In search of a better life abroad, people face dozens of complex legal procedures. However, there is a path that combines reasonable investment and achieving the goal of relocation — purchasing real estate. This method remains one of the most reliable and transparent. Unlike employment, it does not tie the applicant to a specific employer, and compared to a student visa — it opens up opportunities for the entire family. By investing in housing, you are not just spending money, but acquiring an asset that can appreciate in value and generate rental income, while simultaneously giving you and your loved ones legal status in a new country. In 2025, this market continues to develop dynamically, offering options for every taste and budget.
How Programs Work: Residence Permit vs Citizenship
The key understanding lies in the difference between a residence permit (RP) and citizenship.
- Residence Permit (RP) — is a permit for long-term residence in a country. It is usually issued for a period of 1 to 5 years with the right of renewal. A residence permit for real estate is often the first step towards permanent residence (PR) and, prospectively, citizenship, but it is not equivalent to it.
- Citizenship — is a full-fledged legal status, including the right to a passport, voting rights, and an unconditional right of residence. Obtaining citizenship directly for the purchase of real estate is possible only in isolated cases (for example, in Turkey), and this requires much larger investments.
An investor residence permit, obtained through the purchase of housing, grants the right to multiple entries and residence in the country, and in most cases — also to visa-free travel within the Schengen area. For many, this is a 'golden key' to European quality of life, healthcare, and education.
Countries with Residence Permit Programs for Real Estate in 2025
Program parameters are constantly adapting to modern economic realities. In 2025, investors have many options. For example:
- Greece. The most economical solution in the European Union. The "Golden Visa" requires €800,000 in prestigious locations (Athens, Mykonos) or €400,000 in other regions. It is possible to purchase real estate converted from commercial to residential for an amount from €250,000. The residence permit is issued for a 5-year term with an unlimited number of renewals.
- Cyprus. To obtain a residence permit, one needs to purchase real estate for an amount from €300,000. The residence permit is issued for 10 years, with the possibility of obtaining citizenship in the future upon fulfilling the conditions of stay in the country.
- Turkey. The possibility to obtain a residence permit by investing from €200,000 in residential or commercial real estate. Turkey offers a wide selection of diverse properties for investment, among which there are many new builds. If the amount is increased to €400,000, one can immediately apply for citizenship.
- UAE (Dubai). Favorable conditions for investments from 750,000 dirhams (~$200,000). The resident status is issued for a two-year period with the possibility of renewal, providing rights for employment, study, and business.
- Bulgaria. A residence permit with the possibility of renewal is obtained for 1 year for the purchase of real estate costing from €310,000.
- Malta. Malta's residence permit program requires not only the purchase of real estate but also an investment in a national fund. The total amount exceeds €500,000, and the residence permit must be renewed every 5 years. After 5 years, one can apply for citizenship.
- Oman. A 5-year residence permit can be obtained by investing in real estate for an amount from $250,000.
- Saudi Arabia. One of the most expensive programs. Requires an investment of at least $1,100,000 in real estate. Can be renewed an unlimited number of times, but only as long as you own the property.
All amounts are indicated considering the latest legislative amendments and may be adjusted according to currency fluctuations.
Requirements and Investment Amounts: What You Need to Know
In addition to the minimum threshold, there are other important criteria.
- Minimum Thresholds. Amounts vary greatly: from $200,000 in the UAE to $1,100,000 and more in Saudi Arabia. It is important to consider that this is an investment in a property, not a non-refundable contribution.
- Types of Properties. Almost all programs allow the purchase of both residential and commercial real estate.
- Validity Period of the Residence Permit. The initial residence permit is usually issued for 1-2 years, after which it must be renewed. In Greece, for example, they initially issue a residence permit for 5 years. In Saudi Arabia, it is possible to obtain a permanent residence permit while retaining ownership of the property.
- Additional Costs. To the cost of the property, one must add purchase taxes, state duties, legal and realtor services, which can amount to 10-15% of the property's price.
Pros and Risks of Investment Migration
Like any serious investment, this path has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Relative simplicity and transparency of the process compared to other immigration programs.
- You own a liquid asset that can be rented out.
- The possibility to obtain status for the entire family (spouse and minor children).
- High standard of living and access to the best social services.
- Freedom of movement within the Schengen area (for European programs).
Risks:
- Changes in Legislation. Governments may tighten the rules or close the program, as happened with the 'golden visas' in Ireland.
- Tax Liabilities. By becoming a tax resident, you are obliged to pay taxes on your income in the new country.
- Market Risks. The value of real estate can both rise and fall. One cannot view the purchase solely as a ticket to emigration, forgetting the financial aspect.
- Maintenance Obligation. Property ownership requires expenses for utilities, insurance, and repairs.
Conclusion: How to Choose a Country and Not Lose Status
Choosing a country for investment should be a strategic decision based not only on the check amount but also on long-term life plans. If your goal is fast citizenship, look towards Turkey. If the priority is freedom of movement across Europe, then Greece or Cyprus are ideal. If you are attracted to the dynamic business environment of the Middle East — your choice is the UAE.
To avoid losing status, it is necessary to strictly comply with the program conditions. This includes minimum periods of stay in the country (the so-called 'residency requirement'), which exist almost everywhere. In some cases, if you aim to obtain citizenship in the future, it is necessary to reside in the country for most of the time. For example, in Cyprus, this figure is 8 years out of 10, with the need to provide documents confirming actual stay in the country. It is also important to renew documents on time and keep the property in ownership throughout the entire period required by the program.
Ultimately, buying real estate abroad to obtain a residence permit is a ticket to a new life, but a ticket with conditions. The success of this venture depends on careful planning, a realistic assessment of risks, and, not least, a genuine liking for the country you plan to call your second home.
