Skip to main content
A member of GI Group
Programme guides · Greece Golden Visa · Cyprus Permanent Residency · Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) · Portugal Golden Visa (Fund Investment)

The Lowest-Cost European Residence in 2026: Four Programmes Ranked by Investment

Global Immigrate consultants · Published

Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director

Summary

Among the European programmes we offer, the Greece Golden Visa from EUR 250,000 has the lowest threshold, followed by Cyprus PR (EUR 300,000 new home), Malta PR (renting possible) and the Portugal Golden Visa (EUR 500,000 fund).

Short answer: among the European programmes we offer, the Greece Golden Visa (from EUR 250,000) has the lowest threshold, followed by Cyprus PR (EUR 300,000 new home). To keep capital liquid, Malta lets you rent instead of buy.

Ranked by investment

Programme Minimum investment Status Stay requirement
Greece Golden Visa EUR 250,000 (conversion or restoration) Five-year renewable residence None
Cyprus PR New home EUR 300,000 (plus VAT) Permanent residence Generally a visit every two years
Malta PR Buy EUR 375,000 or rent, plus government fees Permanent residence None
Portugal Golden Visa Fund EUR 500,000 Residence; PR after five years 7 days in year one, then 14 every two years

"Cheapest" means total cost

  • Cyprus: VAT on top, plus proof of stable foreign income.
  • Malta: renting avoids a purchase, but government fees and asset requirements apply.
  • Greece: EUR 250,000 applies only to conversion or restoration projects; other areas cost more.

By goal

  • Lowest investment with physical property: Greece.
  • EU permanent residence directly: Cyprus or Malta.
  • Citizenship later: Portugal, with PR after five years.
  • Three generations: Malta covers parents and grandparents.

Note: Cyprus is in the EU but not the Schengen Area; Greece, Portugal and Malta are.

FAQ

What is the cheapest European residence?

Greece from EUR 250,000 (conversion or restoration).

What is the cheapest EU permanent residence?

Cyprus, with a new home from EUR 300,000 (plus VAT).

Can I get residence without buying property?

Yes — rent in Malta, or invest in a fund in Portugal.

Related articles

· Programme guidesTwo Ways to Travel Freely in the Schengen Area: a Passport or a European Residence?Read article · Programme guidesProgrammes That Include Your Parents: Three-Generation Options for 2026Read article · Programme guidesImmigration Options Under USD 500,000 in 2026Read article
WhatsAppLINEWeChat

One of our professional consultants will contact you — free and confidential.

* Required

Answer a few quick questions to find the programmes that suit you best.

Scan the QR code in WeChat, or search for our WeChat ID below to add us.

WeChat IDglobalimmigrate