Residency by investment (RBI), also known as a Golden Visa, allows foreigners to obtain temporary or permanent residence in another country by making a qualifying investment. Popular options include real estate, investment funds, business creation, and government-approved contributions.
Unlike citizenship by investment (CBI), RBI does not grant citizenship immediately. Instead, it gives investors and their eligible family members the right to live and work in the host country. Some programs also provide a pathway to permanent residence or citizenship after a few years.
There are more than 20 active residency by investment programs worldwide in 2026. Europe accounts for half of all active schemes, with additional programs available across Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania.
Minimum investment thresholds, residence requirements, and citizenship pathways differ across programs. Comparing them side by side helps you understand which option best fits your budget, timeline, and long-term plans.
This guide compares residency by investment programs across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, helping you identify the one that best fits your goals
Residency by Investment: Key Takeaways
Benefits of Residency by Investment in 2026
Residence rights abroad
A residency by investment program gives investors and their families the right to live, and sometimes even work, in another country. Living abroad also allows applicants to access local healthcare, education, and public services.
Family inclusion
Most RBI programs allow spouses, dependent children, and even dependent parents to be included in a single application.
For investors with families, this is often the most attractive aspect of the program, as family inclusion means the second jurisdiction is available to everyone who would need it, not just the primary applicant.
Route to a second citizenship
Several residency by investment programs, including those in Portugal, Greece, and Italy, lead to permanent residence and/or citizenship after a few years. In some countries, such as Malta, permanent residence is granted immediately upon approval.
In some cases, a second citizenship can be passed on to future generations, creating long-term opportunities for children and grandchildren.
A Long-Term Plan B
Residency by investment is about building a long-term Plan B rather than relocating immediately. By securing residence rights in another country, investors and their families gain an established alternative that provides greater flexibility if personal, political, or economic circumstances change.
Low or no minimum stay requirements
Most residency by investment programs have minimal or no physical presence requirements at all. This flexibility is appealing to investors who are actively running businesses, traveling frequently, or maintaining a primary residence elsewhere, and are not ready to move full-time.
Increased freedom of movement
Residency by investment programs in Europe significantly expand your travel options. EU residence permits grant access to the Schengen Area, allowing travel across 29 countries without border checks. For investors from countries with restricted passports, this can change how they do business and how their families live.
Residency by Investment Programs in Europe
Portugal Golden Visa
- Minimum investment: €250,000
- Permanent residency: After 5 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 10 years (seven for EU and CPLP nationals)
- Stay requirement: Approximately 7 days per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 18 to 24 months
The Portugal Golden Visa is one of Europe’s best-known residency-by-investment programs. It’s also one of the few programs that allows investments in artistic and cultural projects, such as the restoration of historical landmarks. It has a low stay requirement of just seven days a year and provides a pathway to permanent residence after five years and Portuguese citizenship after 10 years.
Greece Golden Visa
- Minimum investment: €250,000
- Permanent residency: After 5 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 7 years
- Stay requirement: None
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 4 months
Greece’s Golden Visa is the best residency-by-investment program in the world, according to the Global RCBI Report 2025 by our Global Intelligence Unit. The program stands out due to its easy procedure, high mobility, and affordability. It is also one of the few European residency by investment programs that still includes a real estate investment route. Processing times have dropped to four to six months in 2026, with permanent residence after five years and EU citizenship after seven years.
Italy Investor Visa
- Minimum investment: €250,000
- Permanent residency: After 5 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 10 years
- Stay requirement: None
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 3 to 4 months
Italy’s Golden Visa is one of the few residency by investment programs that approves applicants before they make their investment, reducing upfront financial risk. Eligible new tax residents may also benefit from Italy’s flat tax regime, making the program attractive for investors planning to relocate. Foreigners can apply for permanent residence after five years and citizenship after 10 years.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
- Minimum investment: €53,000 (rental route) or €414,000 (purchase route)
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 10 to 15 years
- Stay requirement: None
- Family inclusion: Yes, up to five generations
- Processing time: Up to 12 months
The Malta Residency by Investment Program (MPRP) grants immediate permanent residency in Europe. It also has one of Europe’s broadest family inclusion policies, allowing up to five generations to apply together. Since 2025, investors can also obtain a one-year temporary residence permit while their permanent residence application is being processed.
