Several countries worldwide have introduced real estate investment programs to attract foreign investors and provide pathways to residency, and in some cases, citizenship. These initiatives appeal to high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) seeking international property investments or a second home abroad. Here’s a detailed look at 10 countries offering residency through real estate investment for Indians programs:
1. Brazil
Investing in real estate valued at Brazilian real 1,000,000 (approximately ₹1.7 crore) in Brazil’s north/northeastern regions can qualify you for permanent residency. Brazil’s lenient immigration policies, particularly for individuals with clean records, make it an attractive option.
2. Greece
Greece’s Golden Visa program offers a five-year residence permit, renewable indefinitely, to non-EU investors purchasing property worth €500,000 (about ₹4.57 crore). This investment not only secures residency but also grants access to Schengen nations, making it a compelling choice for global investors.
3. Cambodia
Through the Cambodia My Second Home (CM2H) program, investing in designated government real estate projects grants a 10-year residency permit. This permit is renewable with continued investment, and after five years, investors become eligible for citizenship with a minimum investment of $100,000 (about ₹83.5 lakh).
4. Cyprus
Investing €300,000 (approximately $329,000 or ₹2.73 crore) in real estate under the Cyprus Permanent Residence Program allows Indian nationals to obtain permanent residency without renewal requirements, provided the investment is maintained. Additional financial criteria include a three-year bank deposit and annual income requirements.
5. Anguilla
Investing $750,000 in real estate in Anguilla qualifies foreigners for permanent residency. This British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean offers a tax-efficient environment with no income tax, inheritance tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax.
6. Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa program requires non-EU citizens to invest a minimum of €500,000 (approximately ₹4.17 crore) in real estate to obtain a residence visa. With continuous investment maintenance, this visa can be renewed every five years, offering access to the Schengen Area.
7. Curaçao
Investing $280,000 in real estate in Curaçao grants a three-year residency permit, with options for longer permits based on higher investment amounts. This Dutch Caribbean island provides diverse residency options tailored to varying investment levels.
8. Malta
Malta’s Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) offers residency by investing €350,000 (about $384,000) in real estate, with reduced requirements for properties in certain regions. Malta’s strategic location and stable economy make it an attractive choice for investors seeking European residency.
9. Cayman Islands
Investing $1.2 million or more in real estate and meeting minimum income criteria secures permanent residency in the tax-free haven of the Cayman Islands. This British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean offers a serene lifestyle with no direct taxes on personal income.
10. Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa program allows investors to acquire residency by investing €500,000 in real estate. An additional incentive reduces the minimum investment to €350,000 for properties undergoing rehabilitation, particularly in low-density areas, fostering sustainable development.
These real estate citizenship and residency programs offer unique opportunities for Indians and other global investors to secure residency or citizenship through property investments. Each program has specific investment requirements and benefits, catering to diverse investor preferences and financial capabilities.
Investors considering these options should consult with legal and financial advisors to navigate the complexities of residency and citizenship programs, ensuring compliance with local regulations and maximizing the benefits of international property investments.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Residency through real estate investment programs allows individuals from other countries to obtain residency rights by investing in property within the host country.
Several countries offer residency or citizenship through real estate investment, including Portugal, Greece, Spain, Cyprus, and Malta, among others.
Investment thresholds vary by country. For example, Portugal requires a minimum investment of €500,000, while Greece offers residency for investments starting at €250,000.
Benefits typically include visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone (for applicable countries), potential for citizenship after a certain period, and access to healthcare and education systems.
Yes, many programs allow family members (spouses, children, dependent parents) to also obtain residency or citizenship based on the main applicant’s investment.
Tax implications vary by country. Some countries may offer tax incentives for investors, while others may require compliance with local tax laws on income and property.
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