A Golden Visa (residency‐by‐investment) grants non-EU investors the right to live and eventually obtain permanent residency or citizenship in a European country by making a qualifying investment. In 2025, these programs remain among the fastest routes to Schengen access, favourable tax treatments (like Portugal’s NHR regime), and long-term stability.
However, each jurisdiction has unique requirements, real estate thresholds, fund minimums, or corporate equity rules that can change at any moment. That’s why partnering with a specialised Golden Visa lawyer is essential: they navigate complex documentation, coordinate with local authorities, and mitigate risks, helping you avoid costly delays or application denials.
This guide provides high-level overviews of Portugal, Spain, Italy, Malta, and Greece; explains how lawyers streamline your journey; ranks the top five Golden Visa law firms; and answers the most common FAQs.
How a Golden Visa Lawyer Can Streamline Your Application
Golden Visa programs require large investments (real estate, funds, bonds, or corporate equity) and involve complex, ever-changing regulations across multiple jurisdictions. A specialist lawyer knows each country’s exact thresholds, whether Portugal’s €280 000 fund route, Greece’s flat €250 000 property requirement, or Italy’s equity/donation options, and keeps up with legal updates to avoid ineligible investments or disqualifications.
Documentation must be flawless: authenticated criminal records, notarized property deeds, tax certificates, and sworn translations all need to meet specific government guidelines (SEF in Portugal, consulates in Spain, etc.).
A lawyer serves as your compliance overseer, handling apostilles, verifying translations, and liaising with immigration offices, banks, notaries, and due-diligence providers, to ensure timely biometrics, investment confirmations, and final residence-card issuance.
Key Benefits of Hiring a Golden Visa Lawyer
- Navigating Complex Investment Criteria: Identifies the best route, real estate, fund, bond, or equity, to meet all eligibility rules.
- Ensuring Complete, Compliant Supporting Documents: Manages apostilles, translations, and submission requirements (SEF, consulate) to avoid procedural rejections.
- Liaising with Authorities & Service Providers: Coordinates directly with immigration offices, banks, notaries, and due-diligence firms to expedite approvals.
- Streamlining Timelines & Reducing Delays: Provides a clear application roadmap and adapts swiftly to regulatory changes or backlog issues.
- Handling Renewals, Family Extensions & Citizenship Plans: Oversees renewal dossiers, dependent applications, and eventual naturalization steps.
- Advising on Tax & Residency Obligations: Lawyers advise on international taxation and the importance of understanding bilateral investment treaties for cross-border planning.
- Protecting Your Investment: Conducts title searches, verifies fund eligibility, and mitigates legal or fraud risks before you commit capital.
- Legal Compliance: A lawyer ensures compliance with the legal aspects of investment programs. The involvement of an experienced lawyer or experienced lawyers, and the role of an immigration lawyer in handling bank accounts and residence permits, is crucial for a successful application.
How Movingto Helps With Your Golden Visa Process
Movingto combines licensed Golden Visa lawyers, tax advisors, and real estate experts on one tech-enabled platform. We evaluate your financial profile, recommend the optimal investment route (Portugal fund, Spanish property, Malta bond, etc.), and handle every step:
We prepare documents (including apostilles and translations), coordinate with authorities (such as SEF, AIMA, and consulates), schedule biometrics appointments, and confirm investments with banks. Post-approval, we manage renewals, family extensions, and tax planning (NHR, flat tax), safeguarding your visa status and wealth.
What is the Golden Visa Program?
Golden Visa programs are residency-by-investment initiatives launched by various European countries to attract foreign investors and drive economic growth. By making a minimum investment, often in real estate, government bonds, or business ventures, non-EU citizens can secure permanent residency and, in some cases, a pathway to citizenship.
The golden visa program offers numerous benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, access to high-quality education and healthcare, and the opportunity to diversify assets internationally.
For foreign investors seeking to expand their global footprint, these programs provide a strategic gateway to Europe, allowing them and their families to enjoy enhanced mobility, security, and lifestyle advantages while contributing to the host country’s development.
Golden Visa Programs – Country Overviews
Golden Visa programs vary significantly depending on the country, each offering unique eligibility criteria and investment options. For example, the Portugal Golden Visa program requires a minimum investment in real estate, investment funds, or job creation, while Spain’s program allows for investments in real estate, government bonds, or business projects.
Other European countries, such as Greece and Malta, have their own golden visa programs, each with distinct benefits and requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your investment goals and personal circumstances.
