Top 24 Residency by Investment Programs in 2025

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Residency by Investment (RBI) programs, often referred to as Golden Visas, is an immigration route that lets foreign investors obtain a residence permit in another country by making a qualifying investment. Some investment options include real estate, investment funds, business creation, and capital transfer. These residency by investment programs offer the investor long-term living rights, access to education and healthcare, family inclusion and, in many cases, a future route to citizenship.

In 2025, leading residency by investment countries include Portugal, Greece, Malta, Italy, Cyprus, the UAE, and the USA, with many RBI programs now shifting toward more regulated, fund-based investment routes.

This article provides a clear overview of the best residency by investment programs currently open to applications while comparing investment thresholds and options, benefits, requirements, and pathways to citizenship to ultimately help you choose the program that best aligns with your lifestyle, mobility, and long-term planning goals.

What is Residency by Investment (RBI)?

money and passport for residence by investment

Residency by Investment (RBI) allows foreign nationals to obtain a temporary or permanent residence permit by making a qualifying investment in the host country. This investment may take the form of real estate purchases, investment fund subscriptions, capital transfers, business creation, or government bond options, depending on the program chosen.

Through residency by investment programs, applicants and their families gain the right to live, work, and study in the country and may benefit from enhanced mobility, such as visa-free travel across the Schengen Area for EU residency holders.

RBI programs can serve as a strategic Plan B residency solution, offering greater lifestyle flexibility, asset protection, and geographic diversification. In numerous countries, maintaining the investment and meeting residency requirements can eventually lead to permanent residency or citizenship, providing a long-term pathway to stronger global travel mobility and security.

Benefits of Residency by Investment Programs

The benefits of residency by investment programs in particular are extensive and suit many different needs:

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More business opportunities
Residency in another country can create more business opportunities. If the country has strong trade agreements, like the EU, you can expand your business to more nations.
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Visa-free travel to other countries
Residency by investment can offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries. For example, an EU residence permit allows travel to other EU and Schengen countries.
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Eligibility for family members
Many countries offering investor visas allow the main applicant’s immediate family to join, including spouses, unmarried children, and sometimes dependent parents or grandparents.
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Tax optimization
Countries with RBI programs offer tax benefits such as lower taxes, exemptions on worldwide income, and reduced capital gains taxes for foreign residents.
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Access to quality healthcare and education
Residency in another country provides access to better healthcare and education.
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Eligibility for citizenship after five to ten years
Many residency by-investment programs offer a path to citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements. This provides an opportunity to acquire a second passport.
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Flexibility
RBI programs offer flexible terms, letting you live, work, and travel freely, even without full-time residency.
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Improved quality of life
Residency in high-standard countries can improve safety, infrastructure, and access to better services and activities.

Top Residency by Investment Programs

1. Italy

Florence in Italy

The Italy Golden Visa, also known as the Italian Investor Visa, offers residency for investors contributing to innovation, business growth, or government-backed financial instruments.

With multiple investment routes and access to one of Europe’s most culturally rich and economically diverse countries, Italy’s program suits entrepreneurs, investors, and families seeking lifestyle benefits and a long-term path to EU permanent residency and citizenship.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€250,000+
Investment optionsItalian government bonds; startup investment; philanthropic donation; company shares
Minimum stayNo minimum stay required but to eventually get citizenship, you cannot be absent from Italy for more than six consecutive months or ten months total in a five-year period
Processing time2 – 3 months
RenewalPermit valid for 2 years, can be renewed for another 3 years (must maintain investment) and after the second renewal there’s no limit (provided you continue to meet requirements)
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children; parents via reunification
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10 years

2. Portugal

Sintra Portugal

The Portugal Golden Visa program continues to be one of the most respected Residency by Investment pathways globally.

With diversified investment options and a low physical stay requirement, Portugal attracts investors seeking EU mobility, lifestyle flexibility, and a secure long-term residency strategy within a politically stable environment.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€250,000+
Investment optionsFund subscription; donation to arts, cultural heritage reconstruction or scientific research, job creation
Minimum stayAround 7 days per year
Processing time8 – 12 months
RenewalEvery 2 years
Family inclusionSpouse/partner, dependent children and dependent parents
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency or citizenship application after 5 years; due to new laws this can potentially change to closer to 10 years

3. Brazil

rio-de-janeiro-brazil

The Brazil Investor Visa is one of the most accessible residency options in the Americas, offering investors the ability to qualify through real estate purchases or business investments.

