Meet the world's most welcoming nations
Find the best visa for you
The Premium visa lets remote workers, self-employed people, and retirees visit Mauritius for up to a year.
Can bring family
Easy application
Low required income
$18,000/yr income ($48,000/y for a family of 4) or a bank statement showing funds deposited, accomodation, and a return plane ticket. Applicants can enter Mauritius on a tourist visa, then extend their stay with a Premium Visa from within the country.
This visa is free and takes around 2 days to process. You can apply online here.
Freelancers, remote workers, and self-employed people can spend up to one year in Georgia with Remotely From Georgia.
Free and fast application
Low required income
Low local tax (1% up to $155,000/yr income)
$2,000/m income or $24,000 deposited.
This visa is free and takes around 10 days to process. You can apply online here.
This Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and self-employed people to spend up a year in Estonia.
Approved in 1 month
Bring family
Can access Schengen zone
$4,253/m income, demonstrated for the past 6 months prior to application through bank statements or pay stubs.
This visa costs $97 and takes around a month to process. You can apply online here.
The Working Remotely from Dubai program gives you one year to experience this futuristic, dynamic, and international city.
Fast online application
0% tax
Bring family
$5,000/m income per application
This visa costs $287 and takes around 15 days to process. You can apply locally or online here.
Explore the 700 islands of the Bahamas through the BEATS program, which suits remote workers and offers special educational opportunities for remote students from any university worldwide.
Fast, online application
0% tax
Bring family
Open to remote workers or remote university students.
This visa costs $1,025 per adult and $525 for dependents and students. It takes 5 days to process and you can apply online here.
The Digital Nomad Residence Permit allows remote workers, self-employed people, and freelancers to spend one year in Croatia.
Low required income
0% tax
Bring family
Have $2,579/m income (more for a family). May be required to deposit funds in Croatia or show proof of accomodation.
This visa costs $190 and takes around a month to process. You can apply at your local Croatian embassy.
The Cayman Islands Global Citizen Certificate Program allows high-earning remote workers and business owners to spend up to two years living in the Cayman Islands.
Bring family
0% tax
Easy application
$100,000/yr income per applicant, $150,000 per married couple, or $180,000 for a married couple with dependents (or a single applicant and a dependent). Only business owners and salaried employees qualify.
This visa costs $1,469 and takes 3-4 weeks to process. You can apply online here.
Remote workers or finanically independent people can spend one year in Barbados with the 12-Month Welcome Stamp.
Fast online application
0% tax
Bring family
$50,000/yr income, or are able to how you can financially support yourself and any dependents.
The visa costs $2,000 per applicant or $3,000 for a family and takes 5 days to process. You can apply online here.
Remote workers can spend up to a year and a half experiencing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Renewable up to 2 years
0% tax
Bring family
$3,000/m income ($4,000/m for a family). The Estancia Visa is in the process of being expanded for remote workers, so information can change. Check back soon for the latest updates.
The visa costs $52+ and takes 3 months to process. Apply through your local Costa Rican embassy.
The Work in Iceland Program allows high-earning remote workers and self-employed people to spend up to six months exploring Iceland.
Approved in 1 month
0% tax
Bring family
$7,715/m income ($10,030/m for a family). Must be from a country with visa-free entry to Iceland.
This visa costs $60 per person and takes 1 month to process. Pay the fee by bank transfer and apply by mail to the Directorate of Immigration. Instructions here.
Remote workers, self-employed people, and freelancers can move to Mexico with a Temporary Residence Visa.
Renewable up to 4 years
Path to Permanent Residence
Unlimited entry and exit
$1,620/m income or a bank statement showing a deposit of $27,000. Freelancers who can show $1,620/m from one client or platform (as opposed to various contracts) are more likely to qualify.
This visa costs $44 and takes 1 month to process. You can apply at your local Mexican Embassy.
High-earning remote workers, self-employed people, and freelancers can spend up to one year in Montserrat.
Fast online application
Low-cost Caribbean program
0% tax
$70,000/yr income. If you are self-employed, you'll need proof of business incorporation.
This visa costs $500 per applicant, $750 for a family of 5, and $250 for any additional dependents. It takes 7 days to process, and you can apply online here.