Latvia Golden Visa
- Minimum investment: €50,000
- Permanent residency: After 5 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Stay requirement: None
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 2 to 3 months
The Latvia Golden Visa is Europe’s cheapest residency by investment program, with entry starting at €50,000 through investment in a local company. The program also has one of the fastest processing times in Europe, with processing times of two to three months in 2026, and no minimum stay requirement. Permanent residency is available after five years, and Latvian citizenship after ten years.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Minimum investment: €250,000
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 8 years
- Stay requirement: None
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 3 months
The Hungary Golden Visa gives immediate, permanent residency in Europe. After eight years, applicants are eligible for Hungarian citizenship. Investors qualify by investing €250,000 in a real estate fund or donating €1,000,000 to a public trust supporting higher education. The program is processed in around three months and has no minimum stay requirement, making it one of the most flexible RBI programs in the world.
Serbia
- Minimum investment: None. Applicants must only purchase residential/commercial property anywhere in the country
- Permanent residency: After 3 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 6 years
- Stay requirement: At least 183 days per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 30-60 days
One of the main advantages of Serbia’s Residency by Investment is the lack of a minimum investment requirement. To qualify, investors must purchase residential or commercial property anywhere in the country. Residence permits are issued in as little as one month, making it one of Europe’s fastest residency-by-investment programs. As a treaty country with the United States, Serbia also allows eligible citizens to apply for the U.S. E-2 Visa.
Cyprus Golden Visa
- Minimum investment: €300,000
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 7 years
- Stay requirement: Visit Cyprus at least once every two years
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 2 to 4 months
The Cyprus Golden Visa combines immediate permanent residence with one of Europe’s most competitive tax regimes for new residents. Under the Cyprus Non-Dom regime, eligible investors are exempt from tax on worldwide dividends, interest, and most capital gains for up to 17 years. Investors can apply for Cypriot citizenship after seven years.
Luxembourg Residency by Investment
- Minimum investment: €500,000
- Permanent residency: After 5 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Stay requirement: 183 days per 12-month period
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 6 months
The Luxembourg Residency by Investment program requires a minimum investment of €500,000, with routes including existing or new businesses, investment structures, and bank deposits. Investors receive a residence permit valid for up to three years, renewable, with citizenship available after five years of continuous residence. In September 2025, the government proposed ending the program, but the legislation is still under review, meaning applications continue to be accepted under the current rules.
Residency by Investment in the Americas
Brazil Investment Visa
- Minimum investment: R$150,000
- Permanent residency: After 4 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 4 years
- Stay requirement: 14 days in Brazil every two years
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 3 to 8 months
Brazil’s Investor Visa is one of the world’s most affordable RBI programs, with business investments starting at R$150,000 for approved startups or R$500,000 for other companies. Permanent residency is available after four years, followed by citizenship after another four years. A Brazilian passport also grants access to the Mercosur Residence Agreement, allowing citizens to apply for residency across much of South America.
Paraguay Investor Visa
- Minimum investment:
- Permanent residency:
- Pathway to Citizenship:
- Stay requirement:
- Family inclusion:
- Processing time:
The Paraguay Investor Visa grants immediate permanent residency through a qualifying business investment starting at $70,000, or $40,000 for approved film and creative projects. Unlike most residency-by-investment programs, investors can spread the investment over 10 years instead of paying it up front. Processing takes around one to three months, and residency is maintained with just one visit to Paraguay every 36 months. Citizenship is available after three years of permanent residency.
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
- Minimum investment: $800,000
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Stay requirement: At least 183 days per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 3 to 5 years
The EB-5 Visa grants investors and eligible family members a Green Card in the United States. U.S. citizenship is available after five years. Applicants must invest $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area or $1,050,000 in another qualifying project. They must also create at least 10 full-time jobs in the U.S. Investors filing through a Regional Center before 30 September 2026 also benefit from grandfathering protections.
