Which Investor Residency Program Offers the Best Value in 2025?
In 2025, residency and citizenship by investment (RCBI) programs remain a powerful tool for global mobility, asset diversification, and lifestyle planning. However, recent reforms across Europe have reshaped the landscape. With Portugal and Greece tightening their policies, Italy’s Investor Visa is gaining traction as one of the most flexible and accessible options for investors seeking EU residency.
This article compares the latest developments in the Italy, Portugal, and Greece investor visa programs—focusing on minimum investment requirements, stay obligations, pathways to citizenship, and overall program flexibility.
1. Overview of Each Program in 2025
Italy Investor Visa
- Investment Options:
- €250,000 in an innovative startup
- €500,000 in an established Italian company
- €2 million in government bonds
- €1 million philanthropic donation
- Minimum Stay Requirement: None
- Processing: Online pre-approval; 2-year visa renewable
- Family Inclusion: Yes (spouse and children)
Portugal Golden Visa (Post-Reform)
- Eligible Investments:
- €500,000 in VC or private equity funds
- €250,000 in cultural/artistic support
- Real Estate Option: Phased out in 2023
- Minimum Stay Requirement: 7 days/year
- Path to Citizenship: 5 years
- Family Inclusion: Yes
Greece Golden Visa (Updated Requirements)
- Investment Options:
- €250,000 in real estate (standard areas)
- €500,000 in high-demand zones (Athens, Thessaloniki, islands)
- Minimum Stay Requirement: None
- Path to Citizenship: 7 years (with physical residence)
- Family Inclusion: Yes
2. Key Comparison Table
| Feature | Italy | Portugal | Greece |
| Minimum Investment | €250,000 (startup) | €250,000 (arts) / €500,000 (funds) | €250,000–€500,000 (real estate) |
| Stay Requirement | None | 7 days/year | None |
| Citizenship Timeline | After 10 years | After 5 years | After 7 years |
| Real Estate Option | ❌ Not eligible | ❌ Discontinued | ✅ Available |
| Speed of Approval | Fast (digital process) | Slower (manual delays) | Fast |
| Family Inclusion | Yes | Yes | Yes |
3. Pros and Cons by Country
Italy
Pros:
- No minimum stay requirement
- Wide range of investment options
- Fast-track digital pre-approval
- Attractive tax regime for new residents
Cons:
- Citizenship takes 10 years
- Less well-known than Portugal’s Golden Visa
Portugal
Pros:
- Shortest path to citizenship in the EU
- Stable, popular destination for investors
Cons:
- Real estate no longer qualifies
- Slower processing and bureaucratic delays
Greece
Pros:
- Real estate investment still available
- No stay requirement for residency
Cons:
- Citizenship requires physical presence
- Higher real estate threshold in key markets
4. Which Program Is Right for You?
- Flexibility + No Stay Requirement → Italy Investor Visa
- Fastest Path to Citizenship → Portugal Golden Visa
- Real Estate-Focused Investment → Greece Golden Visa
Each program suits different investor profiles. Italy is ideal for globally mobile individuals who want EU access without residency obligations. Portugal is a great choice for those who aim for fast-track citizenship and don’t mind annual visits. Greece remains attractive for real estate-focused investors, though requirements have tightened.
Conclusion
As the RCBI landscape evolves, the Italy Investor Visa stands out for its flexibility, streamlined process, and range of investment options. While Portugal and Greece remain strong alternatives, recent reforms have narrowed their accessibility or raised the bar for participation.
Considering your options? Talk to Orience experts to receive tailored advice and a personalized roadmap to EU residency through investment.