Remote workers, self-employed people, freelancers, and students can spend up to one year in Anguilla.
Fast online application
Bring family
No minimum income specified
Proof of employment or business incorporation, accomodation details. Remote students also qualify. Apply at least 7 days before you plan to travel.
This visa costs $2,000 per person or $3,000 for a family of 4. Fees are less if staying under 3 months. It takes around 7 days to process, and you can do it here.
Though not technically a remote work visa, younger digital nomads from certain countries can go to Australia and work remotely, as well as work for local employers, with a Working Holiday Visa.
Includes local right to work
Renewable up to 3 years
Relatively low bank balance required
$3,875 bank balance and a return ticket. Applicant must be under 30 years old (35 if Canadian, French, or Irish). Citizens of these countries qualify: Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, or United Kingdom. Visa can be extended up to 3 years if applicant works in Australia in qualified fields.
This visa costs $376 and takes around 4 months to process. You can apply online here.
The D7 Visa allows people who earn income from abroad (like self-employed people, freelancers, remote workers, startup founders, and retired people) to move to Portugal, with favorable tax terms for the first 10 years of residence and the right to work.
Bring family
Low required income
Renewable after 1 year
$8,684/yr income ($18,273/yr for a family of 4) or other proof of funds, as well as 6 months of bank statements.
This visa fee varies and it takes 2+ months to process. Apply at your local Portuguese embassy.
Remote workers can move to Costa Rica, with a path to permanent residency, with the Rentista Visa.
Low required income
0% offshore tax
Renewable after 2 years
$2,500/m income or a deposit of $60,000 into a Costa Rican bank.
This visa costs $50+ and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Costa Rican embassy.
The Type D Visa allows economically self-sufficient people (such as self-employeed, remote workers, startup founders, business owners, or retirees) to move to Greece with their families.
Low required income
Bring family
Renewable after 1 year
Income of $2,400/m for a single applicant ($3,613/m for a family) or a bank statement with $77,000 deposited.
This visa costs $220+ and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Greek embassy.
Freelancers and business owners can move to Spain with the Self-Employed Work Visa, which offers a Path to Permanent Residence.
Low required income
Bring family
Renewable after 1 year
$15,800/yr income (may need to be deposited upfront). The necessary professional qualifications for work, a business plan, or both.
The visa fee starts at $72 (varies based on your nationality), and this visa takes 6 months to process. Apply at your local Spanish embassy.
The Long-Stay Visa for Self-Employment allows self-employed people, freelancers, and business owners in approved fields to move to France.
Low required income
Bring family
Renewable after 1 year
Business must be economically viable ($22,156.52/yr income), and the applicant needs the required qualifications to operate it. This visa suits the "liberal" professions, which broadly include medical, legal, technical, artistic, and teaching fields (remote employees of companies outside of France would not qualify). If the business has French clients, it is more likely to be approved.
The total cost is $488 ($120 for visa and $324 for residence permit), and it takes 1+ month to process. Apply online here.
The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa allows people with passive income to move to Spain.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$31,330/yr income, including some passive income, plus $7,982 per dependent. This amount might be required upon application. Some consulates require the full $31,300/yr in passive income (so remote workers might not qualify). In that case, consider Spain's Self-Employed Work Visa.
This visa costs $72+ (varies based on your nationality) and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Spanish embassy.
People of any age earning passive income can move to Costa Rica with the Pensionado Visa, which offers a Path to Permanent Residence.
Bring family
0% offshore tax
Renewable after 2 years
$1,000/m in permanent passive income. Additional remote work is permitted under this visa.
This visa costs $50+ and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Costa Rican embassy.
Freelance and self-employed workers can move to the Czech Republic (and work for clients there) with the Živnostenský Visa.
Bring family
Includes right to work for clients
Renewable after 1 year
$5,777 bank balance (could be more with family), 1 year's accommodation, and relevant professional qualifications/business license. This work must be related to the Czech Republic (for example, freelancers with Czech clients could qualify, but remote employees of companies abroad would not).
This visa costs $234+ and takes 4 months to process. Apply at your local Czech embassy.
