Gizane Campos In today’s borderless economy, the power of a passport goes far beyond travel convenience. Having one of the best passports for investment can be a strategic move for foreign investors. Some benefits include visa-free travel to and within key markets, opportunities to optimize tax, and fast-tracked entry into lucrative real estate and business sectors.
These passports often come with more financial freedom, geopolitical stability, and access to banking systems that support international wealth growth. Whether you’re expanding an existing business, opening a new one, diversifying your assets, or securing a second home base, the right investment-based passport can be your gateway to global success.
How We Measure the Best Passports for Investment
Global Citizen Solutions has developed the Investment Index methodology as part of the Global Passport Index. This methodology helps determine the best passports for investment opportunities using an innovative and pioneering approach.
We use the following three indicators to determine the best passports for investment:
- Global Competitiveness (weighted at 50%): This indicator uses six pillars from the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), including product market, labor market, financial system, market size, business dynamism, and innovation capability.
- GNI per Capita (weighted at 25%): This refers to the Gross National Income (GNI) per person as expressed in US dollars and converted using Purchasing Power Parities (PPP) provided by the World Bank.
- Personal Taxation (weighted at 25%): The data for this was collected from multiple sources and refers to the highest personal income tax bracket at the national level.
10 Best Passports for Investment
1. Singapore
- Overall score: 85.5/100
- GNI per capita: $102,450
- Personal tax rate: 22%
Singapore ranks as having the best passport in the world for investment opportunities. This, to an extent, goes hand in hand with their high performance in our Enhanced Mobility Index, in which Singapore also tops the ranking.
The fact that Singapore tops both of these rankings is likely due to the fact that the city-state is very accepting of expats and entrepreneurs looking to expand their business to the Asian market. It is a financial cornerstone for trade with a progressive legal and regulatory system. These factors make Singapore an attractive honeypot for investors.
Although the cost of living is high – a strong factor contributing to Singapore’s low performance in the Quality of Life Index – the island city-state has special incentives in place that make it easy for foreign investors to do business in the country. These include:
- tax exemptions
- concessions
- grants
- favorable loan conditions (particularly for automation, international headquarters, and sectors like finance and aircraft leasing)
Bear in mind that property is taxed at different rates depending on if you are living in the property or simply own the property.
The political stability in Singapore is an additional factor that drives investors to the country – a trend that can be seen in the most of the best countries in which to invest.
By making a significant financial investment and living in the country for two years, investors can be granted citizenship through the Singapore Citizenship by Investment program.
2. Switzerland
- Overall score: 82.3/100
- GNI per capita: $75,860
- Personal tax rate: 40%
This landlocked Central European country is one of the most stable countries in the world, with a strong rule of law. Its political neutrality is a big plus point.
Switzerland offers competitive corporate tax rates and tax treaties with many countries with a strong banking sector that has global reach and privacy protections.
It is an innovation hub that invests highly in research and development. Switzerland also boasts a highly skilled workforce, especially in finance, pharmaceuticals, and precision manufacturing.
3. Monaco
- Overall score: 81.2/100
- GNI per capita: $75,000
- Personal tax rate: 0%
Monaco is very enticing in terms of having no personal income tax for residents and low business taxes. It is a magnet for high-net worth individuals and wealthy investors, providing strong private banking and luxury markets.
The government is secure, well-governed, and highly regulated. Situated in the heart of Europe, it provides easy access to major European markets. It is especially attractive for investors looking to relocate.
4. The United States of America (USA)
- Overall score: 79.2/100
- GNI per capita: $70,480
- Personal tax rate: 37%
The USA has always been one of the world’s largest economies with a huge consumer market that offers diverse opportunities across industries.
The country boasts a strong culture of innovation, especially in tech, biotech, and finance with protection for intellectual property and contract enforcement.
Deep financial markets (e.g., NASDAQ, NYSE, venture capital) provides access to capital and, despite some regulatory complexity, it is a very business-friendly environment that offers flexibility and incentives.
