A new study places Portugal, Italy and Greece among the top five global destinations for high-net-worth individuals seeking residence, highlighting their appeal for investors and families amid shifting EU migration and investment policies.
Portugal, Italy and Greece have emerged as leading destinations for wealthy individuals seeking residence through investment, according to the Global Residence Program Index 2026 by Global Citizen Solutions. The study, which compared 48 residence-by-investment programmes across 46 countries, found that these three EU states, alongside Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, are now among the most attractive options for high-net-worth individuals worldwide.
The report highlights that quality of life and administrative efficiency have become more important than the minimum investment required. For many investors, the ability to secure EU residency or citizenship, access to the Schengen Area, and a stable environment for families are now decisive factors.
Portugal Remains the Top EU Entry Point
Portugal continues to stand out as the leading European gateway for investors. The Portuguese golden visa offers access to the EU and Schengen, with the possibility of naturalisation after seven to ten years, depending on the applicant's original nationality. Investment options include a minimum of €500,000 in a venture capital fund, cultural patronage from €200,000, support for scientific research, or job-creating projects. Analysts note that Portugal offers the best value for money in Europe, with a temperate climate and a welcoming environment for international families.
Italy and Greece Offer Flexible and Fast-Track Options
Italy ranks fourth globally, not for its cost but for the flexibility of its investor visa, which allows for investments in government bonds, companies, startups, or philanthropic donations. The strength of the Italian passport and the range of options compensate for a higher entry threshold and less favourable tax conditions. Greece completes the top five, offering the fastest procedure among leading programmes. The Greek golden visa, which has recently raised its real estate threshold to €800,000 in prime areas, remains attractive for those seeking rapid access, with new alternatives emerging in the startup sector.
Regional and Policy Implications
The prominence of Portugal, Italy and Greece in the global rankings comes as the European Union increases scrutiny of citizenship-by-investment schemes, particularly in the Caribbean. The EU has warned several Caribbean states to close such programmes or risk losing Schengen visa exemptions. Meanwhile, North American options have lost ground, with the US EB-5 and E-2 visas falling in the rankings, while Canada remains the top North American performer.
For North African investors and families, the continued strength of southern European golden visa programmes is significant. These schemes offer a pathway to EU residency and mobility, especially for those facing limited passport strength or seeking greater security and educational opportunities. The evolving regulatory environment in Europe and the Mediterranean will be critical to monitor as governments adjust thresholds and eligibility in response to both demand and EU policy pressure.
