Countries Offering Golden Visa Programs 2023: Residence by investment programs, also known as “golden visa” programs, allow wealthy individuals to reside, work, study, and even receive medical care in a new country. International planning is essential for wealthy clients who wish to relocate to a new country or have multiple residences. Numerous nations around the world employ such strategies to attract wealthy investors from other nations.
This article examines 27 countries around the world where wealthy foreigners can “buy citizenship” through programs known as “Citizenship by Investment.”
Golden Vision Partnership Investment Program
Golden Visa
According to Henley and Partners, golden certificates and programs that offer citizenship in exchange for payment are distinct. A golden visa only permits temporary residence in another country, whereas citizenship by investment programs grants petitioners the same rights as native-born citizens.
Nonetheless, many “residence by investment” programs permit applicants to petition for citizenship after a specified period of time.
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Residence by Investment Programs
Below is a list of the 27 countries with Residence by Investment Programs or Golden Visa Programs, along with their respective requirements, working hours, and primary benefits.
1. Australia
Australia is one of the world’s wealthiest nations and has an excellent reputation. It is a developed, multicultural nation with a very high Human Development Index ranking. Its citizens enjoy a high standard of living and economic liberty, and their civil and political rights are effectively protected.
Investment: Under the Investor Stream, a minimum investment of AUD 2.5 million is required.
12-month processing time
It takes approximately five years to become a citizen.
2. Austria
Austria is one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, and its citizens enjoy an exceptionally high standard of living. Austria is a desirable location to live in due to its beautiful natural landscapes and stable economy.
3. Canada
Canada has been named the best location to live in numerous times. It is renowned for its high standard of living, pristine environment, low crime rate, and excellent infrastructure.
Investment: innovative new venture
Processing Time: twelve to thirty-one months
Citizenship after three out of five years (or 1,095 days) of tangible presence.
4. Cyprus
Cyprus is ideal for non-EU citizens because of its magnificent coastline and Mediterranean climate.
Investment: Regulation 6(2) application requires EUR 300,000.
Two months for processing (or 18 months for Category F).
Principal benefits: Cyprus residency and education
5. Grecia
Greece, a member of the European Union, provides its residents and citizens with exceptional levels of safety and security, excellent education, effective healthcare, and a dependable legal system.
- Real estate investment totaling EUR 250,000
- One to two months from application to approval are required for processing.
- Principal Perk: Free travel to Greece and the Schengen Area
6. Hong Kong
Hong Kong combines Eastern and Western cultural elements. It has infrastructure of the highest caliber and is one of the most business-friendly cities. Hong Kong has minimal taxes and a free market. International financial and commercial hub.
Through a variety of residence programs, Hong Kong’s Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is open to talented expatriates.
- The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme necessitates a points-based test for investment.
- Processing time: four to eight months
- Key benefit: Eligible for permanent residence after seven years.
7. Republic of Ireland
Ireland, known as the “Emerald Isle” due to its stunning landscapes and abundance of vegetation, is strategically located in Western Europe on important air and sea routes between North America and Northern Europe. It ranks third on the Index of Economic Freedom for 2022 and fifth on the Human Development Index of the United Nations.
The Ireland Residence by Investment Program came to a close on February 15, 2023.
- Investment: €500,000 minimum.
- Processing time: nine to twelve months
- Benefit: Unrestricted travel to Ireland and the CTA
8. Italy
Italy is a wonderful place to reside due to its strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea and its magnificent art and architecture. Italy is the third-largest economy in the eurozone and a founding member of the EU. Italians enjoy an exceptional standard of living, education, and healthcare.
The Italy Residence by Investment Program, also known as the Italy Golden Visa, provides international investors with Italian citizenship and visa-free travel to the Schengen Area in exchange for a substantial economic contribution to Italy.
- Investment: EUR 250,000–2 million minimal
- Three-four months of processing
- Principal advantages: Italy’s residency, employment, and study
9. Jersey
The greatest Channel Island is Jersey. It is simple and uncomplicated to travel between Britain and France. It is a wonderful location to raise a family due to its low taxes and stable economy. The residents enjoy a high quality of life and have access to convenient flight connections.
Jersey has frequent and regular flights to London, Paris, Zurich, and other UK, French, Channel Island, and Irish airports, in addition to regular maritime transit to England and France.
- Minimum real estate investment of $1,250,000 and annual taxes of £145,000.
- Processing: Different
- Advantage: A mature and well-regulated financial and trust industry
10. Latvia
The Baltic coast of Latvia is within the Schengen Area. Riga, listed by UNESCO, is its metropolis. The majority of Latvia is covered by forests, which provide numerous nature trails and parks. Latvia has strong cultural and logistical links with Western Europe and Russia.
