Latvia’s Golden Visa Program can no longer be overlooked
An article written by David Lincoln IMCM, CEO at Lincoln Global Partners.
In the evolving landscape of European investment migration opportunities, the Latvia Residency by Investment or Golden Visa program emerges as a beacon for savvy investors. Amidst the dynamic changes in the market, Latvia now presents an opportunity that is increasingly hard to ignore.
The most affordable golden visa program in Europe
Latvia’s Residency By Investment program has for a long time been the most cost effective golden visa program on the market with its 50,000 EUR capital shareholder investment option. However, the gap continues to widen. In fact, Latvia’s minimum investment is just a 5th of that of the minimum investment options in Greece and Hungary which come in as the second and third most cost effective programs.
| Country | Schengen Area Member Golden Visa Minimum Investment Required |
| Latvia | Yes 50,000 EUR |
| Cyprus | No 300,000 EUR |
| Malta | Yes 350,000 EUR |
| Greece | Yes 250,000 EUR |
| Hungary | Yes 250,000 EUR |
| Spain | Yes 500,000 EUR |
| Portugal | Yes 500,000 EUR |
Residency By Real Estate Investment in Europe
On top of this, with Greece increasing the minimum investment requirements throughout the country, only certain projects will remain eligible at the 250k category. Latvia also boasts the lowest minimum investment threshold for golden visa eligible real estate investment, compared to any other capital city in the Schengen zone. This makes Riga, the capital of Latvia, an exceptionally attractive destination for investors, particularly at the 250,000 EUR threshold.
Golden Visa Capital City Investment Comparison
The closure of Portugal’s Golden Visa program has seen a shift in investor attention towards other European nations. Greece was last year’s most popular golden visa program globally. However, with Greece set to increase its minimum investment requirements significantly throughout the country, Latvia’s offering becomes even more appealing. The comparative affordability of Latvia’s program, coupled with its inclusion in the Schengen Area, positions Riga as a prime location for investment.
The table below highlights the minimum investment required for Golden Visa eligibility across various capital cities within the Schengen Area and beyond, underscoring Latvia’s competitive position.
| Capital City | Schengen Area Member Golden Visa Minimum Investment Required |
| Riga, Latvia | Yes 250,000 EUR |
| Nicosia, Cyprus | No 300,000 EUR |
| Valletta, Malta | Yes 350,000 EUR |
| Madrid, Spain | Yes 500,000 EUR |
| Budapest, Hungary | Yes 500,000 EUR |
| Athens, Greece | Yes 500,000 EUR (Increasing to 800,000 EUR) |
| Lisbon, Portugal | Yes N/A (Real Estate Investment Option: No) |
Riga – Highest Rental Yields in Europe
Investing in real estate in Riga, Latvia, offers lucrative prospects amidst Europe’s diverse landscape. Riga, the bustling capital, has transformed into a thriving hub for business and culture, attracting investors seeking diversification. With robust infrastructure and a vibrant community, Riga stands out as an ideal investment destination, drawing foreign buyers for high returns and long-term growth.
Its diverse neighbourhoods cater to various investment preferences, promising solid rental yields and property appreciation. In fact Latvia, has some of the highest rental yields in Europe with the average gross rental yield standing at 8%.
Riga, with its rich history and modern amenities, presents an attractive opportunity for savvy investors looking to capitalise on Europe’s evolving real estate market.
Latvia’s Golden Visa Long Term Potential
Latvia’s accessibility, coupled with a relatively low entry point for investment and its attractive real estate market presents a compelling case for consideration.
In summary, the changing landscape of the Golden Visa programs across Europe positions Latvia as a standout choice for both investors and investment migration professionals.
