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Residency by Investment

Top Countries for Residency by Investment 2024

Residency by investment is one of the best ways to migrate to another country to explore better living and financial opportunities or for economic expansion. The residency by investment programs come with various additional perks and benefits. They make the applicant eligible to enjoy elevated living conditions, facilities, and various other amenities after migrating to another country. 

However, there are various rules, regulatory legal obligations, and criteria that applicants have to fulfill to acquire eligibility in the best countries for residency by investment. Every country that is considered best for its residency by investment programs has its own set of requirements and eligibility standards.

If you are also planning to migrate to another country for better economic exposure, here we have shared everything worth knowing about the terms and benefits of residency by investment. We have also shared the list of the most preferred and best countries for residency by investment, along with necessary details about the eligibility and application process for their residency by investment programs

What is Residency by Investment?

Residency by investment, also known as the Golden Visa program, allows foreign nationals to secure residency in a country by making a qualifying investment of a specific value. These programs allow applicants and their families to live, study, and work in a foreign country for a specific period, which can also be extended. Additionally, residency by investment is also a way to secure a country’s citizenship in the long run. In most countries, the residency permit is offered to the applicant along with their spouse, parents, and financially dependent children. 

Many people often confuse residency with citizenship, thinking they are similar. However, there are significant differences between the two. If you’re confused about which is Right for You? you have come to the right place.  We have listed various benefits of residency by investment that one can leverage while residing in a non-native country. 

Countries for Residency by Investment in 2024

Let us now go through the list of the best countries for residency by investment and learn about the specifications of their residency by investment programs in detail. 

Greece

The residency by investment program in Greece, also known as The Greek Golden Visa, allows foreign nationals to secure residency by investing 250,000 Euros or more. However, in prime areas, the minimum investment amount is 800,000 Euros. You can acquire the residency by investing in Greece through one of the following pathways:

  • Investing in real estate.
  • Taking a licensed hotel or tourist home on lease for at least ten years.
  • Direct investment in company capital, bonds, and fixed deposits.
  • Mutual fund investments.

Spain

To acquire a residency by investment in Spain, you have to adopt one of the following ways:

  • Make an investment of 500,000 Euros or more in real estate.
  • Deposit at least 1,000,000 Euros in a Spanish bank.
  • Making an investment of 2,000,000 Euros or more in government bonds.
  • Establishing a business that heavily contributes to the Spanish economy.

By fulfilling any of the above-mentioned criteria, you can secure a residency permit in Spain.

Portugal

You need to fulfill one of the following conditions to acquire residency by investment in Portugal, which undoubtedly offers one of the best residency-by-investment programs:

  • Make an investment of 500,000 Euros in Portuguese funds or research institutes.
  • Contribute at least 250,000 Euros to preserve the cultural heritage in Portugal.
  • Establish a business with a minimum investment of 500,000 Euros in Portugal to create jobs.
  • Offer new full-time positions to at least 10 Portuguese citizens.

Investing in Portuguese funds is often considered to be the most suggestible option to obtain residency by investment. 

Italy

The affordability of the residency programs makes Italy one of the best countries for residency by investment. There are four ways to obtain a residency permit in Italy: 

  • Make an investment of 250,000 Euros in an official startup.
  • Purchasing shares of existing Italian companies for 500,000 Euros or more. 
  • Investing at least 1,000,000 Euros in public interest projects.
  • Buying government bonds with a minimum of two years’ maturity for 2,000,000 Euros or more. 

UAE

UAE is one of the most sought-after countries for residency by investment. You must fulfill one of the following eligibility to obtain a residency permit to explore the lifestyle and economic opportunities in the UAE:

  • Depositing a minimum of AED 2 million and obtaining a letter of approval from the concerned legal authorities.
  • Own one or more properties in the UAE valued at a minimum of AED 2 million. 
  • You must also submit a valid commercial or industrial license along with proof of capital of no less than AED 2 million. 