With a fast route to permanent residency and a relatively short naturalization timeline, Brazil is particularly attractive for those seeking a large, dynamic market, diverse lifestyle options, and a clear path to citizenship.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentBRL 500,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; business
Minimum stay14-day minimum stay requirement every two years OR 30-day annual stay (investment dependent)
Processing time3 – 6 months
RenewalRenewable indefinitely after initial 4 years
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children; parents if dependent
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship in around 4 years
Two businessmen having a discussion on a park bench - Brazil investment visa
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Unlock residency in Brazil by applying for the Brazil Investor Visa.

4. Canada

Vancouver in Canada

Canada’s Startup Visa provides residency opportunities through business creation, innovation funding, and provincial entrepreneur routes. Unlike traditional Golden Visa models, Canada’s programs emphasize real economic activity, job creation, and long-term integration.

With strong education, healthcare, and a clear path to citizenship, Canada remains one of the most desirable destinations for entrepreneurial investors and their families.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentCAD $75,000+
Investment optionsStartup; VC; angel funding
Minimum stay730 days in 5 year span
Processing time2 – 3 years
RenewalApply to renew your Permanent Resident card every five years by submitting an application and fulfilling the physical presence requirement
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children only
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 3 years presence

5. Greece

Greece

The Greece Golden Visa program remains one of Europe’s most accessible programs, offering a wide range of investment options and no mandatory stay requirements.

Investors can obtain long-term residency through real estate or financial investments while benefiting from Greece’s Schengen mobility, attractive climate, and growing real estate market.

It is particularly appealing to those seeking residency without the obligation to relocate.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€250,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; public securities; Greek businesses investment; bank deposit
Minimum stayNone
Processing time6 – 12 months
RenewalRenewable after 5 years; must be done 30 days prior to expiry date
Family inclusionSpouse/partner, dependent children to 21 (extendable), plus parents of both spouses
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 7 years of residence

6. Malta

Malta

The Malta Residency by Investment program, officially known as the Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP), is a structured route offering permanent residency from day one through a combination of property commitments and government contributions.

With strong mobility benefits, no minimum stay requirement, and a high-quality lifestyle, Malta remains one of Europe’s most established and reputable Residency by Investment destinations.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€700,000+
Investment optionsProperty purchase or rental and government contributions/donations
Minimum stayNone required but must maintain investment for at least five years
Processing time6 – 12 months
RenewalResidency card renewal every 5 years
Family inclusionSpouse/partner, dependent children, parents and grandparents
Path to PR/citizenshipImmediate permanent residency and citizenship only via naturalisation

7. Paraguay

Ciudad beach in Paraguay - aerial view - residency by investment

Paraguay’s Permanent Residency program offers one of the most straightforward and affordable residency pathways in Latin America, with options to qualify through investment or passive income.

Known for its low cost of living, territorial tax system, and fast-track naturalization timeline, Paraguay is increasingly popular among retirees, digital nomads, and investors seeking stability and long-term planning flexibility.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $70,000 investment or USD $1,300/mo income
Investment optionsInvestment; passive income
Minimum stayNone but must not be absent from the country for more than three consecutive years without a valid reason
Processing time1 – 3 months
RenewalInitial permit is renewable after 2 years and then after another 2 years before permanent status is achieved
Family inclusionSpouse and minor children; others via reunification
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 3 years

8. United Arab Emirates

dubai in UAE

The UAE Golden Visa provides long-term 10-year residency through real estate investment, entrepreneurship, or business ownership.

With no minimum stay requirements, a tax-friendly environment, and world-class infrastructure, the UAE remains one of the most popular Residency by Investment destinations globally.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentAED $2m+
Investment optionsProperty; business; capital investment
Minimum stayMust not remain outside the country for more than 180 consecutive day but this program removes that limitation
Processing time1 – 6 months
RenewalInitial period is 5 to 10 years renewable but automatically renewed if you maintain investment criteria
Family inclusionSpouse and children (sons to 25; daughters unlimited); parents via sponsorship
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship by exception

9. New Zealand

new zealand

New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa (also known as the New Zealand Golden Visa) offers a pathway to residency for investors who support high-growth sectors such as venture capital, technology, and innovation.

