Residency by Investment (RBI), also known as Golden Visa programs, allows foreign investors to gain legal residency in a country by making a qualifying investment in areas such as real estate, investment funds, business creation, or government bonds.
These residency by investment programs provide access to increased visa-free travel, better business opportunities, and a higher quality of life, benefits that can often be extended to close family members. Many programs also offer a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after meeting stay and investment requirements.
In 2025, the top residency by investment countries include Portugal, Greece, Malta, Italy, Cyprus, the UAE, Hungary, and the USA. Recently, there has been a shift toward more sustainable and fund-based investment options.
This guide outlines the best residency by investment programs in 2025, comparing their minimum investment thresholds, key benefits, and routes to citizenship to help you choose the right program for your future goals.
- What is Residency by Investment?
- RBI vs. CBI: What’s the difference?
- European Residence by Investment Programs
- North American Residence by Investment Programs
- Caribbean Residence by Investment Programs
- South/Central American Residence by Investment Programs
- Asian Residence by Investment Programs
- Oceania/South Pacific Residency by Investment Programs
- African Residence by Investment Programs
- Benefits of Residency by Investment
- Investment Types and Minimum Thresholds
- Due Diligence and Document Requirements
- How Residency by Investment Works: Step-by-Step
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Residency by Investment?
Residency by Investment (RBI) programs (or Golden Visas) lets foreign nationals obtain a residence permit in a country by making a qualifying investment, such as in real estate, investment funds, business ventures, or government bonds.
In return, the applicant and their families can live, work, and study in the host country and often enjoy visa-free travel within certain regions (like the Schengen Area).
These programs provide a valuable Plan B passport for increased travel mobility and asset protection while supporting local economies. Many also offer a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after meeting stay and investment requirements, making them a popular choice for those seeking flexibility and long-term security.
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:
| FEATURE | RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT (RBI) | CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT (CBI) |
| What you receive | A residence permit granting the legal right to live in the country | A passport granting full citizenship and nationality rights |
| Rights granted | Right to live, work, study, and access healthcare in the host country | Full citizenship rights, including voting and consular protection |
| Physical presence | Usually requires minimal or periodic stays (for example, 7 days per year in Portugal) | Typically no stay requirement |
| Timeline | Leads to permanent residency or citizenship by naturalization after a few years | Immediate citizenship, usually within 3 to 6 months |
| Mobility focus | Depends 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 focus | Emphasis on real estate, funds, business, or bonds that stimulate the economy | Often includes donations to government funds or approved investments |
| Ideal for | Investors seeking long-term relocation, lifestyle access, or eventual citizenship | Individuals wanting immediate global mobility and a second passport |
European Residence by Investment Programs
Austria
As an EU member state, Austria provides the chance to obtain an EU residency visa through its immigration scheme for people who can meet the investment requirements. This immigrant investor visa, available to German-speaking individuals, provides visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area. The immigration scheme is subject to strict eligibility requirements, and a limited number of residence permits are granted yearly.
| Austria | |
| Program / permit | Private residency permit (financially independent person) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | At least €2 million in an Austrian business or qualifying venture; must show sufficient income without local employment |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | 6+ months per year to maintain residency |
| Processing time | 24–36 months |
| Validity/renewal | Renewable annually; longer permits available after several renewals |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence after 5 years; citizenship after 10 years with integration |
Andorra
The microstate of Andorra provides its own EU residency by investment program with the option of investing in real estate next to a bank deposit. Andorran residency comes with the benefit of tax incentives.
| Andorra | |
| Program/permit | Passive residency (non-lucrative) or active/business residency |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €400,000 in Andorran assets (may include real estate or financial products) plus €50,000 deposit with AFA |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Passive: 90 days/year; active: ~183 days/year |
| Processing time | 3–6 months |
| Validity/renewal | 2 years initially; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship: | Long-term residence; citizenship after extended residence and integration |
Curaçao
Although located in the Caribbean, the Curaçao Investor Permit Program offers the benefit of island living and EU residency. The Dutch Caribbean island provides several investments in its residency by investment program, including purchasing real estate.