A specialized law firm can provide tailored advice on the eligibility criteria, minimum investment amounts, and specific advantages of each program, helping you navigate the complexities and select the best option for your needs.
Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa no longer includes real estate as a qualifying investment. As of October 2023, non-European Union nationals can qualify by investing at least €500,000 in government-approved investment funds, contributing to scientific research or cultural projects, or creating a minimum of 10 full-time jobs through a Portuguese business.
Key Benefits
- Schengen-area travel rights
- Path to permanent residency after five years
- Eligibility for citizenship after six years
- Access to Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime (10-year tax incentives on foreign income)
Recent Rule Changes
In 2023, Lisbon, Porto, and several coastal municipalities were excluded from real-estate eligibility; fund investments and interior-region properties remain available. New restrictions took effect on urban rehabilitation projects, requiring stricter compliance. Fund-qualification thresholds were adjusted slightly upward in late 2024 to align with inflation.
Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa requires a minimum €500 000 real-estate purchase (commercial or residential), a €1 million bank deposit or investment in Spanish stocks, or a €2 million investment in Spanish government bonds.
Key Benefits
- Initial residence permit valid 1–2 years (renewable every two years)
- Full work authorization in Spain
- Family reunification (spouse, children, dependent parents)
- Unrestricted Schengen-area access
Recent Rule Changes
In 2024, tax residency rules were clarified to ensure new Golden Visa holders must register as Spanish lawful permanent residents if they spend more than 183 days per year in the country.
Additionally, certain rural redevelopment zones now qualify for reduced real-estate thresholds, effective January 2025.
Italy
Italy’s Investor Visa (often called the “Golden Visa”) offers residency to applicants who invest at least €250 000 in an Italian startup, €500 000 in an established Italian company, €2 million in government bonds, or donate €1 million to public interest projects (research, cultural heritage).
Key Benefits
- Two-year residency permit (renewable for three-year periods)
- No strict physical-stay requirement for renewals
- Work and study authorization in Italy
- Permanent residency after five years
- Eligibility for citizenship after ten years of continuous residence
Recent Rule Changes
In mid-2023, Italy streamlined the “startup” investment category by expanding eligible sectors (tech, biotech, green energy) and reduced bureaucratic steps for fast-tracking venture-capital investments.
As of early 2025, the government introduced tighter due-diligence checks on corporate-equity investments to prevent money laundering.
Malta
Malta’s Permanent Residency by Investment Program (MPRP) grants residency to investors who commit at least €250 000 to approved government bonds or stocks, make a €220 000 non-refundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund, and either purchase property for at least €330 000 (or €275 000 in the south) or lease real estate for a minimum annual rent of €10 000.
Key Benefits
- Permanent residency status (no minimum stay requirement)
- Schengen-area travel rights after residency approval
- Inclusion of spouse, children, and dependent parents
- Distinct program from Malta’s citizenship-by-investment scheme
Recent Rule Changes
In late 2023, Malta updated its due-diligence requirements, requiring deeper financial-source documentation and stricter background checks.
The bond-investment minimum was adjusted for inflation in 2024, and new property-inspection guidelines were introduced in early 2025 to ensure compliance with eligibility rules.
Greece
Greece’s Golden Visa program grants residency to individuals investing at least €250 000 in Greek real estate (including apartments, houses, or commercial properties). In select high-demand areas (Athens city centre, certain islands), the minimum investment rose to €500 000 in 2024.
Key Benefits
- Five-year residency permit (renewable indefinitely)
- Minimal stay requirement, only seven days per year
- Immediate Schengen-area access after permit issuance
- Family inclusion (spouse, children under 21, dependent parents)
- Relatively low entry cost compared to other programs
Recent Rule Changes
In 2024, Greece raised the minimum investment to €500 000 in metropolitan and island hotspots; €250 000 remained valid elsewhere.
A new real-estate registry requirement took effect in late 2023, mandating digital property ownership verification before application submission.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Golden Visa Lawyers
Choosing the right Golden Visa lawyer is crucial, your investment, residency status, and potentially even citizenship depend on their expertise. While many lawyers claim proficiency, only a few genuinely specialize in investment-based immigration. Here are the key criteria to evaluate when selecting the ideal Golden Visa attorney or law firm for your needs:
Top 5 Golden Visa Law Firms (Global Ranking)
#1 Movingto
Movingto is a specialised boutique firm focusing exclusively on Golden Visa and residency-by-investment programs, offering comprehensive support in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Malta, and Greece.
