Residency by Investment (RBI) programs, often referred to as Golden Visas, are an immigration route that allow foreign investors to obtain residence in another country by making a qualifying 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 pathway to citizenship.
In 2026, leading residency by investment countries include Portugal, Greece, Malta, Italy, Cyprus, the UAE, and the USA. Our article provides a clear overview of the best residency by investment programs by comparing investment thresholds, options, benefits, requirements, and pathways to citizenship. This will help you choose the program that best aligns with your lifestyle, mobility, and long-term planning goals.
Residency by Investment: Key Takeaways
Benefits of Residency by Investment Programs
The benefits of residency by investment programs are extensive and suit many different needs:
24 Best Residency by Investment Programs
01/ Italy
The Italy Golden Visa, also known as the Italian Investor Visa, offers residency for investors contributing to innovation, business growth, or government-backed funds. The starting cost is โฌ250,000, and it allows investors to access the Schengen Area. Permanent residency can be acquired after 5 years with citizenship available after 10.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ250,000+ |
| Investment options | Italian government bonds; startup investment; philanthropic donation; company shares |
| Minimum stay | No 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 time | 2 โ 3 months |
| Renewal | Permit valid for 2 years, can be renewed for another 3 years (must maintain investment) and after the second renewal thereโs no limit (provided you continue to meet requirements) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children; parents via reunification |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10 years |
02/ Portugal
The Portugal Golden Visa program continues to be one of the most respected Residency by Investment pathways globally. With diversified investment options starting at โฌ200,000 and a low physical stay requirement of approximately 7 days a year, Portugal attracts investors seeking EU mobility, and a secure long-term residency strategy within a politically stable environment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ200,000+ |
| Investment options | Fund subscription; donation to arts, cultural heritage reconstruction or scientific research, job creation |
| Minimum stay | Around 7 days per year |
| Processing time | 8 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Every 2 years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, dependent children and dependent parents |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency or citizenship application after 5 years; due to new laws this can potentially change to closer to 10 years |
03/ 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 starting cost of ~$98,000 (BRL 500,000). The program provides a fast route to permanent residency and a relatively short naturalization timeline of 4 years. Brazil is particularly attractive for those seeking business opportunities in South America and a clear pathway to citizenship.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | BRL 500,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate; business |
| Minimum stay | 14-day minimum stay requirement every two years OR 30-day annual stay (investment dependent) |
| Processing time | 3 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Renewable indefinitely after initial 4 years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children; parents if dependent |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship in 4 years |
04/ Canada
Canadaโs Startup Visa provided residency opportunities through business creation, innovation funding, and provincial entrepreneur routes. Unlike traditional Golden Visa models, Canadaโs program emphasized real economic activity, job creation, and long-term integration. However, as of 1 January 2026, the program has been paused to new applicants, with a new program in the pipeline.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | CAD $75,000+ |
| Investment options | Startup; VC; angel funding |
| Minimum stay | 730 days in 5 year span |
| Processing time | 2 โ 3 years |
| Renewal | Apply to renew your Permanent Resident card every five years by submitting an application and fulfilling the physical presence requirement |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children only |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 3 years presence |
05/ Greece
The Greece Golden Visa program remains one of Europeโs most accessible options, offering a wide range of investments starting at โฌ250,000 and no mandatory stay requirements. Investors can obtain long-term residency through real estate or financial investments while benefiting from Greeceโs Schengen mobility, Mediterranean climate, and rapidly growing real estate market.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ250,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate; public securities; Greek business investment; bank deposit |
| Minimum stay | None |
| Processing time | 6 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Renewable after 5 years; must be done 30 days prior to expiry date |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, dependent children to 21 (extendable), plus parents of both spouses |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 7 years of residence |
06/ Malta
Theย 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 a starting cost of ~โฌ400,000. The program also offers a rental route with a starting cost of ~โฌ50,000.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | ~โฌ400,000+ |
