Residence by Investment Programs – ‘Golden Visas’ Compared
Residence by investment programs, commonly known as “Golden Visas,” have become increasingly popular among individuals seeking global mobility, business opportunities, and lifestyle flexibility. In additional, events that cause uncertainty such as Brexit makes that more people are looking to relocate. These programs offer residency rights in exchange for significant investments in the host country’s economy, whether through real estate, government bonds, business creation, or other approved investment vehicles.
This comprehensive analysis examines the world’s leading residence by investment programs, comparing their requirements, benefits, cost and potential drawbacks to help investors make informed decisions based on their specific needs and objectives.
Note that residence by investment schemes change frequently. Many countries that used to have one, have abandoned them such as Ireland and Spain (2025). Many developed nations have other schemes such as entrepreneur/startup visas. You can find more about such schemes in this guide.
Are you interested in receiving expert advice on one or more visa programs? Please contact us here.
Compare the most used golden visa schemes and similar
This table compares various Residence by Investment programs, including key features, requirements, and benefits. Please note that program details can change, and it is crucial to consult official government sources and legal professionals for the most up-to-date information. Investment amounts are approximate and may vary based on currency fluctuations.
Scroll horizontally to see all program details. Please note that program details can change, and it is crucial to consult official government sources and legal professionals for the most up-to-date information. Investment amounts are approximate and may vary based on currency fluctuations.
| Country | Program Name | Minimum Investment (USD) | Investment Options | Processing Time | Physical Stay Requirement | Path to Citizenship | Key Benefits | Key Restrictions/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | Golden Visa (ARI) | $275,000+ | Capital transfer, investment funds, cultural/artistic investment, company creation/job creation | 2 years initial | 7 days first year, 14 days subsequent years | 5 years (naturalization) | Schengen access, family reunification, no prior visa required | Investment requirements must be maintained, clean criminal record |
| Greece | Golden Visa | $275,000+ (varies by location/type) | Real estate, hotel/tourist lease, bank deposit, investment company contribution, government bonds, listed securities, mutual fund | Varies | None | 7 years of residence | Permanent status (renewed every 5 years), Schengen access, no residence requirement | Private health insurance required |
| Hungary | Guest Investor Residence Permit | $275,000+ | Real Estate Investment Fund, Direct Residential Property (from Jan 2025), Higher Education Donation | 21 days (excluding document prep) | Application must be submitted within Hungary | Not specified | 10-year initial permit, unrestricted work permission | Fund managers must meet capital thresholds, property expert valuation required |
| Austria | N/A (No official program) | N/A | Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment Excepted (Article 41a), Business Immigration via Private Foundation | Varies significantly | Registration at primary residence | 10 years (generally) | No specific investment program | No guaranteed approval, complex process, no set investment thresholds |
| Switzerland | N/A (Lump-sum taxation) | CHF 250,000 – 1,000,000+ annually (tax, not investment) | N/A | Varies by canton | Must establish genuine residence | C Permit after 10 years (5 for US/Canadian citizens) | Schengen access, high quality of life | Cannot be employed in Switzerland, canton-specific requirements |
| Italy | Investor Visa / Elective Residence | $250,000+ (Investor Visa), proof of income (Elective Residence) | Govt. bonds, company shares, startups, public interest projects (Investor Visa); Proof of income (Elective Residence) | 90-120 days | None (Investor), property required (both) | 10 years | Schengen travel, right to live/work/study | Investment must be maintained, property requirement |
