3 European Countries Where South Africans Can Buy Residency and What It Costs
- Social media account The Feed CPT shared a video revealing that South Africans can purchase residency in three European countries through investment routes
- Greece, Cyprus and Portugal each offer different pathways, with costs ranging from around R5.3 million to over R10 million
- The video sparked strong debate among South Africans, with many questioning whether leaving home is worth the hefty price tag
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A TikTok video published on 31 August 2026 by @thefeedcpt has caught the attention of South Africans looking for options abroad. The clip breaks down three European countries currently offering investment-based residency routes to foreign nationals, including South Africans.
What each country offers
Greece is the most affordable entry point. A property investment starting at €250,000 qualifies applicants for a golden visa, which comes with a renewable five-year residence permit and full Schengen travel access. Crucially, holders are not required to live in Greece to keep the permit active. In rand terms, the estimated total cost sits at around R5.3 million.
Cyprus requires a minimum investment of €300,000 in a qualifying new-build property, plus VAT, bringing the estimated rand equivalent to roughly R7.1 million.
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Portugal is the priciest and most restrictive option. The country closed its property route to new applicants, meaning direct real estate purchases no longer qualify. Instead, applicants must invest at least €500,000 into an eligible fund, with total costs estimated at around R10.3 million.
See the full breakdown by The Feed CPT on TikTok below:
South Africans weigh in
The video drew sharply divided responses.
@anniciam said:
“Still cheaper than an apartment in Cape Town 🤯🤩
@killick wrote:
“Who wants to live in Europe? It’s finished.”
@God D. SG noted:
“Considering Greece’s history of debt, that’s a smart compromise.”
@Nigel argued:
“If I have R10 million, why go to Europe? Things cost more there bru. 🎭”
@MARIAT🎸 wrote:
“Let’s focus on South Africa and fixing it.”
@Linna shared:
“Yeah no I’d rather stay at home and invest here. Is it worth it?”
@Bonita78 revealed:
“I did the Portuguese route.”
For those with the capital, the routes are real and legally available. Whether the investment makes sense depends entirely on what someone is looking for, whether that is travel freedom, a second home, or a full relocation.
More stories about South Africans living abroad
- A young South African lady who moved to Europe a couple of years ago shared her honest experience.
- A South African woman living in the US explained to her American husband what traditional daughter-in-law duties look like back home.
- A South African woman living in Manchester opened up about the real things that living in the UK costs her.
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Source: Briefly News
