Cheapest Golden Visas: 5 countries with most affordable residency

The allure of a “Golden Visa” is strong, and we can’t really deny it. Here’s why – These residency or citizenship-by-investment programs allow individuals to get legal residence or even a second passport by making a considerable investment in a foreign country. From entrepreneurs seeking global mobility to retirees looking for a peaceful and comfortable retirement days abroad, Golden Visas open doors to new beginnings, tax benefits, and visa-free travel to several countries.
There are a handful of countries where acquiring residency or citizenship remains surprisingly affordable. Here are 5 of the cheapest Golden Visa programs in the world in 2025 for you to check out.

Latvia has quietly become one of the easiest entry points to the European Union for investors. Its Golden Residency Program requires a minimum investment of EUR 50,000 in a Latvian company, plus government processing fees. With this golden visa, investors receive a five-year renewable residence permit. This permit gives them the right to travel freely across the Schengen Zone.

Vanuatu offers one of the fastest and most straightforward citizenship-by-investment programs in the world. Here’s how - To secure full Vanuatu citizenship, all one needs to do is make a non-refundable contribution of USD 130,000 to the country’s Development Support Program. There are no residency, language, or interview requirements. It’s that simple. The entire process typically takes six to eight weeks. Vanuatu citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to over 90 countries, including the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It doesn’t include Schengen access

Investors can either make a USD 100,000 donation to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or choose to invest USD 200,000 in approved real estate projects, often luxury resorts and eco-lodges. With a Dominica golden visa, one gains citizenship for life and a passport that allows visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the EU Schengen area, the UK, and Hong Kong.

The UAE’s Golden Visa stands out for its combination of modern luxury and financial opportunity. It was introduced to attract global talent and investors. This golden visa programme allows foreigners to secure a 10-year renewable residence visa through an investment of AED 750,000 (approximately USD 204,000) in UAE real estate. Golden Visa holders enjoy a host of privileges like no local sponsor required, family sponsorship, and access to world-class infrastructure and healthcare

In Antigua and Barbuda, it’s citizenship-by-investment program. Investors can either donate USD 100,000 to the National Development Fund or invest USD 230,000 in approved real estate projects, which typically include upscale resorts or beachfront villas. In return, applicants receive citizenship for life, along with visa-free travel to more than 150 countries, including the EU Schengen area, the UK, and Singapore. Families of up to four can apply under one investment, making it one of the most cost-effective options for larger households. So, don’t let the turquoise waters, yachting marinas, and year-round sunshine stay far from you for too long.