Expanding globalization and interconnected economies has meant a growing number of individuals are now seeking new avenues to secure their financial future, expand their options, and create opportunities for themselves and their family members. One particular pathway that has gained considerable attention is the concept of residency by investment. This innovative approach to granting residency allows foreign individuals to acquire residency rights in a country by making strategic investments through a set of investment options.
This opens doors to a world of possibilities for immigrant investors and their families that may have previously been more challenging to acquire. This article will dissect residence by investment, explore its definition and key advantages, and list the residency by investment countries.
Whether you are an ambitious entrepreneur looking for business opportunities, a seasoned investor who’d like to take advantage of tax-resident status, or simply someone seeking a fresh start in a foreign land, this guide will serve as your compass to countries that embrace global citizenship through their residence by investment programs.
What is residency by investment (RBI)?
Residency by investment refers to a legal pathway allowing investors and their families to acquire residence in a foreign country by making a capital investment through an investor immigration scheme. The foundation of residency by investment lies in enticing foreign investors and entrepreneurs to bolster the host nation’s economy, stimulating job creation and economic growth.
Foreign investment options typically include real estate investments, purchasing government bonds, contributions to development funds, establishing a new company or investing in an existing business, and creating jobs. Each country offering a residency by investment program sets its requirements and investment thresholds, which vary widely.
An investment immigration scheme of one country may be open to investors of diverse financial capacities, while another could be explicitly tailored to high-net-worth individuals based on the required investment.
By participating in investor visa programs, foreign investors and their families gain the right to reside, work, study, and travel within the host country. Some residency by investment programs are commonly referred to as Golden Visa programs due to offering permanent residency or the option to renew the visa indefinitely, and even citizenship after a minimum period of residency.
The Benefits of Residency by Investment
The advantages of obtaining residency by investment go beyond establishing a new residence in a foreign country. Here are some of the key benefits:
More Business Opportunities
Expanded Residence and Mobility
Bring family members
Tax optimization
Access to Quality Services
Eligibility for Citizenship
More business opportunities
In simple terms, a larger market opens up new avenues for business prospects, enabling investors to broaden their entrepreneurial endeavors by exploring opportunities within local industries while contributing positively to the local economy.
Expanded residence and mobility
Investors with permanent residency or Golden Visas in specific regions may have the privilege to reside in other countries that are member states of their host country’s regional alliance. This includes political partnerships like the European Union, MERCOSUR in South America, and the East Caribbean’s OECS.
Bring family members
Most countries that offer investor visa programs extend investor residence permits to family members of the main applicant, providing a secure and stable environment for investors relocating with their families.
Tax optimization
Numerous RBI countries have favorabletax environments, and many offer taxadvantages through concessions to foreign residents with investor visas. This allows investor permit holders who transfer their tax residency to significantly reduce their tax burden through lower taxes or by taking advantage of favorabletax regimes.
Access to quality services
Obtaining residency status in specific countries can frequently lead to an improved overall quality of life through access to world-class healthcare, education, and other essential services that the country excels in, according to global studies.
Eligibility for citizenship
While some investor visa holders are content with temporary residency, a significant number have the ultimate objective of becoming naturalized and acquiring second citizenship. 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 country’s social and cultural fabric.
In a nutshell, obtaining residency by investment offers multiple benefits, such as global mobility, improved quality of life, business opportunities, financial protection, political and social stability, tax benefits and a solution for family planning. If you are considering residency by invest, we recommend that you thoroughly research the different programs available and analyze which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Temporary Residency versus Permanent Residency Status
Definitions that are relatively self-explanatory: A residence visa can come in several forms, depending on the country and immigration program. Which option to choose depends on individual goals and desires. Residence visas include the following:
Short-term residence visa: Around one year of residency status
Long-term residence visa: Three to 20 years of residency status
Permanent residence visa: Indefinite residency status
Some residency by investment countries may offer a renewable residency permit, which is renewable indefinitely as long as the program requirements continue to be fulfilled, effectively operating as a form of permanent residence.
How much does it typically cost to obtain residency by investment?
Three fundamental elements determine the cost of residence by investment:
The country of investment
The immigration scheme
The type of investment
The general rule is that the more wealthy and prosperous the country, the more expensive its investment residency program will be. Additionally, investment options feature distinct investment thresholds that align with the nation’s economic needs and objectives.
The financial criteria in residency by investment countries can span from a bank deposit of less than $5,000 to an economic investment of $10 million, accompanied by evidence of substantial financial solvency.