| United States | EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program | $800,000+ | Investment in approved regional centers (targeted/non-targeted employment areas) | Varies | 183 days/year recommended | 5 years | Permanent resident status, access to US education & work | Must create/preserve 10 jobs, complex process |
| Netherlands (for Americans) | Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) | €4,500 | Business capital | 3-4 months | None | 5 years | Low capital requirement, Schengen access | Must be genuine business activity, restricted to US citizens |
| Malta | Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) | $350,000+ (plus contributions & fees) | Property investment (purchase or lease), government contribution | Not specified | None | Not specified | Permanent residence, Schengen travel, four generations in one application | 5-year minimum property commitment, must use licensed agent |
| UAE | Golden Visa | $550,000+ (property), various for other categories | Property investment, entrepreneurship, specialized talent categories | Varies | 1 day every 6 months | Not specified (long-term residence) | 10-year visa (some categories), no income tax, family benefits | Must maintain investment/qualifications |
| Latvia | Residence by Investment | €50,000+ (plus state budget payment) | Small/large company investment | Varies | Not specified for renewals | 5 years to permanent residence, 10 to citizenship | Schengen access, fast-track processing | Limited information available publicly |
| Singapore | Global Investor Programme (GIP) | S$2.5 million+ | Business investment, GIP-Select Fund, Family Office | 12 months | Varies by option | Possible after 2 years | Permanent residence in a stable and prosperous nation | High investment thresholds, strict requirements |
| Canada (Quebec) | Quebec Investor Immigration Program (QIIP) | CAD 1.2 million (investment + contribution) | Government-guaranteed investment, non-refundable contribution | Varies significantly | 12 months within 2 years of work permit | Not specified, leads to permanent residence | Path to Canadian PR, government-guaranteed investment | French proficiency required, strict requirements |
| New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | NZD $15 million or weighted equivalent | Direct investment, managed funds, listed equities, philanthropy | 4 weeks (initial approval) | 117 days over 4 years | After 4 years, maintaining investment | Flexible investment options, fast processing | Property investment restricted, regular reporting required |
Country Analysis
Portugal
Portugal’s Residence Permit for Investment (ARI), introduced on October 8, 2012, offers third-country nationals the opportunity to obtain temporary residence permits without requiring an initial residence visa. The program has undergone significant changes, focusing now on capital investment, job creation, and cultural contributions rather than real estate investment.
Key Features:
- The temporary residence permit is valid for 2 years from issuance
- Opportunity to apply for permanent residence
- Investment funds must have 60% invested in Portuguese commercial companies
- Company investments must maintain jobs for a minimum of 3 years
- Permits can be renewed as long as investment requirements are maintained
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | Various options from €250,000 to €500,000 |
| Investment Options | • Capital transfer for research activities: €500,000 |
| • Investment funds (60% in Portuguese companies): €500,000 | |
| • Cultural/Artistic investment: €250,000 | |
| • Company creation/capital reinforcement: €500,000 with 5 permanent jobs | |
| • Creation of 10 jobs | |
| Processing Time | Initial permit valid for 2 years |
| Physical Stay Requirement | • Minimum 7 days in first year |
| • Minimum 14 days in subsequent years | |
| Path to Citizenship | 5 years (through naturalization) |
| Notable Benefits | • No prior residence visa required |
| • Schengen Area access | |
| • Family reunification | |
| • Option for permanent residence | |
| Key Restrictions | • Clean criminal record required |
| • Cannot be banned from entering Portugal | |
| • Must maintain investment requirements | |
| • For fund investments: 5-year minimum maturity |
Go the official web page of the Portuguese golden visa.
