For many Indian citizens, a Golden Visa (or investor visa) is the most attractive way to secure global residency rights through investment. The option of a Golden Visa for Indians have grown in popularity as it provides access to world-class education, healthcare, lifestyle upgrades, and even potentially a path to long-term EU citizenship.
These programs allow investors and their families to obtain residency by making qualifying investments in real estate, investment funds, government bonds, or job creation initiatives.
With a large Indian diaspora spread across the world, the demand for investor visas for Indian citizens is continuing to rise. Below, we explore what Golden Visas are, what the benefits are and the best Golden Visa programs available.
- What is a Golden Visa for Indian citizens?
- What are the benefits of a Golden Visa for Indian citizens
- 10 Golden Visa Options for Indian Citizens
- Golden Visa Investment Pathways Explained
- Eligibility Requirements for Indians Applying for a Golden Visa
- How Indian Citizens Can Apply for a Golden Visa (Step-by-Step)
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Golden Visa for Indian citizens?
A Golden Visa is a Residency by Investment program offered by countries like the UAE and Portugal, which allows foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, to obtain long-term residency by making a significant investment in real estate, businesses, or public investments.
In exchange for this investment in the country’s economy, Indian nationals receive benefits such as visa-free travel to more countries than before and the ability to live, work, and study in the host country, with some pathways leading to permanent residency or even EU citizenship (if choosing an European-based program) in the future.
What are the benefits of a Golden Visa for Indian citizens?
For Indian citizens, a Golden Visa is more than a residency permit, it’s a gateway to opportunity and the start of a new chapter in some of the best countries to immigrate to from India.
Key benefits include:
- Global mobility: Enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access across the Schengen zone, European Union member states and other major destinations, removing travel barriers.
- World-class education and healthcare: Secure your family’s future with access to top-tier universities and medical systems in Europe and beyond.
- Investment diversification: Golden Visas channel your wealth into stable opportunities such as real estate, investment funds, or foreign direct investment, while also giving residency rights.
- Path to citizenship: In countries like Portugal and Greece, residency through investment can eventually lead to a powerful EU passport.
- Lifestyle upgrades: Benefit from attractive tax structures, a higher quality of life, and the ability to include your spouse, dependent children, and sometimes parents in one application so you enjoy this new life alongside your loved ones.
10 Golden Visa Options for Indian Citizens
1. UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa remains one of the most popular choices for Indian citizens, offering both investment-based and nomination-based pathways. Investors can qualify by purchasing real estate valued at AED 2 million.
If going through the new nomination route, exceptional professionals may obtain long-term residency without any financial investment if they can prove they are eligible based on their professional profile, achievements, or specialized expertise. Individuals who may be considered include skilled professionals, creatives, academics, executives, and other high-achieving individuals recognized by a nominating authority.
Investment and eligibility options
- Real estate route
- AED 2 million minimum property purchase
- Nomination route (no investment required)
- For exceptional professionals, high achievers, researchers, creatives, or individuals recognized by an official nominating body
- Other eligible categories
- Entrepreneurs with qualifying business revenues (SMEs in the UAE with annual revenues of at least AED 1 million)
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Investors in approved sectors (subject to criteria)
For Indian nationals, the UAE offers compelling advantages: tax-free income, advanced infrastructure, and excellent connectivity to India. With approx. 88.5% of the UAE population being expatriates, the environment is familiar and inclusive, especially for Indians who form one of the largest groups in the country. Successful applicants receive 10-year renewable residency, with family inclusion and the ability to sponsor domestic staff (such as nannies). It remains a top choice for Indian families and professionals seeking long-term stability in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
2. Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa for Indians is considered one of the most strategic pathways for gaining EU residency with a future option for citizenship. Indian investors can apply for this program through the following methods:
Investment options
- A €250,000 or €200,000 donation supporting arts and cultural projects (low-density projects).
- A €500,000 investment in approved private equity or venture capital funds (includes job creation).
- A €500,000 or €350,000 contribution to scientific research (low-density projects).
- A €250,000 or €200,000 contribution to the reconstruction of national cultural heritage (low-density projects).
