Economic convergence has been a catalyst for diminishing border lines. Despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, developing countries have been taking resolute steps to augment their visa-free travel regimes. The European Union’s Schengen Area initiative is a great example of uniting EU markets by facilitating free mobility in Schengen countries.
Global Mobility Fosters Economic Development
Migration is a global phenomenon that has been one of the key factors in shaping economies and societies for ages. Migration contributes significantly to global prosperity — though migrants constitute only 3% of the global population, they yield nearly 9% of the global GDP.
With changes in the global landscape, many countries are actively working to attract new skills, business investments, innovative ideas, and real estate investments by relaxing visa regulations and enabling visa-free travel. Such policies encourage tourism, international trade, and employment of skilled workers. Globally, tourism accounts for about 6.5% of total business, but in some countries, tourism contributes more than 20% of their economy. Other major contributors include Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the inflow of foreign skilled workers.
Growth of Residency and Citizenship by Investment Programs
The pandemic has transformed global mobility patterns, prompting countries to compete for foreign investments through investment migration programs. These programs have become popular among high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) seeking to acquire a second citizenship or residency as a secure long-term investment.
According to a global survey by CS Global Partners, 89% of respondents expressed interest in holding a second citizenship, and nearly 80% were willing to invest up to 5% of their annual income to obtain it.
Global citizens are increasingly seeking stability, freedom of movement, better healthcare, education, and social security by investing in countries offering residency by investment programs. This demand has also created a need for certified investment migration consultants who can guide HNIs and businesses toward informed global investment and migration decisions.
Returns on Investment (RoI) Through Residency Programs
The pandemic increased the demand for capital worldwide, pushing governments to attract FDI, new talent, and skills through appealing residency and citizenship programs.
There is a growing need for expert advice on investing for residency or second citizenship. Popular options include:
- Investing in an existing or new business
- Real estate investment
- Investment in government-approved funds
Residency by Business Investment
Migration through business investment has been a long-established practice in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia. The USA’s EB-5 Visa Program saw a 400% increase in applications before the pandemic.
There are two key categories of business investment residency:
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Investing in a New Business: Ideal for investors ready to expand globally and generate employment. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are leading destinations for business-based residency.
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Starting an Innovative Business: Many nations have introduced Startup Visa or Innovator Visa Programs to attract entrepreneurial talent. Popular programs include the Canada Start-up Visa and the UK Innovator Visa.
Residency by Real Estate Investment
Many developed and developing economies offer residency or citizenship in exchange for real estate investment. This option provides promising returns, freedom to reside, and visa-free travel to multiple destinations.
Top countries offering such programs include Portugal, Turkey, Spain, Greece, Malta, and several Caribbean countries like Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Antigua & Barbuda.
Residency by Fund Investment
Over recent years, fund investments have matured into an attractive route for acquiring residency, particularly in European countries. This is favored by investors who prefer passive investment. The Singapore Global Investor Program and various European investment funds in Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy are among the most popular.
Act Timely to Acquire and Benefit from Top Residency Programs
Due to rising demand, residency by investment programs often reach their quotas quickly. To avoid missing out, it’s important to act early and seek expert advice.
Investors should always consult IMC (Investment Migration Council) certified investment migration consultants for guidance and program eligibility.
To know more about the application process and your eligibility, please contact our expert consultants at +91-9019-400-500 or email us at [email protected].
FAQs
1. What is Residency by Investment? A. Residency by Investment (RBI) is a government program that allows individuals to obtain permanent residency or citizenship by making an approved investment, typically in real estate, funds, or businesses.
2. Which countries offer the best Residency by Investment programs? A. Top destinations include Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta, USA, UK, and several Caribbean countries such as Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis.
3. How can Xiphias Immigration assist with Residency by Investment? A. Xiphias Immigration provides expert consultation, eligibility assessment, and end-to-end support for global investment migration programs, helping investors choose the right country and investment path.
