Are you seeking to achieve global freedom, obtain a second passport, or establish residency in a different country? Investment migration offers a legal pathway to achieve all that and more.
From citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs in the Caribbean, where Caribbean countries are popular destinations for investment migration due to their accessible programs, to golden visa residency options across Europe and the Middle East, individuals and families can access new opportunities by investing in the right country. Many countries offer a range of investment migration programs, providing options for both residency and citizenship through various investment routes.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we explore the best investment migration countries and compare their programs, benefits, and requirements. Whether you’re seeking fast processing, visa-free travel, tax advantages, or EU citizenship, this guide will help you find the program that aligns with your lifestyle, financial goals, and future plans.
When choosing where to obtain residency or citizenship by investment, understanding each country’s program at a glance is critical.
Whether you're aiming for EU access, tax advantages, or a fast-track second passport, the table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the top investment migration countries, covering key features, costs, and core benefits.
These are the most competitive and reputable programs worldwide, chosen for their efficiency, legal stability, and investor-friendly terms.
Choosing the right one depends on your long-term goals, mobility, taxation, lifestyle, or legacy planning.
Investment migration refers to the process of legally acquiring residency or citizenship in another country by making a qualifying financial contribution, often through real estate, government bonds, business development, or national funds.
These programs, sometimes called investment visas, not only provide immigration benefits but also play a significant role in supporting the country's economy by attracting foreign capital and stimulating national economic growth.
Designed to attract foreign capital in exchange for legal immigration benefits, these programs typically require investors to meet specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient funds to qualify for these programs.
It's a fast-growing strategy for global entrepreneurs, digital nomads, investors, and families seeking freedom of movement, asset protection, and a secure "Plan B."
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) vs. Residency by Investment (RBI)
There are two primary types of investment migration programs, each with distinct paths, timelines, and benefits:
🛂 Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
These programs allow individuals to obtain citizenship in countries offering citizenship through investment, often referred to as "second passports."
Applicants must make qualifying investments, such as in real estate, government bonds, or national development funds, to be eligible for citizenship.
Key features:
- Immediate access to visa-free travel
- No residency or language requirements
- Dual citizenship allowed in most cases
- Great for asset protection and global mobility
Popular CBI countries: Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, Turkey, Grenada, Malta
🏠 Residency by Investment (RBI) – “Golden Visas”
RBI programs grant investors the right to reside in a country, and many offer permanent residency as a key benefit.
Like CBI, applicants must make qualifying investments to meet the program's requirements, which may include real estate purchases, business investments, or contributions to government funds.
Key features:
- Residency first, with optional path to citizenship
- Access to local services (healthcare, education, business)
- Lower initial investment in some cases
- Typically requires minimal or no physical stay
Popular RBI countries: Portugal, Spain, Greece, Italy, UAE, Thailand
🧭 In short: If you want a passport fast, go with CBI. If you're thinking of long-term access to the EU, lifestyle relocation, or building a base abroad, RBI (Golden Visa) might be the smarter option.
Investment migration offers a multitude of benefits, whether you're looking for increased freedom, improved lifestyle options, or a strategic tax residency. It’s more than a legal shortcut to residency or a passport; it’s a long-term strategy for wealth preservation, personal security, and legacy building.
The following benefits reflect why more individuals and families, from entrepreneurs to remote workers and retirees, are turning to second citizenship or residency as a cornerstone of their global strategy:
As you can see, the advantages of investment migration go far beyond travel or taxes; it’s a foundation for building a more secure, flexible, and prosperous future. But not all programs offer the same value.
In the next section, we break down the top investment migration countries in 2025 so you can compare your options and choose the one that best fits your goals.
Antigua & Barbuda - Best for Fast Processing
Antigua & Barbuda distinguishes itself with rapid processing times, ideal for quick relocation.
A minimum investment of USD 230,000 grants significant tax benefits and access to over 150 destinations, including visa-free travel to the Schengen Area.
The efficient citizenship process enables investors to relocate promptly and enjoy their new citizenship benefits.