| Curaçao | |
| Program/permit | Investor permit (3-year, 5-year, or indefinite) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | $280,000 (3-year), $425,000 (5-year), or $850,000 (indefinite) in real estate or business |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Maintain residence compliance; flexible presence |
| Processing time | 3–9 months |
| Validity/renewal | 3 or 5 years (renewable) or indefinite |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Eligibility toward Dutch nationality after qualifying residence |
Cyprus
Officially referred to as the Cyprus Permanent Residence Program, the Cyprus immigration investment program is ideal for foreign investors and expats seeking secure residential or commercial property investments and European residency through an immigrant investor visa.
| Cyprus | |
| Program/permit | Permanent residency (Category 6.2) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €300,000 in new residential property or €300,000 in commercial property/company shares/funds (plus €30,000 bank deposit) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, minor children, certain dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Visit at least once every 2 years |
| Processing time: | 2–4 months |
| Validity/renewal | Permanent residency (card renewals apply) |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Citizenship via naturalization after long-term residence |
Greece
The Greece Golden Visa program allows foreigners to gain residency in one of the most desirable European Union countries. Real estate investment is the primary option to obtain Greece residence by investment.
| Greece | |
| Program/permit | Greece Golden Visa |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Real estate: €800,000 (prime), €400,000 (secondary), limited €250,000 exceptions; alternative business routes available |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner, dependent children, dependent parents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | No minimum stay required |
| Processing time | 6–8 weeks |
| Validity/renewal | 5 years, renewable if investment maintained |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Citizenship after 7 years of legal residence |
Italy
Referred to as the Italy Golden Visa, the Italian Investor Visa (La Dolce Visa) provides four investment options for third-country nationals seeking an EU residence permit for themselves and their family members.
| Italy | |
| Program/permit | Investor Visa for Italy |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €2m in government bonds, €500k company shares, €250k innovative startups, or €1m philanthropic donation |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Occasional presence required |
| Processing time | 1–2 months |
| Validity/renewal | 2 years, renewable for 3 years |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Citizenship after 10 years of residence |
Malta
The Malta Residency by Investment program, also known as the Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP), is the optimal choice for investors pursuing secure real estate investments and residency in one of the best European countries. Malta also offers a fast-track option for citizenship.
| Malta | |
| Program/permit | Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €300,000 property purchase or €10,000 annual lease, €28,000–€58,000 contribution, and €2,000 charitable donation |
| Family inclusion: | Spouse/partner, dependent children, parents, and grandparents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | No minimum stay required |
| Processing time | 3–7 months |
| Validity/renewal | Permanent residence (renewable card every 5 years) |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Fast-track citizenship after 1–3 years via naturalization for exceptional services |
Portugal
The Portugal Golden Visa program is for those interested in investments such as starting a business or reconstructing national heritage. Successful applicants acquire a two-year residency visa, which can be extended to their family members, allowing them to live and work in Portugal and travel visa-free to other EU countries and throughout the Schengen Area.
| Portugal | |
| Program / permit: | Portugal Golden Visa |
| Minimum investment & route(s): | €250,000 cultural donation, €500,000 business creation/fund share capital, or job-creation investment |
| Family inclusion: | Spouse/partner, dependent children, and parents |
| Minimum stay / physical presence: | 7 days in first year, 14 days per subsequent 2-year period |
| Processing time: | 9–12 months |
| Validity / renewal: | 2 years, renewable for 2-year periods |
| Path to PR / citizenship: | Permanent residence and citizenship eligible after 5 years |
Switzerland
As one of the most stable and prosperous EU countries, Switzerland’s residence by investment program is designed for high-net-worth individuals looking for EU residence permits in a stable economy. The investor immigration scheme provides a one-year residence permit by paying an annual tax fee or an annual business investment.
| Switzerland | |
| Program/permit | Lump-Sum Taxation or Business Investment Residence Permit |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | CHF 200,000 annual tax or CHF 1 million business investment creating jobs |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and dependent children under 18 |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | 183 days per year |
| Processing time | ≈ 6 months |
| Validity/renewal | 1 year; renewable annually |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence after 5 years (C Permit); citizenship after 10 years |
United Kingdom
The UK Innovator Visa is available to foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish a business in the UK based on an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea. The investor’s business plan must showcase the potential for growth, job creation for UK legal residents, and scalability to compete in national and global markets.
