Golden Visas open doors to the world — and Nigerian investors are seizing the opportunity. In 2024, demand surged as families sought mobility, security and long-term investment opportunities abroad. This article explains why Nigerians turn to Golden Visas, how it works and which countries lead in affordability, accessibility and value.
Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, shares insights on trends, visa conditions and best options for Nigerians seeking a second residence or future citizenship.
Why Nigerians seek Golden Visas
For Nigerian investors, a Golden Visa offers more than just travel flexibility. It provides the following benefits:
- a plan B amid political and economic uncertainty;
- global mobility, including visa-free travel across Europe and beyond;
- access to better healthcare, education and lifestyle opportunities;
- protection of wealth by real estate or business investments abroad;
- pathways to citizenship in stable jurisdictions.
Families often choose these Golden Visas to secure long-term futures for their children and reduce exposure to local risks.
How Golden Visas work
A Golden Visa is a residence permit issued in exchange for investment in a country’s economy. It typically involves:
- investing in real estate, business, government bonds or contributing to a development fund;
- maintaining the investment for a specific period;
- undergoing Due Diligence checks;
- renewing the residence permit periodically.
Some golden visas offer routes to permanent residence or citizenship after a few years, provided residency or other conditions are met.
2024 statistics: Golden Visa demand from Nigeria
Data from 2024 show a steady rise in Golden Visa applications from Nigeria. According to Immigrant Invest, inquiries from Nigerian nationals increased by over 40% compared to 2023. Portugal, the UAE and Greece led the list, with Hungary gaining momentum.
Key motivators include access to the Schengen Area, strong real estate markets and low physical presence requirements. Family eligibility and naturalisation prospects also play a critical role.
Top countries for Nigerians to obtain a cheapest Golden Visa in 2025
Also explore our detailed list of cheapest golden visa countries for 2025.
Portugal:
- minimum investment: €250,000 in cultural heritage support;
- processing time: 12 months;
- visa-free access: Schengen Area;
- family inclusion: spouse, children, dependent parents;
- citizenship: after 5 years of residence.
United Arab Emirates:
- minimum investment: AED 2 million, or $545,000 in real estate;
- processing time: 1—2 months;
- visa-free access: no Schengen access, but strong regional mobility;
- family inclusion: spouse and children under 25;
- taxes: no personal income tax;
- citizenship: rare; long-term residency only.
Greece:
- minimum investment: €250,000;
- processing time: 4 months;
- visa-free access: Schengen Area;
- family inclusion: spouse, children under 21, parents;
- taxes: non-residents taxed only on Greek income;
- citizenship: after 7 years of residence and integration.
Hungary:
- minimum investment: €250,000 in real estate or government projects;
- processing time: 3 months;
- visa-free access: Schengen Area;
- family inclusion: spouse and children;
- taxes: 15% flat income tax;
- citizenship: after 8 years of active residence.
Cyprus:
- minimum investment: €300,000 in new real estate;
- processing time: 9 months;
- visa-free access: not in the Schengen Area, but strong access to the EU;
- family inclusion: spouse, children and parents;
- taxes: no inheritance tax; beneficial regime for non-domiciled residents;
- citizenship: after 7 years of residence.
Conclusion
Golden Visas offer Nigerian investors a strategic path to global mobility, investment security and future citizenship. In 2025, Portugal and Greece remain the most affordable EU options. The UAE fast-track approvals and tax-friendly environments. Hungary’s relaunched Golden Visa introduces new potential for early movers.
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