With strong quality of life and stable governance, New Zealand is ideal for investors prioritizing long-term relocation.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentNZD $5m+
Investment optionsVC funds; startups; growth assets; bonds; property
Minimum stay21 days over three years (Growth cat.)/ 105 days over five years (Balanced cat.)
Processing time6 – 12+ months
RenewalTechnically none required, pathway to four-year temporary permit
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children up to 24
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 5+ years

10. Singapore

Singapore

The Singapore Global Investor Program (GIP) grants permanent residency to investors who commit significant capital into businesses, GIP-approved funds, or family office structures.

As a global financial hub with stable governance and exceptional quality of life, Singapore attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking a strategic base in Asia.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentSGD $10m+
Investment optionsBusiness; GIP funds
Minimum stayOne day minimum a year
Processing time9 – 12 months
RenewalRenew every five years
Family inclusionSpouse and unmarried children under 21
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 2+ years of permanent residency

11. Thailand

Thailand

The Thai Elite Visa offers long-term residency through membership packages, providing foreign nationals with lifestyle-based residency benefits rather than traditional investment requirements.

It’s a popular option for retirees, remote professionals, and frequent visitors who want a frictionless long-stay solution.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment฿600,000 THB
Investment optionsMembership packages (tiered)
Minimum stayNone
Processing time1 – 3 months
RenewalDepends on visa type; usually every five years
Family inclusionSpouse and children (package-dependent)
Path to PR/citizenshipNo direct permanent residency or citizenship path

12. United States

New York USA

The United States’ EB-5 Visa or Immigrant Investor Program provides a direct route to obtaining a U.S. Green Card through investment in job-creating projects.

As one of the world’s most powerful investor immigration programs, EB-5 offers access to the U.S. market, top-tier education, and a secure pathway to citizenship. Although processing times vary, the program remains highly sought after among global investors prioritizing long-term relocation.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $800,000
Investment optionsJob creation; investment in regional centers
Minimum stayNone; two years of conditional permanent residency
Processing time1.5 – 3+ years
RenewalMust file removal of conditions before conditional 2-year Green Card expires to obtain permanent residency
Family inclusionSpouse and unmarried dependent children under 21
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 5 years of permanent residency

13. Cyprus

Cyprus

Cyprus’ Golden Visa is one of Europe’s fastest and most straightforward residency pathways through investment in new real estate or business assets.

With mild stay requirements, a welcoming expat environment, and a direct route to long-term residency,

Cyprus is popular among families and retirees seeking stability, Mediterranean living, and access to EU travel privileges through holding Cypriot residency.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€300,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; business share investment; contribute to a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization
Minimum stayVisit country one day every 2 years
Processing time3 – 12 months
RenewalPermanent (no renewal needed) but must maintain investment and income requirements
Family inclusionSpouse and dependent children up to 25. Parents no longer eligible
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship possible after around 7 years

14. Panama

Panama

Panama Qualified Investor Visa is one of the fastest Residency by Investment routes globally, providing permanent residency in as little as a few months.

With various investment options, including real estate, securities, and bank deposits, Panama appeals to investors seeking a tax-efficient country, vibrant expat community, and a direct pathway to citizenship after five years of residence.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $300,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; deposits; securities
Minimum stayVisit Panama at least once every two years
Processing time2 – 6 months
RenewalNo renewal needed, permanent residency immediately
Family inclusionSpouse, dependent children, dependent parents
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 5 years

15. Hungary

Hungary

The reintroduced Hungarian Golden Visa program provides a low-maintenance, long-term residency solution through investment in approved real estate funds or public-benefit foundations.

With no minimum physical presence requirement and a 10-year renewable residence permit, Hungary appeals to investors looking for flexible EU access and a path to eventual citizenship based on long-term residence.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€250,000+
Investment optionsReal estate investment funds; public trust donation
Minimum stayNone required
Processing time2 – 4 months
RenewalValid for 10 years and can be renewed for another 10
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship eligibility after 8 years

16. Latvia

Latvia

The Latvia Golden Visa provides several investment options, including real estate, business capital, or bank deposits, making it one of Europe’s most flexible residency programs.