Greece
Greece’s Golden Visa Program, launched in 2013, offers permanent residence permits to non-EU nationals and their family members through various investment options. While the permit is permanent, it requires renewal every five years. The program is particularly notable for its flexible investment thresholds based on location and type of investment, with no requirement to reside in Greece.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | Starting from €250,000 (varies by location and type) |
| Investment Options | • Real estate purchase: |
| – €250,000: Conversion of commercial to residential/listed building restoration | |
| – €400,000: Single property (min. 120 sqm) | |
| – €800,000: Properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, and larger islands | |
| Alternative Options | • Hotel/tourist residence lease: €400,000-800,000 (location dependent) |
| • Bank deposit: €500,000 | |
| • Real estate investment company contribution: €500,000 | |
| • Government bonds: €500,000 (min. 3-year maturity) | |
| • Listed securities: €800,000 | |
| • Mutual fund investment: €350,000 | |
| Processing Time | Varies |
| Physical Stay Requirement | No minimum stay requirement |
| Initial Permit Type | Permanent residence permit |
| Notable Benefits | • Permanent status (renewed every 5 years) |
| • Visa-free travel in Schengen Area | |
| • No residence requirement | |
| • Property rental income permitted | |
| • Family inclusion (spouse, children under 21, parents) | |
| • Right to live and study in Greece | |
| • Can hold shares and receive dividends | |
| Key Requirements | • Private health insurance |
| • Valid passport | |
| • Clean property title (no encumbrances) | |
| Fees | • €16 for electronic residence permit |
| • €2,000 renewal fee | |
| Documentation Needs | • 4 passport photos (physical and digital) |
| • Notarial certificates for property purchase | |
| • Land registry certificates | |
| • Insurance policy | |
| Path to Citizenship | 7 years of residence |
| Application Process | 1. Initial visit to Greece |
| 2. Investment selection | |
| 3. Application submission | |
| 4. Final verification | |
| Key Requirements | • Clean criminal record |
| • Property value verification | |
| • Must maintain investment for permit renewal | |
| • Cannot be employed in Greece |
Official web page for the Greek Golden Visa
Hungary
Hungary’s relatively new Guest Investor Residence Permit program offers residence rights to third-country nationals whose entry and stay is considered in national economic interest through qualified investments. The program is notable for its clear investment options and comprehensive rights.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | Options starting from €250,000 |
| Investment Options | • Real Estate Investment Fund: €250,000 |
| – Must maintain for 5 years | |
| – Fund must have 40% in Hungarian residential property | |
| – Fund manager must meet specific capital requirements | |
| Additional Options | • Direct Residential Property (from Jan 2025): €500,000 |
| – Must be strictly residential | |
| – 5-year alienation and encumbrance prohibition | |
| • Higher Education Donation: €1 million | |
| – For educational, scientific research, or artistic creation | |
| Initial Permit Duration | 10 years |
| Renewal Period | Additional 10 years possible |
| Processing Time | 21 days (excluding document completion time) |
| Application Process | 1. Enter Hungary with investor visa or visa-free |
| 2. Submit application within 93 days of entry | |
| 3. Complete investment within 3 months | |
| 4. Provide biometric data | |
| Application Methods | • Online via Enter Hungary platform |
| • In person at regional directorate | |
| Employment Rights | • Unrestricted work permission |
| • Can act as chief executive | |
| • Can perform independent business activities | |
| Investment Verification | • Real Estate: Forensic expert assessment required |
| • Funds: Must be blocked for 5 years | |
| • Changes must be reported within 5 days | |
| Required Documents | • Valid passport |
| • Proof of accommodation in Hungary | |
| • Investment verification documents | |
| • Facial photograph | |
| Reporting Requirements | • Must report investment changes within 5 days |
| • Must maintain investment for permit renewal | |
| Appeal Process | • 8 days to appeal decisions |
| • Must be submitted to first instance authority |
Special Notes:
- Fund managers must meet specific capital thresholds (€100M-€600M under management)
- Property investments require expert valuation at applicant’s cost
- Applicants must have legal stay status when applying
- Applications can only be submitted within Hungary
- Biometric data collection is mandatory
- All changes in investment data must be promptly reported
Official website of the Hungarian Guest Investor Visa
Austria