An authorized endorsing body must also endorse the business. This investment immigration scheme provides a residence permit that can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years.
| United Kingdom | |
| Program/permit | UK Innovator Visa |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Endorsed innovative business idea; no fixed minimum capital |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | ≥ 6 months per year |
| Processing time: | 2–3 months |
| Validity/renewal | 3 years, renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Indefinite Leave to Remain after 3 years; citizenship after 5–6 years |
Serbia
The Serbian Residency by Investment Program is for those interested in residency in Serbia through real estate purchases. It is designed to attract foreign nationals who wish to live and work in the country.
A foreign national must first purchase a property within the country to qualify for residency through real estate acquisition in Serbia. This can include various real estate types, such as apartments, houses, or commercial properties. Importantly, there are no restrictions on the price or location of the property. Individuals may need to establish a legal entity to facilitate their purchase in cases with no reciprocity agreement.
| Serbia | |
| Program/permit | Real Estate Residency Route |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | No minimum; must purchase property (apartment, house, or business premises) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Maintain valid residence; flexible presence |
| Processing time: | ≈ 30 days |
| Validity/renewal | 1 year; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence after 5 years; citizenship after 8 years |
Hungary
The Hungarian Golden Visa Program, officially known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP), was reintroduced on July 1, 2024. This program allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency in Hungary through investment.
It aims to attract foreign investment to stimulate the economy while providing investors and their families with access to the European Union and Schengen Area. Successful applicants receive a residence permit that is valid for ten years, with the possibility of indefinite renewal.
| Hungary | |
| Program/permit | Guest Investor Program (GIP) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €250,000 in a state-approved real-estate fund |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | No fixed stay required |
| Processing time | ≈ 21 days |
| Validity/renewal | 10-year residence card, renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence after 3 years; citizenship after 8 years |
Latvia
The Latvia Golden Visa Program primarily targets non-EU citizens wishing to get residency in Europe. It is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals who want residency and its advantages, such as access to the Schengen Zone for easy travel across multiple European countries.
The program officially opened for applications on July 1, 2024, with the option for a six-month guest investor visa as an initial step toward obtaining the 10-year residency permit.
| Latvia | |
| Program/permit | Latvia Golden Visa |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | €250,000 property purchase or €50,000 in a Latvian company |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | No strict requirement |
| Processing time: | ≈ 90 days |
| Validity/renewal | 5 years; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence after 5 years; citizenship after 10 years |
Get in touch with our residency by investment team of specialists
North American Residence by Investment Programs
United States
The US remains open to granting residence permits to qualifying foreign entrepreneurs with one of the most in-demand investment programs. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a US investment program providing a temporary residence permit in the US with the possibility to obtain a permanent residence card (Green Card) and citizenship. The investor immigration program revolves around establishing a business.
| United States (EB-5) | |
| Program/permit | EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | USD $1,050,000, or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA); create at least 10 full-time jobs |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and unmarried children under 21 |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Must reside in the US to maintain LPR status |
| Processing time | ~2–3 years (varies) |
| Validity/renewal | 2-year conditional Green Card → removal of conditions → permanent residence |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident (if eligible) |
Canada
Canada’s residency by investment program provides international investors with enhanced investment prospects and an excellent quality of life. The Canada Startup Visa lays a path to permanent residency status in Canada for successful entrepreneurs.
| Canada | |
| Program/permit | Start-Up Visa (SUV) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Innovative business endorsed by a designated angel/VC/incubator (letter of support required) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Meet PR residency obligations |
| Processing time | ~18–24 months |
| Validity/renewal: | Leads to permanent residence if criteria are met |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR → eligibility for citizenship after required physical presence |
Mexico
Mexico is a popular alternative investment program, particularly for American citizens. The country provides several temporary and permanent residence by investment programs. An investment in a Mexican company or a real estate investment are among the most popular qualifying investments foreigners choose to obtain permanent residency in Mexico through its available programs.
| Mexico | |
| Program/permit | Temporary/permanent residence via investment |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | From ~USD $100,000 into a Mexican company or qualifying real estate (consulate/UMA-indexed thresholds apply) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Meet residence maintenance rules |
| Processing time | ~2–3 months |
| Validity/renewal | Temporary residence up to 4 years; can convert to permanent |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence then naturalization (residence & language) |
Caribbean Residence by Investment Programs
Anguilla
Anguilla is among the prime countries to consider relocating to minimize your personal income tax burden and enjoy an excellent quality of life. Obtaining permanent residency is a streamlined process through a significant financial contribution to the National Development Fund or a real estate purchase.