Cyprus

Cyprus offers one of the best and speediest permanent residency by investment programs. For this, you need to meet one of the following criteria:

  • Purchase residential or commercial properties of 300,000 Euros or more.
  • Buy shares in Cypriot companies for at least 300,000 Euros.
  • Make investments in the securities issued by the Cyprus Investment Fund Association. 

By fulfilling any one of these conditions, you would be eligible to acquire a permanent residency in Cyprus.

Wrapping Up!

Every country included in the list of best countries for residency by investment has its own set of benefits, perks, and eligibility criteria. You can choose among the above-mentioned residency by investment programs that best suit your individual goals and preferences. However, you need to be prepared with the required documents and information to sail through the processes successfully. For this, you can seek assistance from My Global Citizenship, one of the top immigration consultancy firms in India. 

Having personalized, dedicated, and expert assistance from experienced immigration consultants will help you smoothly navigate the application process, paperwork, and legal permissions, ultimately helping you conveniently secure the residency by investment in your desired country. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us now!

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Residency vs. Citizenship: Which One is Right for You?

Citizenship by investment program was first launched on the Caribbean island in the 1980s. Now it’s quite famous among investors worldwide. According to the 2019 EU report over 131,000 people obtained residency and citizenship through this program between 2011 and 2019. Countries like Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta brought around €21.4 billion in revenue.

There are several ways to get citizenship and residency for investors in a country, but people get confused between residency and citizenship. It is a big decision choosing between residency vs citizenship because it’ll affect things like place to live, how much tax you pay, and what benefits you’ll get. Must explore options and understand the distinctions between residency and citizenship to make well-informed decisions. 

There are key similarities between Residency and Citizenship but also there is a huge difference between Residency and Citizenship that affects both your and your family’s life.

For your better understanding in this article, we will discuss what Residency and citizenship are and the difference between them.

What is Citizenship?

Citizenship is a legal identity of citizens and a relation between individual and countries that entail specific rights and privileges within the country. Citizenship used as a synonym of nationality. There are many ways to obtain Citizenship like birth, naturalization, registration, or legal processes.

Nations grant certain rights with responsibilities to the individual that have to perform such as obeying the law, paying taxes, and serving in the military.  Overall, through Citizenship by investment a person grants membership and allegiance in a political community and access to both rights and duties that are essential to a functioning society.

What is Residency?

Residency for investors gives a particular person access to the right to stay in a specific country for a certain period. The residency for investors has two types: permanent residency and other is temporary residency. In permanent residency, individuals can perform equal rights as citizens. Permanent residency means “green card holder” who is recognized as a legal and permanent resident of the country and can enjoy long-term stability and security.

Temporary residence permits have limitations, in temporary residency individuals get a short time to stay in a country. Temporary residence for investors can also refer to a specific immigration status granted by countries to individuals who are allowed to stay for a defined period, typically for reasons such as work, study, or family reunification, but not with the intent to settle permanently. 

Key differences between Residency and Citizenship

Here are the key differences between Residency and Citizenship:

Residency: 

Legal Status: A residency by investment grants you the right to stay in a particular country for a specific period. There are specific rules that must be followed while living in the country.

Benefits: Residency for investors gives them the right to live, education, work, and other social rights as permitted by the residency terms.

Flexibility: Residency status can provide flexibility when it comes to relocating between countries, as individuals may not be subjected to the same tax obligations or mandatory military service requirements as citizens. 

Path to Citizenship: Some residency by investment programs allow getting citizenship if you feel after some time to settle permanently in that country. 

Legal Protections: Residency for investors provides legal protections to individuals under the host country’s laws, including protection against arbitrary expulsion or deportation, and access to legal recourse in case of disputes.

Citizenship:

Legal Status: Citizenship by investment helps you to obtain permanent access to the right to live, work, education, and other social rights. It also gives full privilege to participate in political matters in the country.  Alongside this status typically comes the issuance of a passport from that country, providing further proof of citizenship for investors and facilitating international travel.

Rights and Responsibilities: Citizenship by investment grants individuals full rights to participate in the political process, including voting in elections and running for public office. It also gives the privilege of working in the government sector of the country. Besides this, individuals have to follow government policies, rules, and regulations of the country.