Designed to simplify complex investment immigration processes, Movingto has become a trusted partner for immigrant investors seeking efficient, transparent, and successful Golden Visa outcomes.
Key Strengths
Movingto stands out due to its exceptional success rates, underscoring the reliability of its legal strategies. Their dedicated and multilingual team provides a full-service approach, handling every critical step, from initial investment structuring, real estate due diligence, and compliance with complex immigration regulations to renewals and family extensions.
This comprehensive end-to-end management minimises risks and streamlines processing timelines. The firm's deep in-country expertise ensures accurate navigation of evolving local legislation, tax incentives, and residency requirements, empowering clients with confident, informed decision-making at each stage.
Service Highlights
Movingto has extensive experience with investor visas, green card, conditional green card, regional center, concurrent filing for immigrant investors and services designed to simplify your Golden Visa journey:
- Free Initial Consultation: Understand your eligibility and available investment routes, and get tailored advice without upfront commitment.
- Multilingual Support: Clear communication provided in English, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, and Greek to ensure transparency at every stage.
- End-to-End Guidance: Comprehensive management from investment selection and documentation preparation to residency application submissions, renewals, family inclusion, and eventual citizenship applications.
- Tax Optimisation Strategies: specialised advice for beneficial tax programs like Portugal's NHR or Italy’s flat-tax regime.
- Post-Approval Support: Continued assistance after initial approval, including managing renewals, residency compliance, and strategic advice for family members’ residency or citizenship applications.
#2 Zoark
Zoark is a specialised immigration consultancy with an exclusive focus on golden visas and citizenship-by-investment programs across Europe. With a particularly strong presence in Portugal and growing operations in Spain and Malta, Zoark is widely recognised for its meticulous approach, personalised client care, and outstanding track record in residency-by-investment solutions.
Key Strengths
Zoark’s primary distinction is its personalised client service, prioritising tailored investment strategies to match each client's unique circumstances and goals. They hold an impressive track record, notably achieving 100% approval rates in Portuguese real estate investments and consistently high success in fund-based Golden Visa applications.
Zoark's in-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks, rigorous due-diligence processes, and proactive compliance monitoring ensure clients avoid common pitfalls and unnecessary delays, providing peace of mind throughout the investment immigration journey.
Service Highlights
Zoark offers highly customised, detail-orientated services to streamline your Golden Visa process:
- Tailored Investment Strategies: personalised recommendations across real estate, investment funds, and business opportunities tailored to your financial and residency goals.
- Comprehensive Legal Compliance Checks: Thorough evaluations of investments, documentation, and regulatory adherence, significantly minimise application risks.
- Family Extension & Citizenship Planning: Robust support extending residency benefits to your immediate family and detailed assistance planning your long-term path toward citizenship.
- Dedicated Client Communication: Regular updates, clear explanations of legal requirements, and accessible, multilingual support to enhance clarity and confidence at every step.
- Post-Approval Guidance: Continued strategic advice after approval, including renewals, tax planning, and eventual citizenship preparation to safeguard your investment and residency rights.
#3 Henley & Partners
Henley & Partners is a globally recognised leader in residence and citizenship planning with decades of experience and offices in key European cities, including London, Madrid, Athens, Valletta, and Milan.
While widely known for its citizenship-by-investment services, the firm also offers dedicated Golden Visa expertise for high-net-worth individuals seeking European residency.
Key Strength
Henley & Partners brings decades of experience and a strong global reputation to the Golden Visa space. With a deep network of government contacts and a solid understanding of investment migration frameworks, the firm is well-positioned to guide complex cases with discretion and precision.
Their due-diligence infrastructure and institutional approach appeal to clients seeking structured, top-tier advisory service.
Service Highlights
Henley & Partners provides a premium suite of services designed for global investors:
- Customised Investment Portfolios: Strategic planning across real estate and fund options to align with residency goals.
- Integrated Tax Advisory: Planning support for local regimes like Portugal’s NHR or Malta’s tax structures.
- Concierge-Level Service: End-to-end coordination with a white-glove client experience.
- Citizenship Roadmapping: Long-term planning and compliance monitoring for eventual naturalisation.
#4 Global Citizen Solutions
Global Citizen Solutions is a pan-European immigration consultancy offering dedicated Golden Visa services in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Malta.
With in-house legal teams and vetted local partners, GCS provides a unified platform for global investors seeking streamlined access to European residency.
Key Strengths
GCS stands out for its multi-country coverage and centralised case management system, which enables clients to explore multiple jurisdictions through a single, coordinated team.