Portugal – Best for Real Estate Investments
Portugal’s Golden Visa program remains a top-tier choice. With an investment of €250,000 or a minimum donation of €250,000 as one of the investment options, investors gain access to Schengen travel, top education, and healthcare.
Residency doesn’t require full-time presence, and after five years, citizenship is attainable, with one of the most powerful passports in the world.
Spain – Best for Lifestyle and Long-Term Stability
Spain no longer offers real estate as a Golden Visa route (as of April 3, 2025), but it remains a strong choice for investors seeking long-term EU residency. Qualifying investments now include €2M in government bonds, €1M in shares or funds, or €1M in business development.
Spain’s Mediterranean lifestyle, excellent infrastructure, and robust healthcare system make it attractive for relocation. Citizenship requires 10 years of physical residency, with family inclusion available.
Italy – Best for Tax Incentives and Cultural Living
Italy’s Investor Visa offers a gateway to the EU with options starting at €250,000 for startups or €500,000 for established companies or government bonds. Investors can also donate €1M to public interest projects.
Italy’s unique flat tax regime, €100,000 annually on foreign income, makes it appealing for high-net-worth individuals. Citizenship is available after 10 years of residency, and the program includes family members.
St Kitts and Nevis - Best for Global Mobility
St. Kitts and Nevis offers one of the fastest citizenship-by-investment programs, typically processed within 60–90 days. The minimum investment is $250,000 via the Sustainable Growth Fund or approved real estate. Applicants are not required to reside in the country.
Its passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries. As the world’s oldest CBI program (since 1984), it is known for its stability and credibility.
Dominica - Best for Affordability
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Program starts at just $100,000, making it one of the most affordable globally. The process typically takes 3–4 months and does not require residency. Options include a government donation or approved real estate.
The program supports dual citizenship, offers family inclusion, and grants visa-free access to 90 countries. It’s ideal for investors seeking value and efficiency.
Grenada - Best for Business Opportunities
Grenada’s CBI program grants citizenship in 3–4 months with investments starting at $150,000 (donation) or $220,000 (real estate).
The E-2 visa treaty with the US allows investors to enter the American market easily. However, the processing time can exceed six months, a potential drawback for those needing a quicker process.
This makes Grenada especially appealing for businesspeople targeting American markets. The passport also offers access to China and Russia.
Additionally, immigrant investor programs can provide alternative pathways for investment.
Malta - Best for EU Access
Malta offers direct citizenship through the Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program. Investors can choose between a €600,000 (3-year residency) or €750,000 (1-year residency) contribution, along with a €700,000 property purchase or €16,000/year lease and a €10,000 donation to an NGO.
The passport offers EU citizenship, visa-free access to 120+ countries, and a competitive tax regime. Due diligence is among the strictest globally.
The program also provides a favourable tax regime for investors. The required property purchase of at least €375,000 adds to the investment but guarantees stable EU residency.
Greece - Best for Cultural Experience
Greece’s Golden Visa program offers EU residency starting at €250,000 in real estate, increasing up to €800,000 in premium areas (e.g., Athens, Mykonos).
There is no minimum stay requirement, and citizenship is possible after 7 years of residency.
The program provides Schengen access and includes family members. It is particularly popular for its cultural appeal, warm climate, and lifestyle benefits.
Turkey - Best for Strategic Location
Turkey offers a direct citizenship route with a minimum $400,000 real estate investment or $500,000 in alternatives such as bank deposits, government bonds, or job creation (50+ employees). Processing takes around 6–9 months.
The passport grants access to 110+ countries and permits dual citizenship. Turkey’s position as a bridge between Europe and Asia makes it attractive for geopolitical and business strategy.
Thailand - Best for Long-Term Residency
Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa and Thailand Elite Visa programs cater to wealthy individuals, retirees, and digital nomads. The LTR Visa offers 10-year residency for those with $1M+ in assets or substantial income.
The Elite Visa ranges from 5 to 20 years depending on the tier. While there is no direct path to citizenship, the programs provide tax benefits, family inclusion, and a high standard of living in Southeast Asia.
United Arab Emirates - Best for Luxury Living
The UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa is available for investments starting at AED 2 million (~$545,000) in real estate or approved public investments.