A separate Anguilla High-Value Residents program (HVR) allows high-net-worth individuals to gain residency by paying a lump-sum annual tax.
| Anguilla | |
| Program/permit | Permanent residence (donation or real estate); High-Value Resident (tax) option |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | $150,000 donation to the Capital Development Fund or $750,000 real estate purchase |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | PR maintenance rules; HVR has minimum annual tax payment |
| Processing time | Up to ~3 months |
| Validity/renewal | Permanent residence (card renewals apply) |
| Path to residency/citizenship | BOTC/UK nationality routes may apply over time |
Cayman Islands
Another British Overseas Territory, the Cayman Islands, stands as one of the most reputable destinations for mitigating one’s tax burden.
Several financial incentives exist to establish residence in the Cayman Islands, including no capital gains, inheritance, personal income, or wealth tax. The country has maintained its tax-free status through residence by investment.
| Cayman Islands | |
| Program/permit | Residency certificates via substantial investment |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | $1.2m total (with at least $600k in developed real estate); lower thresholds on smaller islands |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Minimum days vary by certificate type |
| Processing time | ~4–6 months |
| Validity/renewal | Long-term certificates; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Possible via long residence/status rules |
South/Central American Residence by Investment Programs
Brazil
The Brazil Investor Visa allows foreigners and their family to obtain a permanent residence permit by investing in real estate or establishing businesses that provide employment.
| Brazil | |
| Program/permit | Investor visa (residence by investment) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | BRL 1,000,000 standard (or BRL 700,000 in North/Northeast); BRL 500,000 business; BRL 150,000 innovative/startup option |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Meet residence maintenance requirements |
| Processing time | ~5–30 days (varies) |
| Validity/renewal | Typically 2 years, extendable; can become permanent |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR and later citizenship through residence/integration |
Panama
Located in Central America, Panama is a crucial link between North and South America, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bordered by Costa Rica and Nicaragua, the country upholds its importance with two residence by investment programs:
Panama Qualified Investor Visa: Offers a permanent residence permit in exchange for investments, including real estate purchases.
Panama Reforestation Investor Visa: Offers a temporary residence permit for investing in government-approved reforestation projects.
| Panama | |
| Program/permit | Qualified Investor Visa; Reforestation Investor Visa |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Qualified Investor: real estate/securities/bank deposit; Reforestation: from ~$70,000 over 10 years (gov’t-approved projects) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Flexible; maintain status |
| Processing time | ~20 days to 3 months |
| Validity/renewal | Qualified Investor often permanent; reforestation temporary → permanent |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Permanent residence; naturalization after residence period |
Paraguay
Paraguay is a landlocked South American country brimming with untapped potential. One of the main benefits of Paraguay residence by investment is that it provides one of the cheapest residency by investment programs offering permanent residence, among other benefits, including a low cost of living.
| Paraguay | |
| Program/permit | Residence by investment / ordinary residence |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | From ~$70,000 over 10 years (indicative); current practice emphasizes income/investment proofs |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Presence required to maintain/advance status |
| Processing time | Varies |
| Validity/renewal | Temporary → permanent per current rules |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Citizenship after ~3 years of permanent residence |
Asian Residence by Investment Programs
Cambodia
The Cambodian government introduced a residency and citizenship by investment program called the Cambodia My 2nd Home (CM2H) investment program. The citizenship by investment program is also available by investing in government-approved property for those seeking a second passport.
