Expanding Your Business in Europe: How a Golden Visa Can Help

Published: 14 March 2025

Europe is home to some of the world’s most dynamic economies, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses.

But breaking into European markets can be tricky, especially if you’re a non-EU national. This is where a Golden Visa can be a game-changer.

Golden Visas offer residency in exchange for investment, helping business owners establish a presence in Europe while enjoying a range of benefits.

From visa-free travel to tax incentives, these programmes provide a strategic way to grow internationally. Let’s explore how a Golden Visa can help you take your business to the next level.

What is a Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment programme that allows non-EU nationals to gain residency (and sometimes citizenship) in a European country by making a qualifying investment.

Typically, these investments include:

• Purchasing real estate.

• Investing in local businesses or startups.

• Contributing to government bonds or economic development funds.

Golden Visa holders often receive long-term residency rights, the ability to live and work in the country, and visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

For business owners, these benefits can be a huge asset when expanding into Europe.

How a Golden Visa Can Benefit Your Business

Expanding your business into Europe can be a complex process, with legal, financial, and logistical hurdles to navigate.

A Golden Visa can simplify this journey, offering key advantages that make it easier to operate and grow within the European market. Here’s how a Golden Visa can benefit your business:

1. Easier Travel Across Europe

One of the biggest perks of a Golden Visa is unrestricted access to the Schengen Zone, which covers 27 European countries. Instead of dealing with multiple visa applications, you can move freely for business meetings, conferences, and networking opportunities.

If your business requires frequent travel, a Golden Visa removes the hassle and delays of visa restrictions, allowing you to focus on expansion.

2. Direct Market Access

Residency in an EU country makes it much easier to set up a business, open a bank account, and navigate European regulations.

Having a registered business in a Golden Visa country can also enhance your credibility with European clients and partners.

For companies looking to tap into the EU’s 450-million-strong consumer market, a local presence can be a significant advantage.

3. Tax Benefits

Some European countries offer tax incentives to attract investors. For example:

• Malta offers a range of tax incentives for investors, including exemptions on foreign income under certain conditions.

• Portugal offers tax benefits for expats under its Non-Habitual Resident (NHR 2.0) programme.

Understanding these benefits can help you structure your finances in a way that optimises profits while staying compliant with tax regulations.

4. Business Investment Opportunities

Many Golden Visa schemes encourage investment in the local economy, whether through real estate, government bonds, or business ventures.

For entrepreneurs, this means you can expand your business while fulfilling visa requirements.

For example, investing in an innovative startup or launching a branch of your company in a European country could not only secure residency but also boost your business prospects.

Top Golden Visa Programmes for Business Owners

Not all Golden Visa programmes are the same. Here are three of the most attractive options for business expansion:

1. Greece

• Minimum Investment: €250,000 in real estate (increasing to €500,000 in certain areas).

• Residency: Immediate residency with no minimum stay requirements.

• Business Benefits: Access to a growing economy and the Schengen Zone.

2. Malta

• Minimum Investment: €180,000 in government bonds or approved investments..

• Residency: No minimum stay required.

• Business Benefits: A favourable tax system, a strategic location in the Mediterranean, and strong connections to European and global markets.

3. Hungary

• Minimum Investment: Around €250,000 in real estate or business investments.

• Residency: Fast-track residency for investors.

• Business Benefits: Central location for easy trade and market access.

Each programme has its own rules and requirements, so choosing the right one depends on your business goals and financial situation.

Recent Changes in Golden Visa Programmes

Golden Visa schemes have come under scrutiny in some countries due to concerns over rising property prices and economic impact. For example:

• Spain is abolishing its Golden Visa programme in response to housing affordability concerns.

• Portugal has removed real estate investment as a qualifying factor, shifting the focus to business and scientific investments.

Before committing to a Golden Visa, it’s essential to stay updated on policy changes and choose a country with stable and supportive investment policies.

How to Choose the Right Golden Visa for Your Business

Before making a decision, consider these key factors:

1. Investment Requirements – Does the minimum investment align with your budget and business strategy?

2. Economic Stability – Is the host country’s economy strong enough to support your business growth?

3. Residency Obligations – Will you need to spend a certain amount of time in the country each year?

4. Legal and Tax Considerations – Are there tax benefits, and will they work in your favour?

5. Long-Term Goals – Do you eventually want citizenship, or is residency enough?

Consulting with a legal or financial advisor can help you make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

A Golden Visa isn’t just about securing residency—it can be a powerful business tool.

Whether you want easier access to European markets, tax incentives, or a strategic business location, these programmes offer valuable benefits for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

If you’re considering a Golden Visa as part of your business expansion strategy, take the time to research your options, seek professional advice, and choose a programme that aligns with your goals.

Ready to take your business to Europe? A Golden Visa might be the perfect solution.