Remote workers with approved businesses can move to Finland with an Entrepreneur Residence Permit.
Freelancers and self-employed qualify
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
Business must meet government requirements for structure, profitibility, business plan, and other factors. Remote workers employed outside of Finland do not qualify.
This visa costs $976 and takes ~9 months to process. Apply online here.
Business owners, freelancers, and self-employed people can move to Germany with the Residence Permit for Self-Employed People.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 3 years
The applicant needs the professional qualifications and funds to set up and run their business. Approval is more likely if the business has German clients, and this visa doesn't suit remote employees of a company outside of Germany. Applicants who are older than 45 years old also need funds or a plan for their retirement.
Visa and residence permit fees cost ~$189. This visa takes ~3 weeks to process. Apply at your local German embassy.
An Occupation Permit allows self-employed people and freelancers to move to Mauritius.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Valid up to 10 years
$35,000 deposited into a bank in Mauritius upon application. To keep the Occupation Permit, the business must earn $20,214 annually by the 3rd year. This visa suits self-employed people and freelancers, not remote workers employeed by companies outside of Mauritius.
This visa costs $505 (plus $126 per dependent). Apply online here.
Self-employed people and freelancers can move to Norway with a Residence Visa for Self-Employed Person.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
$27,025/yr income. Only sole proprietors qualify for this visa, not employed remote workers.
This visa costs $593. Apply at your local Norwegian embassy.
With the Taiwan Employment Gold Card, self-employed people, freelancers, and professionals in numerous fields can move to Taiwan and receive the right to work there.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
Pass the points system (varies greatly by field, but $5,713/m income usually qualifies). Self-employed people must live in Taiwan for 6 months before applying.
This visa costs $100+ (varies according to nationality and other factors) and takes ~2 months to process. Apply online here.
Remote workers and their family can move permanently to Ecuador with a Professional Visa, with the right to work and start a business.
Low income requirement
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$400/m remote income (proven for last 6 months) or $1,500 bank deposit, and an undergraduate or graduate degree
This visa costs $450 ($50 to apply and $400 upon issuance, plus $250 per dependent) and takes up to 3 months to process. Apply at your local Ecuadorean embassy.
Though not technically a remote work visa, people of any age with permanent passive income can receive a Retirement Visa in Ecuador, with the right to work (both remotely and in-country).
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$400/m passive income from a permanent source (like a pension or social security).
This visa costs $450 ($50 to apply and $400 upon issuance, plus $250 per dependent) and takes up to 3 months to process. Apply at your local Ecuadorean embassy.
People with rental income or a 2-year remote contract can receive a Rentista Visa in Ecuador, with the right to work (both remotely and in-country).
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$400/m income from a 2-year rental property or a 2-year remote work contract. Must prove income over past 6 months.
This visa costs $450 ($50 to apply and $400 upon issuance, plus $250 per dependent) and takes up to 3 months to process. Apply at your local Ecuadorean embassy.
Though not technically a remote work visa, people over age 45 with $2,000/m passive income (or $24,000/yr bank balance) can move to Belize indefinitely, with the right to work remotely.
Bring family
Limited residency requirements
0% offshore income
$24,000/yr transferred to Belize for living expenses, as 1 lump sum or in monthly payments. 1 month/yr of required residency. This is not a path to Permanent Residence.
This visa costs $1,350 ($150 application fee, $1,000 upon acceptance, and $200 for card issuance), plus $750 per dependent upon acceptance. Apply at the Belize Tourism Board in Belize City (instructions are here.
The Startup Visa Program allows founders of approved startups to move to Canada.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
Innovative startup funded by an approved investor or accepted into an accelerator, with potential to create jobs and compete globally. Startup should be based in Canada and meet business structure requirements. Applicants need $10,042 upon application ($12,817 for a couple, $18,740 for a family of 4). Program not valid in Quebec.
This visa costs $1,623+ and takes 12-16 months to process. Apply at your local Canadian embassy.
Startup founders can move to Spain with the Residence Visa for Entrepreneurial Activity (REM).
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
New businesses with $30,065/yr income or funds, approved by the Commercial Office. Additional $7,509/yr per dependent.
