For many UK expats, the end of free movement has made the EU golden visa a compelling route to restoring long-term European residency. These investment-based residency schemes offer non-EU citizens—including Brits—a legal pathway to live, work, or retire in Europe. If you’re considering a move abroad in 2025, here’s how an EU golden visa could help—and what you need to know before applying.
What Is an EU Golden Visa?
An EU golden visa is a residency-by-investment programme offered by select EU countries. In exchange for a qualifying investment—typically in real estate, government bonds, or business—you can obtain a renewable residency permit, often with the ability to bring family members and access the Schengen Zone.
These programmes do not require permanent relocation (in most cases) and can lead to permanent residency or even citizenship after several years, depending on the country.
Who Can Apply?
EU golden visas are open to non-EU/EEA nationals who meet the specific financial and due diligence requirements of the issuing country. As a UK national, you now fall into this category and are eligible to apply—provided you meet the criteria for your country of choice.
How to Get an EU Golden Visa & Residency as a UK Expat
Securing an EU golden visa as a UK national involves a series of structured steps, and while the exact process varies slightly by country, most follow a similar framework. Here’s how to approach it:
1. Choose the Right Country and Investment Route
The first step is selecting the EU country that aligns with your personal goals, financial capacity, and desired lifestyle. Some countries, like Greece, offer lower property investment thresholds, while others, like Portugal, may focus more on investment funds or job creation. Consider factors such as required investment amount, expected returns, whether you plan to relocate or simply gain travel flexibility, and future citizenship prospects.
2. Confirm Eligibility and Gather Documentation
Once you’ve selected a country and investment path, you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria—typically including a clean criminal record, valid passport, proof of funds, and comprehensive documentation on the source of your investment. Most programmes require certified translations and notarised documents, so starting early and working with a professional can save time.
3. Make the Investment
Whether purchasing property, transferring capital, or contributing to a fund, you’ll need to complete the qualifying investment before submitting your application. Some countries allow you to sign a purchase agreement under condition of approval, but many require full payment or transfer upfront. Legal and due diligence checks often accompany this stage, especially in real estate transactions.
4. Submit Your Application
With your investment complete and documents in order, you (or your legal representative) will submit your golden visa application to the relevant immigration or investment authority. Depending on the country, this may be done in person, via a local consulate, or through an appointed legal firm. Biometrics are typically required, either during or shortly after submission.
5. Await Approval and Receive Residency Card
Processing times vary but usually range from two to six months. Once approved, you’ll receive a residence permit—often valid for 1–5 years and renewable, depending on the programme. Your physical residency card may need to be collected in person from the issuing country.
6. Maintain the Investment and Comply with Requirements
To retain your golden visa status, you’ll need to maintain the investment for the required holding period (usually 5 years for property). You may also need to meet minimal stay requirements, such as visiting the country once a year. Regular renewals will require updated documents and, in some cases, fresh background checks.
7. Transition to Permanent Residency or Citizenship (Optional)
If your long-term goal is permanent residency or citizenship, you’ll need to satisfy additional criteria such as physical presence, language proficiency, or cultural integration tests. These requirements vary significantly by country, so planning ahead is essential.
For many UK expats, the golden visa process is a smooth and manageable route—particularly with the right professional support at each step. From investment structuring to documentation and compliance, expert guidance can help ensure your residency journey is successful and stress-free.
What Are the Key Benefits?
An EU golden visa offers a range of strategic advantages for UK expats looking to re-establish a long-term presence in Europe. First and foremost, it grants legal residency rights in the issuing country, allowing you to live, work, or retire there with far greater flexibility than a standard tourist or short-stay visa.
One of the most attractive features of golden visa residency is visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Zone. This means you can move freely across 26 European countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, making it ideal for business travellers, second-home owners, or those who enjoy a flexible lifestyle.
Golden visas are typically structured to allow family inclusion, meaning your spouse, dependent children, and—in many cases—dependent parents can also be granted residency under the same application. This makes it a practical solution for families planning to relocate together or support multi-generational living.
In some programmes, the qualifying investment—such as in real estate or a business—can also deliver financial returns. Whether through rental income, capital appreciation, or dividends, a golden visa investment may offer more than just residency: it can also serve as part of a diversified wealth strategy.
Finally, golden visa residency may open the door to future citizenship, provided you meet the country’s naturalisation requirements. This usually involves residing in the country for a set number of years, demonstrating integration (such as language proficiency or cultural knowledge), and maintaining a clean legal record. While not automatic, citizenship is a long-term possibility that many golden visa holders aim for.
Popular EU Golden Visa Programmes for UK Expats
Here are three of the most accessible and popular golden visa schemes in the EU in 2025:
Greece – From €250,000
Still one of the most affordable EU golden visa routes, Greece offers 5-year renewable residency with no minimum stay requirement. A €250,000 real estate purchase (outside high-demand zones) qualifies you for residency, plus Schengen access. Citizenship is possible after 7 years if you reside full-time and integrate.
Spain – From €500,000 (property)
Spain’s golden visa remains popular due to its lifestyle appeal and large UK expat community. A €500,000 property investment grants a 2-year residence permit, renewable with minimal presence requirements. However, as of 2025, the government is reviewing the scheme, particularly in response to housing market pressure—so future restrictions are possible.
Portugal – Limited Routes Available
Portugal officially closed the real estate route to golden visas in 2023. However, investment in approved funds or cultural and scientific support programmes may still qualify. These routes are higher risk and more complex but offer a pathway for UK expats seeking a Portuguese lifestyle and potential citizenship.
What Are the Typical Investment Options?
Each country sets its own rules, but most EU golden visa programmes involve one or more of the following:
- Real Estate Purchase (most common)
- Business Creation or Investment
- Government Bonds or Capital Transfer
- Cultural or Scientific Sponsorship
- Job Creation or Donation-Based Contributions
What Are the Key Considerations Before Applying?
- Budget & Risk Appetite: Not all golden visas offer the same return potential. Real estate offers resale or rental income; donation-based routes are non-refundable.
- Residency vs Citizenship Goals: Some countries require physical presence for permanent residency or citizenship; others don’t.
- Tax Status: Gaining residency may affect your tax obligations in the new country or the UK. Planning ahead is essential.
- Family Planning: Check if your chosen scheme allows dependants and under what terms.
- Timeline & Processing: Some countries process golden visas in a few months; others take over a year. Choose based on your urgency and flexibility.
What About Schengen Travel?
Most EU golden visas grant full access to the Schengen Zone (26 countries). This allows short stays for business, leisure, or onward travel—ideal for those seeking mobility across Europe without applying for multiple visas.
Can an EU Golden Visa Lead to Citizenship?
Yes—but usually only with residency and integration. Most countries require you to live in-country for 5–10 years before applying for citizenship, pass language or cultural tests, and prove ties to the community. Simply holding a golden visa without relocating typically does not qualify for naturalisation.
Ready to Secure Your EU Golden Visa? Let’s Talk
An EU golden visa offers more than just a residency permit—it’s a strategic gateway to greater freedom, flexibility, and financial opportunity within Europe. For UK expats navigating life after Brexit, it provides a powerful solution for restoring long-term access to the EU, whether you’re planning a permanent move, securing mobility rights, or investing in your family’s future.
With multiple programmes available—each with its own benefits, requirements, and nuances—choosing the right path can feel overwhelming. That’s where we can help.
Get in touch to speak with our team about the options available and receive personalised guidance tailored to your circumstances. From identifying the most suitable programme to helping you structure your investment and navigate the application process, we’re here to support every step of your journey.
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.