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How to Buy Property for Golden Visa

Last updated: February 2026

Step 1: Choose Your Country

Compare 41 active Golden Visa programs across 39 countries. Consider minimum investment thresholds, residency vs. citizenship, processing times, and lifestyle factors. Options range from €250K in Greece to direct citizenship in Turkey from $400K.

Step 2: Research the Market

Use property intelligence reports to understand neighborhoods, earthquake risk, nearby amenities, and urban development trends. Our reports cover 50+ data sources and provide objective scoring across 7 categories.

Step 3: Engage a Local Lawyer

Always work with a licensed local attorney who specializes in real estate and immigration. They will handle title deed verification, contract review, and visa application documentation.

Step 4: Property Due Diligence

Verify the title deed (tapu in Turkey, topographic plan in Greece), check for liens or encumbrances, confirm zoning compliance, and ensure the property meets minimum investment requirements.

Step 5: Make the Purchase

Sign the sales contract, transfer funds through official banking channels, and register the property. Keep all receipts and bank transfer records for the visa application.

Step 6: Apply for Golden Visa

Submit your application with property documentation, proof of investment, passport copies, health insurance, and any additional country-specific requirements. Processing times vary from 2 weeks (UAE) to 6 months (some programs).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest Golden Visa through property investment?▾
Greece offers one of the most affordable Golden Visa programs with a minimum property investment of €250,000 in certain areas. Other affordable options include Turkey (residence permit from $75,000) and Montenegro (€450,000 with €250,000 in development regions).
Can I buy property remotely for a Golden Visa?▾
Some countries allow remote property purchases through power of attorney, but most require at least one in-person visit for biometrics, signing, and visa application submission. Working with a local lawyer is essential for remote purchases.
Do I need to live in the country after buying property?▾
Minimum stay requirements vary widely. Portugal requires 7 days in the first year, Greece has no minimum stay, Turkey requires no stay for citizenship by investment, and the UAE requires one visit every 6 months.
Can my family be included in the Golden Visa application?▾
Most Golden Visa programs allow you to include your spouse, dependent children, and sometimes parents. Family inclusion policies vary by country — some include dependents up to age 21, others up to 26.
How long does it take to get a Golden Visa after buying property?▾
Processing times range from 2-4 weeks (UAE, Turkey) to 3-6 months (Greece, Portugal). Factors include document preparation, government processing capacity, and whether biometrics appointments are required.
What happens if property values drop below the minimum investment threshold?▾
In most countries, the investment threshold is based on the purchase price, not the current market value. Once your application is approved, subsequent changes in property value do not affect your visa status.
Can I rent out my Golden Visa property?▾
Most Golden Visa programs allow you to rent out the property. This can generate rental income of 3-7% annually depending on location. However, some programs like Portugal have restrictions on short-term rentals in certain areas.

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