5. Hong Kong
- Overall score: 78.9/100
- GNI per capita: $70,700
- Personal tax rate: 15%
Hong Kong’s low tax rate offers a simplistic tax regime. It is a strategic location for accessing Mainland Chinese markets and provides business-friendly regulations so it’s easy to set up and run a business.
It is one of the leading global financial hubs with robust infrastructure and you are protected with a strong legal system when it comes to contracts and property rights.
6. The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Overall score: 78.6/100
- GNI per capita: $66,680
- Personal tax rate: 0%
The UAE has many free zones with 0% corporate and income tax, and 100% foreign ownership. Its location is ideal for accessing Middle East, Africa, and South Asia offering up high-end real estate opportunities and a leg up in wealthy markets.
The government has been making strides in terms of diversification by investing in non-oil sectors like tech, tourism and logistics as well as implementing business-friendly reforms like streamlined licensing and visa processes.
7. Andorra
- Overall score: 72.9/100
- GNI per capita: $37,432
- Personal tax rate: 10%
Despite being the sixth-smallest state in Europe, it is a strategic area for business. Located between France and Spain, it offers easy access to EU markets while remaining outside of EU’s full regulatory scope.
This country is known for its privacy and transparency when it comes to banking as well as strict alignment with OECD standards. Andorra has no wealth tax, low income tax and competitive corporate tax rates.
Andorra has a long history of political stability which makes it attractive for investors and the Andorra residency by investment programs has low minimum stay requirements, offering freedom of movement.
8. Macao
- Overall score: 71.9/100
- GNI per capita: $72,260
- Personal tax rate: 12%
With low corporate and income taxes and no capital gains or inheritance tax, this special administrative region of China offers many tax benefits for investors.
It benefits from the “One Country, Two Systems” model, offering access to sought-after Chinese markets with distinct legal and financial systems.
Macao, also known as the Las Vegas of Asia, is one of the world’s richest regions per capita, fueled by the casino industry. This is especially attractive for those looking to invest in hospitality and real estate.
It has simplified business formation and strong legal protections under a Portuguese-influenced civil law system. Additionally, it has a well-developed transport infrastructure and high digital connectivity that further ensures a business-friendly environment.
9. Liechtenstein
- Overall score: 71.8/100
- GNI per capita: $75,000
- Personal tax rate: 22.4%
This picturesque monarchy is a financial services hub with a robust banking and fiduciary services industry, which is ideal for wealth management and asset protection.
Boasting extensive tax treaties and a flat corporate income tax rate of 12.5%, it offers political and legal stability with a respected legal system and strong property rights.
Even though the country is not a member of the EU, it does form part of the European Economic Area (EEA) offering access to renowned markets.
Liechtenstein is an innovator in the FinTech industry and its regulations encourage and support blockchain and cryptocurrency development.
10. The Bahamas
- Overall score: 71.7/100
- GNI per capita: $31,870
- Personal tax rate: 0%
This tropical tax haven country has no personal income, capital gains, inheritance or corporate tax. It serves as a top finance center and a hub for international banking, trusts and offshore companies.
The English-speaking, common law system makes it expat-friendly and the country offers permanent residency to investors who invest in the economy.
If you’re looking to invest in real estate, the Bahamas is ideal as there is a high demand for luxury properties and resorts.
Looking to invest in a top economy? Compare the best Citizenship by Investment programs
6 Features of the Best Passports for Investment
In addition to utilizing the metrics from the Global Passport Index’s Investment Index, you can look at the following features to evaluate which is the best passports for investment:
1. Visa-Free Access to Key Markets
One of the most immediate benefits of a second passport is the ability to travel visa-free. For investors, this is vital to gaining access to key economic regions, including:
- Schengen Area
- United States
- United Kingdom
- ASEAN Countries
2. Tax Policies
Tax optimization is a key motivation for many investors seeking economic citizenship or a second passport. The ideal passport pairs mobility with financial privacy and low or no tax burdens.
- No Global Income Tax: This is particularly attractive for high-net-worth individuals with international income streams.
- No Wealth Tax or Capital Gains Tax: This allows investors to preserve capital and reinvest returns without erosion from tax liabilities.
