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How to apply for a “Golden Visa” out of the US, the expensive ticket to leave to other countries after Trump’s victory
Donald Trump’s second presidency is looming and people are already searchning for ways to get out the country before he is sworn in.
In the wake of political changes, many Americans are considering relocating abroad, with searches to the effect increasing 1270% after the election. One option for those with significant financial means is the “Golden Visa” program offered by various countries. These programs, also known as investor visas, provide a pathway to residency or citizenship through substantial investments.
These permits refer to a type of visa that grants foreigners the possibility of residing and working in a country in exchange for an economic investment. While not necessarily the legal term, the ‘golden’ refers to the significant financial commitment involved. Minimum investments can range from $100,000 to over $2 million, depending on the country.
These investments may include:
- Real estate purchases
- Business investments
- Cultural investments
- Government bonds
- Bank deposits
In addition to the financial requirements, you may need to:
- Pass background checks
- Provide proof of funds
- Obtain health insurance
- Meet minimum residency requirements
Which countries of the European Union grant golden visas?
Though politically fraught, non-citizens can purchase a home worth $500,000 in Spain to be granted a residency. Other options include holding at least one million euros in bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions or purchase two million dollars in State issued bonds to receive their visa.
In Malta, a minimum of €690,000 euro invested can earn someone anywhere between twelve and thirty-six months of citizenship.
Italy is another popular destination for those looking to obtain residency by investment. Since 2017, its golden visa grants non-EU citizens a two-year residence permit in exchange for an investment in the country of at least €500,000.
In this sense, it is worth highlighting Greece, where golden visas are offered with one of the fastest processes to obtain residence and one of the lowest thresholds for investment (€250,000). Foreigners who meet the requirements can obtain the permit within 60 days of submitting their application.
Why Golden Visas are a problem
The fundamental issue is that golden visas transform citizenship from a right of belonging into a financial transaction, undermining the traditional concept of national identity. They provide wealthy individuals advantages not available to those without financial means and create a system where access to better opportunities is directly tied to wealth.