Unlike other countries in this comparison, Austria does not have an official “Golden Visa” or residence-by-investment program. What is sometimes marketed by private firms as an “Austrian Golden Visa” is actually a combination of standard immigration provisions that were not designed as investment programs. Understanding this distinction is crucial for potential applicants.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Available Routes | • Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment Excepted (Article 41a) |
| • Business Immigration via Private Foundation (Privatstiftung) | |
| Key Requirements for Article 41a | • Proof of sufficient means of subsistence |
| • Suitable accommodation in Austria | |
| • Comprehensive health insurance | |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • No intention to seek employment | |
| Private Foundation Route | • Establishment of Austrian private foundation |
| • Significant business activity | |
| • Job creation | |
| • Economic contribution to region | |
| Processing Time | Varies significantly by case |
| Physical Stay Requirement | Registration at primary residence required |
| Path to Citizenship | • Generally 10 years |
| • Special circumstances may apply | |
| Notable Aspects | • Not a formal investment program |
| • Case-by-case evaluation | |
| • No guaranteed approval | |
| • No set investment thresholds | |
| Key Differences from | • No specific investment amounts defined |
| Traditional Golden Visas | • No streamlined process for investors |
| • Not designed as an investment migration program | |
| • More complex application process |
Important Notes:
- Unlike formal golden visa programs, there are no guaranteed pathways based on specific investment amounts
- Each application is evaluated individually on its merits
- The process is more complex and less predictable than formal investment programs
- Marketing of an “Austrian Golden Visa” can be misleading as no such official program exists
- Success typically requires a combination of substantial economic activity and integration into Austrian society
- Private foundations must demonstrate genuine business activity, not just capital investment
Application Considerations:
- Requires more extensive preparation than traditional golden visa programs
- Multiple legal pathways may need to be combined
- Local legal expertise is typically necessary
- Outcomes are less predictable than formal investment programs
- Long-term commitment to Austria usually required
Switzerland
Unlike traditional golden visa programs, Switzerland does not have an official government investment-based residence program. What private firms often market as the “Swiss Residence Program” is actually a structured approach to obtaining residence through Switzerland’s lump-sum taxation system for financially independent persons.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Requirements | • Must be financially independent |
| • Cannot be employed in Switzerland | |
| • Must establish genuine ties to Switzerland | |
| Financial Obligations | • Annual lump-sum tax: CHF 250,000 – 1,000,000+ |
| • Amount varies by canton and individual circumstances | |
| • Based on living expenses, not worldwide income | |
| Benefits | • Right to live in Switzerland |
| • Access to Swiss education system | |
| • Schengen Area access | |
| • High quality of life and infrastructure | |
| Initial Permit | B Permit (renewable annually) |
| Path to Permanent Residence | • C Permit after 10 years |
| • Faster track for US/Canadian citizens (5 years) | |
| Location Considerations | • 26 cantons with different requirements |
| • Each canton offers unique advantages | |
| • Some cantons more favorable to foreign residents | |
| Business Environment | • Can manage worldwide investments |
| • Access to Swiss banking system | |
| • First-class infrastructure | |
| • Multiple language environment | |
| Key Requirements | • Valid passport |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • Comprehensive CV | |
| • Financial documentation | |
| • Health insurance | |
| • Suitable accommodation |
Important Notes:
- Not a formal investment program but a tax-based arrangement
- Requirements and tax rates vary significantly by canton
- Must establish genuine residence in Switzerland
- Significant time spent in country expected
- Cannot be employed in Switzerland
- Can manage global investments from Switzerland
Why Switzerland Appeals:
- Political, social, and economic stability
- Multilingual environment
- High-quality infrastructure
- Excellence in banking and financial services
- Efficient public services
- High standard of living
Key Differences from Traditional Golden Visas:
- Focus on ongoing tax contribution rather than one-time investment
- Requires actual residence and integration
- Canton-specific requirements and negotiations
- More complex application process
- Greater emphasis on personal circumstances
Application Considerations:
- Canton selection crucial
- Tax negotiations required
- Local integration expected
- Significant preparation needed
- Professional guidance typically necessary
The Swiss system focuses more on attracting long-term residents who will contribute to the local economy rather than pure investment migration. Check out the official Swiss immigration website about this topic.