This visa costs $72+ (varies based on nationality and other factors) and takes 1 month to process. Apply through your local Spanish embassy.
Entrepreneurs can start a new business (or move an existing one) to the Cayman Islands through the Cayman Enterprise City Special Economic Zones, joining a vibrant community of businesses and receiving personal set-up assistance.
Expedited staff visas (5 days)
0% tax
Renewable after 5 years
An approved business and a physical office space maintained in the Cayman Islands
This visa costs $3,500+ (varies) and takes 4-6 weeks to process. Apply online here.
Startup Chile helps new businesses that would benefit Chile move there permanently by offering a visa, equity-free funding, the potential for 2nd round funding, and other perks.
Funding offered
Business and relocation support
Renewable after 6 months
Startup must be accepted by the Startup Chile program (should add value to Chile and fit local startup ecosystem). Visa renewal and access to 2nd round funding depends on performance and fit.
This visa costs $50+. Apply to Startup Chile here.
Employees with a job offer from a qualified tech startup can enter Chile and obtain an expedited work visa with Visa Tech.
No minimum income required
Not required to speak Spanish
Valid for length of contract (3+ months)
Job offer and contract of 3+ months from a qualified company. Applicants eligible for visa-free entry can present these documents at the Chilean border, apply for a work visa in Chile, and receive it within 15 days. Some nationalities will use their job offer to apply for a visa online before travelling to Chile.
This visa costs $50+ and takes 15 days to process. Apply online here.
Founders can move to Estonia and establish their tech company there through the Estonian Startup Visa.
Bring family
20% flat tax
Renewable after 18 months
Startups approved by Startup Comittee and with $2,039 for the founder's expenses. After startup is approved, apply for the visa and residence permit in person.
This visa costs $278 total ($86 for visa + $192 for residence permit). Initial startup approval takes 10 days. Apply online here.
Founders of large-scale innovative startups can move to Finland and start a company there with the Startup Residence Permit.
Low required income
Bring family
Renewable after 1 year
An innovative startup with at least 2 founders, ability to scale globally for $10+ million of revenue, $1,206/m income or $14,472 bank balance, and early stage funding. Must be approved by Business Finland.
This visa costs $378+ (varies). Initial startup approval takes 1 month and after approval, visa takes 3-5 months to process. Apply online here.
The French Tech Visa lets tech startup founders and their families move to France, with support and access to a vibrant ecosystem.
Staff visas available
No diploma required
Renewable after 4 years
Startup accepted into an approved French incubator or accelerator. $22,157/yr income or bank balance.
This visa costs $388+ per person ($118 for visa and $270+ for residence permit). Apply through an accelerator on this list.
The French Tech Visa lets employees with a tech job offer move to France.
Bring family
No diploma required
Renewable after 4 years
3 month minimum contract with an approved company, $44,317/yr income
This visa costs $388+ per person ($118 for visa and $270+ for residence permit) and takes less than 3 months to process. Apply with your job offer at your local French embassy.
The Passeport Talent: Entrepreneur allows non-tech founders of qualified businesses to move to France, and includes the right to work.
Bring family
Path to permanent residence
Renewable after 4 years
A new commercial, artisanal, or industrial business in which you invest at least $36,000. Applicant must have a master's degree or 5+ years of professional experience, plus $22,321/yr income.
This visa costs $388+ per person ($118 for visa and $270+ for residence permit) and takes 1 month to process. Apply online here.
Japan's Startup Visa gives founders up to 1 year to move to Japan, start their business, and prepare to meet requirements (such as office and job creation) for a full Business Manager Visa.
Business and language support
Suits several business types
Renewable after 1 year
New businesses in eligible regions can prepare to meet the full requirements for a Business Manager Visa. Japanese fluency is not required but it is helpful (the entire process is in Japanese). Applications are on a regional basis, and these hubs support startups in reaching their goals.
Applying for this visa is free and it takes 2+ months to process. Apply through the regional startup hubs here.
While not strictly a startup visa, Remotely From Geogia can allow startup founders to move to Georgia and then register as an entrepreneur once they arrive.
