Obtaining residency or a second passport is a key strategy for High Net Worth Individuals with added global mobility and safety for their families. European Golden Visa Programs are particularly appealing to Indian investors, as the programs are straightforward and provide residency with the potential to live and work in some of the safest, high-income countries in the world.
These programs, commonly referred to as residency by investment opportunities (not to be confused with Contingent Residency) offer non-EU citizens the opportunity to land an EU country residence rights in exchange for a significant economic investment (often referred to creating a pathway for residency). With 2025 right around the corner, here are a few programs that stand out that are favorable, quick and beneficial.
Navigating the Landscape of European Golden Visa Programs in 2025
The landscape for residency-by-investment programs is constantly shifting. In the last few years, some countries have changed their programs, while others have raised the investment thresholds in the interests of their own national interests. For anyone considering a Golden Visa Europe 2025, it is important to familiarize yourself with the sheath of changes. Many programs have also switched their focus from real estate to investments by other means, such as capital transfers and contributions to governments’ funds. This is definitely a game-changing trend that you will want to keep in mind.
The 2025 report by Henley & Partners on residency-by-investment programs showed Greece’s program had become more attractive than ever; Greece’s program was ranked as one of the most attractive programs for residence investment, ranked first in their global residence program index and is, therefore, consistency gaining momentum and appeal towards stability for international investors.
A Closer Look at the Top Golden Visa Programs for Indian Investors
For Indian investors looking for a foothold in Europe, some programs are easier and more attractive options. Easy PR countries for Indians generally have a low investment requirement and a simple application process. Here best European country to get PR easily:
Greece Golden Visa Program
The Greece Golden Visa Program is a popular choice due to it being the cheapest Golden Visa in Europe. The program has changed along the way but has remained one of the more accessible options available.
Investment routes
The primary investment route is through the real estate option. As of 2025, Greece is offering their real estate investments in multiple tiers based on location:
€800,000 – for highly demanded areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini
€400,000 – for the majority of the rest of the territory of Greece
€250,000 – while this is the bottom level, it is available only for new limited special cases of investment such as purchasing a heritage building in a restoration project or a commercial-to-residential conversion.
Main Benefits for Indian Investors
Access to the Schengen Area: The Greek residence permit allows you to travel under a visa-free regime to the Schengen Area, which encompasses 27 countries in Europe. This is a clear advantage to business and leisure travelers.
No Minimum Stay: The Greek Golden Visa has no minimum stay in Greece for you to keep your residency permit. You only need to travel to Greece for biometrics.
Includes Family: The Greek Golden Visa program allows main applicants to include spouses, children under 21 and parents of both the applicant and their spouse. This makes the program very appealing for family applications.
Pathway to Citizenship: Greek citizenship is available after 7 years of continuous residency.
Read more on Investment Options for the Greece Golden Visa Program
Portugal Golden Visa Program
The Portugal Golden Visa, which is referred to as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity in Portugal (ARI), has changed a lot. The biggest amendment to the program was the removal of the real estate investment options, which happened in late 2023. The program is still very popular for its other investment options and pathways to citizenship.
Most current valid investment options are focused on capital transfers and business investments:
€500,000: investment in a Portuguese investment or venture capital fund
€250,000: capital transfer to support artistic production or the requalification of national cultural heritage
Creation of 10 jobs: create a new business that creates at least 10 permanent jobs
€500,000: sponsorship of research activities at public or private scientific institutions.
Key Benefits for Indian Investors
Defined Path to Citizenship: The great thing about Portugal’s program is the defined and comparatively short pathway to citizenship. After five years of residency, you can then apply for a Portuguese passport if you meet the even easier minimum language proficiency (A2 level).
Low Physical Presence Requirement: You only need to spend an average of 7 days a year in Portugal to keep your residency status, so it is the perfect solution for people who do not want to move there immediately.
Read more in details about the Portugal Immigration Guide: How to Immigrate to Portugal
How to Apply for a European Golden Visa
The process for a Golden Visa for Indian investors involves several steps, and while they may differ slightly by country, the general outline outlined below is similar.
Here’s how to apply for a European Golden Visa
1. Initial Consultation and Due Diligence – As program templates vary by location it’s important to consult with the proper expert(s) to determine the best program for your specific situation and goals. A due diligence check will also take place to ensure you meet the specific eligibility criteria.
2. Execute Investment – Given the program we have selected, we will then execute the investment. This might include the purchase of real estate, capital transfer or transfer of investment in a business.
3. Document Preparation – This is a very discrete and detail-oriented process. You will need to collect all your personal and financial documents – usually with certified translations. This will often include your proof of funds, clean criminal record and passport.
4. Submission of Application – We will submit your application along with all the requisite documents to the appropriate government authority
5. Biometrics and Immigration Residency Permit – Upon preliminary acceptance of the application; you will need to travel to the location to provide biometrics. Then your residency permit will be issued.
The process can be complicated and there is no substitute for guidance by an expert to ensure that there are no delays and that we meet all requirements.
The key to success is a well-prepared and comprehensive application.
Read about the European Golden Visa Program Benefits
Why FRR Immigration is Your Ideal Partner
Applying to a European Golden Visa Program can feel daunting, especially because there are constantly changing laws and regulations. At FRR Immigration, we help High Net Worth Individuals and their families achieve their future through considered global mobility opportunities. We have experience with the unique needs of Indian investors and have experience in providing complete, tailored support to make your application process smooth and ultimately successful.
Here is how FRR Immigration can support you:
Research: Our team of professionals keep current with immigration laws and program requirements throughout Europe and the changes and conditions starting in 2024 or 2025 for Golden Visa Europe. We will provide timely and timely advice on the best programs that are currently the most feasible and worthwhile opportunities.
Customizable Strategy: We don’t believe in a cookie cutter approach. We will assist you in evaluating your family’s personal finances and planned future in order to build a plan and find the Cheapest European Golden Visa available that meets your needs, and, the optimum country in Europe for you to apply to receive PR.
End-to-End Application Management: We will assist you with every aspect of your application process from the document collection and notarization process, to working with Governmental or Authoritative parties to anything in between. Our thoroughness and attention to detail reduces the opportunity for errors and delays. We will explain how the application process for a European Golden Visa can be simple.
Trusted Partnerships: Our trusted partnerships with legal and banking firms around the world offer reassurance. As you entrust us your investment, you can also fully have confidence that your investment will be handled professionally and your application will be processed promptly.
Post Residency Services: Our services do not end at approval of your visa. We assist with everything from settling into your new accommodation and opening a bank account, to ensuring that you are aware of your new jurisdiction’s tax obligations so you and your family can have the best experience adjusting to your new residency.
Focusing on Indian applicants: We have been involved with many Indian clients, and are aware of the unique considerations for Golden Visa applications made by Indian investors, and can therefore provide cultural and contextual insight.
Your Future Awaits
Residency by investment in Europe offers more than just a passport. It provides access to world-class education, superior healthcare, and a high quality of life. For Indian investors, securing a European residency is a powerful tool for global diversification and family security. Don’t let the complexities of the application process hold you back. Let FRR Immigration be your guide to a brighter future.
Contact FRR Immigration today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward securing your European Golden Visa Programs and the freedom to live, work, and thrive in Europe.
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