Residency by investment (RBI) programmes have become one of the most powerful tools available to globally mobile high-net-worth individuals and families. Whether driven by the desire for greater travel freedom, tax optimisation, business diversification, or simply a quality lifestyle upgrade, the global RBI landscape offers compelling options across multiple continents. Here we provide a comprehensive comparison of the leading programmes available in 2024.
United Arab Emirates: The Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa remains one of the most sought-after RBI options globally. A minimum real estate investment of AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000) unlocks a ten-year renewable residency with no requirement to spend a minimum number of days in the country. The UAE offers zero personal income tax, world-class infrastructure, and exceptional connectivity, making it particularly attractive for entrepreneurs and business owners seeking a tax-efficient base.
Portugal: The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Programme
Portugal's Golden Visa has been restructured as of 2023, with direct real estate investment no longer eligible in most cases. However, the country's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime continues to attract high earners and retirees with its flat 20% income tax rate on Portuguese-source income and potential exemptions on foreign-source income for ten years. Investment fund contributions of €500,000 or more remain an eligible route to residency.
Malta: Permanent Residency and Citizenship by Naturalisation
Malta's Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) requires a combination of a government contribution (€98,000 minimum), real estate purchase or rental, and a charitable donation. Malta offers the unique advantage of EU membership, providing holders with freedom of movement across the Schengen Area. For citizenship, Malta's Community Malta Agency (CMA) programme requires a minimum three-year residency and a significantly higher total investment, currently in excess of €800,000.
Dominica and the Caribbean Options
Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes — particularly those offered by Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada — provide the fastest route to a second passport globally. Dominica's programme requires a minimum government contribution of USD 100,000 for a single applicant, with processing times as short as three months. These passports offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen Area, and Singapore.
Greece: The Golden Visa
Greece's Golden Visa has been one of Europe's most popular RBI programmes, with real estate investment thresholds beginning at €250,000 (though this has been raised to €500,000 in major cities including Athens and Thessaloniki). The programme grants a five-year renewable residency with minimal physical presence requirements, and holders may apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of residency.
Choosing the Right Programme
The optimal RBI programme depends on the individual's specific objectives: whether primarily seeking tax benefits, travel freedom, family relocation, or long-term citizenship pathways. Key variables to assess include minimum investment amounts, physical presence requirements, tax implications in the investor's home country, processing timelines, and the quality of life in the target jurisdiction. Professional advisory guidance is essential in navigating the due diligence requirements, source of funds documentation, and ongoing compliance obligations that all programmes require.