regulatory oversight. However, the two programs differ in aspects such as minimum stay, citizenship prerequisites, and language expectations once investors seek naturalization.

Minimum Investment Requirement

Greece:

• Minimum investment starts at €250,000 for real estate in most regions.
• In high-demand areas like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, the minimum increases to €500,000.
• Alternative routes include capital contributions or fixed deposits starting from €400,000.

Portugal:

• Minimum investment starts at €250,000 (for cultural donations).
• Most popular routes range between €500,000 – €1 million, such as fund investment or scientific research.
• Real estate investment is no longer available under the 2025 regulations.

Minimum Stay Requirement

Greece:

No minimum stay is required to maintain residency; investors can live abroad indefinitely while retaining their Golden Visa status.

However, for citizenship, the applicant must physically reside in Greece for at least seven years and demonstrate integration into Greek society.

Portugal:

The program requires investors to spend at least seven days per year in Portugal on average to keep the residency active.

For citizenship eligibility after five years, investors must show genuine ties and residence, though still flexible compared to most EU programs.

Language Knowledge Requirement

Greece:

• For residency: No language requirement.
• For citizenship: Applicants must pass an official Greek language and culture exam, demonstrating an understanding of the country’s history, values, and institutions often requiring dedicated study for non-speakers.

Portugal:

• For residency: No language requirement.
• For citizenship: Applicants must prove basic Portuguese proficiency (A2 level), achievable through in-person or online courses and a simple language test.

Clean Criminal Record and Legal Compliance

Both programs require applicants to:

• Hold a clean criminal record in their home country and in the host nation.
• Provide proof of the legal source of funds.
• Maintain valid health insurance for themselves and dependents.
• Commit to keeping the investment active throughout the required period (five years for Portugal, indefinitely for Greece’s residency).

Selling the Investment

Both the Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs require investors to maintain their qualifying investment whether in real estate, funds, or other approved assets, for as long as they wish to keep their residency. However, the rules on when and how you can sell differ between the two countries.

Greece

In Greece, investors must retain ownership of the property or investment to maintain their Golden Visa residency. If the property is sold or the qualifying investment is liquidated, the residency permit is automatically revoked, unless the buyer also qualifies for a new Golden Visa.

The investment must remain in place for the entire duration of residency, and only after obtaining citizenship can investors sell or transfer the asset without affecting their legal status.

Portugal

In Portugal, investors are also required to keep their investment active during the initial five-year residency period. Selling or withdrawing the investment before this period ends results in the loss of residency rights.

After obtaining citizenship or permanent residency, investors may sell or reallocate their assets freely, as their status no longer depends on maintaining the investment.

In summary, in both Greece and Portugal, the investment must be held throughout the residency process. Once citizenship or permanent residency is achieved after 5 years in Portugal or 7 years in Greece, you’re free to sell or repurpose your investment without losing your rights.

Greece vs Portugal Golden Visa Comparison

When comparing the Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs, the two share many similarities both offer EU residency, family inclusion, and a path to citizenship but differ in investment amount, processing time, and residency obligations. Below is a summarized comparison of the key features of each program:

What Do Greece and Portugal Golden Visa Programs Have in Common?

While each program has unique rules, they share several key similarities that make them highly competitive and investor-friendly.

Here’s what the two programs have in common:

• EU Residency Status: Both grant legal residency in an EU and Schengen Area country, allowing free travel across 27 Schengen states.
• Family Inclusion: Both allow the main applicant to include their spouse, dependent children, and parents.
• Path to Citizenship: Each program can lead to citizenship in Portugal in 5 years and Greece in 7 years provided residency and integration criteria are met.
• Real Estate & Investment Options: Both offer multiple investment routes, including real estate, funds, and business or cultural investments.
• Right to Study & Access Healthcare: Residents can enroll in local schools and universities and access public or private healthcare systems.
• No Language Requirement for Residency: Neither program requires a language test to obtain or renew the residence permit.
• Visa-Free Schengen Mobility: Holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone without additional visas.
• Tax Advantages for Non-Domiciled Residents: Both countries offer favorable tax regimes for foreigners who become tax residents, helping reduce global tax burdens.