Latvia initiated the Residence by Investment Program on July 1, 2010 to sustainably overcome the economic crisis of 2007–2009. Foreigners are eligible for residency permits in Latvia.
- Minimum investment: €60,000
- From application to approval, it takes one to three months.
- Living, working, and studying in Latvia is a major advantage.
11. Luxembourg
Due to its AAA credit rating and world-leading GDP per capita, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is ideal for investors and business owners in search of a diverse commercial landscape and a desirable alternative for private residences. The life and infrastructure of the founding EU member state are positive.
Under the Residence by Investment Program, foreign investors can petition for Luxembourg citizenship.
- Investment: €500,000 minimum.
- Six-month duration of processing.
- Visa-free access to the EU and Schengen Area
12. Malaysia
Malaysia’s industrial expansion and political stability make it one of Asia’s most robust economies. After attaining its independence, Malaysia entered the British Commonwealth. It joined both APEC and ASEAN. Malaysia has stunning beaches and dense jungles.
Malaysia My Second Home Program and the Premium Visa Program grant long-term, multiple-entry visas to foreign nationals who satisfy certain criteria.
- Minimum investment: 1,000,000 MYR (about $230,000 USD).
- Three to six months of processing
- Principal advantage: a 10-year multiple-entry visa for the applicant and their family to reside in Malaysia.
13. Malta
In the midst of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has a wonderful climate, friendly people, a low crime rate, and a high standard of living. In addition, Malta is a desirable place to reside or purchase a second property due to its convenient air connections.
Stability, dependability, and safety have made Malta one of the most attractive investment destinations in Europe. The Malta Permanent Resident Program provides foreign nationals desiring an alternative European residence with resident rights.
- Investment: minimum of EUR 175,000 in diverse capital.
- Four to six months are required from application to approval.
- Malta’s flexibility in mobility is an advantage.
14. Mauritius
Foreign investment is streaming into the island nation of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. Decades of economic achievement have made Mauritius Africa’s most business-friendly nation. Lifestyle and Southern African Development Community advantages are included.
Foreigners can attain residency in Mauritius through real estate investment. Successful applicants can reside, work, and retire in Mauritius with their families.
- Minimum real estate investment: USD 375,000
- Processing time: six to eight months
- Benefits: residency, employment, and retirement in Mauritius
15. Monaco
Monaco, the second-smallest country on the globe, shares a Mediterranean coastline with France. In addition, Monaco has a high standard of living, temperate weather, personal security, a modern infrastructure, and neither an income tax nor a capital gains tax.
Although Monaco’s residency requirements are not as stringent as they appear, you should still employ a consultant or attorney to help you apply. Residents must be able to afford a lifestyle comparable to that of large capital cities, including rent and real estate.
- Monaco’s advantages include:
- High discretion
- Diverse culture
The French-Italian Riviera has a stunning lifestyle and an ideal location.
Nice International Airport is easily accessible via road, sea, and aviation.
A robust real estate market is advantageous for investors and residential property dealers.
Superior sporting, cultural, and academic facilities
Safe location
16. Montenegro
The natural grandeur of Montenegro is unparalleled on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe. In addition, Montenegro joined NATO in 2006, uses the euro, and is an EU candidate.
Montenegro, a secure and stable nation with modern resorts, is pursuing a free-market economy. Foreign nationals desiring a diversified portfolio and alternative European residence may submit an application for Montenegro residence.
- There is no minimum investment amount.
- One month is required from application to approval.
- Principal advantages include Montenegrin residency, employment, and education.
17. Namibia
Namibia is a renowned tourist destination in southwest Africa due to its abundant wildlife and world-class dunes. In addition, the infrastructure and quality of life in Namibia make it one of the safest countries in Africa.
Namibia grants residence permits to foreigners who invest through a corporation in the modern, eco-friendly President’s Links Estate.
- Investment: $365,000 minimum.
- Three months of operation
- Living, working, and studying in Namibia offers numerous advantages.
18. New Zealand
New Zealand is a fantastic location for investing, working, and raising a family. Among the top 10 in the nation are investor protection, business establishment, and ease of doing business.
Foreigners who make substantial purchases in New Zealand can qualify for permanent residency.
- Investment: NZ$5 million minimum.
- Explicit: 8–9 months
- Citizenship after five years is an advantage.
19. Panama
Panama is a significant financial center between Central and South America. The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, provides investors with access to commercial product markets in the United States, East Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
The Panama Residence by Investment Program, also known as the Panama Golden Visa, allows foreign investors to acquire a residence permit.
- Minimum investment: $100,000
- 30 days for qualified investors; 4–6 months for friendly nations and forestry investors.