| Investment options | Property purchase or rental and government contributions/donations |
| Minimum stay | None required but must maintain investment for at least five years |
| Processing time | 6 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Residency card renewal every 5 years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, dependent children, parents and grandparents |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Immediate permanent residency and citizenship via naturalization |
07/ Paraguay
Paraguayโs Permanent Residency program offers one of the most straightforward and affordable residency pathways in Latin America, with options to qualify through investment ($70,000+) or passive income ($1,300 + per month). Known for its low cost of living, territorial tax system, and fast-track naturalization timeline of 3 years, Paraguay is increasingly popular among retirees, digital nomads, and investors seeking stability and long-term planning flexibility.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $70,000 investment or USD $1,300/mo income |
| Investment options | Investment; passive income |
| Minimum stay | None but must not be absent from the country for more than three consecutive years without a valid reason |
| Processing time | 1 โ 3 months |
| Renewal | Initial permit is renewable after 2 years and then after another 2 years before permanent status is achieved |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and minor children; others via reunification |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 3 years |
08/ United Arab Emirates
The UAE Golden Visa provides long-term 10-year residency through real estate investment, entrepreneurship, or business ownership with a minimum investment of AED 2 million (~$550,000). With no minimum stay requirements, no income tax, and world-class infrastructure, the UAE remains one of the most popular Residency by Investment destinations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | AED $2m+ |
| Investment options | Property; business; capital investment |
| Minimum stay | The program has no minimum stay requirements |
| Processing time | 1 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Initial period is 5 to 10 years renewable but automatically renewed if you maintain investment criteria |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and children (sons to 25; daughters unlimited); parents via sponsorship |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship by exception |
09/ New Zealand
New Zealandโs 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 a starting cost of NZD $5 million (~$3 million), the program allows investors to access citizenship in five years. The country is also appealing because of itโs familial inclusions like spouse and children.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | NZD $5m+ |
| Investment options | VC funds; startups; growth assets; bonds; property |
| Minimum stay | 21 days over three years (Growth cat.)/ 105 days over five years (Balanced cat.) |
| Processing time | 6 โ 12+ months |
| Renewal | Technically none required, pathway to four-year temporary permit |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children up to 24 |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 5+ years |
10/ Singapore
The Singapore Global Investor Program (GIP) grants permanent residency to investors who commit at least SGD $10m (~$7,9 million) into businesses, GIP-approved funds, or family office structures. As a global financial hub with some of the highest quality of life in the world, Singapore attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking a strategic base in Asia.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | SGD $10m+ |
| Investment options | Business; GIP funds |
| Minimum stay | One day minimum a year |
| Processing time | 9 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Renew every five years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and unmarried children under 21 |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 2+ years of permanent residency |
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. The starting cost of the program is เธฟ650,000 (~$17,700), and it functions as a long-term tourist visa. The program is a popular option for retirees, remote professionals, and frequent visitors who want a frictionless long-stay solution.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | เธฟ650,000 THB |
| Investment options | Membership packages (tiered) |
| Minimum stay | None |
| Processing time | 1 โ 3 months |
| Renewal | Depends on visa type; usually every five years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and children (package-dependent) |
| Path to PR/citizenship | No direct permanent residency or citizenship path |
12/ United States
The United Statesโ EB-5 Visa or Immigrant Investor Program provides a direct route to obtaining a US Green Card through investment in job-creating projects. The program has a starting cost of $800,000 and it offers access to the US and its market, top-tier education, and a secure pathway to citizenship. The program remains highly sought after among global investors prioritizing long-term relocation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $800,000 |
| Investment options | Job creation; investment in regional centers |
| Minimum stay | None; two years of conditional permanent residency |
| Processing time | 1.5 โ 3+ years |