| Cambodia | |
| Program/permit | Cambodia My 2nd Home (CM2H) / residence via approved real estate |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | From $100,000 in government-approved real estate/projects |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Flexible; maintain status |
| Processing time | ~3–4 months |
| Validity/renewal | Often 10-year residence; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Naturalization routes exist (confirm current rules) |
Jordan
Jordan has gradually opened its doors to foreigners and their investments. Like Cambodia, the country provides both the option of long-term residence through the Jordan Golden Visa and citizenship through the Jordan Citizenship by Investment.
| Jordan | |
| Program / permit: | Investor residency (separate citizenship route available) |
| Minimum investment & route(s): | Real estate from ~JOD 200,000 (≈$282,000) or other investment/job-creation routes |
| Family inclusion: | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay / physical presence: | Maintain presence per permit terms |
| Processing time: | Up to ~3 months |
| Validity / renewal: | 5-year residence; renewable if investment maintained |
| Path to PR / citizenship: | Citizenship via separate higher-threshold program |
Singapore
The Singapore Global Investor Program (GIP) has provided many wealthy individuals with the economic means to establish permanent residency by investment in one of the world’s most stable economies. This Singapore residence by investment program offers a safe haven to investors; however, the eligibility criteria are significantly more demanding than other investment programs on the list.
| Singapore | |
| Program/permit | Global Investor Programme (permanent residence) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | SGD 10m into a new/existing business (Option A); other options (e.g., family office) have higher AUM/track-record criteria |
| Family inclusion | Spouse and unmarried children <21; parents via LTVP |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Presence and business milestones reviewed for 5-year REP renewal |
| Processing time | ~9–12 months |
| Validity/renewal | PR with 5-year REP; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship: | Citizenship eligibility after qualifying residence (discretionary) |
Thailand
The Thai Elite Residence program offers several advantages to Thai Elite Visa holders not typically found in other residency by investment programs. Some benefits of its investment program include expedited immigration processing from Thai immigration upon arrival, a free annual healthcare check-up, and special discounts and bookings provided by Thai Elite Residence program partners.
| Thailand | |
| Program/permit | Thailand Privilege (membership-based long-stay visa) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | THB 900,000 (≈$23,400) for 5-year; THB 1.5m (≈$40,500) for 10-year; THB 5m (≈$135,000) for 20-year packages |
| Family inclusion | Family add-on packages available |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Flexible; not a work-permit route |
| Processing time | ~1–3 months |
| Validity/renewal | 5–20 years depending on package; renewable by upgrading |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Does not directly lead to PR; separate PR/work routes required |
United Arab Emirates
Golden Visa programs have become increasingly popular among foreign nationals, and the UAE Golden Visa now offers one of the most sought-after due to its high quality of life and no personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or gift tax.
Residence by investment in Dubai or Abu Dhabi grants long-term residency in one of the Middle East’s most developed and tolerant countries. Investors also gain access to a cornerstone Asian market.
| United Arab Emirates | |
| Program/permit | Golden Visa (10-year) and other investor categories |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | AED 2,000,000 property purchase (title deed) or bank deposit; other investor/entrepreneur routes available |
| Family inclusion | Spouse, children (typically up to 25), parents (sponsorship rules) |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | No fixed annual minimum for property route; maintain valid ID/visa |
| Processing time | ~weeks to 2 months after entry permit |
| Validity/renewal | 10 years; renewable if criteria met |
| Path to residency/citizenship | Long-term residency; citizenship discretionary |
Oceania/South Pacific Residency by Investment Programs
New Zealand
Like Australia, New Zealand is another desirable destination for residency for a range of individuals. Although relatively isolated, the nation offers a peaceful environment, well-developed infrastructure, and good healthcare. The country is open to granting a residence permit to investors through the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa program; however, it requires a substantial investment for eligibility.
| New Zealand | |
| Program/permit | Active Investor Plus Visa (residence → PR) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | NZD 5m–15m (weighted) into approved direct/indirect investments over 4 years |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependent children |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | 117 days across the 4-year investment period |
| Processing time | ~5–6 months |
| Validity/renewal | Residence with conditions; then PR |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR after 4 years + presence; citizenship later via residence |
Fiji
Fiji is a picturesque island paradise for many, and a foreign investor can obtain a residence permit. The country provides a low-cost Fiji Investor Permit, allowing foreigners to gain long-term residence for as little as $50,000.
| Fiji | |
| Program/permit | Fiji Investor Permit |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | $50,000 direct investment for ~3-year residence; $250,000 for ~7-year residence |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Presence required to maintain status |
| Processing time | ~21–30 working days |
| Validity/renewal | Renewable permits tied to investment |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR available after long-term residence; citizenship thereafter |
African Residence by Investment Programs
Egypt
Egypt is making significant strides in the world of residency and citizenship through a series of innovative immigration programs introduced to encourage foreign investment. For individuals seeking an affordable residence permit, Egypt’s cheapest option starts from a $50,000 direct investment.
| Egypt | |
| Program/permit | Investor residency (various terms) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Property purchase from $50,000 / $100,000 / $200,000 or bank deposit $50,000–$100,000 (depends on desired residence length) |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Meet residency maintenance rules |
| Processing time | ~6–12 months |
| Validity/renewal | Residence permits up to 5 years; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR after long residence; separate citizenship-for-deposit framework exists |
Namibia
Namibia is one of the few African countries offering residency to foreigners and their dependent family members through residential property investment. The Namibia Residency by Investment program linked to the Presidents Links Estate project is quickly gaining ground as the ideal investment option to secure residency in the rapidly developing African nation.
| Namibia | |
| Program/permit | Residency by investment (Presidents Links Estate) |
| Minimum investment & route(s) | Purchase pre-approved property valued from ~$316,000 |
| Family inclusion | Spouse/partner and dependents |
| Minimum stay/physical presence | Presence required for renewals |
| Processing time | ~3 months |
| Validity/renewal | 5-year residence permit; renewable |
| Path to residency/citizenship | PR after ~10 years of residence (policy-dependent) |
Get insight into why RBI programs are the way forward for investors with the Global RCBI Report
The Benefits of Residency by Investment
The benefits of residency by investment programs in particular are extensive and suit many different needs:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Access to quality healthcare and education
Residency in another country provides access to better healthcare and education.
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.
Flexibility
RBI programs offer flexible terms, letting you live, work, and travel freely, even without full-time residency.
Improved quality of life
Residency in high-standard countries can improve safety, infrastructure, and access to better services and activities.
Our Global RCBI Report highlighted many of these according to what investors and other individuals found enticing, including minimal to no residency requirements (65% have no mandatory stays), low investment thresholds (for example, 60% require an investment of less than €500,000), global wealth preservation through tax-friendly environments and more.
Investment Types and Minimum Thresholds
Each Residency by Investment program defines its own qualifying investments and minimum investment thresholds. Common options include:
- Real estate investment: Purchasing residential or commercial property, available in countries like Greece and the UAE.
- Investment funds: Contributing to approved venture capital or private equity funds that stimulate local economies.
- Business creation: Establishing or investing in a company that generates employment or economic value.
- Government bonds: Buying national bonds or securities that support public projects.
- Donations and philanthropy: Making a non-refundable contribution to cultural, social, or research initiatives.
Typical minimum investments range from €250,000 (Greece and Hungary, for example) to €500,000+ (Portugal funds and Malta, for example).
Due Diligence and Document Requirements
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 include in-person biometric enrollment.
How Residency by Investment Works: Step-by-Step
Although each country has its own rules, the application process generally follows these steps:
1. Choose the right program
Compare countries based on your preferred investment type and minimum threshold, residency rights, and long-term goals.
2. 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.
3. Make the required investment
Transfer the required capital into approved real estate, funds, or other eligible vehicles.
4. Submit the application
Submit your completed application through authorized immigration agents or directly to the immigration authority.
5. Attend a biometrics appointment
This is where you get your fingerprints and photograph taken.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
How Global Citizen Solutions Can Help
Pursuing residency or citizenship by investment is becoming increasingly popular in today’s globalized world. Many countries now provide such programs, where you can obtain long-term or permanent residency by investing in a country’s economy. A qualifying investment not only contributes to the nation’s economic growth but also provides increased financial and personal rights for yourself and your family.
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique global citizenship and residence advisory firm providing citizenship and residency solutions to international clients. Get a free consultation today to begin your journey to residence by investment.
