In the last decade, the demand for residency by investment programs has significantly increased due to various global political and economic factors. These factors have driven investors to expand their portfolios through Golden Visa programs offered by many countries, aiming to attract investors and boost their economies.

In today’s article, we will take a look at the top 10 countries offering residency by investment programs in 2024, as identified by our experts at NTL and based on demand from our investors:

Residency by Investment Programs for 2024:

Golden Visa in Portugal:

The Golden Visa in Portugal was launched in 2012 to attract foreign investors and boost the economy. This program allows non-EU citizens to obtain Portuguese residency through various investment options. Applications were paused last year (February 2023) but reopened in July of the same year, with the announcement that real estate investment or capital transfer options would no longer be available. Available options for obtaining Residency by Investment in Portugal:

• Investment via investment funds.
• Contribution to scientific research.
• Investment in cultural heritage preservation.
• Creating 10 jobs for Portuguese citizens.
• Business investment, creating at least 5 jobs.

Read also: D7 Residency in Portugal

Golden Visa in Spain:

Launched in 2013, the Golden Visa program in Spain aimed to attract capital and boost the economy. Given Spain’s rich history, the real estate investment option has been a popular choice among investors, offering wide horizons in the European Union and many benefits, including:

• Freedom of movement within the Schengen area.
• Possibility of obtaining permanent residency after 5 years.
• Opportunity to acquire Spanish citizenship, subject to certain conditions, including renunciation of previous citizenship.

There are also various benefits that investors can take advantage of with Residency by Investment, such as investing in rural areas or rehabilitating historical properties and turning them into tourist destinations, which benefits both the country and the investor. Additionally, holders of the Golden Visa in Spain can manage businesses or start enterprises and benefit from Spain’s strong economy.

Golden Visa in Greece:

 The Golden Visa program in Greece began in 2013, designed to attract foreign investments and strengthen the Greek economy, especially after the financial crisis preceding the program’s launch. Residency can be obtained through real estate investment, with property value conditions modified multiple times, the latest in March 2024. Despite these changes, the demand for Golden Visas saw a significant increase last year, indicating the program’s strength and the benefits it offers investors. Read more

The advantages of the residency by investment program in Greece? 

Similar to Portugal and Spain, there is freedom of movement within the Schengen area. The property transfer tax is the lowest among EU countries. The residence permit can be renewed every 5 years as long as the property is retained. Additionally, there is the freedom to manage businesses, live, and study, and there is no requirement to know the Greek language to obtain the Golden Visa in Greece.

Golden Visa in Malta:

 The Golden Visa, or the permanent residency program in Malta, started in 2016 to attract investors looking to expand their investment portfolios in Malta by real estate investment, either by purchasing or renting property, in addition to a government donation. The Maltese program is notable for its fast processing time of 4-6 months and the possibility of obtaining citizenship after 7 years of permanent residency. Malta is also the only European country offering a CBI program.

Self-Sponsorship Visa in the United Kingdom:

 Officially launched in 2009, the Self-Sponsorship Visa program in the UK aims to attract foreign companies looking to establish a presence in the UK by sending a representative to set up a branch or subsidiary. It also targets various professions needed in the country. Key benefits include:

• Obtaining residency through establishing a company in the UK.
• Renewing residency every 5 years.
• No minimum investment is required, though there are conditions for obtaining sponsorship.
• Potential for permanent residency.

Golden Visa in Hungary:

The Golden Visa in Hungary, officially known as the “Residency by Investment Program,” started in 2013. It aimed to attract foreign investments and boost the Hungarian economy. The program was suspended for a period but relaunched in 2024 with some adjustments to make it more appealing to investors.

The residency by investment program in Hungary offers a variety of options with fast processing times, potentially within two months, and offers many benefits:

• Residence permits valid for up to 10 years. 
• The possibility of obtaining permanent residency after living in Hungary for 5 years.

Golden Visa in Germany:

 The Golden Visa in Germany, known as the Investor Visa or Business Visa, doesn’t have an official launch date as a comprehensive concept like other countries. Instead, it was introduced as part of German immigration laws, modified over time to encourage foreign investments.

Some of the key investment sectors in Germany include:

• Technology and software
• Artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things
• Automotive and mechanical engineering
• Renewable energy projects
• Health and biotechnology
• Medical and pharmaceutical research
• Infrastructure and real estate
• E-commerce

What are the benefits of residency by investment in Germany?

Living in a country that is politically and socially secure with one of the lowest crime rates. Freedom to travel between European countries and the Schengen area. Living in an environment that provides the best standards of living for the investor and their family. The possibility of obtaining permanent residency or German citizenship under certain conditions.

Permanent Residency in Cyprus:

 The Golden Visa program in Cyprus began in 2013 to attract investors by granting permanent residency in exchange for investment in real estate or business in Cyprus.

Benefits of the Golden Visa in Cyprus:

• Low tax rates and free trade within the European Union.
• Living in a politically and securely stable country.
• Access to top-quality services in healthcare and education.
• Investing in a strong economy.

Additionally, investing in real estate is a successful venture in Cyprus, as there has been increasing demand in recent years. Residency by Investment in Cyprus also facilitates access to Schengen countries and may pave the way to citizenship under specific conditions.

Golden Visa in the UAE:

 The UAE’s Golden Visa program was launched in 2019, targeting a wide range of artists, talented individuals, inventors, scientists, investors, and others. The Golden Visa has a 10-year validity, allowing the holder to move freely within the UAE and live in one of the most developed countries in the Middle East, benefiting from a strong economy and networking opportunities with investors worldwide.

Requirements for Golden Residence for Investors:

• The investor must submit a letter from one of the state-approved investment funds.
• Provide a commercial or industrial license.
• Submit a funding agreement.
• Provide a letter from the tax authority.
• The invested capital must not be a loan.
• The investor must provide proof of medical insurance.

You can read the full requirements and benefits of the Residency by Investment, also known as the Golden Residence, here.

Residency By investment in Albania:

The Residency by Investment in Albania was launched in recent years to boost the economy, especially as the country plans to join the European Union by 2027 at the latest. The program aims to attract investors through two options: purchasing property or establishing a company. The benefits for investors include the possibility of obtaining citizenship after seven years under specific conditions, a flexible tax system, and the potential to generate income from properties. Moreover, the residency by investment program in Albania is one of the most affordable and fastest options available.

Each of these Residency By investment programs offers unique benefits and opportunities for investors. Whether you’re seeking visa-free travel, business opportunities, or a higher quality of life, these programs provide valuable paths to achieving personal and investment goals. By carefully considering the requirements and benefits of each program and consulting experts at NTL, investors can make informed decisions that align with their individual needs and aspirations.

Read also: 10 Reasons to Obtain Residency by Investment here.