Processing time can take up to 18 months, after which Indian citizens receive full residency rights.
Portugal’s key advantage is the ability to apply for citizenship after five years, one of Europe’s faster naturalization timelines. The country offers sought-after Schengen zone mobility, strong healthcare and education systems, and a large English-speaking expat community. It is estimated that around 44,000 – 45,000 Indian nationals live in Portugal, with some estimates of the total Indian diaspora (including people of Indian origin) reaching over 100,000, making Portugal a leading choice for Indian families seeking a European base.
3. Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa is one of the most affordable Residency by Investment programs in Europe, offering fast approvals and excellent lifestyle benefits, such as attractive tax breaks for retirees and lower overall costs than many EU countries, especially outside major cities. The program provides several investment pathways, with both property and financial instruments available to Indian citizens:
Investment options
- Real estate
- €250,000 in designated lower-cost regions
- €500,000 – €800,000 in high-demand zones (Athens, Thessaloniki, islands)
- €250,000 for renovation-linked properties (specific conditions apply)
- Financial investments
- €500,000 in Greek government bonds
- €500,000 in corporate bonds or shares
- €500,000 in a fixed bank deposit in Greece
- Investment funds
- €350,000 – €400,000 in approved private equity, venture capital, or mutual funds
Greece offers 2 – 4 month approvals, no minimum physical stay requirement, and wide family inclusion (spouse, dependent children, and parents). While citizenship requires longer-term residence, the Golden Visa provides Indian investors with immediate Schengen mobility and an attractive Mediterranean lifestyle at one of the lowest entry points in Europe.
4. Malta Residency by Investment
Malta’s Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) – also known as Malta Residency by Investment – provides Indian investors with long-term EU residency, combining property commitments with government contributions. It is a highly secure and structured program with transparent requirements.
Investment options
- Government contribution
- €28,000 contribution (if purchasing property).
- €58,000 contribution (if renting property).
- Real estate (purchase or rent)
- Purchase: minimum €300,000 – €350,000 depending on locality.
- Rent: €10,000 – €12,000 per year, depending on region.
- Mandatory philanthropic donation
- €2,000 to an approved Maltese NGO.
- Due diligence and administrative fees apply
Processing typically takes 6 – 18 months, granting permanent residency with Schengen mobility. Malta’s co-official language is English, making communication easy for Indian citizens, and it’s a gateway to working and studying in the broader EU region. The program is family-friendly, allowing the inclusion of spouses, children, parents, and grandparents under one application.
Furthermore, the country ranks well in global peace indexes (usually falling in the top 30 worldwide), has excellent healthcare and education options, and is known for having multicultural student community, making it a reliable, welcoming choice for Indian citizens seeking EU security.
5. St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
One of the world’s oldest and most reputable CBI programs, St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment enables Indian nationals to obtain citizenship in a mere matter of months.
Investment options
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- US$250,000 (single applicant).
- Real estate investment
- From US$400,000 in approved property.
- Additional fees apply for dependents.
Processing typically takes 4 – 6 months, granting citizenship and visa-free access to 101 countries, including the UK (for short visits) and the Schengen Zone. Its strong due diligence standards and long-standing credibility make it a trusted Plan B passport option. The country itself has English as an official language and a vibrant multicultural history with a huge interest in the sport of cricket, perfect to help the island feel like a second home to Indian citizens.
6. Grenada Citizenship by Investment
Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program is especially appealing for Indian entrepreneurs and investors because it enables access to the USA E2 Investor Visa, a unique advantage in the Caribbean.
Investment options
- National Transformation Fund (NTF) donation
- US$150,000 (single applicant).
- Real estate investment
- From US$220,000 in government-approved projects.
- Additional government fees apply for families.
Grenada offers citizenship within 4 – 6 months and visa-free access to 94 destinations, including China. Grenada is home to a large (over 12,000) Indo-Grenadian population, including many businessmen, so India has a rich history on the island. For Indian applicants seeking US business access as well as a globally mobile passport, Grenada is an outstanding option.
7. Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program offers one of the most cost-effective and family-inclusive citizenship programs available to Indian citizens. The country is also home to a significant Indian-Antiguan population (mostly Hindu and English-speaking), which makes cultural integration easier for Indian families considering relocation or extended stays.