Italy
Italy offers two distinct pathways for investment-based residence: the Investor Visa Program and the Elective Residence Program. Each targets different types of investors with varying requirements and benefits.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Types | 1. Investor Visa Program |
| 2. Elective Residence Program | |
| Investment Options | Investor Visa: |
| • Government bonds: €2 million | |
| • Italian company shares: €500,000 | |
| • Innovative startups: €250,000 | |
| • Public interest projects: €1 million | |
| Initial Permit Duration | 2 years |
| Renewal Period | 3 years |
| Processing Time | 90-120 days |
| Investment Timeline | Must invest within 3 months of entry |
| Physical Stay Requirement | No minimum stay requirement |
| Path to Citizenship | 10 years of residence |
| Property Requirement | • Must purchase or rent residential property |
| • Required after approval | |
| Notable Benefits | • Visa-free Schengen travel |
| • Right to live, work, and study | |
| • Access to healthcare and education | |
| • No permanent stay required | |
| Family Inclusion | • Spouse |
| • Children | |
| • Dependent parents | |
| Key Requirements | • Clean criminal record |
| • Valid passport | |
| • Proof of investment/income | |
| • Residential property |
Elective Residence Program Specifics:
- Requires proof of stable annual income from abroad
- Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources
- Residential property requirement
- More suitable for retirees or passive income earners
Investment Notes:
- Investments must be maintained during visa validity
- No additional investment required for family members
- Public interest investments are non-refundable donations
- Startup investment offers lowest entry threshold
Path to Permanent Residence:
- Possible after 5 years
- Requires actual relocation to Italy
- Investment must be maintained
- Regular permit renewals necessary
Key Advantages:
- Multiple investment options
- Relatively quick processing
- No minimum stay requirement
- Full EU residence benefits
- Clear path to permanent residence
United States
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, established in 1990, offers a pathway to permanent residence through qualified investments that generate employment in the U.S. economy.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Options | • Non-targeted employment area: $1,050,000 |
| • Targeted employment area: $800,000 (rural/high unemployment) | |
| Job Creation | Must create or preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs |
| Initial Status | Conditional Green Card (2 years) |
| Conversion to Permanent | After 2 years upon proving job creation |
| Investment Duration | 3-7 years (project dependent) |
| Path to Citizenship | Eligible after 5 years of residence |
| Processing Time | Varies by case and nationality |
| Physical Presence | • 183 days/year recommended |
| • Min. 30 months in 5 years for citizenship | |
| Family Inclusion | • Spouse |
| • Unmarried children under 21 | |
| Notable Benefits | • Permanent resident status |
| • Access to U.S. education system | |
| • Work and live anywhere in U.S. | |
| • No business experience required | |
| • No language requirements for investment | |
| Key Requirements | • Legal source of funds proof |
| • Investment in approved regional center | |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • Medical examination | |
| • Vaccination records | |
| Citizenship Requirements | • 5 years continuous residence |
| • Basic English proficiency | |
| • Civics test | |
| • Physical presence requirements |
Regional Center Investment Notes:
- Must be government-approved centers
- Focus on economic growth promotion
- Can be direct or pooled investments
- Different risk levels available
Investment Verification:
- Source of funds documentation
- Investment traceability
- Regional center compliance
- Job creation evidence
- Business plan viability
Conditional Green Card Process:
- Initial 2-year conditional status
- Must prove job creation for removal of conditions
- Family receives same status
- Full resident rights during conditional period
The Netherlands (for Americans)
American citizens only – Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)
Unlike traditional golden visa programs, the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) represents a unique bilateral agreement that offers American citizens a simplified path to Dutch residence through entrepreneurship. While not technically an investment visa, its relatively low capital requirement and straightforward process make it a notable option for American investors and entrepreneurs.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | US citizens only |
| Minimum Investment | €4,500 business capital |
| Investment Requirements | • Must be deposited in business bank account |
| • Must be used for business purposes | |
| • Must maintain accounting records | |
| Business Structure | • Can be sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) |
| • Partnership (VOF) | |
| • BV (private limited company) | |
| Initial Permit Duration | 2 years |
| Renewal Period | 5 years (if requirements continue to be met) |
| Processing Time | Typically 3-4 months |
| Physical Stay | No minimum stay requirement |
| Path to Citizenship | After 5 years of continuous residence |
| Notable Benefits | • Low capital requirement |
| • Can include spouse and minor children | |
| • Freedom to live anywhere in Netherlands | |
| • Access to Dutch healthcare system | |
| • Full Schengen Area access | |
| Key Requirements | • Must be genuine business activity |
| • Business plan required | |
| • Proof of sufficient resources | |
| • Health insurance mandatory | |
| Business Restrictions | • Cannot be employed by Dutch companies |
| • Must work through own business | |
| • Business must be active in NL |
We have written this comprehensive guide on the DAFT visa for Americans moving to the Netherlands, containing the process, costs, requirements and more.
