The cost of a golden visa or citizenship by investment is not just the advertised investment amount. Government fees, due diligence, valuation and advisory costs determine the total. In this guide we explain every line item transparently as of 2026.
Investment Routes and Amounts
| Route | Typical starting point | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Donation (non-refundable) | ~USD 90,000 - 250,000 | Simplest; Caribbean and Vanuatu programs |
| Real estate | USD 250,000 - 500,000 | Sellable after the holding period; Turkey USD 400,000 |
| Fund / capital investment | USD 250,000 and up | Portugal fund, Hungary guest investor |
| Bank deposit | USD 500,000 | Held for a set period; e.g. Turkey 3 years |
Additional and Hidden Costs
- Government and application fees: vary by program and family size.
- Due diligence: roughly USD 7,500 - 50,000 per person.
- Valuation / appraisal: required on real estate routes.
- Advisory and legal fees: set by family size and program.
- Passport, ID and translation / notarisation fees.
Calculate the Total Cost of Ownership Up Front
Before you choose a program, we prepare a clear budget that includes every line item, so there are no surprise costs. To see programs side by side, use our comparison page, or for the lowest budget see the cheapest programs guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a golden visa really cost?
On top of the advertised investment amount, government fees, due diligence, valuation and advisory costs are added. These extras can significantly affect the total; we calculate them all together before you apply.
Do I get my money back on the real estate route?
At the end of the mandatory holding period (for example 3-5 years) you can sell the property; depending on market conditions you may recover part or all of your investment. A donation is non-refundable.
What is the due-diligence fee?
It is a mandatory review in which the program checks applicants' legal and financial background; it is charged per person and varies from program to program.
How is family cost calculated?
Additional investment or fees apply for a spouse, children and, in some programs, parents. Some programs offer a single price for a family of four.
For a transparent cost table tailored to you, get a free consultation.
Contact Us
We provide Turkish and international clients with end-to-end citizenship, residence permit and investment advisory worldwide.