European Golden Visas in 2026: Comparing Portugal, Malta, and Hungary for Investors
Residency in Europe opens up a wide range of new opportunities, including better mobility, a safer environment for families, and a secure path to building a future abroad. However, the requirements for Golden visa have changed with new policies and conditions. So selecting the right program in 2026 isn't simply about considering the minimum investment. Currently, Portugal, Malta and Hungary are some of the most attractive options for investors but each country has different requirements.
In this guide, we will explore Portugal, Malta, and Hungary’s Golden Visa and best Residency by Investment options in 2026. This information will help investors differentiate and identify which programs best align with their needs and interests.
Portugal vs Malta vs Hungary Golden Visa at a Glance
Feature | Portugal Golden Visa | Malta MPRP | Hungary Guest Investor |
Program Type | Residency by Investment | Permanent residency | Residency by Investment |
Main Investment route | Eligible Investment Funds | Property + Contributions | Approved Real Estate Fund and donation |
Minimum Investment | €250,000 | €163,755 | €250,000 |
Family Inclusion | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Schengen Access | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Physical stay | Low | Low | Low |
Citizenship | Possible, subject to requirements | Possible, subject to requirements | Possible, subject to requirements |
Portugal Residency by Investment in 2026
How the Portugal Golden Visa Works
Portugal's Residency by Investment program allows eligible investors to get residency through investment. This program is managed by AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum). Investors can no longer qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa through the real estate path. Investment funds are now one of the most important options to get the Golden Visa.
Investment Requirements
The main fund route requires €500,000 in qualifying non-real-estate collective investment.
Before investing in funds, investors should check the regulatory status, investment strategy, fees, liquidity, holding period, and exit conditions. Other options are also available, like research investments, job creation and cultural contributions.
Residency and Physical Presence
Portugal stands out to internationally mobile investors because its ARI (Autorização de Residência para Atividade de Investimento) program now has a low physical presence requirement.
The existing framework requires at least 7 days in the first year and 14 days during the following years. This flexibility enables entrepreneurs to hold Portuguese residency without relocating permanently.
Family and Long-Term Options
Portugal residency by investment program provides eligibility for families’ residency. Investors may qualify for permanent residence or citizenship but each is a separate route with different requirements.
Best for: Investors looking for a fund-based residency path that requires limited physical presence and potential long-term settlement opportunities.
Malta Permanent Residence by Investment in 2026
How the Malta Program Works
Malta's Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) provides permanent residency rather than a temporary investment residence permit.
This program combines property investments, government contributions, fees and donations.
Investment Requirements
Applicants must be financially stable as they must have:
Capital assets of not less than €500,000 with €150,000 of financial assets
Or
Capital assets of not less than €650,000 with €75,000 of financial assets
Residency and Physical Appearance
MPRP's biggest advantage is that successful applicants receive permanent residence.
However, permanent residence should not be confused with tax residency or citizenship because both are different legal concepts with different requirements.
Family and Long-Term Options
This program can cover qualifying family members under the rules.
But Investors should note that Maltese permanent residency does not automatically provide Maltese citizenship.
Citizenship requires separate requirements.
Best for: investors who prioritise European residency and prefer a property based program.
Hungary Residency by Investment in 2026
How the Hungary Program Works
Hungary's residency by investment program functions via the Guest Investor residence permit.
This program offers eligible third-country nationals a long term residence option through approved investment routes.
Investment Requirements
For a 10 year residence permit in Hungary this program requires a minimum investment of €250,000.
For Hungary’s Golden Visa Program investors from non-EU and non-EEA countries can participate through two programs:
By investing €250,000 in a real estate investment fund
By donating €1,000,000 to a public trust in Hungary
Residency and Physical Presence
The Guest Investor residence permit in Hungary can be valid for up to 10 years and may be renewed for another 10 years after that.
One of the major advantages of this program is that there is no mandatory minimum stay requirement for permit holders. This makes Hungary more attractive to investors who often travel.
Family and Long-Term Options
Eligible family members can get residency under the family reunification rules.
It's noticeable that the 10 year Guest Investor permit can not be treated as permanent residency or citizenship. Each has separate legal criteria.
Best for: Global investors looking for a €250,000 investment route, long-term residency and without any mandatory minimum stay.
Which European Golden Visa Is Best in 2026?
The answer solely depends on the investor’s goals.
Portugal may be a better option for investors interested in investment funds and a long-term European residency.
Malta may appeal to those who prioritize permanent residency.
Hungary may stand out for global investors aiming for a long term permit with a €250,000 fund route, and without any mandatory minimum stay.
Greece could be worth considering for property-focused investors.
Investors should evaluate total costs, investment risks, physical presence, family eligibility and prospective long-term immigration pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best European Golden Visa in 2026?
There is no universal best country. Portugal, Malta, Hungary, and Greece may suit investors with different priorities.
2. Can I get Portugal residency by investment through an investment fund?
Yes. Under the current ARI framework the investment funds are one of the options available for residency.
3. Is Malta permanent residence by investment still available?
Yes. Malta's Permanent Residence Program remains available to eligible non-EU applicants.
4. How much is required for Hungary residency by investment?
Hungary's main route requires an investment of €250,000 in real estate fund.
5. Is the Greece Golden Visa still available in 2026?
Greece Golden Visa program continues to operate but the investment requirements depend on the specific route and property.
