Investment Migration Programs Closing and Opening in 2026
Yazan: Burak Unal
The world of investment migration changes fast. Some long-standing programs are closing while new ones open and thresholds rise. Here are the most important changes as of 2026 and how they affect you.
Closed or Restricted Programs
- Spain Golden Visa: ended on 3 April 2025. Alternatives: the passive-income visa, digital nomad and entrepreneur visas.
- Malta CBI: closed in July 2025 following the European Court of Justice ruling; replaced by the MPRP residence program and merit-based citizenship.
- Portugal: the real estate route in the golden visa was removed at the end of 2023; the program now continues through fund investment.
- Ireland IIP: closed on 15 February 2023.
- UK Tier 1: closed on 17 February 2022.
- Netherlands: investor residence was abolished in 2022.
- Australia SIV: closed in July 2024; replaced by a talent-based visa.
- Hungary: the direct real estate option was removed in January 2025; fund investment remains valid.
New or Renewed Programs
- Hungary Guest Investor (GIP): relaunched in 2024 with a EUR 250,000 fund investment.
- New Zealand Active Investor Plus: renewed in 2025 with new parameters.
- Nauru and Sao Tome: new, fast and low-cost citizenship programs.
- Digital nomad visas: Thailand DTV, Indonesia (Bali) and more have opened to remote workers.
Upcoming Threshold Increases
Timing matters: in Panama, the real estate threshold rises from USD 300,000 to USD 500,000 on 15 October 2026. In Costa Rica, the USD 150,000 threshold is expected to return to USD 200,000 after 14 July 2026. If you are considering these programs, moving early can mean significant savings.
Positive Developments
Bulgaria and Romania became full members of the Schengen area in 2025, giving residents a strong travel advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Spain golden visa still open?
No, it closed on 3 April 2025. However, the passive-income, digital nomad and entrepreneur visas offer alternatives.
Why should I hurry in Panama?
After 15 October 2026 the real estate threshold rises from USD 300,000 to USD 500,000; those who apply before that date benefit from the USD 200,000 lower threshold.
What happens if I have an investment in a program that closes?
Existing holders' rights are usually protected and renewed as long as the conditions are maintained; still, your situation should be assessed in light of the current rules.
To identify the most suitable and up-to-date program amid changing rules, contact us.
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