Malta
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers permanent residence through property investment and government contributions, with new requirements effective January 1st, 2025.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital Requirements | • Option 1: €500,000 (min. €150,000 financial assets) |
| • Option 2: €650,000 (min. €75,000 financial assets) | |
| Property Investment | • Purchase: €375,000 in Malta or Gozo |
| • OR Lease: €14,000/year in Malta or Gozo | |
| Government Contribution | • With property purchase: €30,000 |
| • With property lease: €60,000 | |
| Administrative Fee | €50,000 (non-refundable) |
| Additional Costs | • €10,000 per dependant |
| • €2,000 NGO donation | |
| Duration | 5-year minimum property commitment |
| Eligibility | • Third-country nationals (non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss) |
| • Not from sanctioned countries | |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • Stable financial resources | |
| Application | • Must use Licensed Agent |
| • Valid travel document | |
| • Health insurance required | |
| Notable Benefits | • Permanent residence rights |
| • Four generations in one application | |
| • Schengen travel (90/180 days) | |
| • No minimum stay requirement | |
| • Option to lease or purchase |
Key Requirements:
- Cannot benefit from other similar schemes
- No threat to national security/public policy
- Must maintain qualifying conditions
- Property commitment for minimum 5 years
- Comprehensive health insurance covering Malta and Europe
United Arab Emirates
The UAE Golden Visa program offers long-term residence permits for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents, combining property investment options with professional qualification pathways.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Investment | • AED 2 million minimum (approx. USD 550,000) |
| • Can be single or multiple properties | |
| • Option for mortgaged property through approved banks | |
| • Off-plan properties from approved developers | |
| • 3-year minimum investment hold | |
| Professional Categories | 10-Year Visa: |
| • Doctors (Ministry of Health approval) | |
| • Scientists (Emirates Council recommendation) | |
| • Inventors (Ministry of Economy approval) | |
| • Creative talents (Culture department approval) | |
| • Executive directors (AED 50k+ salary, 5yr experience) | |
| • Engineering/Science specialists | |
| • Outstanding students | |
| • Humanitarian pioneers | |
| • Frontline heroes | |
| Entrepreneur Route | • AED 500,000 project value |
| • Technical/future-focused project | |
| • Approved business incubator support | |
| Duration | • 10 years for investors/specialized talents |
| • 5 years for real estate/entrepreneurs | |
| Initial Benefits | • 6-month multiple entry visa |
| • ID card after arrival | |
| • Medical check required | |
| Stay Requirements | • Only 1 day per 6 months |
| • No sponsor needed | |
| • Unlimited time outside UAE permitted | |
| Family Benefits | • Spouse and children (no age limit) |
| • Unlimited domestic helpers | |
| • Family maintains status if primary holder passes away | |
| Tax Benefits | • No personal income tax |
| • No capital gains tax | |
| • No net worth tax | |
| • Multiple double-tax treaties | |
| Student Eligibility | High School: |
| • 95% minimum grade | |
| University: | |
| • Local A-class: 3.5 GPA | |
| • Local B-class: 3.8 GPA | |
| • Global top 100: 3.5 GPA | |
| Application Process | 1. Submit application via ICP website/app |
| 2. Due diligence checks | |
| 3. Receive 6-month entry visa | |
| 4. Complete medical check | |
| 5. Obtain ID card | |
| 6. Final visa issuance | |
| Key Requirements | • Valid passport |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • Medical insurance | |
| • Category-specific approvals | |
| • Proof of investment/qualifications |
Special Notes:
- Investment can be in any of seven emirates
- ‘One Touch’ service available for streamlined processing
- No direct citizenship pathway
- Renewal possible after initial period
- Must maintain investment/qualifications for visa validity
Latvia
