Cheapest Golden Visas in 2025 – 5 Countries with Low-Cost Residency Options. Many people dream of living or investing abroad, but most residency and citizenship programs are expensive. Luckily, a few countries now offer affordable golden visa and citizenship programs that allow you to live, work, or travel freely with fewer restrictions.
5 Countries with Low-Cost Residency Options
Here are five of the cheapest golden visa options in 2025 for anyone looking to start a new life abroad.
1. Latvia – Low-Cost EU Residency
Latvia offers one of the most affordable golden visas in Europe. You can invest around €50,000 in a local business to get a five-year renewable residence permit.
Benefits:
- Free travel across the Schengen Zone
- Option to include family members
- Safe, peaceful European lifestyle
2. Vanuatu – Quick Citizenship Option
Vanuatu offers fast citizenship through a one-time investment of about $130,000. The process usually takes less than two months.
Benefits:
- No need to live there to keep your citizenship
- Visa-free travel to 90+ countries
- No income tax
3. Dominica – Lifetime Citizenship
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program is known for being simple and budget-friendly. You can get citizenship by donating $100,000 or investing $200,000 in real estate.
Benefits:
- Lifetime citizenship for you and your family
- Visa-free travel to over 140 countries
- Peaceful Caribbean lifestyle
4. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – 10-Year Golden Visa
The UAE’s golden visa gives investors a 10-year residence permit. You need to invest about AED 750,000 (around $204,000) in real estate.
Benefits:
- Long-term stay with no local sponsor
- World-class lifestyle and safety
- Access to top business opportunities
5. Antigua and Barbuda – Best for Families
This Caribbean country offers citizenship through a $100,000 donation or a $230,000 real-estate investment. It’s one of the best options for families since up to four people can apply together.
Benefits:
- Full citizenship for life
- Visa-free travel to 150+ countries
- Warm weather and island living
Quick Comparison
| Country | Investment Type | Minimum Cost | Visa Type | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latvia | Business | €50,000 | Residence | EU access |
| Vanuatu | Donation | $130,000 | Citizenship | Fast approval |
| Dominica | Donation/Real Estate | $100,000 | Citizenship | Lifetime status |
| UAE | Real Estate | AED 750,000 | Residence | 10-year visa |
| Antigua & Barbuda | Donation/Real Estate | $100,000 | Citizenship | Family-friendly |
Conclusion
If you want a low-cost way to live or invest abroad, these five countries offer some of the easiest and cheapest golden visa options in 2025. Always check the latest government rules and fees before applying, and choose the program that best fits your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