| Renewal | Must file removal of conditions before conditional 2-year Green Card expires to obtain permanent residency |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and unmarried dependent children under 21 |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 5 years of permanent residency |
13/ Cyprus
Cyprusโ Golden Visa is one of Europeโs fastest and most straightforward residency pathways through investment with a starting cost of โฌ300,000. The program has minimal stay requirements of 1 day per 2 years, a welcoming expat environment, a direct route to long-term residency, and citizenship after 7 years. Cyprus is popular among families and retirees seeking stability, Mediterranean living, and access to EU travel privileges through holding Cypriot residency.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ300,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate; business share investment; contribute to a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization |
| Minimum stay | Visit country one day every 2 years |
| Processing time | 3 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Permanent (no renewal needed) but must maintain investment and income requirements |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and dependent children up to 25. Parents no longer eligible |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship possible after 7 years |
14/ Panama
Panama Qualified Investor Visa is one of the fastest Residency by Investment routes globally, providing permanent residency in as little as 2 to 6 months. The investment options, including real estate, securities, and bank deposits with a starting cost of $300,000. Panama appeals to investors seeking a country that does not tax foreign income, has a vibrant expat community, and a direct pathway to citizenship after five years of residence.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $300,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate; deposits; securities |
| Minimum stay | Visit Panama at least once every two years |
| Processing time | 2 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | No renewal needed, permanent residency immediately |
| Family inclusion | Spouse, dependent children, dependent parents |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 5 years |
15/ Hungary
The reintroduced Hungarian Golden Visa program provides a long-term residency solution through investment in approved real estate funds or public-benefit foundations with a starting cost of โฌ250,000. The program has no minimum physical presence requirement and provides a 10-year renewable residence permit. Hungary appeals to investors looking for flexible EU access and a path to citizenship based on 8 years of residence.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ250,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate investment funds; public trust donation |
| Minimum stay | None required |
| Processing time | 2 โ 4 months |
| Renewal | Valid for 10 years and can be renewed for another 10 |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship eligibility after 8 years |
16/ Latvia
The Latvia Golden Visa provides several investment options, including real estate, business capital, or bank deposits, making it one of Europeโs most flexible residency programs. It has a low starting cost of โฌ50,000 and the country offers an uncomplicated application process, low maintenance requirements, and access to the Schengen Area. This makes it a practical choice for investors looking for mobility and stability at moderate investment levels.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ50,000+ |
| Investment options | Real estate; business; government bonds; bank deposit |
| Minimum stay | No minimum stay but must visit the country at least once a year for renewal |
| Processing time | 1 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Apply for renewal every year; request residence permit after five years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and children under 18; older dependents on case-by-case basis |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after 5 yrs and citizenship after 10 years |
17/ Serbia
The Serbian Residency by Investment program offers a flexible and cost-effective residency pathway through real estate ownership or company formation. The lack of a fixed minimum investment makes it one of the most accessible options in Europe. Additionally, citizenship can be acquired after six years making it one of the faster options in Europe.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | No fixed minimum amount for real estate route or โฌ50,000 deposit in a Serbian bank account and proof of a tangible or intangible investment in a Serbian company |
| Investment options | Real estate purchase; company formation; business investment |
| Minimum stay | No minimum stay but must maintain registered address in Serbia and comply with residence requirements |
| Processing time | Residence permit typically issued within a few months |
| Renewal | Maintain property/business activity, address registration and insurance |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and minor, dependent children; others via reunification |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after 3 years of temporary residence; citizenship after 6 years |
18/ Jordan
Jordan offers residency to foreign nationals who invest in local businesses or create employment opportunities. With several qualifying investment tiers and a starting cost of JOD 200,000 (~$280,000), the program appeals to entrepreneurs seeking access to Middle Eastern markets. Additionally, there is also the Jordan Citizenship by Investment program with a starting cost of JOD 500,000 (~$705,000).