Investment options
Investment residence programs typically have a range of qualifying foreign investments individuals can make to secure a residency permit. These investment options vary depending on the immigration program and the country offering it. Some common foreign investments include:
Real estate investment, either through purchasing commercial or residential property
Investing in government bonds or securities
Establishing a new enterprise or investing in an existing business, often with the requirement to create jobs
Investing in infrastructure projects
Contributing to a government fund such as an economic diversification fund or economic development fund
Contributing to an approved investment fund
A capital transfer or deposit into a national bank
Philanthropic donations to arts or the reconstruction of cultural heritage
It’s essential to note that each investment residency program may have different investment thresholds and requirements. Investors should carefully research and compare the options available to commit to one that best aligns with their needs and aspirations.
Can residency by investment eventually lead to citizenship?
Residency by investment can serve as a stepping stone toward citizenship in numerous countries. While residency by investment initially grants temporary or permanent residence to investors, it may include provisions that allow individuals to become eligible for 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 naturalization after completing the minimum residency period set out in the country’s immigration laws. Once the necessary conditions are met, individuals can apply for citizenship. Residency by investment, in these cases, provides a strategic means for foreign investors to eventually become nationals of the country in which they obtained residence.
Contact us today to speak to one of our migration specialists about obtaining residency by investment.
European Residence by Investment Programs
Austria
As anEU 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 a particular subset of German-speaking individuals, provides visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area. The immigration program is subject to strict eligibility requirements, and only a limited number of residence permits are granted yearly.
AUSTRIA
Eligibility:
-Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -A rental or a real estate purchase -Health insurance -German language skills to A1 level
Qualifying investment:
A minimum monthly income of €2,220.52
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
After five years with a valid residence permit
Eligibility for citizenship:
After ten years of residency (five with permanent residence status). The Austrian government also sets stringent eligibility standards for its naturalization process.
Cyprus
Officially referred to as the Cyprus Permanent Residence Program, the Cyprus immigration investment program is ideal for investors and expats seeking secure residential or commercial property investments and European residency through an immigrant investor visa.
CYPRUS
Eligibility:
-Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background
Qualifying investment:
-A minimum investment of €300,000 in real estate -A deposit of €30,000 in a Cypriot bank account
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After seven years of residency; however, Cypriot citizenship by naturalization is largely dependent on discretionary
Greece
A low cost of living, optimal climate, and outstanding real estate options have made Greece a desirable European Union countries live in. The Greece Golden Visa program has allowed foreigners to turn that desire into a reality. 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 agreement of eligible commercial residences for tourism
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
The Golden Visa is essentially a permanent business investment visa but must be renewed every five years.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After residing in Greece for a period of seven years, with a minimum of 183 days of physical presence each year, and demonstrating fluency in the Greek language
Italy
Referred to as the Italy Golden Visa, the Italian Investor Visa provides four investment options for non-EU citizens seeking permanent residence in the country 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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After ten years of residency (five with permanent residence)
The Malta residence by investment program – officially called 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
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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency but the likelihood of being accepted is very low. However, through the Malta CES program, citizenship can be obtained after 12 months.
Portugal
ThePortugal Golden Visa program is available to individuals interested in investments such as starting business or reconstructing national heritage. 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 the Schengen Area.
PORTUGAL
Eligibility:
-Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Health insurance
Qualifying investment:
-€250,000 donation to arts or reconstruction of national heritage -€1 million in Spanish stocks or shares, investment funds, venture capital funds, or in bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions -€1.5 million capital transfer -€500,000 in a government-approved fund -€500,000 in a new business enterprise and create ten full-time jobs
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
The investment program provides a residence permit, which is renewable every two years.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency
*There have been discussions to amend the Portuguese Golden Visa program by excluding real estate as an investment option. Alternatives to the Golden include Portugal D7 Visa, allowing non-EU nationals to gain Portugal Residency, on the condition that they can support themselves financially without seeking employment opportunities.
Spain
The Spanish Golden Visa is a popular choice for acquiring an investor visa in the European Union. The immigration investment program allows investors to obtain Golden Visas 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 in bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions -€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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After ten years of residency (Citizens of Ibero-American countries or Spanish territories can gain European citizenship after two years)
United Kingdom
The UK Innovator Visa is available to foreign entrepreneurs who wish to create innovative businesses in the United Kingdom. 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
Eligibility:
Over 18 A valid passport A clean criminal background
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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After 12 months or residence with ILR status.
North American Residence by Investment Programs
United States
One of the most in-demand countries of those offering investment programs, The US remains open to granting residence permits to qualifying foreign entrepreneurs through its residence by investment program. TheEB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a US investment program that provides a temporary residence permit in the US with the possibility to obtain a permanent residence card (Green Card) and citizenship.
