
Italy
From €250,000 + costs
Private Equity Investment
European Residency
EU Schengen Zone Travel
Apply Citizenship 10 years

San Marino is a small independent republic surrounded by Italy, known for its political stability, historic setting and established business environment.
San Marino does not operate a conventional Golden Visa under that official name. However, its Elective Residency route provides a form of residency by investment through qualifying real estate or a long-term financial commitment.
Foreign nationals may apply for Elective Residency by purchasing property worth at least €500,000, or property worth at least €350,000 together with qualifying completion or renovation works bringing the total investment to at least €500,000. An alternative route is available through a €600,000 interest-free deposit maintained for ten years in qualifying San Marino government securities or an approved fund.
Foreign entrepreneurs establishing or operating a qualifying San Marino company may apply for residency for economic reasons. Requirements can include majority company ownership, employing local workers and providing a financial guarantee, with all applications subject to government approval.
San Marino does not offer direct citizenship through investment. Citizenship is generally available only through naturalisation after at least 20 years of continuous registered and effective residence. Applicants must also meet language and integration requirements. Since March 2026, applicants are no longer required to renounce their existing citizenship. The path to citizenship through naturalisation is very slow. Investors looking for a faster, second citizenship solution are advised to consider alternative options such as Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program.
According to the La Vida Passport Value Index, a San Marino passport provides access to 204 of the world’s 227 destinations, placing it 28th overall in La Vida’s Global Passport Ranking. The passport provides extensive international mobility, including access to the UK and countries within the Schengen Area, but it cannot be obtained through a direct investment program. For investors seeking European residency with a clearer pathway to citizenship, the Portugal Golden Visa may offer a more suitable alternative.
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See below a selection of countries offering residency and citizenship investment programs.