A 10-year golden visa is a long-term residency permit granted to foreign nationals who invest significantly in a host country. These visas allow you to live, work, study, and in some cases bring family members, without needing to apply for shorter-term visas. Unlike traditional visas, golden visas are typically tied to real estate, business, or government bond investments.
Benefits of a 10-Year Golden Visa
A 10-year golden visa offers numerous advantages:
- Residency rights for 10 years with renewability.
- Eligibility to include spouse and children.
- In some countries, access to public healthcare and education.
- No minimum stay requirement in many jurisdictions.
- Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship in some cases.
How Much Is a 10-Year Golden Visa? (Country Breakdown)
United Arab Emirates (UAE) 10-Year Golden Visa
The UAE golden visa is one of the most well-known and widely sought after.
- Minimum Investment: AED 2 million (approx. USD 545,000) in real estate.
- Alternative Option: AED 2 million deposit in a local bank or company setup.
- Application Fee: Around AED 2,800–4,800 (USD 760–1,300).
- Processing Time: 1 to 2 months.
- Includes: Spouse, children, and dependent parents.
Saudi Arabia Premium Residency (10-Year Equivalent)
Saudi Arabia offers a “Premium Residency” program, including a 10-year renewable version.
- Minimum Fee: SAR 800,000 (approx. USD 213,000) one-time payment.
- Application Fee: Included in the main fee.
- Renewal: Automatically renewable, subject to eligibility.
Thailand Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
Thailand’s 10-year LTR visa targets wealthy foreigners, retirees, and digital nomads.
- Minimum Income: USD 80,000/year (or USD 40,000 with special conditions).
- Investment Option: USD 500,000 in Thai government bonds or real estate.
- Application Fee: THB 50,000 (approx. USD 1,400).
Greece – Indirect Path via Renewals
While Greece’s golden visa is issued for 5 years, it is indefinitely renewable, effectively making it a 10-year+ visa.
- Minimum Real Estate Investment: EUR 250,000–500,000 (USD 270,000–540,000 depending on area).
- Application Fee: EUR 2,000–3,000.
- Total 10-Year Cost: EUR 500,000+ including property and renewals.
Portugal – Indirect 10-Year Residency
Portugal’s golden visa is valid for 2 years initially, with renewals every 2 years. Over 10 years, this remains a viable residency route.
- Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000–500,000 (real estate or fund options).
- Application + Renewal Fees: EUR 5,000–8,000 per adult over 10 years.
- Includes: Spouse, children, and parents.
Spain – Renewable 10-Year Golden Visa
Spain offers an initial 2-year visa with 5-year renewals. It is commonly used for long-term residency.
- Minimum Investment: EUR 500,000 in real estate.
- Application Fee: EUR 1,000–2,000 per person.
- 10-Year Estimate: EUR 520,000+ for family of four.
Italy – Investor Visa (4+ Years, Renewable)
Italy’s investor visa grants a 2-year residency, renewable for 3 years, then convertable to long-term permit.
- Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000 in startups or EUR 500,000 in Italian companies.
- Other Options: EUR 1 million donation or EUR 2 million government bonds.
- Fees: EUR 1,000–2,000 processing and translation.
Comparing 10-Year Golden Visa Costs
| Country | Min. Investment | Visa Duration | Total Cost (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | USD 545,000 | 10 Years | ~USD 550,000+ |
| Saudi Arabia | USD 213,000 (Fee) | 10 Years | ~USD 213,000 |
| Thailand | USD 500,000 or Income Proof | 10 Years | USD 500,000+ |
| Greece | USD 270,000–540,000 | 5 Years (Renewable) | USD 540,000+ |
| Portugal | USD 270,000–540,000 | 2+2+2… Years | USD 550,000+ |
| Spain | USD 540,000 | 2+5+5 Years | USD 550,000+ |
| Italy | USD 270,000+ | 2+3+Renewal | USD 300,000–2 million |
Other Factors That Affect the Cost
Beyond minimum investment, golden visa applicants often pay additional fees:
- Lawyer or consultant fees.
- Translation and documentation charges.
- Government taxes or surcharges.
- Medical checkups or insurance premiums.
These hidden costs can add USD 10,000–50,000 to your visa journey, depending on family size and complexity.
Best Value 10-Year Golden Visas
Each program suits different goals:
- Most affordable: Saudi Arabia (no investment, only fee).
- Most flexible: UAE (low bureaucracy and family-friendly).
- Best for EU access: Portugal and Greece.
- Best for retirees: Thailand (LTR visa).
Conclusion: Choose Based on Your Lifestyle
There’s no single “cheapest” 10-year golden visa. Each comes with unique benefits, restrictions, and long-term value. If you prioritize residency with minimal obligations, the UAE and Saudi programs are ideal. If you aim for EU access or a citizenship pathway, Portugal or Greece offer longer-term advantages.
Always compare hidden costs, family eligibility, tax implications, and processing time before deciding. A professional immigration advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes.
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