Security: Citizenship by investment provides a higher level of security against deportation and protects individuals from sudden changes in immigration laws that could affect their residency status. This status ensures stability and continuity in residency rights, reducing the risk of being forced to leave the country due to shifts in policies or regulations.

Global Mobility: Citizenship for investors allows possessing a passport that enhances global mobility by providing its holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival to numerous other countries. This expands the person’s personal and professional growth on a global scale.

Legal Protections: Countries offering Citizenship by Investment provide legal protection to the individual under the host of the country’s laws, including protection against arbitrary arrest or detention. Also get protections against discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or other factors, ensuring that individuals can live and work free from unjust treatment or prejudice.

Conclusion: 

When you’re deciding between residency by investment and citizenship by investment, examine your long-term goals and short-term goals, then take action accordingly. If you’re considering immediate employment or study opportunities in a foreign country, countries offering residency by investment will suit your goals and meet your needs. 

On the other hand, if you have long-term goals like establishing a business and stability for your family abroad, citizenship may be preferable. Citizenship provides permanent residency rights, protecting you against changes in immigration laws and offering greater security against deportation. This gives you full access to participate in civic life, such as the right to vote, run for public office, employment in the government sector, and access to certain social benefits. Ultimately, the choice between residency and citizenship hinges on your circumstances, career aspirations, family situation, and long-term plans for living and working abroad.

If you’re looking for more details and professional counsel, My Global Citizenship is a specialized consultancy that helps people who are looking for the best path to citizenship and residency through investment issues. We provide thorough counsel catered to your individual needs, whether you’re negotiating complicated immigration regulations, thinking about international relocation alternatives, or preparing for long-term settlement and business opportunities overseas.

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How to Choose Right Citizenship by Investment Program

Various types of investment migration laws are in force globally of these approximately 30 residence or citizenship by investment programs are running successfully. Entrepreneurs are adopting citizenship by investment options as the most effective way to access previously unimagined opportunities.

Worldwide, 30 countries are providing residence and citizenship by investment program but currently, 11 countries provide a direct route to citizenship by investment. In 2022 more than 1,370 citizenship by investment applications were submitted in the Caribbean island. Its demand is immensely growing among investors because of the benefits it provides.

Citizenship by Investment program grants the opportunity to investors and their families to get second citizenship. This program gives access to the individual freedom to travel to 161 countries without visa restrictions and the option to relocate to another country. They get the opportunity of world class education for their children, the right to work, and health care. It also provides access to political matters such as the right to vote, speak, and employment in the government sector.

Selecting the ideal citizenship by investment program is a decision that warrants careful consideration, as it involves various factors that can significantly impact your personal and financial future. Each Citizenship by Investment program offers different benefits and requirements, making it essential to assess which aligns best with your goals and circumstances. In this article, we will clear all your doubts and discuss how you can choose ideal citizenship by investment program. 

Steps to choose right Citizenship by Investment Program

Here are some Investment criteria for citizenship programs program:

Research and Compare Programs: There are several countries offering a Citizenship by Investment program. Each country has its requirements, benefits, and costs. Discover every country’s policy on Citizenship by investment program and understand the differences between programs in terms of investment thresholds, residency requirements, processing times, and the benefits of citizenship. By evaluating these steps individuals can make a well-informed decision that meets their specific needs.

Define your Goals: While choosing citizenship by investment program of any country, ask yourself why you want second citizenship. Whether it is for business, travel, visa-free access, security, or lifestyle reasons, your goals influence which program is the best fit for you. By aligning these goals with the benefits offered by different programs such as visa-free travel options, tax advantages, stability, and quality of life individuals can make the right decision that enhances their personal and professional endeavors.

Consider Investment Requirements: Research about each country’s investment requirements. Every program has minimum investment thresholds that vary depending on their investment requirement. Each program has its policies for investment options in real estate, contribution in government bonds, investment in national development funds and starting businesses within the country. Ultimately, understand the financial requirement of the citizenship by investment program, and then individuals can select a program that aligns with their financial capacity.