E2 Visa USA
- Minimum investment: None
- Permanent residency: No
- Pathway to Citizenship: No
- Stay requirement: No minimum stay. Maximum stay of two years per entry
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 2 weeks to 6 months
The E-2 Visa allows citizens of treaty countries to live and work in the United States by investing in and operating a U.S. business. There’s no fixed minimum investment, although most applicants invest between $100,000 and $200,000. While the E-2 Visa does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship, it can be renewed indefinitely. Spouses can also obtain work authorization, while dependent children can study in the United States.
Panama Qualified Investor Visa (QIV)
- Minimum investment: $300,000
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Stay requirement: Once every two years
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 30 to 90 days
The Panama Qualified Investor Visa (QIV) grants permanent residency from the start, with processing in as little as 30 days. Applicants qualify through real estate investments, securities, or fixed-term bank deposits. One of the program’s main advantages is Panama’s territorial tax system, under which only income earned within the country is subject to income tax. Investors can apply for Panamanian citizenship after five years of continuous residence.
Costa Rica
- Minimum investment: $150,000
- Permanent residency: After 3 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 7 years
- Stay requirement: One visit per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 4 to 9 months
With a minimum stay requirement of just one day per year, Costa Rica’s Investor Visa is ideal for those who want residency without relocating full-time. Applicants qualify with a $150,000 investment in real estate, businesses, or approved tourism and forestry projects, while retaining ownership of the asset. Costa Rica also has a territorial tax system, meaning only locally sourced income is taxed. Permanent residency is available after three years, followed by citizenship after seven years of continuous legal residence.
Residency by Investment in the Caribbean
Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
- Minimum investment: $1 million
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 10 years
- Stay requirement: 90 days per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 6 to 18 months
For investors seeking a tax-neutral jurisdiction, the Bahamas EPR Program offers permanent residency with no personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes. Applicants qualify by investing $1 million in residential real estate or Bahamian government bonds. Those investing at least $1.5 million in real estate can access the Accelerated Review Option, shortening the application process. Permanent residents may apply for Bahamian citizenship after 10 years.
Cayman Islands Permanent Residency by Investment R42
- Minimum investment:
- Permanent residency:
- Pathway to Citizenship:
- Stay requirement:
- Family inclusion:
- Processing time:
The Cayman Islands R42 program gives foreign investors permanent residency through a CI$2 million purchase of developed residential real estate. The residence certificate has indefinite validity, as long as the property investment is maintained. One of the program’s main advantages is access to the Cayman Islands’ tax system, with no personal income, capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or corporate taxes. Applicants can include a spouse and dependent children and only need to spend one day a year in the Cayman Islands.
Residency by Investment Programs in Asia & the Middle East
United Arab Emirates
- Minimum investment: AED 500K
- Permanent residency: No, only long-term, renewable residency
- Pathway to Citizenship: No
- Stay requirement: No
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 1 to 8 weeks
The UAE Golden Visa is suitable for investors who want long-term residency in a major business hub with no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. The program is available to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and specialized talent, with five- or 10-year renewable permits. Since 2025, holders also receive consular and emergency support, including 24/7 assistance, repatriation services, and document recovery.
Singapore
- Minimum investment: S$10 million
- Permanent residency: Immediately
- Pathway to Citizenship: 2 years
- Stay requirement: No
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 9 to 12 months
Singapore’s Global Investor Program grants immediate permanent residency to high-net-worth individuals. Applicants can qualify by investing a business, a GIP-approved fund, or establishing a single-family office. The program has no minimum stay requirements. After two years, investors can apply for a Singaporean passport, the 10th strongest in the world according to the Global Passport Index 2026 developed by our Global Intelligence Unit (GIU).
Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)
- Minimum investment: HKD 30 million
- Permanent residency: After 10 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: No
- Stay requirement: No
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 6 to 9 months
Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centers and a gateway to mainland China, making it attractive for investors seeking access to Asian markets. The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme requires a HKD 30 million investment in permissible assets and proof of HKD 10 million in net assets. It also gives investors access to Hong Kong’s territorial tax system, with no capital gains tax or withholding tax on dividends. Permanent residency is available after seven years of continuous residence.