In essence, both programs open doors to Europe’s lifestyle, stability, and global mobility. The choice simply depends on your budget, goals, and timeline toward citizenship.

Get Expert Help to Choose the Best Golden Visa Program for You

Choosing between Greece and Portugal’s Golden Visa programs or any other European residency-by-investment route can be challenging. Each program has its own rules, investment paths, and long-term advantages that can significantly impact your lifestyle, taxation, and citizenship goals.

Working with an expert advisory firm like GICG (Global for Citizenship and Residency) can make all the difference. With decades of proven experience in global citizenship and residency by investment, GICG provides personalized guidance to help you:

• Select the best Golden Visa program aligned with your investment goals and family priorities.
• Navigate complex legal, financial, and immigration requirements confidently.
• Optimize your tax and residency planning for long-term financial security.
• Ensure a smooth, compliant, and successful application process from start to approval.

If you’re ready to secure your European residency or second citizenship, contact GICG (Global for Citizenship and Residency) today, your trusted partner for a seamless and strategic Citizenship journey.

What Is the Cheapest Golden Visa in Europe?

Latvia Investor Visa is the cheapest Golden Visa Program in Europe, but “the cheapest” depends on how you define the route (real estate vs fund vs business) and the benefits (residency only vs path to citizenship).

• For real-estate-based Golden Visas, the Greece Golden Visa is widely cited as the most accessible Golden Visa program in Europe, with investment thresholds starting from approximately €250,000. 
• However, for even lower-cost routes (though sometimes more restricted), the Latvia Investor Visa is often listed with reported minimums as low as €60,000 in certain investment forms. 

Which Golden Visa Has the Highest Mobility in Europe?

When it comes to overall mobility and freedom of movement, the Portugal Golden Visa stands out as the most advantageous option in Europe. It grants investors full work and business rights, allowing them to live and operate freely within the country. With minimal stay requirements only seven days in the first year and fourteen days every two years after holders enjoy flexibility while maintaining their residency. Additionally, Portugal offers a fast 5-year path to citizenship, which leads to one of the world’s strongest passports, providing visa-free access to more than 190 countries. Combined with unrestricted travel across the entire Schengen area, Portugal’s Golden Visa delivers the highest level of mobility and lifestyle freedom among all European residency-by-investment programs.

Greece Golden Visa comes in the second position after Portugal in terms of high mobility, especially for investors who prioritise Schengen access, low stay requirements (no minimum stay), and affordable entry. While it does not automatically include employment rights, it retains strong value for travel and residence flexibility and remains among the top tiers for mobility.

Greece Golden Visa vs Portugal Golden Visa: Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Greece Golden Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa depends on your personal priorities whether they’re citizenship, lifestyle, mobility, or investment value. 

If your main goal is to obtain EU citizenship quickly, Portugal is the stronger choice. It offers a 5-year path to citizenship, one of the fastest in Europe, and allows you to work, live, and study freely in the country. Portugal’s program also provides access to a stable economy, a high quality of life, and a strong passport ranking within the top 25 globally. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs, professionals, or families who intend to settle, integrate, or expand business operations in Europe.

If your priority is mobility and affordability, the Greece Golden Visa offers a more accessible entry point. With a starting investment of €250,000 one of the lowest in the EU, investors can gain permanent residency with no minimum stay requirement. This makes Greece a perfect fit for those who want Schengen access, rental income from real estate, or a vacation base in Europe without the obligation to relocate full-time.

If you’re an investor seeking strong real estate returns, Greece again has the edge. Its booming tourism industry, rising property values, and ongoing infrastructure development make it a high-potential market for appreciation and rental yields. In contrast, Portugal’s removal of its real estate option in 2024 has shifted focus toward funds, research, and business investments better suited for those comfortable with more diversified financial assets.

If you’re unsure which program aligns best with your goals, GICG (Global for Citizenship and Residency) can guide you through both options, helping you assess your objectives, structure your investment, and secure your ideal residency pathway with expert support.