Here's a list of the best 'Gold Visas' around the world

Golden visas offer residency for investment, granting the wealthy visa-free travel, tax benefits, and mobility.

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US President Donald Trump has unveiled a new 'Gold Card' visa, setting a $5 million price tag for wealthy investors seeking US residency and citizenship. The initiative, which aims to replace the existing EB-5 visa program, is designed to inject capital into the US economy while addressing national debt.

Golden visas—residency or citizenship programs in exchange for investment—are not new. Many countries offer similar schemes, providing high-net-worth individuals with benefits such as visa-free travel, tax incentives, and enhanced global mobility.

Here’s how the US 'Gold Card' compares to some of the world’s top golden visa programs:

Malta: Requires a €738,000 investment, residency compliance, and contributions to a national fund.

Greece: Grants residency for a €250,000 real estate purchase, with a pathway to citizenship after seven years.

Italy: Requires a €250,000 investment in government bonds, shares, or philanthropy.

Spain: Offers residency for a €500,000 property investment, allowing free EU travel.

Portugal: Grants residency for a €280,000 real estate investment, with citizenship eligibility after five years.

UAE: A 10-year renewable visa is available for property owners and exceptional talents, requiring AED 10 million ($2.7M) in assets.

Turkey: Citizenship is granted for a $400,000 property investment or other capital routes.

Canada: Offers permanent residency to entrepreneurs under its Start-Up Visa Program.

New Zealand: Requires an NZD 15 million ($9M) investment for its Active Investor Plus Visa, with citizenship possible after five years.

The US previously had the EB-5 visa, which required an $800,000 investment in job-creating enterprises. The "gold card" visa, at over six times the price, is now among the world's most expensive investor programs.

Critics argue that such programs favor the wealthy and commodify citizenship, while proponents see them as a way to attract valuable investments. With many nations competing for high-net-worth individuals, the US hopes its "gold card" will be a global leader in the residency-by-investment market.