Latvia offers a residence by investment program with tiered investment options based on company size and economic impact.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Options | Small Company Investment: |
| • €50,000 minimum in share capital | |
| • Company must have ≤50 employees | |
| • Annual turnover/balance ≤€10 million | |
| • €10,000 state budget payment | |
| • Limited to 10 investors per company | |
| Large Company Investment: | |
| • €100,000 minimum in share capital | |
| • Company must have >50 employees | |
| • Annual turnover/balance >€10 million | |
| Subsistence Requirements | • €500 per month per adult |
| • €150 per month per minor | |
| Document Requirements | • Valid passport |
| • Residence permit request form | |
| • Photograph | |
| • Proof of subsistence | |
| • State duty payment proof | |
| • Invitation letter approval | |
| Family Inclusion | • Spouse |
| • Minor children | |
| Additional Requirements | For Children: |
| • Relationship documents | |
| • Other parent’s notarized permission | |
| Process | • Invitation letter approval first |
| • State payment after permit approval | |
| Path to Permanent Residence | After 5 years, requiring: |
| • 4 years residence in 5-year period | |
| • Latvian language test (A2 level) | |
| Path to Citizenship | • Possible after 10 years |
| • Must renounce previous citizenship | |
| Notable Benefits | • Schengen Area access |
| • No minimum stay for renewals | |
| • Fast-track processing |
The Latvian government website offers relatively limited information other than this page.
Singapore
Singapore’s Global Investor Programme (GIP), administered by Contact Singapore (a division of the Singapore Economic Development Board), offers permanent residence through three distinct investment pathways.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant Categories | 1. Established Business Owners |
| • 3 years entrepreneurial track record | |
| • Company turnover ≥S$200M annually | |
| • ≥30% shareholding for private companies | |
| 2. Next Generation Business Owners | |
| • Family business turnover ≥S$500M annually | |
| • Must hold management position | |
| • Family must own ≥30% or be largest shareholder | |
| 3. Founders of Fast Growth Companies | |
| • Company valuation ≥S$500M | |
| • Must be invested by reputable VCs/PEs | |
| 4. Family Office Principals | |
| • 5 years entrepreneurial/investment track record | |
| • Net investible assets ≥S$200M | |
| Investment Options | Option A: Business Investment |
| • S$10M in new/existing business | |
| • Must own ≥30% shareholding | |
| • Must be in approved sectors | |
| Option B: GIP-Select Fund | |
| • S$25M in approved funds | |
| Option C: Family Office | |
| • S$200M AUM total | |
| • S$50M deployed in Singapore | |
| Deployment Categories | • Listed equities/REITs/Business trusts |
| • Qualifying debt securities | |
| • Funds by Singapore-licensed managers | |
| • Private equity in Singapore companies | |
| Processing Time | Approximately 12 months |
| Application Fee | S$10,000 (non-refundable) |
| Family Inclusion | • Spouse and unmarried children under 21 |
| • Male dependents liable for national service | |
| • Parents/adult children: 5-year long-term visit pass | |
| Initial Status | Re-Entry Permit valid for 5 years |
| Renewal Requirements | For 5-year renewal: |
| • Maintain investment | |
| • Meet employment or residence conditions | |
| • Family must reside >50% time in Singapore | |
| Path to Citizenship | • Possible after 2 years |
| • Single citizenship only | |
| Key Requirements | • Clean criminal record |
| • Investment from personal account | |
| • Due diligence checks | |
| • Detailed business/investment plan | |
| Notable Industry Focus | 25 approved sectors including: |
| • Aerospace, Clean Tech, Healthcare | |
| • Digital, Financial Services | |
| • Family Office Services |
Application Process:
- Submit forms (online + hardcopy) with S$10,000 fee
- EDB interview
- Receive Approval-in-Principle (6 months validity)
- Complete investment within 6 months
- Submit investment proof
- Receive Final Approval
- Formalize PR within 12 months
The Singapore government website offers easy-to-access information on this visa.
