[EN] Global Investor Visa Rules Are Getting Stricter

Reviewing investor visa and source-of-funds documents before applying for residency.

 

Why Investor Visa Rules Are Changing

Many countries are reviewing investor visa and residency-by-investment programs.

In recent years, some governments have changed these programs because of concerns about housing prices, money transparency, and public trust in immigration systems.

This does not mean every investor visa is disappearing.

But it does mean applicants should check the latest rules before planning real estate purchases, fund investments, or cross-border asset moves.

Europe Is Moving Away from Simple Property-Based Routes

Some European countries have reduced or removed simple real estate investment routes.

Portugal removed real estate purchases and real-estate-related funds from its Golden Visa options, while keeping other routes such as fund investment, cultural donation, and job creation.

Spain ended its Golden Visa program in April 2025, including the route that allowed non-EU investors to obtain residence through a real estate investment of at least €500,000.

Greece Has Raised Investment Thresholds in Many Areas

Greece still operates a Golden Visa program, but investment levels have changed.

In many property categories, minimum amounts are now commonly discussed around €400,000 or €800,000 depending on location and property type, with some exceptions still existing.

This shows why investors should not rely on old “€250,000 Golden Visa” information without checking the current rule for the exact property and area.

The US EB-5 Program Also Requires Careful Checking

The United States EB-5 investor visa has its own investment thresholds, job creation rules, and source-of-funds checks.

Applicants should not treat EB-5 as a simple investment product. It is an immigration process with strict documentation requirements.

Investment amount, project type, job creation evidence, and lawful source of funds all matter.

Source of Funds Is Becoming More Important

Across many investor visa systems, proving where the money came from is now a key part of the process.

Applicants may need to prepare:

• bank records
• tax records
• business ownership documents
• sale contracts
• inheritance documents
• salary or dividend records
• proof of legal fund transfer

Weak documentation can delay or damage an application, even when the investment amount is enough.

Do Not Rely on Old Golden Visa Information

Investor visa rules change often.

Before moving money or buying property, check:

• current minimum investment amount
• eligible investment category
• source-of-funds rules
• holding period
• renewal requirements
• tax residency impact
• family eligibility

For large investments, it is safer to confirm the rules with the official immigration authority or a licensed immigration professional before committing funds.

This article is based on publicly available immigration and investor visa information as of May 2026. Investor visa rules, investment thresholds, and eligibility requirements may change depending on each country’s policy.