Cyprus PR vs Greece, Portugal & Malta — Which Fits Your Family?

Cyprus PR — Regulation 6(2)

€300,000+ new-build purchase, €50,000/year income from abroad, permit for life, one visit every two years to maintain. No employment in Cyprus. Strongest fit for families wanting a permanent European status tied to a real asset, without relocating.

Greece Golden Visa

Property thresholds now vary by region (commonly cited tiers €250,000/€400,000/€800,000 after the 2024 revision). The permit is renewable every 5 years and requires no residence. Lower entry cost in some regions, but the permit itself is renewable rather than permanent, and popular zones carry the top tier.

Portugal & Malta

Portugal closed its direct real-estate route in late 2023 — the main path is now a €500,000 qualifying fund, with minimal stay (~7 days/year) and a citizenship track after 5 years. Malta’s MPRP combines property purchase or rental with government contributions and fees — permanent status with stricter due diligence and higher non-refundable costs.

How to choose

• Want lifetime status without moving: Cyprus.
• Want lowest cash entry and accept renewals: check current Greece tiers.
• Want an EU passport path with minimal stay: Portugal fund route.
• Want education + English environment + asset: Cyprus scores well.

A necessary caveat

Residency programmes across Southern Europe change almost every year — thresholds, eligible areas and family rules included. Treat every figure on this page as a planning reference and confirm the current rules with a licensed immigration lawyer before deciding.