Understand Tax Implications: Different programs have their own tax rules for citizenship by investment. In this program, taxes are dependent on your income, your wealth, inheritance taxes, and corporate tax. These taxes are based on each country’s tax policies. Before choosing citizenship by investment program, understand how this decision might affect your taxes in that country.

Evaluate Reputation and Stability: If you’re thinking about getting citizenship through an investment program it’s important to consider political stability and the reputation of the country in the world because a passport is more useful when it is from a country that is stable and well respected internationally. The economy is the main source of a growing country, if the country’s economy is stable then it is a good opportunity for business and investors.

Consider Family Inclusion: When choosing citizenship by investment program, make sure that they are including your family in your application. Some programs take extra charges and extra conditions. You must read all the details carefully to ensure that everyone in your family is included in your application and it will prepare you for extra charges and requirements during the process. 

Consult with Experts 

For Investment criteria for citizenship programs, take guidance or advice from experts with great knowledge in citizenship planning such as immigration lawyers, financial advisors, or specialized consultants. Professionals can help you by giving valuable insight into the legal complexities, tax considerations, and other citizenship information by investment programs according to your specific circumstances. 

My Global Citizenship provides guidance and support to individuals who are planning to have a second citizenship. We are experts in handling and navigating the difficulties of getting citizenship through various programs worldwide. Our expertise covers legal aspects, tax implications, and the suitability of different Citizenship by Investment options based on your unique circumstances. We provide personalized advice to ensure you make well-informed decisions and successfully achieve your global citizenship goals.

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What are the Benefits of Canada Startup Visa for Indians

The Canada entrepreneur visa provides opportunities to entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors, who are seeking to grow on a global scale. The Canada Entrepreneur visa launched as a pilot program in 2013 and in 2018 it became a permanent program. Early it became popular among investors because of its diverse location, easy interference in the US market, skilled workforce, and business opportunity. 

The Canada startup visa program started with 1000 spots and expanded to 3500 by 2023. The Canadian government in 2024 plans to reach above 5000 by 2026.

As we have discovered about the Canada startup visa program, let’s briefly discuss the eligibility criteria and benefits of a Canada startup visa for Indians:

Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Start-up Visa for Indians 

To be eligible for the Canada startup visa program, Indian Candidate must meet this eligibility criteria: 

Qualifying Business: You must have an innovative business idea, scalable and your business can provide jobs in Canada.

Language Proficiency: You must be fluent in English or French, you have to prove to them that you are mastered in these languages by taking tests like IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French.

Commitment Certificate: You must get the Commitment Certificate and Letter of Support from the designated organization. It confirms that they are supporting your business in Canada.

Sufficient Settlement Funds: You must have adequate settlement funds to support yourself and your family to settle in Canada.

Medical Examination: You have to go under medical examination to show that you are medically fit and able to settle in Canada.

Benefits of the Canada Startup Visa for Indians:

Advantages of Canada Startup Visa program for entrepreneurs from India are below:

Strong startup: The Canada visa investing program offers immense opportunities to Indian entrepreneurs. This program provides opportunities of networking and funding from places like co-working spaces, and a chance to collaborate with talented people.It helps them to boost their businesses and ensure long-term sustainability and opportunities for global entrepreneurship. 

Permanent Residency and Citizenship: For Indians Canada’s entrepreneur visa program is a pathway to Canada’s permanent residency. This entrepreneur visa program gives long-term security and stability. It helps Indians to establish their roots and build a future in Canada.

Quality of Life: Canada provides a high quality of life by a diverse multicultural society, world-class education, and a healthcare system. Canada grants safe, and world-class services to their citizens, this quality makes Canada an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced life and a supportive environment for their business growth.

Diverse and skilled workforce: Canada is famous for its diverse and skilled workforce supported by a strong education system and it attracts skilled professionals from around the world. Its diverse workforce helps in startup businesses and building teams with a range of skills.  

Access to Funding: There are many government programs to help entrepreneurs in funding business startups in Canada. Through this, they can connect with investors, mentors, and advisors who help them grow their businesses.