Free and fast application
Low required income
Low local tax (1% up to $155,000/yr income)
$2,000/m income or $24,000 bank balance
This visa is free and takes around 10 days to process. Apply online here.
Startup founders can move to Germany with the Residence Permit for Self-Employed People.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 3 years
The applicant needs the professional qualifications and funds to set up and run their startup. Approval is more likely if the business relates to Germany. Applicants who are older than 45 years old also need funds or a plan for their retirement.
Visa and residence permit fees cost ~$189. This visa takes ~3 weeks to process. Apply at your local German embassy.
Lithuania's Startup Visa streamlines immigration and reduces investment and job creation requirements for innovative tech startups.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
Innovative and scalable tech startup approved by Startup Lithuania.
This visa costs $175+ for issuance of Temporary Residence Permit. Initial approval of startup takes 15 days. Apply online here.
An Occupation Permit allows investors in an innovative startup to move to Mauritius.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 10 years
Approved innovative startup.
This visa costs $505 per applicant (plus $123 per dependent). Apply online here.
The Entrepreneur Work Visa allows startup founders and their family to move to New Zealand.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
Business and applicant must be approved by points system. Applicant should have $71,817 to invest in their business, but this requirement can be waived based on innovation, economic viability, or other criteria.
This visa costs ~$2,000, but the price varies widely depending on your nationality. It takes 8+ months to process. Apply online here.
The Startup Visa allows founders to create a new company in Portugal (or move an existing one).
Includes work permit
Incubator support
Renewable after 1 year
Incubator-approved startup and $6,206 per person. Business plan should create jobs and create $392,000/yr income within in 5 years.
Apply online here.
Entrepreneurs can move to Taiwan to start a business (or spend 1 year preparing to start their business) with the Entrepreneur Visa.
Bring family
Flexible requirements
Renewable after 1 year
Business (or future business) meets just one of numerous requirements, such as membership in a co-working space or accelerator, $71,000 in venture funding, patent rights, received a business or design award, or was nominated in a film festival. Applicants have one year to start their business.
This visa costs $143+ and takes 6 weeks to process. Apply at your local Taiwanese embassy.
Startup founders can move to Italy to start an innovative business with a Startup Visa.
Path to permanent residence
Can access Schengen zone
Renewable after 1 year
$60,200 available to invest in startup. Apply directly or through an approved incubator.
It is free to apply for this visa, but additional fees may apply upon approval. It takes 30 days to process. Apply online here.
Founders of innovative startups can move to Austria with a Startup Visa.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
Innovative businesses with $61,750 invested. Points system and requirements for business structure.
This visa costs $145+ and takes 2-3 years to process. Apply at your local Austrian embassy.
Tech startup founders can move to Thailand with their family for 6 months to 2 years with a SMART S Visa.
Bring family
Could include right to work
Valid 6+ months
Several tiers exist. New startup founders need a government-approved business plan (eligible for 6 month visa). Startups that joined an approved accelerator or received outside funding need a $19,500 bank balance plus $5,900 per person for applicant, spouse, and dependents (eligible for 1 year visa and right to work for applicant and spouse). Founders who have already started a business in Thailand need a $19,500 bank balance plus $5,900 per person for applicant, spouse, and dependents (eligible for 2 year visa and right to work for applicant and spouse).
This visa costs $325 per year of validity, with some additional fees. Apply at your local Thai embassy or from within Thailand.
Startups and new businesses with outside funding and the potential for global scale can base themselves in Ireland with the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP).
Bring family
Path to permanent residence
Renewable after 2 years
Startup must have a new, innovative product of global interest, be capable of creating 10 jobs and making $1.2 million in annual sales within 4 years, have an experienced management team, and be based in Ireland. Existing businesses of less than 5 years old also qualify.
This visa costs $417. Apply online here.
Accelerator participants or STEM graduates who attended Irish universities can spend 12 months in Ireland preparing their STEP application.
Bring family
New entrepreneurs and graduates qualify
No investment required
Business plan. Attend an accelerator/incubator or graduate from an Irish university in STEM.
This visa costs $417. Apply online here.
The Innovation Visas Program for Foreign Entrepreneurs allows startup founders to spend up to 2 years developing their idea, with a local workspace, business and logistics support, and integration into the tech ecosystem.
