Blogs • August 18, 2025 • 4 Min

Which Golden Visa Programs Will Transform Residency and Citizenship

In an era defined by global uncertainty and an increasing desire for mobility, golden visa is your gateway to global mobility. These programs have emerged as a transformative force in the landscape of international residency and citizenship. As industry leaders, Savory & Partners has observed firsthand the evolution of these programs and their profound impact on individuals and nations. Let's delve into the data, trends, and future projections that are shaping the golden visa industry. Statistical Overview: How the Golden Visa Increased the Popularity of Residency by Investment Programs Across Europe Recent statistics paint a compelling picture of the rising popularity of investment-based residency programs across Europe. Let's analyse the trends: Greece Golden Visa: The Mediterranean Powerhouse Has Increased By 43,114% Greece's golden visa program has experienced exponential growth since its 2013 inception. From a modest 21 principal applicants in its first year, the program skyrocketed to 9,075 principal applicants by 2022, with an additional 16,924 dependents. This staggering 43,114% increase over a decade isn't just a number—it's a testament to the program's robust design and Greece's enduring appeal. What's particularly noteworthy is the program's resilience. Despite global economic headwinds, Greece maintained consistent monthly application numbers averaging around 700 throughout 2023 and early 2024. This steady influx suggests that the Greek golden visa has transcended being merely a trend and has become a staple in the global mobility market. Portugal Golden Visa New Changes: Pioneering Adaptability Portugal's golden visa scheme, a trailblazer since 2012, offers valuable insights into program evolution. Despite regulatory changes, including the removal of real estate investment options, Portugal has attracted over €7 billion in investment since its inception. This adaptability—shifting focus from real estate to fund investments—demonstrates how well-structured programs can pivot to meet changing economic needs and regulatory requirements. Malta Golden Visa: Steady Growth and Rapid Expansion The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) accrued €46 million in consolidated funds, €50 million in five-year lease contracts, and €36 million in property purchases in 2024 alone. These figures underscore a crucial point: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to golden visa programs. Success lies in tailoring programs to each country's unique strengths and investor needs. Beyond the Numbers: Analysing the Golden Visa Phenomenon The rising popularity of golden visas is more than a trend—it's a response to our changing world. Here's why these programs are shaping the future of global mobility: Hedge Against Global Uncertainty: In an era of geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic volatility, golden visas offer a tangible "Plan B". They're not just about alternative residency; they're insurance policies for the future. The New Global Citizen: Today's HNWIs are increasingly global in outlook. golden visas align with this worldview, offering mobility and a gateway to global citizenship. Economic Catalyst: These programs are more than revenue streams for host countries. They're catalysts for economic diversification, job creation, and urban development. The challenge lies in balancing economic benefits with social responsibility. Shifting Investment Landscapes: Portugal's pivot to fund investments signals a broader trend. We predict more countries will diversify investment options, potentially into tech startups, green energy, or social impact projects. Digital Nomad Synergy: As remote work becomes entrenched, we foresee golden visa programs evolving to attract digital entrepreneurs. This could lead to hybrid programs combining elements of investor visas and digital nomad visas. What is Savory & Partners’ Advantage in Navigating a Promising Future? In this complex and evolving landscape, expertise is not just valuable—it's essential. At Savory & Partners, we don't just keep pace with these changes; we anticipate them. Our approach combines deep industry knowledge with a forward-thinking perspective: Holistic Advisory: We go beyond paperwork, offering strategic advice on how golden visa investments can align with our clients' broader wealth management and global citizenship goals. Due Diligence Expertise: As regulations tighten, our robust due diligence processes ensure our clients' applications withstand the highest scrutiny. Innovation Leaders: We're at the forefront of integrating new technologies into our processes, ensuring efficient, secure, and user-friendly experiences for our clients. Sustainability Partners: We're developing partnerships with sustainable investment funds, aligning our client's goals with global sustainability objectives. Continuous Education: We believe in empowering our clients. Through regular webinars, reports, and personalised consultations, we ensure our clients are always informed about industry trends and opportunities. As golden visa programs continue to shape global mobility trends, they represent more than just an investment—they're gateways to global citizenship in an interconnected world. The data clearly shows that these programs are not just growing; they're evolving and adapting to global challenges and opportunities. Need more Support? At Savory & Partners, we're not just observers of this trend but active participants in shaping its future. For more information on golden visas contact Savory & Partners today to book a comprehensive consultation with one of our experts.