Clear, honest answers about European residency programmes. If your question is not covered here, book a free assessment and we will address it directly.
It varies by country. Portugal requires EUR 500,000 in a CMVM-approved fund. Greece starts at EUR 250,000 for real estate in select regions (up to EUR 800,000 in Athens and prime areas). Hungary requires EUR 250,000 in a HIPA-approved fund.
This depends on the programme. Portugal requires just 7 days per year, Greece has no minimum stay, and Hungary has no stay requirement. D7 Visa holders in Portugal must spend 183+ days per year to maintain tax residency.
Yes, in most programmes. Portugal allows spouse, dependent children (including adult children under 26 in education), and dependent parents. Greece covers spouse and children under 21. Hungary includes spouse and minor children.
Processing times vary: Portugal Golden Visa takes 6-12 months, Greece Golden Visa 3-6 months, Hungary Guest Investor 4-7 months, and Portugal D7 Visa 3-5 months. These are typical timelines and can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances.
The D7 Visa is based on passive income (minimum ~EUR 1,020/month) and requires living in Portugal 183+ days per year. The Golden Visa is based on a capital investment (EUR 500,000) and requires only 7 days per year. D7 is ideal for retirees and remote workers; Golden Visa suits investors who want flexibility.
Yes. A valid residence permit from any Schengen country allows you to travel visa-free throughout the 29 Schengen member states for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Residency is not citizenship. After a qualifying period of legal residency, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship. Portugal extended its waiting period from five to ten years in May 2026 (the exact effective date and any retroactive provisions remain under constitutional review — see our dedicated explainer). Greece typically requires seven years with substantial physical residence and B1 Greek. Citizenship is a separate legal process requiring language proficiency, clean record, and demonstrated ties to the country.
All EU Golden Visa programmes require you to demonstrate the lawful origin of your investment funds. This typically involves bank statements, tax returns, business ownership records, sale contracts, or inheritance documentation. Funds from sanctioned countries or without clear documentation will not be accepted.
No. Since October 2023, real estate purchases are no longer eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa. The only remaining route is a minimum EUR 500,000 investment in a CMVM-approved fund. Greece still offers real estate-based Golden Visa.
We provide end-to-end support: initial assessment, programme selection, documentation coordination (apostille, translations), fund subscription guidance, application filing, biometric appointment scheduling, and post-approval renewal support. We do not provide legal representation or regulated investment advice.
Every situation is different. Book a free, no-obligation assessment and our team will provide answers specific to your profile and objectives.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Programme terms, thresholds, and processing times are subject to change by the relevant governments. IMERIA LDA is a consultancy firm and does not provide regulated legal or investment advice. Please consult qualified professionals before making any decisions.
