An IMGW News Report
Despite the fanfare surrounding Donald Trump’s newly unveiled ‘Gold Card’, granting US residency in exchange for a hefty $5 million investment, Europe’s more modestly priced Golden Visa schemes continue to outpace American offerings in global appeal.
Industry specialists report that Hungary, Malta, Portugal and, most notably, Greece remain the prime destinations for wealthy non-EU nationals seeking alternative residency. While Washington pitches its revamped residency programme as a “bargain”, even the president’s characteristic bravado has failed to sustain interest. Online searches for the US Gold Card spiked briefly following its launch, but swiftly ebbed as prospective applicants redirected their attention to Europe’s more affordable options.
“Europe’s cheaper paths to residency continue to command the loyalty of the globally mobile elite”
The economics are difficult to ignore. Malta, for instance, offers citizenship through exceptional naturalisation for around €1 million, typically securing an EU passport within 18 months — and without the requirement for permanent relocation. Hungary’s recently launched scheme begins at just €250,000, while Portugal, despite closing its well-known real estate route, maintains an array of appealing alternatives. Spain, once a contender with its €500,000 minimum, has now closed its programme altogether. Greece, meanwhile, has emerged as the undisputed frontrunner, with minimum investments starting at €250,000 and rising to €800,000 in premium locations. Last year alone, Greece attracted 9,289 applications.
Somewhat ironically, industry observers note that young Americans are helping to drive the surge in demand for Greek Golden Visas. With the US scheme priced out of reach for many, Europe’s offerings are seen as not only more attainable, but also more strategically versatile.
As Washington banks on its high-net-worth allure to chip away at the national debt, Europe’s cheaper paths to residency continue to command the loyalty of the globally mobile elite.