Investment Options
- NDF donation
- US$200,000 (main applicant + dependents).
- Real estate
- US$400,000 (with shared ownership options).
- University of the West Indies (UWI) fund option
- US$150,000 minimum for families of 6 or more.
Processing takes 4 – 5 months, and citizenship grants visa-free access to 101 countries. The program is especially attractive to larger Indian families due to generous dependent rules, low incremental fees, and a welcoming cultural environment supported by an existing Indian diaspora.
8. Singapore Global Investor Program
Singapore’s Global Investor Program (GIP) provides a straightforward pathway to permanent residency for high-net-worth Indian entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors. The city-state is exceptionally welcoming to Indian nationals, with a large Indian-origin population (primarily Tamil and North Indian communities) and English as an official working language. This cultural familiarity makes Singapore one of the easiest Asian hubs for Indian investors and their families to adapt to.
Investment options
- SGD 2.5 million in a new or existing Singapore-based business.
- SGD 2.5 million in an approved GIP investment fund.
- Family office option, requiring higher capital commitments and a strong business track record.
Processing takes 12 – 18 months, after which families gain access to one of the world’s safest, most advanced, and business-friendly environments. Singapore offers exceptional global connectivity, high salaries, strong schools, and a multicultural society where Indian cuisine, festivals, and languages are widely represented.
9. Cyprus Golden Visa
The Cyprus Golden Visa offers Indian citizens a straightforward pathway to permanent residency in the EU through investment. The program is known for its simplicity, fast processing, and minimal physical-stay obligations. Indian nationals also find Cyprus culturally welcoming as the island has a historic connection to Indo-Greek heritage, widespread English proficiency, and a warm Mediterranean lifestyle that feels familiar and easy to adapt to.
Investment and qualification options
- Real estate
- €300,000 in brand-new residential property (first sale only).
- €300,000 in commercial property such as offices, hotels, or retail (new or resale).
- Business investment
- €300,000 in a Cyprus-registered company with local operations.
- Investment funds
- €300,000 in a regulated Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) fund.
- Income requirement
- Proof of €50,000 annual income from abroad (plus increments for dependents).
- Family Inclusion
- Spouse and dependent children (up to age 25) eligible under one application.
Approved applicants receive permanent residency with no requirement to live full-time in Cyprus, visiting once every two years is sufficient. While the Golden Visa does not directly grant citizenship, long-term residents may apply for Cypriot nationality through naturalization.
10. Brazil Investor Visa
The Brazil Investor Visa offers Indian citizens a flexible, affordable route to permanent residency in Latin America’s largest economies. Brazil’s multicultural environment, growing Indian business presence (tens of thousands are settled in the area already), and English-friendly major cities like São Paulo make integration relatively smooth for Indian nationals.
Investment and qualification options
- Real estate investment
- BRL 1,000,000 minimum nationwide.
- BRL 700,000 in North or Northeast regions.
- Business investment
- BRL 500,000 into a Brazilian company.
- BRL 150,000 for innovative ventures or companies creating 10+ jobs.
- Other requirements
- CPF tax ID, clean criminal record, proof of funds.
- Investment held for 4 years.
Approved applicants through the business investment route receive immediate permanent residency. Those who go the real estate investment route get temporary residency initially which can then be converted into permanent residency, with the eligibility to apply for citizenship after 3 to 4 years. For Indians seeking a cost-effective residency option outside Europe, Brazil offers lifestyle appeal, strong economic potential, and a welcoming social environment.
Golden Visa Investment Pathways Explained
Golden Visa programs usually offer several qualifying routes. Here’s what each one actually means and how Indian investors can benefit:
Real estate investment
This is the most common route. Investors purchase property in the host country that meets a minimum threshold. Tangible asset ownership provides the benefit of Schengen residency.
- Example: An Indian family buys a €250,000 apartment in Athens under the Greece Golden Visa. They gain residency rights and can also earn rental income while holding the property.