Their 90%+ approval rate reflects strong legal accuracy and thorough documentation. The firm’s user-friendly client portal enhances transparency, allowing investors to track each milestone of their application in real time.
Service Highlights
GCS supports clients with a modern, accessible approach to Golden Visa processing:
- Cross-Jurisdictional Expertise: Seamless support across multiple countries with consistent legal standards.
- Digital Case-Tracking Platform: Transparent updates and milestone tracking through a dedicated client portal.
- Post-Approval Relocation Assistance: Help with banking, tax setup, and property management after visa issuance.
- Investor Webinars & Q&A Events: Educational resources to keep clients informed and engaged.
#5 Fragomen
Fragomen is the world’s largest immigration law firm, headquartered in New York with more than 50 offices in over 20 countries. While best known for corporate immigration services, Fragomen also operates a robust investment migration division supporting Golden Visa applicants in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Malta, and Greece.
Key Strengths
Fragomen’s key advantage lies in its global infrastructure and institutional-grade compliance. With dedicated investor-residency teams and access to in-house tax counsel, they are equipped to handle complex, multi-jurisdictional cases, especially for corporate clients or high-volume applicants.
Their focus on data privacy and regulatory precision adds reassurance for investors seeking a structured, risk-mitigated experience.
Service Highlights
Fragomen delivers full-service legal support tailored to international investors:
- Comprehensive Legal Guidance: Covering investment review, application submission, and family inclusion.
- In-house tax counselling: assistance with cross-border tax optimisation strategies.
- Corporate Visa Solutions: Scalable services for business groups and corporate-sponsored investors.
- Global Presence: On-the-ground teams and local partners across all major Golden Visa markets.
Investment Opportunities for Golden Visa Applicants
Golden Visa applicants can choose from a variety of investment options, depending on the country and specific program. Real estate investment remains a popular route, offering both a tangible asset and the potential for rental income.
Other options include investing in government bonds, venture capital funds, or making a substantial investment in a new commercial enterprise, as seen in the EB-5 program in the United States.
Some programs also allow for business investments that contribute to job creation and economic growth. Each investment option comes with its set of requirements and benefits, so it’s essential to evaluate which aligns best with your financial goals and risk appetite.
An experienced law firm can help you assess the available investment options, structure your investment for maximum benefit, and ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
Understanding the investment landscape across countries is key to making the right choice. A trusted advisor can help you align your goals with the most suitable program, ensuring both compliance and strategic advantage as you pursue European residency.
👉 Continue reading about investment opportunities for Golden Visa holders.
Family Reunification: Bringing Loved Ones with You
A major advantage of Golden Visa programs is the ability to include immediate family members in your application, making family reunification a reality.
Spouses and dependent children can typically obtain residency rights alongside the main applicant, allowing the entire family to benefit from the security and opportunities offered by the host country. This means your loved ones can access quality education, healthcare, and enjoy a stable environment together.
However, the process of including family members can involve additional documentation and legal steps. A specialized law firm can guide you through the family reunification process, ensuring all requirements are met and that your application is handled efficiently. With expert support, you can confidently bring your immediate family members with you as you embark on your new life in Europe.
Key family members often eligible for inclusion
- Spouse or legal partner
- Dependent children (usually under 18, or up to 25 if enrolled in education)
- Dependent parents or parents-in-law
- Children with disabilities, regardless of age
- Adopted children or legal wards under the applicant’s guardianship
Including family in your Golden Visa journey turns a personal investment into a shared opportunity—creating a secure, prosperous future for your entire household.
How Does the Golden Visa Compare to Other Residency Options?
While the Golden Visa remains one of the most flexible paths to European residency, it’s not the only option available. Other visas, like the D7 or D8 (Digital Nomad Visa), may be better suited for retirees, remote workers, or those without large capital to invest.
If you’re unsure which path fits your lifestyle and goals, explore our in-depth comparisons:
Final Thoughts: Why Work with a Specialised Golden Visa Law Firm?
Securing a Golden Visa involves navigating a complex web of legal, financial, and administrative requirements. Partnering with a specialized golden visa law firm ensures you have expert guidance at every stage of the process.
A leading law firm with deep expertise in immigration law can help you understand the nuances of each program, prepare all the required corporate documents, and represent your interests during the entire process, from initial application to consular interviews and final approval.
Whether you are pursuing the Portugal Golden Visa or another European investor visa, a reputable law firm will help you select the most suitable investment option, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your chances of success.
Their experience and local knowledge are invaluable in ensuring your application is compliant, complete, and positioned for approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
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