UNITED STATES
Eligibility:
-A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Passing a medical exam
Qualifying investment:
-A minimum investment of $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
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 program.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After holding a valid Green Card for five years
Canada
Canada is on the wish list for many international investors pursuing residency by investment, drawn by the abundance of investment prospects, stable economy, and high quality of life. The Canada Startup Visa provides a route to permanent residency 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
Renewable:
Not required
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Investors acquire permanent residency
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of 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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency
Caribbean Residence by Investment Programs
Anguilla
Anguilla is among the prime countries to consider relocatingtominimize your personal income tax burden and enjoy an excellent quality of life. Obtaining permanent residency is a streamlined process through a financial contribution to the National Development Fund or a real estate purchase.
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
Renewable:
Not required
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Foreign nationals can become permanent residents, provided they maintain their investment for at least five years.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency, it's possible to become a British Overseas Citizen (BOC); however, this does not come with the right to reside in the United Kingdom.
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. One way the country has maintained its tax-free status is 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
Renewable:
Not required
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Foreigners can become permanent residents, provided they maintain their investment for at least five years.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency, it's possible to become a British Overseas Citizen (BOC); however, this does not come with the right to reside in the United Kingdom.
South/Central American Residence by Investment Programs
Brazil
Brazil is the biggest country in South America and the third largest economy in the Americas, further boosted by an accessible residence by investment program. Foreigners can obtain a renewable investor visa from a real estate investment for themselves and their dependent family members.
BRAZIL
Eligibility:
-Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background -Good health
Qualifying investment:
A minimum investment of BRL 700,000 (about $146,000) in real estate or; -BRL 500,000 (about $104,000) in a business (existing or new business) in Brazil -BRL 150,000 (about $31,000) in innovative activities to boost the local economy or the equivalent of creating ten new local jobs
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
The residence permit is valid for two years and can be upgraded to a permanent residence permit upon renewal.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency
Panama
Located in Central America and with considerable geographical significance, Panama serves as 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 its residence by investment program aimed at attracting global investors.
A qualifying investment provides a temporary residence permit, with the option for permanent residency not long after.
PANAMA
Eligibility:
-Over 18 -A valid passport -A clean criminal background
Qualifying investment:
A minimum investment of $300,000 in real estate or; -$500,000 in Panama securities -A bank deposit of at least $750,000 in an approved Panama financial institution
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
A temporary resident can apply for permanent residence after two years. The initial investment must be maintained for a minimum of five years.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residency
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.
PARAGUAY
Eligibility:
-A valid passport -A clean criminal background -A medical certificate
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 Southeast Asian country of Cambodia has a rich and tumultuous history, and an integral part of its ongoing recovery involves attracting international investment from global investors.
The government introduced a residency by investment program called the Cambodia My 2nd Home (CM2H) investment program. A citizenship by investment program through investing in government-approved property is also available to foreign nationals seeking a second passport in the Kingdom.
CAMBODIA
Eligibility:
A valid passport
Qualifying investment:
A real estate purchase of at least $100,000 in government-approved real estate projects
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
The permit is valid for ten years and is renewable
Eligibility for citizenship:
-After five years of holding a residence permit obtained through the CM2H) investment program
-Investment citizenship can be obtained in three to six months.
Jordan
A relatively conservative country in the Middle East, 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)
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
Eligibility for citizenship:
-After 15 years of residence, with four years of continuous residence prior to submitting a citizenship application. Requirements may also include strict criteria, such as the ability to speak Arabic.
-Investment citizenship can be obtained in three to six months.
Singapore
The Singapore Global Investor Program (GIP) has provided a way for many foreigners 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 running 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. Find more info here.
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
Renewable:
Not required
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Permanent residency is automatically acquired
Eligibility for citizenship:
Successful applicants of the Singapore GIP may be eligible to apply for citizenship after 12 months; however, this is subject to invitation from the Singaporean government.
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:
Membership fee -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
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
Thai citizenship is only possible after five years of permanent residency. It also involves other requirements, such as possessing a non-immigrant visa like a Work Visa and the ability to speak Thai.
United Arab Emirates
Golden Visa programs have become increasingly popular among foreign nationals, and the UAE now offers one of the most sought-after Golden Visas.
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
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) The UAE Golden Visa program has several alternative options for investment. Click here for more information.
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
Naturalization generally requires 30 years of residence. The government may invite certain Golden Visa holders to submit a citizenship application.