Residency by Investment Programs in Africa
Mauritius Residence by Investment
- Minimum investment: $1 million
- Permanent residency: No
- Pathway to Citizenship: No
- Stay requirement: No
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 5 days
Launched in 2026, the Mauritius Residency by Investment program is limited to just 100 visas a year, making it one of the world’s most exclusive residency-by-investment programs. Applicants must invest at least $1 million in sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, financial technology, or renewable energy. Applications are reviewed within five working days, and successful investors receive a dedicated concierge service to support their relocation and business setup in Mauritius.
Residency by Investment Programs in Oceania
New Zealand
- Minimum investment: NZ$5 million
- Permanent residency: After 3 years
- Pathway to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Stay requirement: Yes, two to three months per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Processing time: 35 days
New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals seeking permanent residency in one of the world’s most stable countries. Applicants can invest NZ$5 million in the Growth category or NZ$10 million in the Balanced category, with up to 20 percent of the Growth investment now eligible for philanthropic donations. Investors can apply for New Zealand citizenship after five years. A New Zealand passport also gives holders the right to live and work in Australia.
How to Choose the Right Residency by Investment Program
The best residency by investment program depends on your investment budget, long-term goals, and preferred destination. Before applying, consider the following factors:
Investment budget
Minimum investment thresholds vary significantly between programs, ranging from approximately €50,000 for the Latvia Golden Visa to over $10 million for the Singapore Global Investor Program (GIP). Some programs, such as the Cyprus Golden Visa, also require proof of annual foreign income.
Investment type
Programs qualify applicants through different investment routes, including real estate, investment funds, business investment, startup investment, or government contributions. Consider which option best matches your financial goals and investment strategy.
Residency and citizenship pathway
Not every residency by investment program leads to permanent residence or citizenship. If obtaining a second passport is part of your long-term plan, compare the programs that provide a pathway to citizenship, as well as the eligibility requirements and timelines.
Stay requirements
Some programs require only occasional visits to maintain residency, while others expect investors to spend more time in the country if they intend to qualify for permanent residence or citizenship. If you don’t plan to relocate immediately, choosing a program with low physical presence requirements can provide greater flexibility while preserving your long-term options.
Processing times
Processing times differ between countries, ranging from a few months to more than a year. Application timelines for certain programs may take considerably longer because of due diligence procedures or application backlogs.
Time-sensitive investors with a specific deadline—such as relocating, enrolling children in school, or establishing tax residency—may benefit from choosing a program with a faster application process.
Family eligibility
If you plan to obtain residency with your family, compare each program’s eligibility rules carefully. While most residency by investment programs allow spouses and dependent children to be included, others also cover parents, grandparents, or adult children. Some countries may also require additional government fees or higher investment amounts for dependents.
Residency by Investment Requirements 2026
Eligibility criteria for residency by investment vary by country, but these are some of the most common requirements across the programs:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a clear criminal record
- Provide proof of the legal source of funds
How to Get Residency by Investment in 2026
Step 01. Compare residency by investment programs
Start by comparing residency by investment programs based on your priorities, such as investment budget, processing times, family eligibility, physical presence requirements, and long-term residency or citizenship options. Professional guidance can also help identify the most suitable program and avoid common application mistakes.
Step 02. Choose an investment option
After selecting a country, choose a qualifying investment. Depending on the program, this may include real estate, investment funds, business investment, government contributions, scientific research, or other approved investment routes.
Step 03. Prepare the required documents
Applicants must provide supporting documents, including a valid passport, proof of funds, criminal record certificates, and other documents required by the chosen program. Some jurisdictions also require documents to be translated, apostilled, or legalized.
Step 04. Submit the application
Once the investment strategy and documentation are complete, submit the application to the relevant immigration authority or government agency. Some countries also require biometrics or an in-person appointment during the process.
Step 05. Obtain residency
After approval, applicants receive their residence permit or permanent residence status, depending on the country’s program. Many residency by investment programs also allow eligible family members to receive residence rights under the same application.
Step 06. Maintain your residency status
To keep residency active, investors may need to renew their permit, maintain the qualifying investment, or meet other program requirements, such as minimum stay obligations.
Step 07. Apply for permanent residence or citizenship
Some RBI programs provide a pathway to permanent residence or citizenship after a qualifying period. Additional requirements may include language proficiency, residence obligations, or integration criteria, depending on the country.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is an advisory migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