3. Investment Return Potential
A strong passport should not only provide personal freedom but also create opportunities for financial growth.
This is especially true when making a significant financial contribution as part of economic citizenship or investment-based citizenship programs as you want to know you will make back the money you spent.
- Real Estate ROI: Many Citizenship by Investment programs allow or require investment in government-approved real estate projects. These properties can yield consistent rental income and appreciate in value over time, enhancing the total ROI of the economic citizenship process.
- Business Expansion Opportunities: Whether through easier market access, relaxed foreign ownership laws, or business-friendly tax environments, the passports for investment are those that align with robust economic zones, offering a strategic edge.
4. Geopolitical Stability
Investors often seek citizenship in countries with a stable political climate, reliable legal systems, and consistent policies that protect foreign investments.
5. Speed of Application Approval
Time is often a critical factor for investors. Programs with streamlined processes can make a significant difference.
6. Dual Citizenship Policy
A flexible approach to dual citizenship can significantly enhance the value of a passport. Countries that permit dual citizenship allow investors to retain their original nationality while gaining the benefits of a second one.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Passports in the World for Investment
What are the strongest passports for investment in Asia?
Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan are three Asian countries that consistently come out on top for investors from overseas.
What are the top European residency by investment options?
The following RBI (Residency by Investment) programs are the most popular in Europe:
- Portugal Golden Visa
- Greece Golden Visa
- Malta Residency and Visa Programme (MRVP)
- Cyprus Golden Visa
Which Citizenship by Investment programs offer visa-free travel to the most countries?
Citizenship by Investment programs in Malta, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to many countries, with some programs reaching 170+ destinations.
What are the fastest ways to obtain the best passport for investment?
For a fast route to a strong passport for investment opportunities, consider going through Citizenship by Investment programs in countries like Vanuatu, Grenada, or Dominica. These citizenship programs often issue passports within months, often with minimal residency requirements.
How is the strength of a passport determined?
Passport strength is often determined by how many countries a holder has visa-free access to or where visa-on-arrival is available.
Additionally, the Global Passport Index measures quality of life and the ability of a country to attract foreign direct investment.
Which countries have the best passports for foreign investors?
If someone is looking to make a business investment, the following countries offer the best passports for this purpose:
- Grenada
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Malta
- St Lucia
- Turkey
- Dominica
- St Kitts and Nevis
- Vanuatu
- Cyprus
What is the cost of obtaining the best passports for investment?
The minimum investment requirements for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs vary significantly by country. It usually starts from around $130,000 upwards.
What type of investment options are there to gain citizenship status?
If you’re thinking of making significant contributions to a country’s economic growth to gain citizenship status, you can look into the following options:
- Property investment: buy real estate or invest in a approved real estate projects.
- Business investment: invest in established businesses or starting new ones that create local jobs.
- Purchase government bonds: Some countries allow investors to purchase government bonds as a means of contributing to the national economy.
- Donation investment route: Some countries offer citizenship in exchange for a non-refundable donation.
- National Development Fund investment: funds like these are established by a government as part of its Citizenship by Investment program to support government-backed projects.
Which investment-based citizenship programs offer dual citizenship?
There are various countries that offer second citizenship via a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. These include but are not limited to:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Austria
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Hungary
- Spain
- Latvia
- Malta
- Portugal
- St Kitts and Nevis
Do countries allow for real estate investment in exchange for citizenship?
Yes, many Citizenship by Investment programs offer a real estate investment option. Keep in mind that the government has the right to dictate what form that real estate investment takes such as in which areas property must or can be purchased.
Which types of real estate investment is allowed through Citizenship by Investment programs?
The type of real estate you can invest in for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs depends on the country and the investment amount you’re willing to put in.
In general, they can include:
- residential properties like houses and apartments
- commercial properties like hotel shares and retail spaces
- land plots
- resorts
- properties as part of urban rehabilitation projects.
What are the requirements for applying for a Citizenship by Investment program?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs require applicants to:
- make qualifying investments
- be of a certain age (usually 18 or older)
- have a clean criminal record
- undergo a due diligence process
- demonstrate the legitimacy of their funds