Canada
The Quebec Investor Immigration Program (QIIP) requires both investment and contribution components managed through authorized financial intermediaries.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial Requirements | • CAD 1 million investment (5-year term) |
| • CAD 200,000 non-refundable contribution | |
| • CAD 2 million net worth (can include spouse) | |
| Investment Structure | • Government-guaranteed |
| • Through approved financial intermediary | |
| • Investment agreement required | |
| • 120 days to complete after request | |
| Language Requirement | • French proficiency (level 7 minimum) |
| • Test results under 2 years old | |
| • Official tests only (TCF-Quebec, DALF, etc.) | |
| Education | Secondary school diploma equivalent |
| Business Experience | • 2 years management experience |
| • Within 5 years before application | |
| • Excludes certain sectors (e.g., payday loans) | |
| Application Fee | CAD 17,380 (2024) for main applicant |
| Process Steps | 1. Submit application |
| 2. Obtain Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) | |
| 3. Apply for federal permanent residence | |
| 4. Obtain work permit | |
| 5. Complete residency requirement | |
| Stay Requirements | • 12 months within 2 years of work permit |
| • Main applicant: minimum 6 months | |
| • Spouse can complete remaining 6 months | |
| Additional Requirements | • Quebec Values Attestation (60 days) |
| • Clean criminal record | |
| • Legal source of funds proof | |
| • Medical examination | |
| Family Inclusion | • Spouse/partner: no additional fee |
| • Dependent children: no additional fee | |
| Investment Return | • Full CAD 1M returned after 5 years |
| • No interest paid | |
| • 30 days for repayment | |
| Document Requirements | • French/English only |
| • Certified translations needed | |
| • Specific format requirements |
Key Benefits:
- Path to Canadian permanent residence
- Government-guaranteed investment
- Family inclusion without extra fees
- Full social/healthcare benefits
- Education access
Notable Restrictions:
- Must prove legal source of funds
- Strict French language requirement
- Cannot operate certain business types
- Must maintain residency requirements
- Processing times vary significantly
New Zealand
New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa program offers an innovative weighted investment approach with multiple qualifying investment categories.
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Investment | NZD $15 million or weighted equivalent |
| Investment Weighting | Direct Investment: 3x (NZD $5M effective) |
| Managed Funds: 2x | |
| Listed Equities: 1x (max NZD $7.5M) | |
| Philanthropy: 1x (max NZD $7.5M) | |
| Investment Timeline | • Initial approval: 4 weeks (80% of cases) |
| • 6 months to transfer funds | |
| • First NZD $7.5M within 18 months | |
| • Full amount within 36 months | |
| Minimum Initial Investment | • Direct: NZD $100,000 |
| • Managed Funds: NZD $500,000 | |
| • Listed Equities/Philanthropy: NZD $1M | |
| Physical Presence | 117 days during 4-year investment period |
| Application Cost | NZD $27,470 |
| Processing Time | 4 weeks for approval in principle |
| Investment Period | 48 months |
| Family Inclusion | • Partner |
| • Dependent children up to age 24 | |
| Key Requirements | • Good character |
| • Fit and proper person status | |
| • English language proficiency | |
| • Clean police record | |
| • Medical examination | |
| Path to Permanence | After 4 years of maintaining investment |
| Notable Restrictions | • Property not eligible (except via funds) |
| • Funds must be legally acquired | |
| • Regular reporting requirements | |
| Investment Monitoring | • 18-month verification |
| • Third and fourth year reporting | |
| • 3 months to provide evidence |
Investment Categories:
- Direct Investment
- Highest weighting (3x)
- Minimum NZD $100,000 initial
- Business investment focused
- Managed Funds
- Double weighting (2x)
- Licensed NZ managers
- Minimum NZD $500,000 initial
- Listed Equities
- Single weighting
- Maximum NZD $7.5M
- NZ exchange listed
- Philanthropy
- Single weighting
- Maximum NZD $7.5M
- Approved causes
Family Requirements:
- Must arrive within 12 months of visa
- Separate visitor/student visas initially
- Included in permanent residence path
Key Benefits:
- Fast processing (4 weeks)
- Flexible investment options
- Clear path to permanent residence
- Full work/study rights
- Family inclusion