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?
- Benefits of Residency by Investment Programs
- Top Residency by Investment Programs
- RBI vs CBI: What’s the difference?
- How Residency by Investment Works: Step-by-Step
- Investment Options for Residency by Investment Programs
- Due Diligence and Document Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions
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:
Top Residency by Investment Programs
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Paraguay
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.
8. United Arab Emirates
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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. United States
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.
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. Switzerland
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.
20. 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.
21. 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.
22. Curaçao
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.
23. 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.
24. 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.
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:
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.
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.