The country offers an uncomplicated application process, low maintenance requirements, and access to the Schengen Area, making it a practical choice for investors looking for mobility and stability at moderate investment levels.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€50,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; business; government bonds; bank deposit
Minimum stayNo minimum stay but must visit the country at least once a year for renewal
Processing time1 – 6 months
RenewalApply for renewal every year; request residence permit after five years
Family inclusionSpouse and children under 18; older dependents on case-by-case basis
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after 5 yrs and citizenship after 10 years

17. Serbia

Serbia

The Serbian Residency by Investment program offers a flexible and cost-effective residency pathway through real estate ownership or company formation, making it one of the most accessible options in Europe.

Unlike traditional Golden Visa programs, Serbia does not impose rigid minimum investment thresholds, allowing investors, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals to obtain residency through practical, business-friendly routes.

With low living costs, a growing economy, and a clear progression toward permanent residency and citizenship, Serbia appeals to individuals seeking a strategic foothold in Southeast Europe.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentNo fixed minimum amount for real estate route but €50,000 deposit in a Serbian bank account and proof of a tangible or intangible investment in a Serbian company
Investment optionsReal estate purchase; company formation; business investment
Minimum stayNo minimum stay but must maintain registered address in Serbia and comply with residence requirements
Processing timeResidence permit typically issued within a few months
RenewalMaintain property/business activity, address registration and insurance
Family inclusionSpouse and minor, dependent children; others via reunification
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after 3 years of temporary residence; citizenship after around 6 years

18. Jordan

Jordan

Jordan offers residency to foreign nationals who invest in local businesses or create employment opportunities. With several qualifying investment tiers, the program appeals to entrepreneurs seeking access to Middle Eastern markets.

While it is not a classic Golden Visa option, it provides a structured residency pathway with the potential for long-term settlement.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $211,000+
Investment optionsReal estate; establish business; bank deposit; treasury bonds
Minimum stayNone but one month minimum stay per year is required to apply for citizenship
Processing time2 – 6 months
RenewalValid for five years initially and then renewable you must still own the same or a new property of a similar value
Family inclusionSpouse and dependent children
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship is possible on a case-by-case basis

19. Switzerland

Town on the coast on Switzerland - best family-friendly countries

The Swiss residency permit allows financially independent individuals to gain residency in a high quality-of-life, peaceful country via lump-sum taxation agreements or business creation. This makes it a premium option for those seeking privacy, security, and world-class living standards.

While the route requires significant financial capacity, it offers unmatched stability and a path to permanent residency over time.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentCHF 250,000+ (along with annual tax contribution)
Investment optionsLump-sum taxes; business investment
Minimum stayVaries by canton/state
Processing time3 – 9 months
RenewalAnnually (must get canton approval)
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after 10 years; citizenship after 10 – 12 years

20. Andorra

andorra

Andorra offers a highly attractive passive residency program designed for individuals seeking a safe, low-tax European base.

Applicants qualify by making a capital commitment in real estate or financial assets while enjoying minimal stay requirements and excellent living standards.

Known for its stability, privacy protections, and alpine lifestyle, Andorra appeals to HNWIs looking for a secure, long-term residence option outside the EU but with close access to Spain and France.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment€600,000 (reduced to €400,000 if investing in government’s housing fund) AND €50,000 non-interest bearing deposit with the Andorran Financial Authority
Investment optionsReal estate; bonds; financial assets
Minimum stay90 days per year
Processing time3 – 6 months
RenewalResidence permit valid for 2 years, then first renewal to be done after 2 years and then second renewal to be done after 3 years
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children; some parents allowed via reunification process
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after at least 20 years of active residency or 17 years of passive residency

21. Anguilla

Anguilla

Anguilla offers a straightforward and stable Residency by Investment pathway through real estate or government contribution.

As a British Overseas Territory, Anguilla provides investors with a reputable framework, a peaceful island lifestyle, and the possibility of progressing to long-term residency and eventual British Overseas Territories citizenship.