The country offers a zero income tax environment, modern infrastructure, and an elite lifestyle.
While it doesn’t lead to citizenship, the visa grants long-term residency, family sponsorship, and business access in a major global hub.
The surge in investment migration programs over the past decade isn’t a coincidence; it’s the result of converging global forces that are reshaping the way people think about citizenship, residency, and mobility.
From economic shifts to lifestyle trends, here’s what’s fuelling the rise of second passports and golden visas worldwide:
- 🌍 Global Political & Economic Instability
More investors are seeking “Plan B” citizenships due to rising uncertainty in their home countries, from political unrest and social tension to economic collapse and authoritarian governance. A second passport offers a secure fallback. - 🧳 Rise of Digital Nomadism and Remote Work
The remote work revolution has created a generation of location-independent professionals. These individuals want more flexibility to live, work, and move freely, and residency-by-investment offers a legal pathway to do just that. - 💼 Wealth Protection & Diversification
High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are increasingly diversifying not only their portfolios but also their citizenships. Investment migration allows for strategic asset relocation, estate planning, and global wealth protection. - 🧒 Family & Education Planning
Parents often pursue second residency or citizenship to access better schooling, healthcare, and long-term career opportunities for their children. It’s a way to secure generational benefits in stable, advanced nations. - 🏛 Government Strategies for Growth
On the supply side, countries are actively offering CBI and RBI programs as a way to attract capital, reduce deficits, and boost local economies, especially through real estate, development funds, or business investment. - 🌐 Increased Mobility Restrictions Post-COVID
COVID-19 revealed just how limited mobility can become, even for passport holders in developed nations. Investors now understand the value of multiple residencies or citizenships in mitigating future travel and border issues. - 🔍 Access to Global Markets
Many investors seek entry into large trade blocs, like the EU or Mercosur, to do business, access new banking systems, or take advantage of favorable tax treaties. Investment migration provides the legal right to live and operate in those markets.
The landscape of investment migration is rapidly evolving, offering more opportunities than ever for individuals and families seeking to expand their horizons. As global demand for security, flexibility, and international access continues to rise, investment migration programs are becoming a cornerstone strategy for high-net-worth individuals looking to obtain citizenship, permanent residency, and enhanced global mobility.
Looking ahead, we can expect to see even more European countries introducing or expanding their golden visa programs and citizenship-by-investment schemes.
These initiatives are designed to attract foreign investments, stimulate economic growth, and offer investors a pathway to European citizenship, visa-free travel, and favourable tax regimes.
Countries such as Portugal, Malta, and Greece are already leading the way, and others are likely to follow, making Europe an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking a second citizenship or residence permit.
Caribbean citizenship programs will also remain highly sought after, thanks to their streamlined processes, relatively low minimum investment requirements, and extensive visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries.
Nations like Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Grenada continue to offer some of the most accessible and flexible citizenship programs, providing global mobility and significant tax advantages for successful applicants and their family members.
Meanwhile, several non-European regions are rising in prominence:
- The Middle East and Asia are emerging as key players in the investment migration space.
- Countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Jordan are offering innovative programs that combine luxury living, tax benefits, and visa-free travel.
- Asian hubs like Singapore and Malaysia attract foreign investors with strong economies, political stability, and global connectivity.
As investment immigration programs become more sophisticated, the range of investment options is also expanding. From real estate investments and government bonds to business ventures and philanthropic contributions, there are now multiple pathways to acquire citizenship or permanent residency in a new country.
These programs not only provide personal benefits—such as mobility, security, and access to education and healthcare—but also contribute to the host country’s economy through foreign investment and economic contributions.
With the industry’s continued growth, it’s more important than ever for prospective investors to stay informed about the latest trends, eligibility criteria, and regulatory changes. Working with licensed agents and seeking expert guidance can help navigate the complexities of investment migration, ensuring your chosen program aligns with your long-term goals, risk tolerance, and family needs.
In summary, the future of investment migration is promising and brimming with opportunities. Whether your priority is obtaining citizenship, securing permanent residency, or simply diversifying your investments across multiple countries, there is a growing array of programs designed to meet your needs.
