Golden Visas are often described as a “Plan B” — a safety net in times of uncertainty, or a way to expand global options. But the reality is, they offer so much more than a contingency plan. For many families, a Golden Visa becomes the foundation for an entirely new lifestyle, greater freedom, and a legacy that extends across borders.

So what exactly is a Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa is a Residency by Investment (RBI) program that allows individuals and their families to obtain legal residency in a country by making a qualifying investment. Depending on the country's program, that investment could be in real estate, government bonds, private equity or venture capital funds, business creation, or a national development initiative.

But the value of a Golden Visa isn’t just in the residency itself, it’s in the rights that come with it. In many countries, that includes the ability to live, study, work and travel freely, often within highly desirable regions like the European Union or the Schengen Area.

At Nomad Advisory Group, we help clients and the advisors who support them fully understand and unlock the real-world benefits of investment migration. Here’s a closer look at what holding a Golden Visa actually means for your life, using Italy’s Investor Visa as a real-world example.

What a Golden Visa Affords You — in Real Life

1. The Right to Live

A Golden Visa grants you the legal right to live in the country, not just visit it. That means you can choose to make Italy your full-time home, spend part of the year there, or simply have the freedom to come and go on your own terms.

Residency opens the door to setting up everyday life: renting or buying property, opening bank accounts, accessing public services, and even registering for Italy’s public healthcare system if you wish. Unlike short-stay visas, Golden Visa residency is long-term, renewable, and often leads to permanent residency or even citizenship over time.

2. The Right to Study

Families often overlook this, but it’s one of the most meaningful benefits. When you hold legal residency, your children can access Italy’s education system; from local primary schools to some of Europe’s most respected universities.

With a valid Italian residence permit, children are typically assessed under the same tuition framework as Italian citizens. That means eligibility for income-based tuition rates, scholarships, and even subsidized student housing. It’s not just more affordable, it’s a smoother path to academic and cultural integration.

Example: A U.S.-based student studying engineering at Politecnico di Milano may qualify for dramatically reduced tuition compared to international students. Why? It's all because of their family’s legal residency through the Investor Visa.

3. The Right to Work

Depending on the specific residency program, Golden Visa holders are often allowed to work or operate a business. In Italy, holding legal residency means you can start a company, offer services as a freelancer, or apply for local employment opportunities.

This makes the program especially attractive to entrepreneurs, consultants, and remote professionals who want the flexibility to live and work across borders.

4. The Right to Travel Freely

One of the most underrated benefits of an Italian Golden Visa is freedom of movement across the entire Schengen Area. With legal residency in Italy, you can travel to 26 European countries without applying for additional visas.

Imagine having the freedom to fly to Iceland for a weekend to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, attend meetings in Zurich, or explore the south of France all without the added paperwork and limitations.

5. The Right to Plan for the Future

A Golden Visa is so much more than only a gateway for immediate travel or relocation. Think of it as a long-term strategy for expanding your family’s global footprint. Many programs, including Italy’s, lead to permanent residency after five years of continuous residency, and eventually offer a path to citizenship after ten years for those who maintain their status.

For globally minded families, this creates more than just peace of mind. It lays the foundation for a lasting legacy. Residency rights can often be passed on to children, giving future generations greater access to education, career opportunities, and the freedom to live without borders.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a Golden Visa is a strategic decision that can open new doors to explore the world on your own terms, provide more options for your family, and take control of your future.

If you’re exploring a second residency for yourself, or you support clients who are ready to expand their horizons, we’d love to be your partner in the process. We will guide you every step of the journey from helping you understand your options to realizing the full potential of global mobility. Feel free to reach out to us to learn more and explore your opportunities.

Important Disclaimer / Please Read

The information contained in this communication is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute, and should not be relied upon as, legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Neither Nomad Advisory Group LLC nor Holborn Pass provide professional advice unless and until a formal written engagement agreement is executed. No recipient should act, or refrain from acting, based solely on the content herein without seeking advice from qualified legal, tax, and financial professionals who are familiar with their particular circumstances and applicable laws. While efforts are made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information provided, Nomad Advisory Group LLC makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding its completeness, reliability, or suitability for any purpose, and expressly disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on this content.

‍