Which Golden Visas/Investment Immigration Programs Have Ceased or Been Adjusted? (Continuously Updated)
Investment immigration programs often cease or undergo reforms due to policy changes, housing pressures, or EU regulations. As of 2026, programs that have completely ceased accepting applications include Spain's Golden Visa, Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP), and Cyprus's Citizenship by Investment; Portugal retained its program but eliminated the real estate investment option. Program status changes rapidly; always verify with the latest official announcements from each country before applying.
Programs That Have Completely Ceased Accepting Applications (as of 2026)
According to official announcements from each country, the following programs no longer accept new applications: Spain's Golden Visa (investment residence) ceased in April 2025; Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) stopped accepting applications in February 2023; Cyprus's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) terminated in November 2020. Additionally, the UK Tier 1 (Investor) visa closed in 2022, and Montenegro's Citizenship by Investment ended in late 2022. Exact dates and transitional arrangements are subject to each country's official announcements.
Programs Still Operating but Reformed
Some programs have not closed but have undergone significant condition adjustments: Portugal's Golden Visa eliminated the real estate investment option from 2023, shifting to funds, scientific research, job creation, etc.; Greece raised real estate thresholds in high-demand areas from 2024; Malta and others periodically adjust thresholds and due diligence requirements. Being open does not mean conditions remain unchanged; always verify current requirements.
Why Have These Programs Ceased or Been Reformed?
Common reasons include EU concerns over money laundering and security risks associated with 'citizenship/residence by investment' programs, domestic housing affordability pressures (real estate-based Golden Visas are cited as driving up property prices), and geopolitical and sanctions considerations. These are policy-driven factors, and other countries may follow suit with adjustments in the future, representing a 'policy change risk' to consider when evaluating programs.
How to Confirm Whether a Program Is Still Accepting Applications?
Do not rely solely on intermediaries or outdated articles. The most reliable approach is to check the official announcement page and effective date of the relevant government authority (immigration bureau/investment agency), and note the difference between 'cessation of acceptance' and 'transition period' (applications already submitted may have separate arrangements). The status listed on this page is continuously updated, but the final authority rests with the latest official announcements from each country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Apply for Spain's Golden Visa?
No. Spain's Golden Visa (investment residence) stopped accepting applications in April 2025 and no longer processes new investment-based residence applications. For subsequent details and arrangements for existing holders, please refer to official Spanish announcements.
Has Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) Ceased?
Yes. Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) ceased accepting applications in February 2023. The authorities have issued explanations regarding the closure and handling of existing cases; actual details are subject to announcements from the Irish Immigration Service.
Has Portugal's Golden Visa Been Canceled?
Portugal's Golden Visa has not been entirely closed, but since 2023, the real estate investment option has been eliminated. Current pathways primarily include funds, scientific research, job creation, or cultural support. Conditions are subject to the latest announcements from Portugal's AIMA.
If a program ceases after I have applied, will it affect me?
It depends on each country's cessation and transition rules. Generally, 'cessation of acceptance' mainly affects new applications; those already submitted or granted usually have separate transitional arrangements, but details vary by country. It is advisable to verify with official sources promptly at key milestones and retain all submission records.
How to Avoid Applying for a Program That Has Already Ceased?
Rely on the official announcements and effective dates of the relevant government authorities. Be wary of intermediaries' claims such as 'closed programs can still be processed' or 'limited spots, act fast.' The authority to accept and approve any program rests solely with the competent authorities.
Official data sources
This page is a neutral information compilation, for reference only, notImmigration/LawAdvice, which does not constitute any commitment. Programs frequently change, please refer to the latest official announcements. · Last Updated：