Support and funding possible
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
Approved business plan. If a business is started after two years, Founders can apply for a 5-year Expert Visa.
Apply through the Landing Pads on this list.
Startup founders can receive a 3-year temporary residence permit in Latvia to develop their business.
Bring family
Includes up to 5 founders
Valid up to 3 years
$7,185 bank balance and an innovative, scalable, and high-value startup idea. After 12 months, startup should receive funding of $36,000 from a VC fund or $18,000 from an accelerator or business angel. If funding has not been acquired, submit business update for review.
This visa costs $137 ($120 upon application and $17 for TRP card) and takes 30 days to process. Expedited service is available for $240+. Apply at your local Latvian embassy or from within Latvia.
The Dutch Startup Visa allows startup founders to spend 1 year in the Netherlands developing their business, with support from a facilitator.
Business support
Path to Permanent Residence
Valid for 1 year
Startup must meet 5 qualifications: 1) Be working with a recognized facilitator, 2) Be innovative, 3) Have a structured business plan, 4) Have founder and facilitator registered in Commercial Register of the Chamber of Commerce, and 5) Have financial resources ($16,945 bank balance). After 1 year, founder can apply for a self-employed work permit.
This visa costs $410 and takes 3 months to process. Australian, Canadian, Japanese, New Zealand, USA, and South Korean citizens can apply directly here. Other applicants apply with facilitator’s help.
New entrepreneurs with innovative ideas supported by an approved organization can move to the U.K. with their family with a Startup Visa.
Bring family
Includes right to work
Valid for 2 years
Startup must be endorsed by a higher education institution or an approved business organization. Idea must be new, innovative, and commercially viable. Must also have $1,774 bank balance.
This visa costs $506 per person ($688 per person if applying within U.K.) plus health care surcharge of $867/y per adult and $653/y per child. Expedited service available for applicants within the U.K. for an additional $695. Citizens of these countries pay $77 less: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, or Turkey. It takes 3 weeks to process (applicants outside the U.K.) or 8 weeks (applicants within the U.K.). Apply online here.
The Innovator Visa allows experienced entrepreneurs to move to the U.K. with their family permanently.
Includeds right to work
Path to settlement
Renewable after 3 years
Applicant must invest $70,000 in their startup. Startup must be endorsed by a higher education institution or an approved business organization. Idea must be new, innovative, and commercially viable. Must also have $1,774 bank balance.
Applicant must invest $70,000 in their startup. Startup must be endorsed by a higher education institution or an approved business organization. Idea must be new, innovative, and commercially viable. Must also have $1,774 bank balance.
The Investor Visa for Italy lets investors and their families move to Italy, with numerous investment options and a Path to Permanent Residence.
Bring family
Fast online application
Renewable after 2 years
$301,000+ invested in an innovative Italian startup, $596,000+ in an Italian limited company, $1.19+ million in philanthropic donation, or $2.38+ in government bonds. Residency is granted as long as investment in maintained.
This visa is free and takes 30 days to process. Apply online here.
The Residence Visa for Capital Investors lets investors in real estate or capital move to Spain with a path to permanent residence.
Bring family
Includes right to work
Renewable after 1 year
$600,000+ in real estate (1 or many properties, paid in full without financing). Real estate portfolio can change, but the total value must be maintained. $1.19 million in shares or bank deposit or $2.38 in government bonds are also possible. $31,330/yr income also required.
This visa costs $160+ and takes 10 days to process. Apply at your local Spanish embassy.
The Residency Certificate for Persons of Independent Means allows investors with high, independent incomes to live in the Cayman Islands for up to 25 years with their family (does not include the right to work).
Bring family
0% tax
Renewable after 25 years
Live on Little Cayman or Cayman Brac: $601,000+ invested (50%+ in real estate), plus a $480,000 bank deposit and $90,000/yr income. Live on Grand Cayman: $1.2+ million invested (50%+ in real estate) plus a $480,000 bank deposit and $144,000/yr income.
This visa has a $600 application fee, and the applicant will pay $24,000 upon acceptance (plus $1,200 upon application and paid again yearly per dependent). