Obtaining residency by investment has become an increasingly popular strategy for investors seeking greater mobility, financial opportunities, and lifestyle improvements. Europe boasts some of the world’s most attractive residency programs, with countries like Portugal, Spain, Malta, Greece, Italy, and Cyprus leading the way.
However, the appeal of Golden Visas extends beyond Europe, with numerous countries across Asia, the Americas, and other regions offering similar pathways to residency in exchange for substantial financial investment.
In this article, we will explore the universe of investment immigration and provide a comprehensive list of the top 29 countries where investors can secure residency through their financial contributions.
Temporary Residence vs Permanent Residence Programs
EU temporary and permanent residence permit holders enjoy nearly identical rights and opportunities. Nevertheless, there are a few distinctions between the statuses.
Validity: An investor visa granting a temporary residence permit is typically valid for one to five years. In certain countries, validity may be a decade or more. The UAE Golden Visa is valid for up to ten years, whereas foreigners can gain a 20-year residence permit under the Thailand Elite Visa program.
While validity can be long, you must renew the permit before it expires. On the other hand, a permanent residence permit is indefinite, with no renewal requirements.
Path to citizenship: A residence permit and permanent residence represent sequential milestones on the path to citizenship. In most countries, to begin the naturalization process, you first obtain a residence permit, and after a few years of residency, you can exchange a temporary permit for a permanent residency permit.
Permanent residence eliminates the first step to citizenship. Countries like Malta and Cyprus provide a direct route to permanent residency, with the option to apply for citizenship after completing the necessary residency period.
Language requirements: Investor residence programs typically donโt require tests for language proficiency. When applying for permanent residency, countries require applicants to pass specific criteria, often including proving the ability to speak one of the countryโs official languages.
Specific permanent residence programs, including the Malta and Cyprus investment programs, waive the requirement for applicants to provide proof of language proficiency to be eligible for a permanent residence permit.
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 financially independent people. This immigrant investor visa, available to German-speaking individuals, provides visa-free access to Europeโs Schengen Area. The immigration scheme is subject to strict eligibility requirements, and a limited number of residence permits are granted yearly.
AUSTRIA | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 |
Qualifying investment: | A minimum monthly income of €2,220.52 |
Processing time: | Three to five months |
Renewable | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | After five years with a valid residence permit |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal background since age 16 -Proof of income exceeding 300 percent of the national minimum wage -Proof of purchase or intent to purchase property within 12 months |
Qualifying investment: | -A €350,000 real estate investment and €50,000 five-year deposit into an Andorran financial institution, or; -A €350,000 deposit in an Andorran bank fund and €50,000 five-year deposit into an Andorran financial institution |
Processing time: | One to two months |
Renewable | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | After five years with a valid residence permit |
Curaรงao
Although located in the Caribbean, the Curaรงao 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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background - Be in good health and have valid health insurance -Have sufficient financial means |
Qualifying investment: | -Real estate investment, or; -Invest in a local business -Purchase securities in a company list on the Dutch Caribbean Securities Exchange (DCSX) -A deposit of €30,000 in a Cypriot bank account • $280,000 investment for a three-year residence permit |
Processing time: | Two months |
Renewable | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Provided investor maintain their investment for five years. Not required for the highest investment threshold. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 |
Qualifying investment: | • A minimum investment of €300,000 in real estate |
Processing time: | Two months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Provided the immigrant investor maintains the capital investment for five years and the deposit for three years, investors acquire permanent 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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Health insurance |
Qualifying investment: | -A real estate purchase worth at least €250,000 or a ten-year lease of the same value for eligible commercial residences for tourism, or; • €400,000 capital investment in a Greek company • €350 purchase of united of a mutual fund • €500,000 in a Greek bank account |
Processing time: | Six to eight weeks |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The Golden Visa is essentially a permanent business investment visa but must be renewed every five years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | - Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background |
Qualifying investment: | -A minimum investment of €500,000 in corporate bonds or shares, or; -€2 million in government bonds -€250,000 in innovative startups -A philanthropic donation of at least €1 million |
Processing time: | One to two months |
Renewable | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Investors can renew their permits after two years for an additional three years. Permanent visas are possible after five years of residency. |
Malta
The Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) presents the optimal choice for investors pursuing secure real estate investments and residency in one of the best European countries to live in. Malta also offers a fast-track option for citizenship.
MALTA | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Health insurance -Proof of capital assets of no less than €500,000, €150,000 of which must be in financial assets |
Qualifying investment: | -A real estate purchase of at least €300,000 or a rental agreement with a minimum amount of €10,000 annually -A non-refundable contribution of €28,000 or €58,000 if leasing property -A charitable donation of €2,000 |
Processing time: | Three to seven months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The visa is effectively a permanent residence visa; however, the permit must be renewed every five years, along with fulfilling certain conditions. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 |
Qualifying investment: | -€250,000 donation to arts or reconstruction of national heritage, or; -€500,000 in share capital of a Portuguese company that provides jobs -€500,000 in an approved investment fund -€500,000 in a new business enterprise and create ten full-time jobs |
Processing time: | Nine to 12 months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The investment program provides a residence permit, which is renewable every two years. |
Spain
The Spanish Golden Visa is a popular EU investor immigration program in the European Union. The immigration investment program allows foreigners to obtain a Golden Visa from one of four investment options, including real estate investment.
SPAIN | |
Eligibility: | Over 18 A valid passport A clean criminal background |
Qualifying investment: | -A minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate, or; -€2 million in public debt securities -€1 million in Spanish stocks or shares, investment funds, venture capital funds, or bank deposits in a Spanish financial institution -€1 million in starting a company in Spain that creates jobs, contributes to technological and/or scientific innovation and has a strong socio-economic impact |
Processing time: | Ten days |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The initial residence permit is valid for one year if applied through a consular service or three years if applied for in Spain. The residence permit can be renewed. |
Switzerland
As one of the most stable and prosperous EU countries, Switzerland’s residence by investment program is designed for high-net-worth individuals seeking 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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 and under 55 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Proof of sufficient financial means -Proof of purchased or rented property |
Qualifying investment: | -A CHF 200,000 annual tax payment to the canton of residence, or; -An annual capital investment of CHF 1 million in a new or existing business that creates job opportunities |
Processing time: | Six months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | After five years with a valid residence permit |
United Kingdom
The UK Innovator Visa is available to foreign entrepreneurs who wish to create innovative businesses in the United Kingdom. The investorโs 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.ย
UNITED KINGDOM | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background - Be in good health and have valid health insurance |
Qualifying investment: | -An innovative business idea that will create jobs and has the potential for growth -A letter of support from an endorsing body that will fund the business |
Processing time: | Two months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Permit holders can renew their investor visa after three years. The visa is replaceable by ILR after three years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Passing a medical exam |
Qualifying investment: | -A investment of at least USD 1.05 million in a new enterprise [$800,000 if the investment is made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)] -Create at least ten full-time jobs for US legal residents |
Processing time: | Two to three years |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Investors are issued a Conditional Permanent Residence Card (Green Card), valid for two years. The conditional status can be lifted from the Green Card after two years, provided the main applicant maintains the requirements for the investment programs |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Passing a medical exam -Endorsement from a designated organization |
Qualifying investment: | -An innovative business idea that will create jobs and has the potential for growth -A letter of support from a designated organization that will fund the business |
Processing time: | 18 to 24 months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Investors acquire permanent residency |
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 is one of the most popular qualifying investments foreigners choose to obtain permanent residency in Mexico through its available investment programs.
MEXICO | |
Eligibility: | A valid passport |
Qualifying investment: | A minimum capital investment of $100,000 in a privately owned Mexican company or a company/companies listed on Mexico's stock exchange |
Processing time: | Two to three months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Investors automatically acquire permanent residence permits. However, temporary residency can provide the opportunity to obtain permanent resident status after four years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Good health |
Qualifying investment: | -A donation of $150,000 to the country's Capital Development Fund (CDF), or; -A real estate purchase worth at least $750,000 |
Processing time: | Up to three months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Foreign nationals can become permanent residents, provided they maintain their investment for at least five years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Good health -At least $150,000 per year in foreign-earned income |
Qualifying investment: | -A minimum investment of $1.2 million (with at least $600,000 going towards property), or; -$600,000 (with at least $300,000 going towards property) for an investment in the island of Little Cayman or Little Barac |
Processing time: | Four to six months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Foreigners can become permanent residents, provided they maintain their investment for at least five years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Be in good health |
Qualifying investment: | -A minimum investment of BRL 1 million (about $200,000) or BRL 700,000 (about $140,000) if investing in the north/northeastern region, or; -BRL 500,000 (about $100,000) in a business (existing or new business) in Brazil -BRL 150,000 (about $30,000) in innovative activities to boost the local economy or the equivalent of creating ten new local jobs |
Processing time: | Five to 30 days |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The permanent residence permit is valid for four years, and visa holders can apply for unconditional permanent residency after three or four years, depending on their investment. |
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:
Qualified Investor Permanent Residency: Offers a permanent residence permit in exchange for investments, including real estate purchases.
Reforestation Investor Visa: Offers a temporary residence permit for investing in government-approved reforestation projects.
PANAMA | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -A medical certificate proving good health |
Qualifying investment: | A minimum investment of $70,000 over ten years |
Processing time: | 20 days to three months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Permanent residency is automatically obtained |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport |
Qualifying investment: | A minimum investment of $70,000 over ten years |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Permanent residency is automatically obtained |
Eligibility for citizenship: | After three 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 | |
Eligibility: | A valid passport |
Qualifying investment: | A real estate purchase of at least $100,000 in government-approved real estate projects |
Processing time: | Three to four months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The permit is valid for ten years and is renewable |
Jordan
Jordan has gradually opened its doors to foreigners and their investments. Like Cambodia, the country provides both the option of long-term residence and citizenship by investment in 2023.
JORDAN | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport |
Qualifying investment: | A real estate purchase of at least JOD 200,000 (about $282,000 |
Processing time: | Up to three months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The residence permit is valid for five years and is renewable, provided the investment is held for at least ten years. |
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 | |
Eligibility: | Eligibility criteria for the GIP's cheapest investment option (Option A) -A valid passport -A five-year business detailing the projected -employment, expenditure, and financial projections -Supporting documents of a business track record -Supporting documents of financial statements for the company used to apply -Must be an established business owner operating a business with an annual turnover of at least SGD 200 million (about $150 million). Eligible candidates include new-generation business owners, founders of fast-growth companies, and beneficiaries of Family office principals |
Qualifying investment: | A minimum investment of SGD 10 million ($7.44 million) in a new business entity or expanding an existing business operation in eligible industries |
Processing time: | Nine to 12 months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Permanent residency is automatically acquired |
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal record -No previous filings for bankruptcy |
Qualifying investment: | -THB 600,000 (about $17,000) for a five-year visa -THB 800,000 (about $23,000) for a ten-year visa -THB 1 million (about $29,000) for a 20-year visa |
Processing time: | One to three months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | A Thai Elite Visa does not lead to permanent residence. To become a Thai permanent resident, the Elite Visa must be exchanged for a work permit, necessitating maintaining both the permit and a job for at least three years. |
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 Eastโs most developed and tolerant countries. Investors also gain access to a cornerstone Asian market.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal record -No socially dangerous illnesses -Valid health insurance |
Qualifying investment: | -A property purchase or a bank deposit of at least AED 2 million (about $545,000) Several alternative investments are available for the UAE Golden Visa programs |
Processing time: | Up to 30 days after obtaining an entry permit |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Residence by investment in the UAE comes with five to ten years of residency. Investors can renew their residence permits indefinitely, provided they continue to fulfill the investment program requirements. |
Oceania/South Pacific Residency by Investment Programs
Australia
Australia has long been a desirable destination for investors and retirees alike. While there is an option to obtain permanent residency through investment, the visa isnโt available to non-residents. You must already be an Australian resident with an investor visa gained by establishing a designated investment.
AUSTRALIA | |
Eligibility: | -Be the holder of a Business Skills Visa -Have held a designated investment in Australia worth AUD 1.5 million for four years -Have lived in Australia for two of the last four years -Be in good health and character |
Qualifying investment: | -Currently have a designated investment of AUD 1.5 million used to obtain a Business Skills Visa (Subclass 162 - Investor (Provisional) visa), which has been held for at least four years. |
Processing time: | 22 to 30 months |
Renewable: | Not required |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Permanent residency is automatically obtained |
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 its Active Investor Plus Visa program; however, it requires a substantial investment for eligibility.
NEW ZEALAND | |
Eligibility: | -Reside in New Zealand for at least 117 days in the four-year residence period -Be in good health and character -Be proficient in the English language |
Qualifying investment: | -Invest between NZD 5 million and NZD 15 million in the New Zealand economy over four years, with at least NZD 10 million invested in the country for at least three years. Investment options include approved businesses, managed funds, and listed equities. |
Processing time: | Five to six months |
Renewable | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | Eligibility for a permanent residence permit after four years of 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 immigrant investor program, allowing foreigners to gain long-term residence for as little as $50,000.
FIJI | |
Eligibility: | -Have a clean criminal record -Be in good health -Provide a certified copy of a Foreign Investment Certificate issued by the Fiji Trade and Investment Board (FTIB) |
Qualifying investment: | -A direct investment of $50,000 in the local economy for three years of residence -A direct investment of $250,000 in the local economy for seven years of residence |
Processing time: | 21 to 30 working days |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | After continuous residence |
African Residence by Investment Programs
Egyptย
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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A certificate of no criminal record from all countries of residence, certified by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
Qualifying investment: | -A property purchase of at least $50,000, $100,000, or $200,000, depending on the length of residency, or; -A bank account deposit of $50,000 or $100,000, depending on the length of residency |
Processing time: | Six to 12 months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The residence permit is valid for five years. After renewal, permit holders can apply for permanent residence after ten years of residency. |
Namibia
Namibia is one of the few African countries offering residency to foreigners and their dependent family members through residential property investment. The Namibia immigrant investor 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 | |
Eligibility: | -A valid passport -A clean criminal background |
Qualifying investment: | purchase a pre-approved property valued at least $316,000 |
Processing time: | Three months |
Renewable: | Yes |
Eligibility for permanent residence: | The residence permit is valid for five years. After renewal, permit holders can apply for permanent residence after ten years of residency. |
The Benefits of Residency by Investment
More business opportunities
Visa-free travel to other EU countries
Eligibility for family members
Tax optimization
Access to quality healthcare and education
Eligibility for citizenship after five years
More business opportunities: The EU’s large market opens up new avenues for business prospects, enabling investors to broaden their entrepreneurial endeavors while obtaining residency.
Visa-free travel to other EU countries: EU residence permit holders can travel to other EU countries visa-free. Residency in the EU’s Schengen Area provides borderless travel to other Schengen countries.
Eligibility for family members: Most EU countries offering investor visa programs extend the invitation to immediate family members of the main applicant, providing a secure and stable environment for investors relocating with their families. Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse and unmarried children. In some countries, it also includes dependent parents and grandparents.
Tax optimization: Numerous European RBI countries have favorable tax environments, and many offer tax incentives through concessions to foreign residents with investor visas. The Greece Non-Dom Tax regime allows Golden Visa holders to pay an annual tax fee on foreign income instead of income taxes.
Access to quality services: Obtaining residency status in specific EU countries can frequently lead to an improved overall quality of life through access to world-class health care, education, and other essential services that the country excels in, according to global studies.
Eligibility for European citizenship: While some EU investor visa holders are content with temporary residency, a significant number have the ultimate objective of becoming naturalized and acquiring second citizenship in an EU country. Residency by investment often acts as a means to obtain citizenship, offering long-term security, a stable future, and the ability to fully integrate into the countryโs social and cultural fabric.
In a nutshell, obtaining residency and citizenship by investment in the EU offers multiple benefits, such as global mobility in the Schengen Area, improved quality of life, business opportunities, financial protection, political and social stability, tax benefits, and a solution for family planning. If you are considering EU residency by investment, we recommend thoroughly researching the programs available and analyzing which best suits your needs and preferences.
Choosing a Residence by Investment Program
Choosing a residence by investment scheme is a significant decision that requires careful consideration with several factors coming into play. Firstly, assessing the investments available and their suitability to your financial capabilities and priorities is crucial. Property investment through the Greece or Spanish Golden Visa scheme may be the best option if youโre moving abroad to start a new life. In contrast, a significant financial contribution to an economic diversification fund or government bonds could suit those seeking to optimize their taxes.
Consider investment criteria, the potential returns, and the stability of the investment market. Analyze the Global Passport Index to determine the benefits and privileges of the investment program, such as access to quality healthcare and education, business opportunities, and travel privileges.
Tax benefits are a significant consideration. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and St Kitts and Nevis offering temporary residency or citizenship by investment have no personal income or capital gains tax. Tax benefits also extend to no wealth, inheritance, or gift tax.
Additionally, the reputation and political stability of the country offering residency or citizenship by investment, as well as its legal framework and tax system, should not be overlooked. By carefully examining all aspects, including personal visits, one can make a well-informed choice when selecting a residence by investment program that aligns with oneโs goals, lifestyle, and future aspirations.
Can residency by investment eventually lead to citizenship?
Residency by investment is a step to citizenship in most cases except for a few exceptions. While initially granting temporary or permanent residence, it may include provisions allowing individuals to become eligible for dual citizenship over time. The pathway to citizenship typically involves fulfilling specific requirements. These include maintaining the initial investment for a certain period, demonstrating continuous residence in the country, integrating into society, and complying with legal and tax obligations.
As investors establish roots and contribute economically to the host nation, they become eligible for dual citizenship after completing the minimum residency period set out in the countryโs immigration laws. Once the necessary conditions are met, individuals can apply for citizenship.
How Global Citizen Solutions Can Help
Pursuing residency or citizenship by investment is becoming increasingly popular in todayโs globalized world. Many countries now provide such programs, where you can obtain long-term or permanent residency by investing in a countryโs economy. A qualifying investment not only contributes to the nationโs 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Residency by Investment
How to get residency by investment?
Obtaining residency by investment has specific requirements and processes that vary depending on the countryโs immigration policies and investment programs. Some residency by investment programs, like the Greece residence by investment program, allow you to invest in real estate to obtain a permanent residency permit. Other investment immigration programs, such as the Singapore Global Investor Program, require applicants to invest in new or existing businesses, as well as prove a successful business track record before theyโre granted a permanent residency permit.
How much do I need to invest to get US residency?
The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires applicants to invest at least $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise. The required investment for this business investment program can be reduced to $800,000 if invested in an area of high unemployment, known as a Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
How much do you need to invest in the US to get a Green Card?
The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program requires you to invest the minimum amount of $1.05 million in a new enterprise (or $800,000 if investing in a Targeted Area of Employment (TEA). After completing the investment, applicants are granted a Conditional Permanent Residence Card valid for two years, with the conditional status withdrawn after two years, on the condition that they continue to fulfill the programโs requirements.
Can you get US residence by investment?
It is possible to obtain residence by investment in the United States through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which provides a route to lawfulย permanent residency for foreign entrepreneurs who meet the programโs criteria.
Under the EB-5 investment program, individuals must invest in a new commercial enterprise in the US and provide employment opportunities for legal residents. The investment must fulfill the minimum amount โ currently set at at least USD 1.05 million in a new enterprise ($800,000 if invested in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) โ and the enterprise must create at least ten full-time jobs.
Can you get a Green Card by buying property?
Purchasing property alone does not grant eligibility for a Green Card in the United States. Buying property as part of the required investment, in addition to creating jobs when establishing a new enterprise under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, may contribute to fulfilling the programโs requirement and obtaining a residency.
Can I sell my investment or property after obtaining residency through a residency by investment program?
The nature of residency by investment programs is that the significant financial contribution or investment must be held long enough for the country to realize economic benefits. This can be for a certain period and sometimes indefinitely. In most cases, real estate property can be sold after five years, although some Golden Visa countries like the UAE and Spain require investments to be held indefinitely to maintain a valid Golden Visa.
What are the best countries for residency by investment?
The best countries for investment residency differ according to individual preferences, objectives, and the unique offerings of each immigration scheme. Portugal continuously holds a popular program due to its high quality of life and low cost of living. The Quebec Investment Immigration Program can be appealing to those seeking lucrative investment opportunities and a safe environment for persons of the LGBT community.
Those seeking the cheapest residency by investment programs may be drawn to the Greece Golden Visa, which starts at โฌ250,000 for real estate investment, or the Malta Permanent Residence Program, which allows a total investment of โฌ120,000 to qualify.
Are there any tax implications associated with residency by investment?
The tax implications of residence by investment or a self-employment visa vary depending on the countryโs tax laws. Key things to consider are the existence of a double tax treaty with your new country of residence and worldwide income tax. Some investor visa countries granting a permanent or temporary residence by investment, like the Cayman Islands and the United Arab Emirates, charge no capital gains or income tax. Many countries that offer residency and CBI programs provide unique tax regimes to reduce or exempt taxes.