By leveraging the right investment strategy and staying ahead of emerging trends, you can unlock new levels of freedom, security, and prosperity for yourself and your loved ones—regardless of where in the world you choose to call home.
Not all programs are created equal, and not all investors want the same thing.
Some people just want a fast passport. Others are pursuing long-term goals such as EU access, global tax planning, or providing better options for their children.
So where do you start?
Well, start with you.
What’s your goal?
Visa-free travel? Lower taxes? Dual citizenship? Family relocation? Are you considering a beachfront retirement plan?
Now think:
- How fast do you want it?
- How much can you invest, and are you okay with making a donation, or do you prefer real estate or business ownership?
- Are you bringing your family? Are you bringing only your spouse? Or are Mom and Dad coming too?
For example: if you want speed and affordability, Dominica, Antigua, or St Lucia deliver. You’ll get a passport in about three months, minimal paperwork, and no residency required.
Are you considering a long-term move? Portugal or Spain might be a better fit. By investing in a fund or real estate and spending a few weeks each year there, you can obtain EU citizenship five to ten years later.
Furthermore, consider lifestyle.
Do you picture yourself living near the Mediterranean? Would you prefer to live surrounded by vineyards rather than skyscrapers? Or is Dubai’s luxury, zero-tax system more your style?
Tax is another layer. Some countries, like the UAE, Antigua, or St Kitts, don’t tax global income. Others, like Portugal, offer special tax regimes like NHR, but only if you become a resident. That distinction matters.
And please keep in mind the legal stuff.
Every program has different rules for physical presence, document requirements, and background checks. Some are flexible. Others are unforgiving.
At the end of the day, choosing the right investment migration program is like choosing a business partner. You’re not just buying paperwork; you’re buying access, security, freedom… and hopefully, a better life.
Take your time. Do your due diligence. And choose what fits you, not just what looks appealing on paper.
Applying for residency or citizenship through investment (often called an investment visa) isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but it does require precision, patience, and a good advisory team.
Here’s a typical step-by-step walkthrough of how most investment migration programs work, from start to finish:
✅ Many reputable advisors like Movingto and Zoark offer end-to-end support, helping you from your first consultation all the way to passport delivery, even including biometric appointments, translations, and real estate purchases.
Before you commit to any investment migration program, it’s crucial to understand what comes with it, legally and financially. Getting a second passport or residency permit doesn’t automatically make you a tax resident, nor does it mean you’re immune to reporting obligations in your home country.
Some programs, like those in the Caribbean, require no physical presence at all and impose zero local tax unless you relocate. Others, especially in Europe, can create tax ties if you spend enough time there or register as a resident.
You’ll also encounter due diligence screenings, which are standard in virtually all programs. This includes background checks, proof of legal income, and sometimes even interviews.
While many countries allow dual citizenship, not all do, so it’s essential to check both the destination country’s laws and your home country's stance before proceeding.
And don’t overlook the minimum stay requirements; Portugal, for instance, only asks for seven days per year, while countries like Spain or Italy may expect more if you’re aiming for long-term citizenship.
Here are a few practical things to keep in mind:
- Citizenship ≠ tax residency - the two are often unrelated.
- Spending over 183 days/year in a country usually makes you a tax resident.
- Due diligence failures (like poor documentation or unclear fund origins) can cause rejections.
- Some programs are “zero-tax,” but it depends on your actual residence status.
- Tax advisors are essential, especially if you hold assets or income across multiple countries.
Ultimately, treat investment migration as a legal and financial strategy, not just a lifestyle move, and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls.
Investment migration isn’t just about passports or paperwork; it’s about control. Control over where you live, how you move, how you’re taxed, and how you secure your family’s future. Whether you’re seeking freedom, opportunity, or simply a plan B, there’s likely a program that fits your goals and budget.
The landscape is evolving fast: new rules, changing thresholds, and shifting global dynamics. That’s why working with experts and staying informed is just as important as the investment itself.
The right decision now can open up a lifetime of possibilities. Take the time to explore, compare, and align your choices with the bigger picture of your life.
Your future isn’t limited to borders, and neither should your options be.
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