Have you been wondering which is the best country to invest in real estate in 2025? For global investors, real estate isn’t just about returns—it’s about opportunity. From second residency and tax advantages to long-term security, investing in the right country can unlock much more than bricks and mortar.
We explore the top 10 countries for residential real estate investment in 2025, with a focus on those offering Residency or Citizenship by investment (CBI/RBI) programs, strong capital growth, and investor-friendly tax regimes.
What Makes a Country a Smart Real Estate Bet?
We looked at five key factors:
- Residency or Citizenship Options
- Capital Growth Potential
- Tax Advantages for Property Owners
- Long-Term Lifestyle Appeal
- Economic and Political Stability
Here’s how the top countries stack up.
Top 10 Real Estate Investment Destinations in 2025
1. Greece
- Residency: Golden Visa from USD 284,000 (rising to USD 570,000 in key zones)
- 2023 Price Growth: +13.8% nationwide
- Tax Perks: No wealth tax; flat tax regime for foreign income
Greece continues to be one of the most accessible residency programs in Europe. With property prices up nearly 14% last year and demand still rising, the market remains attractive. Athens, Thessaloniki, and coastal areas show especially strong momentum. The low entry point and fast processing time make this a favorite among investors.
2. UAE (Dubai)
- Residency: 10-year golden visa from approx. USD 545,000 (AED 2 million)
- 2024 Price Growth: +19% (Dubai); villa prices up 30%
- Tax Perks: No income, capital gains, or inheritance tax
Dubai has seen explosive growth in luxury property, driven by global demand and flexible visa options. The lack of personal taxes and high rental yields (often 6-8%) continue to pull in investors. For those who want a modern lifestyle and business hub, Dubai offers tax-free living and top-tier infrastructure.
3. Malta
- Residency: Permanent residence with property from USD 341,000+
- 2024 Price Growth: ~7%; luxury sector up 9%
- Tax Perks: No property, inheritance, or wealth taxes
Malta’s real estate is small but steady. The Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) is ideal for families seeking EU access without the need to relocate full-time. English is widely spoken, and the island offers excellent healthcare, schooling, and safety.
4. Cyprus
- Residency: Permanent residency with property from USD 341,000
- 2024 Price Growth: Apartments +13.9%; houses +7.8%
- Tax Perks: No inheritance or annual property tax; capital gains tax only on local sales
Cyprus combines strong returns with lifestyle. Property demand is high in Limassol and Paphos, driven by expats and professionals. The residency program is fast, and the legal system is based on British law, adding familiarity for many investors.
5. Turkey
- Citizenship: Immediate citizenship for USD 400,000 real estate investment
- 2023 Price Growth: +83% (nominal)
- Tax Perks: No CGT after 5 years; low inheritance tax
Turkey’s real estate is booming—at least in lira terms. Despite inflation and currency risk, Istanbul and coastal cities offer high rental yields and significant long-term upside. The chance to gain citizenship through property is a major draw, especially for investors from non-EU countries.
6. Antigua & Barbuda
- Citizenship: From USD 200,000 (co-investment); USD 400,000 for sole purchase
- Price Growth: Steady 3-6% in high-demand areas
- Tax Perks: No income, capital gains, or estate taxes
For those wanting a second passport with tropical perks, Antigua and Barbuda’s real estate-linked citizenship program is one of the most cost-effective. The market is small but stable, and the program includes family members.
7. Portugal
- Residency: Golden Visa now limited to non-real estate options
- Recent Growth: ~7.8% nationwide in 2024; some areas over 10%
- Tax Perks: No inheritance tax; NHR regime for tax-efficient residency
Portugal’s real estate boom has been one of Europe’s strongest, though the government phased out real estate as a path to residency. However, investors still buy property for rental yield and long-term appreciation, particularly in secondary cities and rural areas.
8. Spain
- Residency: Golden visa program ending in 2025
- 2023 Price Growth: 4–6% average; higher in tourist zones
- Tax Perks: Non-residents avoid wealth tax; Beckham Law for expats
Spain remains a top location for lifestyle and rental property, though policy changes are closing the Golden Visa route. Expats and digital nomads still target Spain for long-term living, especially in regions like Valencia, Marbella, and the Balearics.
9. Dominica
- Citizenship: From USD 200,000 in approved real estate
- Price Growth: Steady; tied to CBI developments
- Tax Perks: No capital gains or inheritance taxes
Dominica offers one of the most affordable CBI programs in the Caribbean. Real estate is mostly tied to luxury resorts and tourism projects. Citizenship is typically processed within a few months, with no residency requirement.
10. Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Citizenship: From USD 400,000 in real estate; must be held for 7 years
- Price Growth: 4–5% in key resort areas
- Tax Perks: No income, wealth, or capital gains tax
One of the oldest CBI programs, Saint Kitts and Nevis remains popular for investors seeking a well-known Caribbean passport. Real estate investments are limited to approved developments, often within resort communities.
Quick Comparison Table
| Country | Min. Investment | Residency/Citizenship | 2023/24 Growth | Key Tax Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greece | $285k/$570k | Golden Visa (residency) | +13.8% | No wealth tax; 15% CGT (suspended) |
| UAE (Dubai) | ~$545k | 10-Year Golden Visa | +19% | No income/CGT/inheritance tax |
| Malta | $400k+$32k fees | Permanent Residency | +7% (luxury +9%) | No property/wealth/inheritance tax |
| Cyprus | $340k | Permanent Residency | +13.9% (apartments) | No inheritance/wealth/annual tax |
| Turkey | $400k | Citizenship by Investment | +83% (nominal) | No CGT after 5 yrs; low inheritance |
| Antigua & Barbuda | $200k/$400k | Citizenship by Investment | ~5% | No income/CGT/inheritance tax |
| Portugal | N/A (property route ended) | Residency via funds, donation | ~7.8% | No inheritance tax; NHR regime |
| Spain | $570k (until 2025) | Golden Visa (ending) | ~5% | Beckham Law; avoid wealth tax if NR |
| Dominica | $200k | Citizenship by Investment | Stable | No CGT or inheritance tax |
| Saint Kitts & Nevis | $400k | Citizenship by Investment | ~4–5% | No income/wealth/capital gains tax |
Choosing The Right Country To Invest
In 2025, the best countries for real estate investment aren’t just where property values are rising. They’re the ones where your investment buys you more—a second passport, a tax advantage, a place to live, or a plan B for the future.
Whether you’re looking for fast-track citizenship, tax-friendly residency, or a safe place to diversify your assets, there are excellent choices on the global map. Greece and Cyprus are solid bets for EU access. Dubai is unmatched for tax savings. Malta offers long-term EU residency with low hassle. Turkey and Antigua provide full citizenship at accessible price points. Portugal and Spain, while shifting away from golden visas, remain strong for lifestyle investors. And for those seeking affordable Caribbean options, Dominica and Saint Kitts still deliver.
As always, proper due diligence is critical. But if you’re ready to invest not just in property, but in opportunity, these countries should be at the top of your list.