Its low taxation environment and high quality of life make it appealing to families and international investors seeking a Caribbean base.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investment$150,000+
Investment optionsDonation; real estate
Minimum stay45 days a year and must declare that you spend less than 183 days a year in any other country
Processing time3 – 6 months
RenewalAnnual renewal of the tax residency certificate for at least the first four years after the final approval
Family inclusionSpouse and dependent children; extra dependents require a higher investment
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 5 years

22. Curaçao

curacao-investor-permit-program-the-ultimate-guide-forexpats_687cdbd5261fa-1.jpeg

Curaçao’s Investor Permit Program grants 3-year, 5-year, or indefinite residence permits depending on the level of investment, offering flexibility for international investors.

As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Curaçao provides a secure legal environment, attractive tax structures, and the potential for long-term residency leading to Dutch nationality after meeting residence requirements.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $280,000
Investment optionsReal estate; business
Minimum stayOne day per year
Processing time3 – 6 months
Renewal3-year permit requires renewal every 3 years, a 5-year permit requires renewal every 5 years
Family inclusionSpouse/partner and dependent children
Path to PR/citizenshipCitizenship after 5 years

23. Mauritius

gri-retirement-mauritius

Mauritius provides residency to investors who purchase qualifying property or establish local businesses.

With stable governance, favorable tax policies, and high living standards, Mauritius is a leading African destination for investor migration and long-term settlement.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $375,000+
Investment optionsApproved real estate projects; business investment; entrepreneurial venture
Minimum stayNone required
Processing time2 – 6 months
RenewalRenewed for 10 years for business investment but for property investment it’s valid provided property is held
Family inclusionSpouse/partner, dependent children and parents
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after 3 years. Citizenship after 5 – 7 years

24. Namibia

namibia

Namibia Residence by Investment offers the option to invest in approved real estate developments or local business activity in exchange for residency.

Known for its political stability and natural beauty, Namibia is an emerging residency destination for investors seeking a secure foothold in Southern Africa.

CategoryDetails
Minimum investmentUSD $365,000+
Investment optionsProperty; business
Minimum stayNone required
Processing time6 – 12 months
RenewalRenewal every five years; must maintain investment
Family inclusionSpouse and minor children; others case-by-case
Path to PR/citizenshipPermanent residency after ~10 years. Citizenship after ~20 years.

RBI vs. CBI: What’s the difference?

While Residency by Investment (RBI) and Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs both fall under the broader category of investment migration, they differ significantly in their outcomes, rights, and requirements.

Here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureResidency by Investment (RBI)Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
What you receiveA residence permit granting the legal right to live in the countryA passport granting full citizenship and nationality rights
Rights grantedRight to live, work, study, and access healthcare in the host countryFull citizenship rights, including voting and consular protection
Physical presenceUsually requires minimal or periodic stays (for example, 7 days per year in Portugal)Typically no stay requirement
TimelineLeads to permanent residency or citizenship by naturalization after a few yearsImmediate citizenship, usually within 3 to 6 months
MobilityDepends on the host country’s residence rights (for example, Schengen access for EU RBI programs)Based on the passport’s visa-free access (for example, Caribbean CBI provides access to around 140+ destinations)
Investment focusEmphasis on real estate, funds, business, or bonds that stimulate the economyOften includes donations to government funds or approved investments
Ideal forInvestors seeking long-term relocation, lifestyle access, or eventual citizenshipIndividuals wanting immediate global mobility and a second passport

How Residency by Investment Works: Step-by-Step

Although each country has its own rules, the application process generally follows these steps:

01/ Choose the right program

Compare countries based on your preferred investment type and minimum threshold, residency rights, and long-term goals.

02/ Prepare documentation

Gather necessary documents, which generally include:

  • Valid passport.
  • Proof of investment funds
  • Clean criminal record
  • Health insurance
  • Proof of residence

Some countries require that documents be officially translated and notarized.

03/ Make the required investment

Transfer the required capital into approved real estate, funds, or other eligible vehicles.

04/ Submit the application

Submit your completed application through authorized immigration agents or directly to the immigration authority.

05/ Attend a biometrics appointment

This is where you get your fingerprints and photograph taken.

06/ Receive the residence permit

Upon approval, you will receive a temporary or permanent residence permit, usually valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the country and the type of program chosen.

07/ Meet residency obligations

Depending on the country, you may be required to:

  • Maintain the investment for a set period (usually 3 to 5 years).
  • Some countries require you to spend a minimum of days in the country yearly.
  • You may need to meet tax obligations, especially if you live in the country that practices the 183-day tax rule.

