Investment Visas: Global Reach And Country Accessibility

Golden visas, also known as investment migration programs, are offered by over 100 countries across five continents. These programs allow wealthy individuals to obtain residency or citizenship rights in exchange for a defined economic contribution to the host country. The specific investment requirements vary by country, but often include real estate purchases, investments in local businesses or funds, or donations to public interest projects. While these programs have sparked controversy, particularly in the European Union, they remain popular among investors seeking global mobility, increased business opportunities, and access to high-quality healthcare and education.

Benefits of a golden visa

Golden visas, also known as investment migration programs, offer a range of benefits to wealthy individuals and their families. Here are some of the advantages of acquiring a golden visa:

Global Mobility and Increased Opportunities:

Golden visas provide investors and their families with the right to live, work, and study in the host country. This enables global mobility and opens up new markets, business opportunities, and career options worldwide. Golden visas also offer visa-free access to other countries, with some programs providing travel privileges within specific regions, such as the Schengen Area in Europe.

Safe Haven and Insurance:

Golden visas offer an alternative safe haven for investors and their families, providing residency rights and the option to physically relocate to a more favourable jurisdiction. This insurance against unknowns is especially valuable for individuals from countries with internal issues and future uncertainties.

Family Legacy and Education:

Golden visas often include family reunification options, allowing spouses and dependent children to obtain residency along with the main applicant. This not only strengthens family ties with the host country but also enhances educational opportunities for children. They can access state-of-the-art educational institutions and may become eligible for reduced tuition fees at universities, both locally and internationally.

Tax Benefits and Healthcare:

Some countries offering golden visas have favourable tax regimes, providing tax benefits and reduced tax rates for residents. Additionally, golden visa holders gain access to high-quality healthcare systems and facilities, ensuring peace of mind for themselves and their families.

Long-Term Residency and Citizenship:

Golden visa programs often provide a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. After maintaining the investment for a minimum period, investors can usually renew their residency visas or apply for citizenship, which grants them additional rights and privileges in the host country.

Flexibility and Convenience:

Golden visas typically have minimal residency requirements, allowing investors to maintain their residency status without needing to spend a significant amount of time in the host country. This flexibility enables investors to balance their global commitments while enjoying the benefits of residency.

Golden visa requirements

Golden visas are available in over 100 countries worldwide, and the requirements for obtaining one vary depending on the country. Here are the general requirements and steps to obtain a golden visa:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Make a significant investment in the host country's economy, typically in real estate, but also possibly in government bonds, company shares, or other investment funds. The amount varies by country, ranging from EUR 250,000 to EUR 2 million.
• Have a clean criminal record and pass a background check.
• Provide proof of funds and legitimate sources of income.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have health insurance coverage.
• Commit to maintaining the investment for a specified period, typically several years.
• Meet any specific requirements of the host country, such as language proficiency or minimum age for dependents.

Application Process:

• Research different golden visa programs and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Consider factors such as investment requirements, processing times, and long-term benefits.
• Gather the required documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, criminal record check, proof of income or wealth, bank statements, and medical certificates. These documents may need to be translated into the language of the host country.
• Make the required investment in the host country, such as purchasing property, making a business investment, or contributing to a national development fund.
• Complete and submit your application, along with paying any associated fees.
• Wait for the authorities to process your application, which can take a few months or longer, depending on the country.
• Complete any required biometrics and interviews.
• Receive your approval and pay any final fees to obtain your golden visa or residence permit.

It is important to note that the requirements and application process may differ slightly depending on the specific golden visa program and host country. Additionally, some countries may offer fast-track options or have additional requirements, such as language proficiency tests or interviews. Seeking the guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer or consultant is advisable to navigate the complex and time-consuming process of obtaining a golden visa.

Golden visa application process

Golden visas are available in over 100 countries to wealthy individuals who can make significant investments in a host country. The specific requirements and benefits vary by country, but they often include residency, a path to citizenship, unrestricted travel to other countries, business and education opportunities, and other benefits. The process for obtaining a golden visa can be complex and time-consuming, and it typically involves a substantial investment, most often in real estate. Here is a step-by-step guide to the golden visa application process:

Step 1: Research Your Options

Begin by researching the countries that offer golden visas and compare their requirements and benefits. Select the country that best aligns with your needs and budget. Over 100 countries offer golden visa programs, including Portugal, Malta, Greece, Italy, Spain, Austria, Canada, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Namibia, New Zealand, Panama, Singapore, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the US.