Investment funds
Instead of property, investors place money into regulated investment funds approved by the government. These often focus on local businesses, startups, or cultural projects. With this option there’s no need to manage property so funds are often lower-maintenance and more flexible.
- Example: An Indian investor commits €500,000 into a Portuguese venture capital fund, which supports green energy projects. This qualifies them for Portugal’s Golden Visa and a future pathway to citizenship.
Government bonds
Some programs allow investment in a country’s sovereign bonds, essentially lending to the government in exchange for residency rights. This is a safer, low-risk investment that can still lead to second citizenship or residency.
- Example: In the Caribbean, an Indian citizen buys government bonds in St. Lucia, keeping them for a fixed period before redemption.
Capital transfer
A bank transfer of a large sum into the host country, deposited into an approved account or project. A capital transfer route is simpler and more transparent with no need to buy or ultimately have to manage assets.
- Example: An Indian high-net-worth individual transfers €1 million into a designated Portuguese bank account, qualifying under the capital transfer category (though less popular today).
Job creation/business formation
Some programs reward investors who establish companies or create jobs for locals. This is especially attractive for Indian entrepreneurs as they can build a business abroad while simultaneously gaining residency for their whole family.
- Example: Through the Singapore Global Investor Program, an Indian entrepreneur invests SGD 2.5 million into a new tech startup, creating jobs and securing permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements for Indians Applying for a Golden Visa
While each country sets its own criteria, most Golden Visa programs for Indian citizens follow a similar foundation of eligibility rules. These requirements help ensure the applicant’s financial stability, legal compliance, and ability to support themselves abroad.
General eligibility requirements
- Clean criminal record: Applicants must provide police clearance certificates proving they have no serious criminal convictions.
- Proof of legal funds: Countries require evidence that investment capital comes from legitimate, traceable sources.
- Investment commitment: Applicants must demonstrate the ability and intention to complete the chosen investment route (real estate, investment funds, business creation, etc.).
- Valid health insurance: Many Golden Visa countries, particularly those in the EU, require applicants and their dependents to hold comprehensive health insurance.
- Source-of-funds documentation: Detailed bank statements, tax returns, employment records, or business financials are often needed to verify the origin of investment funds.
- Due diligence checks: Applicants undergo background checks to confirm financial integrity, legal compliance, and personal reputation.
- Country-specific requirements: Some nations may request proof of accommodation, minimum income thresholds, or additional supporting documents depending on the investor category.
India-specific requirements
Indian citizens must comply with domestic financial regulations when remitting funds abroad, the following India-specific rules apply:
- Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) limits: Indian residents can typically remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year per individual for foreign investments. Families can pool remittances for higher-value Golden Visa investments.
- Documentation for outward remittances: Banks require Form A2, PAN verification, and declarations confirming the purpose of remittance. Investors must complete KYC checks at the bank level.
- Tax residency considerations: Indian investors should understand how obtaining residency abroad interacts with Indian tax residency rules, especially if they continue earning income in India.
How Indian Citizens Can Apply for a Golden Visa (Step-by-Step)
The application process is broadly similar across countries, though timelines and document requirements vary. Below is a clear, skimmable pathway showing how to apply for a Golden Visa as an Indian citizen.
Step-by-Step process for Indian Applicants
- Choose a country and investment route: Compare program costs, benefits, and residency/citizenship timelines to select the pathway that aligns with your goals.
- Gather required documents: This includes passports, proof of address, criminal record certificates, bank statements, source-of-funds evidence, and health insurance.
- Transfer investment funds under LRS: Use India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme to legally move funds abroad. This typically involves bank documentation and Form A2 declarations.
- Submit your Golden Visa application: File your application with the relevant immigration authority, including all documents, investment proof, and government fees.
- Undergo biometrics and due diligence: Most countries require fingerprints, identity verification, and security/financial background checks.
- Receive approval and residency documentation: Once approved, applicants receive temporary or permanent residency cards, depending on the program.
- Maintain or renew the residency permit: Some countries require minimal physical presence or investment maintenance to keep residency active.
- Track your pathway to permanent residency or citizenship
After maintaining the investment and fulfilling stay requirements, applicants may apply for long-term residency or naturalization.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.
- We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance.
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