- Freedom of Mobility in Panama
20. Portugal
Portugal is one of the most globalized and peaceful nations in the world, with a high Human Development Index and a high standard of living. It is one of the oldest countries in Europe, with a vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, stunning beaches, and picturesque landscapes.
A Portugal golden visa is a five-year residence program for non-EU citizens based on investment. Portugal is included in the EU. The resident permit grants visa-free access to the Schengen Area and requires a five-year residence of an average of seven days in Portugal.
- Minimum real estate investment: €280,000.
- More than 18 months
- Benefits: Portugal residency, employment, and education
21. Singapore
Due to its infrastructure and public services, Singapore is frequently regarded as the best city to live in Asia. It has one of the lowest crime rates and the highest quality of life on the globe. Its per capita GDP places it among the most prosperous nations.
Applicants to the Singapore Global Investor Program can become permanent residents. The initiative attracts affluent foreign entrepreneurs and investors who wish to reside in Singapore.
- Investment: SGD10 million minimum.
- Processing time: nine to twelve months
- Key Benefits: Citizenship after permanent residency for two years
22. Spain
In southwestern Europe, Spain is a popular tourist destination. It has a long history, a distinct culture, and stunning landscapes. Spain has a significant economy in Europe. It is a complete member of the EU and Eurozone.
The Spain golden visa, also known as the residence by investment program, allows foreign investors to invest in Spain and qualify for an investor visa. Successful petitioners and their families may travel to Schengen without a visa.
- Minimum investment: €500,000
- 20-day immigration procedure
- Principal advantages: the right to reside, work, and study in Spain, as well as unfettered access to the EU and Schengen Area.
23. Switzerland
Switzerland has an excellent quality of life rating. Numerous foreign organizations are attracted by the diverse and multilingual population, as well as the stable political and economic climate.
No matter their age, financially independent individuals who consent to pay a minimal annual net tax can obtain a Swiss residence visa.
- Minimum annual taxes of CHF 250,000, depending on application and canton of residence.
- Three to six months of processing
- Switzerland’s residency and education are advantageous.
24. Thailand
Thailand is well-liked by Southeast Asian visitors. It has a high standard of living at an affordable cost. Among its attractions are ancient ruins, scuba diving, tropical islands, nightlife, palaces, Buddhist temples, and multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Applicants to the Thailand Elite Residence Program can reside in the country for twenty years and obtain special services and benefits. Thailand Elite, a program exclusive to TPC, is required for expatriates to obtain a Thailand Elite privilege entry visa.
- The minimum application fee is 600,000 baht (19 USD).
- Two-three months of handling
- Principal Advantages: Long-term multiple-entry permit and VIP treatment
25. The UAE
The United Arab Emirates has advanced infrastructure, transportation, and communications. Due to its global accessibility, the country is excellent for business. Dubai, the second-largest of the seven emirates, is the financial and economic center of the United Arab Emirates.
Foreigners can obtain a golden visa to the United Arab Emirates by investing in the country.
- Investment: AED 2 million (USD 550,000) minimum.
- The processing time is eight weeks.
- Principal advantage: the right to reside in any of the seven UAE emirates.
26. United Kingdom
Britain is an economic and political powerhouse. London is a global financial center. The United Kingdom also has world-class universities and a rich culture.
The Innovator Visa is for entrepreneurs who can establish or manage a UK business. Applicants must invest 50,000 GBP in a new enterprise approved by the Home Office and submit a business proposal.
- Investment: £50,000 expenditure
- From application to approval, 1 to 8 weeks are required.
- Freedom to reside, work, and study in the United Kingdom.
27. The United States of America
Investors favor the United States. The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program expedites applications for green cards.
The United States remains one of the most popular destinations for investors. The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is an efficient and straightforward method to obtain a green card and become a permanent resident.
- Investment: $800,000.
- 30–36 months of processing
- Citizenship after five years of legal residency is the principal advantage.
Bottomline
With Residence by Investment Programs or Golden Visa Programs, rich people can get a second citizenship that gives them the right to reside, work, study, and get medical care in a new country. With these programs offered in 27 countries, investors have a lot of choices based on their requirements and preferences.
But before making a choice, it’s important to consider carefully each program’s standards, processing times, and benefits.
People Also Ask
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Which nation offers the simplest golden visa?
Greece offers golden visas with one of the quickest residency processes. Foreigners who qualify can obtain a permit within sixty days of applying. It formerly had one of the lowest investment thresholds, at just €250,000 spent on real estate in the country.
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Which nation offers the best golden visa?
Over sixty percent of EU member states have functional and active programs, with the United Kingdom and the United States having some of the longest-running golden visa programs in the world. Other popular countries with golden visas are Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta, Australia, Canada, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
