It is enough to go on a short trip to a distant country to appreciate another region’s culture, traditions, and climate peculiarities. Tourists most often go for this reason, as well as for a quality vacation. Unlike them, foreigners move to study the issue more thoroughly. For example, for the cosmopolitan, the following are important:

• economic advantages and political situation;
• quality international education and health care system;
• absence of terrorism on the territory and low cost of residence permit registration.

All these factors together influence the choice of a country. Let’s name the three most popular European destinations where you should invest money to quickly and inexpensively acquire a European residence permit and the ability to cross Schengen borders without hindrance.

Italy Golden Visa Program

EU Golden Visa is a  particular pass document for foreigners, issued based on investment in the economy. Do not confuse it with a mark in the passport, as it is a full-fledged opportunity to get Italy Residence by investment. Compare it with the Golden Passports of the Caribbean states (it is a pass for temporary residence). The card provides direct access to real estate and gives you the right to own and manage any property, including apartments, houses, villas and others. 

Italy has a pleasant climate, and beaches and the Mediterranean Sea surround the mountains perfectly. The Italian government approved the program in 2018. A foreigner can choose one of four investment opportunities according to the requirements:

• in companies that qualify as innovative start-ups – from €250,000;
• in assets of Italian companies – from €500,000;
• in socially important projects (charitable contribution, non-refundable investments) – from €1,000,000;
• in government bonds – from €2,000,000.

The application is approved before the funds are deposited, so there are no capital risks. The applicant can move the whole family and must be of legal age. The paperwork takes about three months to complete. Permission is obtained for two years, and you can extend the card for another three years. After five years, the investor can apply for permanent residence, and after another five years, he can apply for citizenship.

 Hungary Golden Visa Program

This small country in Central Europe is one of the top five countries regarding thermal water reserves. To get Golden visa in Hungary through investment, you can use the Residence Bond program. To do this, you must invest 300,000 euros in government bonds for 5 years or buy a property worth 500,000 or more. After that, you can apply for a residence permit and enjoy the privileges of European residency, such as: 

1. Freedom of movement within the Schengen area.  
2. Fast processing – about 2–3 months.
3. Improved business opportunities.
4. Access to high-quality education and healthcare.
5. Transfer to other family members: pass holders can transfer the pass to their family members, such as their spouse and minor children.

After reaching a certain period of stay and fulfilling the conditions, cardholders can apply and consider dual citizenship.

The details of Golden visa programs can change, so it is recommended to contact official sources or legal advisors for up-to-date information. 

UAE Golden Visa Program

Anyone who has once visited the Arabian Peninsula, surrounded by the Persian Gulf, and has been impressed by its beauty will return many times. The eastern part of the peninsula, where the Emirates are located, is the most impressive. You will always be impressed no matter which emirate you like – luxurious Abu Dhabi or the entertainment capital of Dubai. 

To move to one of the Emirates, you do not need to go through the stages of naturalization. It is enough to apply for immigration through an immigration company and get a golden pass. This document gives the right to stay in the territory for 5 to 10 years.

After the expiration of the term, it can be extended for the same period by going through a new application process. The list of main benefits: 

1. Tax “paradise.” UAE residents do not pay income or corporate taxes, and their property is also tax-free. 
2. The country’s healthcare system is highly developed. According to the World Bank, the UAE is one of the most popular medical tourism destinations.
3. Expats are not required to live in the UAE, and resident visa holders do not need to stay permanently in the country.
4. Developed infrastructure and economy play a crucial role in improving citizens’ quality of life. 
5. On the plus side, the permit can be obtained for a different term – six months, two, five, or 10 years, depending on the type of deposit and the investor’s status. 

According to the specialist of Immigrant Invest Vladlena Baranova, the price of a “pass” will vary, but it is most often 545 thousand dollars.  

Final Comparison

So, the most expensive of these visa options in terms of finances is the UAE, and the cheapest is Italy. However, it is only a subjective opinion, as the amount depends on the type of deposit. The fastest way to move to Hungary is not a bad option for everyone (young people, retirees, children), as the country is a European health resort and the cradle of seven architectural styles. However, the choice is up to you. If climate, a variety of natural landscapes, historical value, and cultural community are your priorities, choose Italy. If you choose a rich life with skyscrapers and new technologies, the Emirates will become your second homeland.