Greece’s Golden Visa or Hungary’s? Which investment program should you choose in 2026?

Key Differences Between the Investment Programs of Greece and Hungary in 2026.

Advantages of the Hungarian Golden Visa

1. After 3 years of residence in Hungary, you can obtain Hungarian permanent residence.

2. Long-Term 10-Year Residence Permit. Hungary grants an investment-based residence permit immediately for 10 years, with the possibility of renewal for another 10 years. This is the longest-term residence permit in the EU, freeing you from frequent renewal hassles.

3. Family-Friendly Conditions. The program allows you to include not only your spouse and children but also your parents in the application.

4. Transparent Investment. An investment in a regulated Hungarian real estate fund starts from €250,000 and does not incur any property ownership or purchase taxes, ensuring predictable financial conditions. All Hungarian real estate funds hold the required permits from the Government of Hungary and are licensed by the Central Bank of Hungary (MNB).

5. Flexibility and Freedom. There is no requirement to reside permanently in Hungary to renew your residence permit, making it ideal for many global investors.

6. Fast and Secure Process. The procedure includes preliminary due diligence, issuance of a Category D Investor Visa, and receipt of a 10-year Hungarian residence card.

7. Access to Premier Banking. A 10-year Hungarian residence permit for you and your family members enables you to open bank accounts with leading Hungarian (e.g., OTP Bank), European, and Swiss banks.

8. Educational Opportunities:. Your children can study at top Hungarian and European* universities.

9. Visa-Free Travel. You can travel visa-free to all Schengen Area and EU countries, including Cyprus, as well as Switzerland.

Advantages of the Greek Golden Visa

1. Direct Real Estate Ownership. The investor becomes the owner of a liquid asset in a popular tourist destination, which can be rented out to generate income.

2. Wide Choice of Locations. Despite increased thresholds, the program allows you to choose properties in diverse regions—from vibrant Athens to picturesque islands.

3. Path to Citizenship in 7 Years. Greece offers one of the shortest naturalization timelines in the EU for such programs (7 years of permanent residence).

4. Inclusion of Extended Family. The application can include a spouse, children under 21 (and in some cases up to 24), as well as the parents of both the main applicant and the spouse.

5. Well-Established Program. Launched in 2013, the program has proven procedures and a large selection of available properties on the market.

6. Access to Banking. With a Greek residence permit, you can open a bank account with leading Greek, European, and Swiss banks.

7. Visa-Free Travel. You can travel visa-free to all Schengen Area and EU countries, including Cyprus, as well as Switzerland.

Investor Summary

Both programs grant the right to visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and serve as an excellent “plan B” or backup residence in the EU. However, the choice depends on your priorities:

• Choose the Hungarian Golden Visa if you prioritize a long-term residence permit (10 years), minimal bureaucracy and tax obligations, and the unconditional ability to relocate your parents. This is the option for those seeking maximum stability and freedom of movement without active property management.

• Choose the Greek Golden Visa if you desire to own property by the sea, generate rental income, and consider a faster potential path to EU citizenship (7 years). This option suits those who plan to visit the country more frequently and view the investment also as a vacation home or a source of rental yield.

Citizens of Russia and Belarus can participate in both investment programs under specific conditions.

If you have questions regarding specific document requirements, wish to learn more about available investment funds in Hungary, or are interested in Greek real estate opportunities, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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