Step 2: Meet the Requirements

Each country has specific requirements for obtaining a golden visa, such as minimum investment amounts, types of investments, background checks, and other eligibility criteria. Ensure you meet all the necessary requirements before proceeding with your application. Common requirements include a minimum investment, good character, health insurance, proof of funds, and residency requirements.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application

Once you have chosen a program and met the requirements, start preparing your application. This typically involves filling out forms, gathering supporting documents, and arranging payment of fees. Depending on the country, additional steps may be required, such as language proficiency tests or interviews.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

After completing your application, submit it to the relevant authorities. This can usually be done online or in person, depending on the country. The application process can take weeks to months, so be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.

Step 5: Await the Decision

The processing time for a golden visa application varies by country. Once your application is approved, ensure that you follow the program's requirements to maintain your residency status.

Step 6: Renew Your Visa

Golden visas typically have renewal requirements, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the renewal process for your specific program.

It is recommended to seek guidance from a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant to navigate the golden visa application process effectively.

Popular golden visa programs

Golden visa programs, also known as residence and citizenship by investment programs, are offered by a growing number of countries. These programs allow wealthy individuals to obtain residency or citizenship rights in exchange for significant economic contributions to the host country. Over 100 countries worldwide have golden visa legislation in place, with more than 60% of EU member states offering functional and active programs.

• Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program: This program offers a path to citizenship in just five years, with minimal residency requirements. Investors can choose from various investment options, including real estate, creating jobs, donating to science and technology research, or investing in government-approved funds.
• UAE Golden Visa: While the UAE does not offer citizenship, it provides a zero-tax environment and permanent residence permits for investors. Real estate investments or company incorporation are popular choices for obtaining the UAE golden visa.
• Greece Golden Visa Program: Greece offers a range of golden visa options, including real estate investments starting at €250,000, capital contributions of €400,000, or investments in government bonds, corporate bonds, or mutual funds.
• Malta Permanent Residence Programme: Malta offers a fast-track option for residency or citizenship by investment, typically within one year. However, the program is costly, with a minimum investment of around $1 million.
• Spain Residence by Investment Program: Spain's golden visa program is known for its straightforward application process and high quality of life. Investors can obtain residency by purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000 or investing in company shares, bank deposits, or government bonds.
• Italy Residence by Investment Program: Obtaining Italian residency requires a significant investment, such as purchasing government bonds worth €2 million or investing in shares or public interest projects. After maintaining the investment for several years, investors can apply for citizenship.
• US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: The United States offers a residency-by-investment program where foreign investors can obtain a Green Card and path to citizenship by investing at least $800,000 and creating at least 10 jobs for US workers.
• Canada Quebec Investor Immigration Program: Canada's golden visa program provides residency to wealthy business people who contribute at least CAD 1.2 million.
• Austria Private Residence Program: Austria grants residence permits to financially independent individuals who can demonstrate stable income, housing in Austria, and proficiency in German.
• Thailand Residence by Investment Program: Thailand offers a long-term residence permit with VIP treatment on arrival for investors and their families.

Countries that have scrapped their golden visa programs

Golden visa programs, also known as investment migration programs, have become increasingly controversial in recent years. Critics argue that they give wealthy citizens greater access to rights and potentially establish a way to evade sanctions. As a result, some countries have scrapped their golden visa programs. Here are the details:

Portugal

Portugal announced that it would shutter its real-estate-based golden visa program in February 2023, citing rising housing costs as the reason. The decision came after the passage of the "Mais Habitação (More Housing)" legislation, which aimed to address the country's housing crisis.

Ireland

Ireland halted its golden visa program in 2023 due to scrutiny and growing tensions between the West and China, where many beneficiaries of the program historically came from.

Montenegro

Montenegro has also ended its golden visa program, although it is still dealing with the fallout from having granted hundreds of "golden passports" to individuals, many of whom were later revealed to be linked to illicit Russian money.

United Kingdom

The UK has scrapped its golden visa program, which was once one of the world's longest-running such schemes, amid concerns over illicit Russian money.

Cyprus

Cyprus cut its citizenship-by-investment program in 2020.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands has ended its VIP visa scheme.

Australia

Australia recently ended its significant investor visa program, which offered residency to those investing at least A$5 million in the country. The government cited a lack of economic benefit and the attraction of corrupt officials as reasons for the program's termination.

Frequently asked questions