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | JOD 200,000 (~$280,000) |
| Investment options | Real estate; establish business; bank deposit; treasury bonds |
| Minimum stay | Cannot spend more than six consecutive months outside Jordan |
| Processing time | 2 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Valid for five years initially and then renewable you must still own the same or a new property of a similar value |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and dependent children |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship is possible on a case-by-case basis |
19/ Switzerland
The Swiss Residency Permit allows financially independent individuals to gain residency in via lump-sum taxation agreements with a starting cost of CHF 434,700 (~$561,000). Switzerland scores 2nd in both the Global Passport Index and the Investment Index, produced by the Global intelligence unit, demonstrating the appeal of the nation to investors.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | CHF 434,700 (~$561,000) |
| Investment options | Lump-sum taxes |
| Minimum stay | Varies by canton/state |
| Processing time | 3 โ 9 months |
| Renewal | Annually (must get canton approval) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after 10 years; citizenship after 12 years |
20/ Andorra
Andorra offers a highly attractive passive residency program designed for individuals seeking a safe, low-tax European base. The program has a starting cost of โฌ400,000, and individuals pay no capital gains or inheritance tax. Applicants qualify by making a capital commitment in real estate or financial assets with a minimal stay requirement of 90 days per year.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | โฌ600,000 (reduced to โฌ400,000 if investing in governmentโs housing fund) and โฌ50,000 non-interest bearing deposit with the Andorran Financial Authority |
| Investment options | Real estate; bonds; financial assets |
| Minimum stay | 90 days per year |
| Processing time | 3 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Residence 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 inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children; some parents allowed via reunification process |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 20 years of residency |
21/ Anguilla
Anguilla offers a straightforward Residency by Investment pathway with a 3 to 6 month processing time and a starting cost of $150,000 through real estate or a government contribution. Citizenship is available after 5 years of residence, and the country has no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. The program is appealing to families and international investors seeking a Caribbean base.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | $150,000+ |
| Investment options | Donation; real estate |
| Minimum stay | 45 days a year and must declare that you spend less than 183 days a year in any other country |
| Processing time | 3 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Annual renewal of the tax residency certificate for at least the first four years after the final approval |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and dependent children; extra dependents require a higher investment |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 5 years |
22/ Curaรงao
Curaรงaoโs Investor Permit Program grants 3-year, 5-year, or indefinite residence permits depending on the level of investment, offering flexibility for international investors and a starting cost of $280,000. As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Curaรงao provides attractive tax structures, with low import taxes and no dividends tax.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $280,000 |
| Investment options | Real estate; business |
| Minimum stay | One day per year |
| Processing time | 3 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | 3-year permit requires renewal every 3 years, a 5-year permit requires renewal every 5 years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Citizenship after 5 years |
23/ Mauritius
Mauritius provides residency to investors who purchase qualifying property or establish local businesses and has a starting cost of $375,000. The country has favorable tax policies like no inheritance or capital gains tax as well as a credit for foreign-sourced income. Mauritius is a leading African destination for investor migration and long-term settlement.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $375,000+ |
| Investment options | Approved real estate projects; business investment; entrepreneurial venture |
| Minimum stay | None required |
| Processing time | 2 โ 6 months |
| Renewal | Renewed for 10 years for business investment but for property investment itโs valid provided property is held |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, dependent children and parents |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after 3 years. Citizenship after 5 โ 7 years |
24/ Namibia
Namibia Residence by Investment offers the option to invest in approved real estate developments or local business activity in exchange for residency with a starting cost of $365,000. The program has no minimum stay requirement and allows investors to purchase property.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $365,000+ |
| Investment options | Property; business |
| Minimum stay | None required |
| Processing time | 6 โ 12 months |
| Renewal | Renewal every five years; must maintain investment |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and minor children; others case-by-case |
| Path to PR/citizenship | Permanent residency after ~10 years. Citizenship after ~20 years. |
Whatโs the difference between RBI and CBI?
RBI programs provide the right to live, work, and study in a country, likely with a pathway to citizenship by naturalization. The process to acquire citizenship can take anywhere from 2 years on the very short end with a country like Argentina to 20 years with a country like Namibia.
Citizenship by Investment provides investors with citizenship in a 3 โ 12 month time-frame. The programs allow investors to acquire a second passport and, usually, expand their visa-free travel access to the world.
Country dependent, RBI programs tend to be less expensive than CBI programs, with CBI offering a greater degree of benefits, and faster processing times.
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 channels.
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 investmentย 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 5 years). To renew, you must continue meeting all residency requirements, including investment and physical presence.
Investment Options for Residency by Investment Programs
RBI programs 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 categories. Understanding these options helps investors select the pathway that best aligns with their goals 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 potential for returns 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 low risk.
4. Business investment and job creation
This route requires creating or investing in a business that generates employment, usually for citizens of that country.
Why choose it: Ideal for entrepreneurs or investors looking to expand internationally.
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.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutionsย is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years ofย experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenshipย by investment solutions for international families. Withย 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.ย
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.ย