Market Opportunities: Canada gives Indian investors easy access to North America, Europe, and Asia markets. Its strategic and strong trade relationships are beneficial for entrepreneurs. This program helps investors in assessing the US market and expanding their business. 

This Canada Entrepreneurs visa program inspires both business innovation and personal achievement. The visa program not only makes enterprise easier but also creates a conducive environment for personal and professional development. This program gives the opportunity of permanent residency and citizenship, which enables Indian entrepreneurs to fulfill their ambitions on a global scale.

This program’s commitment is to foster startups through funding, networking opportunities, and a skilled workforce that ensures individuals have the resources they need to succeed. Its supportive environment, high-quality lifestyle, and integrative society make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs. If you want to take advantage of the Canada Startup Visa program but you are confused. MyGlobalCitizenship specializes in tailored advice and strategies that are important for conducting the visa application process effectively. We provide you all insight details about the Canada Startup Visa program and guidance to make the visa application process easier. Our expert team not only helps you get permanent residency but also lays the groundwork for long-term success in Canada’s business scene

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Top 8 Countries for Citizenship by Investment in 2024

In 2024, many countries are launching their premium citizenship by investment Programs, providing citizenship through financial contributions or investments. These programs are growing popular among investors due to the wide range of benefits they provide.

Over twenty countries established citizenship by investment program in mid-2023, including five Caribbean nations: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia. Countries such as Cambodia, Egypt, Jordan, Malta, North Macedonia, Turkey, and Vanuatu also offer such programs. Approximately 50,000 individuals along with their family, annually acquire citizenship by investment through this program. Citizenship by investment allows individuals to broaden their horizons and enhance their quality of life.

To help you understand citizenship by investment, this article will explain the concept and highlight the top countries offering these programs in 2024.

What is a citizenship by investment program? 

Citizenship by investment is a legal process in which any person can get citizenship of any country by investing in the country’s economy. This program aims to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth and in return for the investment, give citizenship and a passport to the investor in their country, and get rights to live, work, and study.

The requirements and benefits of citizenship by investment program depend on the country’s policy. This is the easiest way to get a green card from other countries like Malta, Dominica, Grenada, Turkey, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Montenegro, considered some of the best countries for citizenship by investment, it’ll save time and money. Each of these countries provides advantages and rules. They cater to investors with different amounts of money to spend, residency requirements, and how useful their passport is for traveling around the world in 2024.

Top Countries Offering Citizenship by Investment in 2024

Some countries are providing global citizenship by investment programs including Malta, Cyprus, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Dominica, Turkey, and Montenegro. Here’s a brief overview of countries offering citizenship by investment programs in 2024:

Malta:

The Malta Citizenship by Investment program is based on a point system. Investors should have to collect a minimum score for eligibility. Points are based on investments in Maltese real state and government bonds, as well as mandatory contributions to the National Development Fund. There are other criteria also such as language skills or business experience, which influence the total points earned. 

Real Estate Investment: Applicants must purchase property in Malta with a minimum value of €700,000 or lease a property with an annual rent of at least €16,000.

Government Bonds: Applicants must invest a minimum of €150,000 in government-approved bonds.

Donation: A non-refundable contribution of €600,000 to the National Development Fund is required.

Dominica:

If you want to become a citizen of a Dominica country, getting Dominica citizenship by investment is easier than in other countries. Here are the main financial requirements for obtaining citizenship through Dominica’s CIP:

Real Estate Investment: The minimum investment in real estate is $200,000 in an approved real estate project. This investment must be maintained for at least three years after citizenship is granted.

Economic Diversification Fund (EDF): The contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) varies based on the number of applicants:

Single applicant: $100,000

Applicant with spouse: $175,000

The applicant with up to two qualifying dependents (e.g., spouse and child under 18): $200,000

Additional dependents of any age (each): $50,000

By meeting these criteria, you can apply for citizenship in Dominica through their Citizenship by Investment Program.

Grenada:

Getting a secondhand passport in Grenada Citizenship is easier by investing. Interested investors can qualify through two main avenues:

Real Estate Investment: The minimum investment in approved real estate projects is typically set at USD 220,000. Additionally, there are associated fees and costs such as government fees, due diligence fees, and legal fees.

Donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF): The minimum non-refundable contribution to the NTF is USD 150,000 for a single applicant or USD 200,000 for a family of up to four persons. For larger families, additional contributions apply.

Antigua and Barbuda:

In Antigua and Barbuda, you can get citizenship for yourself and your family very easily by investment, they also provide various investment options to the applicant. Applicants can choose to invest in real estate or make contributions to the National Development Fund (NDF).

The investment amounts required for the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Visa Program are as follows:

Real Estate Investment: Applicants must invest a minimum of USD 200,000 in approved real estate developments. 

Contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF): 

Single applicant: USD 100,000

Family of up to 4 members: USD 100,000

Family of 5 or more: USD 125,000

Saint Lucia:

Saint Lucia provides benefits to applicants like visas for traveling to different countries and economic opportunities. In Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Program, there are several investment options available for individuals seeking citizenship: 

National Economic Fund (NEF):

Single Applicant: Minimum contribution of USD 100,000.

Applicant with Spouse: Minimum contribution of USD 165,000.

Family of up to 4 members: Minimum contribution of USD 190,000.

Each additional dependent: Additional contribution of USD 25,000.

Real Estate Investment:  Minimum investment of USD 300,000 in an approved real estate project. 

Enterprise Project Investment: Minimum investment of USD 3,500,000 in an approved enterprise project, creating at least 3 jobs.

Government Bonds: Minimum investment of USD 500,000 in non-interest-bearing government bonds. 

St. Kitts and Nevis:

St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program is the oldest program of Citizenship by Investment and a very respectful program. They give citizenship to foreign investors and their families. They also have their investment program and rules. Applicants have two main investment options to qualify for citizenship:

Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF): 

Single applicant: Minimum contribution of USD 150,000.

Applicant with up to three dependents (e.g., spouse and two children): Minimum contribution of USD 195,000.

Each additional dependent: Additional contribution of USD 10,000.

Real Estate Investment: The investment must be maintained for at least 7 years. In addition to the investment, there are associated fees such as government, due diligence, and legal fees.

Turkey:

Turkey provides premium citizenship by investment program, for citizenship, Investors have to fulfill certain investment criteria. Investors must find a property that meets the minimum investment requirement and other legal criteria. 

In Turkey Citizenship by Investment Program, there are several investment options available for individuals seeking citizenship: 

Real Estate Investment: The minimum investment amount in real estate is USD 250,000. This investment must be maintained for at least three years. The real estate must also have an annotation of no-sale for three years in the title deed.

Bank Deposit: The option of making a bank deposit was available previously, requiring a minimum deposit of USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank or a Turkish venture capital investment fund and holding it for three years.

Government Bonds or Investment Funds: There have been other options available, such as purchasing government bonds, making a specified amount of capital investment, or creating jobs.

Montenegro:

Montenegro Citizenship by Investment Program provides only two citizenship investment programs: government fund contribution and real estate investments. In Montenegro’s Citizenship by Investment Program, investment options available for obtaining citizenship:

Real Estate Investment: The minimum investment required in approved real estate projects is EUR 250,000. The real estate can be located in designated areas, including undeveloped regions, Podgorica (the capital city), or coastal areas.

Government Fund Contribution: Applicants can choose to make a non-refundable donation to the Montenegrin government’s Development Fund. The minimum donation amount required is EUR 100,000. Additionally, applicants are required to pay government fees, due diligence fees, and other associated costs.

Conclusion:

In 2024, some of the best companies will be given a chance to get citizenship by investment. This program is famous all over the world. Each country offers unique benefits such as visa-free travel to key destinations and strategic world investment opportunities in real estate and government funds.

My Global Citizenship specializes in expert guidance on global citizenship, residency planning, and citizenship by investment programs. Our team offers comprehensive services, which aim to solve the complexities of global immigration. We prioritize client satisfaction by providing personalized strategies and reliable support throughout the process. We ensure empowering our clients worldwide to secure their desired citizenship and residency options efficiently.