08/ Renew the residence permit

If your residence permit is temporary, you must renew it periodically (usually every 1 to 2 years).

To renew, you must continue meeting all residency requirements, including investment and physical presence.

Investment Options for Residency by Investment Programs

Residency by Investment (RBI) schemes allow applicants to qualify for a residence permit through a range of eligible investment routes. While each country sets its own criteria, most programs fall into several well-established categories.

Understanding these investment options helps investors select the pathway that best aligns with their financial goals, risk appetite, and long-term mobility strategy.

1. Real estate investment

A widely used route where investors can purchase approved residential or commercial property, sometimes in specified, government-approved areas.

Why choose it: Asset-backed security, potential rental income, and long-term capital appreciation.

2. Investment funds (private equity or venture capital)

This option involves subscribing to regulated investment funds, including private equity, venture capital, or innovation-focused vehicles.

Why choose it: Higher compliance, professional management, and diversification across sectors.

3. Capital transfer or bank deposits

Some programs allow investors to qualify by making a capital transfer or maintaining a significant bank deposit for a specified period.

Why choose it: Liquidity, predictable returns, and lower risk compared to real estate or business creation.

4. Business investment and job creation

Used in programs such as the US EB-5, Canada Start-Up Visa, and several European schemes, this route requires creating or investing in a business that generates employment.

Why choose it: Ideal for entrepreneurs or investors looking to expand internationally while meeting RBI requirements.

5. Government bonds or financial instruments

A small number of countries allow eligibility through investment in government bonds or state-backed securities.

Why choose it: Government-backed stability, fixed returns, and transparent risk profiles.

Due Diligence and Document Requirements

folder of documents required for residency by investment

Every residency by investment program enforces strict due diligence checks to ensure applicants meet financial and legal standards. Prepare the following:

Core documentation required:

  • Valid passport copies for all applicants
  • Proof of funds and verified source-of-wealth statements
  • Recent bank reference letter
  • Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence
  • Health insurance covering the host nation
  • Civil status documents (birth, marriage, divorce if applicable)
  • Proof of address and utility bill
  • Investment evidence (purchase deed, fund subscription, or bond certificate)

Authorities may request translations, apostilles, or certified copies, and some programs require you to complete in-person biometric enrollment.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Residency by Investment grants an applicant a legal residence permit in exchange for making a qualifying investment (for example, funds, real estate, business investments, government bonds), allowing you and your family to live, work, and study, with potential routes to permanent residency and later citizenship by naturalization.

Countries that offer residency by investment in 2025 include Portugal, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and New Zealand.

These countries grant residency when an applicant meets minimum investment thresholds, ranging from €250,000 to over €1 million.

The cheapest Residency by Investment program depends on the route you choose and total fees.

Notable lower headline thresholds include Hungary €250k and certain Greece €250k cases; Malta Permanent Residency can be cost-efficient overall when it comes to EU residency.

Common investment routes include investment funds, real estate (where permitted and often in certain areas), business and/or job creation, government bonds, and donations/arts/research and development (depending on the program).

Yes, but only in some programs such as in Greece and the UAE.

Typically yes, spouses and dependent children can be included. Some programs also allow dependent parents.

It depends on the program. Many Residency by Investment routes have little to no physical stay requirement:

  • Portugal: Around 7 days per year on average.

  • Greece & Malta: No mandatory stay to maintain residency.

  • UAE Golden Visa: No annual minimum.

Most investor residency programs are designed to be flexible, allowing you to maintain your status without full-time relocation.

Residency through an RBI program can take anywhere from weeks to months. For example, in the UAE you get residency after receiving your entry permit but in Greece or Malta it takes months.

In some cases like Portugal, it can take up to 12+ months. Timing depends on due diligence and application completeness.

RBI grants a residence card first and citizenship may follow via naturalization after legal residence requirements have been met.

CBI grants a passport and citizenship directly.

In many programs, yes. Provided you have held residency for the statutory period and have met conditions (for example, language, good conduct and criminal background check).

Yes, for Residency by Investment applications expect to provide KYC, source-of-funds, police clearance, insurance, proof of address, and civil status docs. Translations and/or apostilles may also be required in some cases.

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