Permanent residency by investment, or PRBI, is a means by which permanent residency status is granted to individuals who invest a certain amount of money in a country or region. Fundamentally, this coveted status allows for many benefits, such as access to free education and healthcare, the ability to own property, and freedom from visa restrictions.
Numerous factors are considered when pursuing a permanent residency by investment. What are the requirements and regulations of this process? What are the benefits of having permanent residency? How can it help you access new opportunities?
It is essential to do your research and work closely with experts who can guide you through every step of pursuing permanent residency by investment. With careful planning and guidance, you can achieve your goals for yourself and your family and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
What are the Benefits of Permanent Residency by Investment?
The permanent residency status offers many opportunities and benefits that can be extremely valuable to individuals and families. Some of the main advantages include:
What are the Requirements of Permanent Residency by Investment?
You must meet many requirements to obtain permanent residency by investment. These requirements vary from country to country, but some of the common ones include the following:
- Firstly, investing in the country or region
- Additionally, demonstrating a certain level of proficiency in the local language
- Moreover, passing a criminal background check
Types of Investment Required for PRBI
The investments made for this purpose vary (amount and type) from country to country. However, in most countries, you are expected to invest in immovable property, a business, trust funds, make donations, or do a bit of property or business along with donations.
Countries Offering Permanent Residency by Investment Programmes
It is vital for investors who want to become permanent residents of a country to know where they can maximise their investments. Therefore, here is a list of countries offering permanent residency by investment programmes:
1. Malta
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) or the Maltese Residence by Investment offers certain benefits that make it an attractive option for investors and non-European individuals and families. Some of the main benefits include living and working in Malta permanently, free movement within the Schengen area, and access to high-quality education and healthcare.
2. Australia
There are many reasons why Australia is an attractive destination for foreign investors, including its strong economy and high standard of living. Specifically, the Investor Stream requires an investment of AUD 2.5 million. Alternatively, the Significant Investor Stream requires an investment of AUD 5 million.
3. Austria
Austria is a member of the EU, and its permanent residence programme provides access to the entire Schengen area. Essentially, Austria’s Private Residence Programme requires an applicant to have at least EUR 40,000 in the bank account.
4. Canada
In addition, investing in Canada can be a great way to obtain permanent residency status and live in one of the world’s most developed countries. The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program allows permanent residency by investing CAD 1.2 million into a government-guaranteed investment. Alternatively, the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Program is an option for high-net-worth families with at least CAD 10 million who want to become permanent residents of Canada.
5. Greece
Moreover, the Greece Golden Visa is a residence by investment programme requiring a real estate investment of at least EUR 250,000, which is significantly lower than those required in other countries. Notably, the investor need not reside in Greece. In addition, this programme also allows for visa-free travel to other Schengen areas.
6. Hong Kong
Furthermore, Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading business centres. As a result, Hong Kong is an attractive destination for foreign investment. One of the options for permanent residency is the Investment as Entrepreneurs programme. In essence, there is no minimum required investment for this programme. Applicants, however, are required to establish that their business will contribute to the country’s economic growth.
7. Italy
Additionally, the Italy Investor Visa Programme provides foreign investors with the opportunity to live and work in Italy while enjoying all that the country offers. Italy is also home to several world-renowned industries, such as fashion, food, and wine. Specifically, the Italy Investor Programme requires a minimum of EUR 250,000 to EUR 2 million, with no required permanent stay.
8. Monaco
Alternatively, Monaco is one of the most exclusive and expensive places to live. Aside from showing proof of accommodation, permanent residency applicants must show that they are financially sufficient by depositing at least EUR 500,00 in a bank account in Monaco.
9. New Zealand
From healthcare and education to job opportunities and infrastructure, New Zealand offers its residents a fantastic quality of life. In effect, there are two Investor categories under New Zealand’s Migrant Investment Policy. Firstly, the Investor 1 category requires a minimum investment of NZD 10 million for at least three (3) years. Secondly, the Investor 2 category, on the other hand, requires a minimum investment of NZD 3 million for at least four (4) years.
10. Portugal
The Portugal Golden Visa Programme offers permanent residency to non-EU citizens who invest in Portugal. Portuguese residency gives investors visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area. To qualify for this programme, investors must make a minimum investment of EUR 280,000 in Portuguese real estate. Besides property acquisition or real estate investment, other options are capital transfer and business investment.
11. Singapore
Despite its size, Singapore is one of the world’s most prosperous countries. Notably, the country is also consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work. Singapore’s Global Investor Program offers two options. Firstly, Option A requires an investment of at least SGD 2.5 million in a new business or an expansion of an existing business. Moreover option B involves an investment of at least SGD 2.5 million in companies based in Singapore.
12. Spain
Spain has a long and rich history and is also known for its beautiful weather and stunning scenery. There are various investment options to obtain residence in Spain. By purchasing a property in Spain worth at least EUR 500,000, you can apply for residency. Alternatively, you can invest EUR 1 million worth of shares or bank deposits in Spanish banks or make a EUR 2 million investment in government bonds.
13. Switzerland
Situated in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is an essential financial hub and home to many international organisations. The country is also highly sought-after by foreign nationals for its excellent quality of life. In essence, Non-EU individuals not gainfully employed in Switzerland can obtain a residence permit by paying a minimum net annual tax ranging from CHF 250,000 to CHF 1,000,000.
14. The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers the Tier 1 Investor Visa, which requires a minimum investment of £50,000 into a new company. Permanent residency status confers several benefits, including the right to live and work in the United Kingdom and access to top educational and financial institutions in the world.
15. The United States of America
The United States remains one of the most desired destinations for immigrants and investors from all over the world. The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a fast track to permanent resident status with an efficient process. The minimum required investment is USD 800,000.
Pursuing Permanent Residency by Investment
Permanent residency by investment may be complicated, but it is not impossible. With the right experts, the best-suited programme, and the optimisation of opportunities that come with this coveted status, you can build a secure future for yourself and your family.
