Golda Viserion's blog : Golden Visa for Families: Which Countries Offer the Best Options?
A new path to global living. The Golden Visa is increasingly popular among families seeking international mobility. These programmes allow individuals to gain residency or citizenship in return for an investment. But beyond the investor, many programmes also extend benefits to family members, offering access to healthcare, education, and safer living environments.
In this article, we explore the top countries offering the best golden visa for family members, what each programme includes, and how to compare them.
Understanding golden visas for families
More than just residency. A golden visa grants residency rights to individuals in exchange for financial contributions, often through property investment, donations, or business creation. Many countries now allow main applicants to include spouses, children, and even dependent parents.
Who qualifies as family? Definitions vary by country. In most cases, family members include:
Spouse or legal partner
Dependent children (usually under 18 or 21)
Dependent parents or grandparents
Some programmes are more generous, including unmarried partners or adult children still in education.
Key benefits of a family golden visa
Opening doors for everyone. Golden visas do more than grant the investor residency:
Education: Access to top-tier schools and universities
Healthcare: Use of public or private healthcare systems
Mobility: Travel freedom within regional blocs like the EU or Schengen Zone
Path to citizenship: Many golden visas can lead to passports after 5–10 years
These advantages can significantly improve quality of life for the whole family, not just the investor.
Top countries with strong family-friendly golden visa options
Where policy meets opportunity. Not all golden visa programmes are created equal. Some countries offer more generous terms for family members, faster timelines, or better value for investment. Let’s review the top options.
Portugal
A favourite for families. Portugal's golden visa is one of Europe’s most popular. It allows investors to include spouses, minor children, and dependent adult children in education. Parents of the main applicant or spouse can also be included if dependent.
Minimum investment: €280,000 (low-density property areas)
Family inclusivity: Spouse, children, and dependent parents
Citizenship timeline: Eligible after 5 years
Extra perks: Access to EU, top schools, English widely spoken
Despite changes in 2023 restricting real estate investment in Lisbon and Porto, Portugal remains a family-friendly option.
Greece
Affordable and fast. Greece offers one of the cheapest golden visas in Europe, starting at €250,000 in real estate investment. The process is quick, with residency often approved within two months.
Minimum investment: €250,000 in property
Family inclusivity: Spouse, children under 21, parents of both spouses
Citizenship timeline: Eligible after 7 years
Extra perks: Access to the Schengen Zone, Mediterranean lifestyle
The broad family definition is a standout feature, including in-laws and older children.
Spain
Solid but slightly stricter. Spain’s golden visa welcomes families but has more limits on citizenship timelines and investment flexibility.
Minimum investment: €500,000 in real estate
Family inclusivity: Spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents
Citizenship timeline: 10 years (or 2 for Latin American citizens)
Extra perks: Strong healthcare and education systems
Spain is ideal for those looking to enjoy the lifestyle and stay long-term without immediate citizenship plans.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Fast-growing and business-friendly. The UAE’s golden visa is ideal for families seeking tax advantages and modern infrastructure.
Minimum investment: AED 2 million (~€500,000)
Family inclusivity: Spouse, children (age limit varies by emirate)
Citizenship timeline: No automatic path, but long-term stay allowed
Extra perks: Zero income tax, English-friendly, great education options
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are increasingly popular among tech workers and entrepreneurs relocating with families.
Panama
Low-cost and U.S.-friendly. Panama offers a Friendly Nations Visa and other investor paths that support family inclusion. It's a good option for North Americans.
Minimum investment: From $200,000 (property)
Family inclusivity: Spouse and children under 25
Citizenship timeline: 5 years of permanent residency
Extra perks: U.S. dollar economy, affordable healthcare
Panama is a practical choice for middle-income families seeking a gateway to Latin America.
What to consider before applying
Not just about investment. When choosing the best golden visa for family members, it's important to compare beyond just the price tag. Consider:
Residency requirements: Some countries require minimum stays per year
Education and healthcare access: Check eligibility for public services
Citizenship paths: Rules vary widely in duration and language tests
Tax impact: Understand global income tax rules for each destination
Also, keep in mind that processing times and legal support can vary, so working with a reputable advisory firm is wise.
How to begin your family's golden visa journey
Start with your priorities. Think about what matters most—education, healthcare, language, climate, taxes. Use that to filter options. Once you have a shortlist, work with a licensed firm to prepare documents and manage the application.
For a detailed overview of options and step-by-step guidance, visit this full guide:
👉 Golden Visa for Family Members
Conclusion: The right golden visa makes all the difference
Global mobility for your loved ones. A golden visa is not just a financial decision—it’s a lifestyle upgrade for your entire family. Whether you want EU access, Middle East modernity, or Latin American ease, there’s a programme tailored to your needs.
Choosing the right golden visa for family members means looking beyond the numbers. It’s about creating a better life—together.
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