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 isn’t 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.
Renewable:
No required
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Permanent residency is automatically obtained
Eligibility for citizenship:
After four years of lawful residence with 12 months as a permanent resident
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.
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
Eligibility for a permanent residence permit after four years of residence
Eligibility for citizenship:
After four years of lawful residence with 12 months as a permanent resident
Fiji
Fiji is a picturesque island paradise for many, and obtaining a residence permit is possible as a foreign investor. 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 of good health -Provide a certified copy of a Foreign Investment Certificate issued by 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
Renewable:
Yes
Eligibility for permanent residence:
After continuous residence
Eligibility for citizenship:
After five years of residence with a minimum of three years physically in the country
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
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 -A bank account deposit of $50,000 or $100,000, depending on the length of residency
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
After ten years of residency, along with the ability to speak Arabic Fast-track option through citizenship by investment takes three to six months and doesn't require taking a language exam
Namibia
Namibia is one of the few African countries offering a residency by investment program to foreigners who buy property. The Namibia immigrant investor program linked to the Presidents Links Estate project is quickly gaining ground as the ideal investment option to obtain residency in the rapidly developing African nation.
NAMIBIA
Eligibility:
-A valid passport -A clean criminal record
Qualifying investment:
Purchase a property valued at least $316,000
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.
Eligibility for citizenship:
Requires 20 years of legal residence (ten with permanent residency)
Choosing a Residence by Investment Program
Choosing a residency by investment program is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. When selecting a residence by investment program, several factors come into play. Firstly, it is crucial to assess the investment options available and their suitability to your financial capabilities and priorities. Property investment may be the best option if you’re moving abroad to start a new life. In contrast, a contribution to a public investment fund or investment in government bonds could suit those who seek to optimize their taxes.
Consider the required investment amount, the potential returns, and the stability of the investment market. Evaluating the benefits and privileges of the investment program, such as access to quality healthcare and education, business opportunities, and perks, are also things to consider. Our Global Passport Index can aid you in making informed evaluations when considering potential countries for investment.
Additionally, the reputation and political stability of the country offering the residency by investment program, as well as its legal framework and tax system, should not be overlooked. By carefully examining all aspects, including making a personal visit, one can make a well-informed choice when selecting a residence by investment program that aligns with their goals, lifestyle, and future aspirations.
How Global Citizen Solutions Can Help
Pursuing residency 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 Solutionsis a boutique global citizenship and residence advisory firm providing citizenship and residency solutions to international clients. Contact us today to begin your journey to residence by investment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Residency by Investment
How do I get permanent residency by investment?
Obtaining permanent residency by investment has specific requirements and processes that vary depending on the country’s immigration policies and programs. Some investment schemes, like the Greece residence by investment program, allow you to invest in real estate to obtain a permanent residency permit. Other investment schemes, 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 they’re 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 aTargeted Employment Area (TEA).
How much do you need to invest in the US to get a Green Card?
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 aTargeted Employment Area (TEA). After completing the investment, applicants are granted a Conditional Permanent Residence Card (Green Card) valid for two years, with the conditional status withdrawn after two years, on the condition that they continue to fulfill the program’s requirements.
What is investment residency?
Investment residency, also known as residence by investment, is a pathway that some countries offer, allowing individuals to obtain residency within a few months by making an economic investment in that country’s economy. It is a legal and legitimate way for foreigners to establish a legal presence and reside in the country they invest in.
Can you get US residency 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 lawful permanent residency (a Green Card) for foreign entrepreneurs who meet the program’s criteria.
Under the EB-5 investment program, individuals must invest in a new commercial enterprise in the US and create jobs for legal residents. The investment must fulfill the minimum amount, currently set at $1.05 million in a new enterprise ($800,000 if invested in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), 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 new jobs when establishing a new enterprise under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, may contribute to fulfilling the program’s requirement and obtaining a Green Card.
Can I sell my investment or property after obtaining residency through a residency by investment program?
The nature of residency by investment programs in many countries is that the 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.
Are there any tax implications associated with residency by investment?
The tax implications of residency by investment or a self-employment visa vary depending on the country’s tax laws. Key things to consider are the existence of a double tax treaty with your new country of residence and worldwide income tax. Many countries provide unique tax regimes to reduce or exempt taxes through their residency by investment programs. These include Portugal’s NHR (non-habitual resident) tax regime and Greece’s Non-Dom Tax Regime.
More About Residency by Investment Programs
The following articles might also be of interest to you.
Permanent Residency vs Citizenship – The Ultimate Guide
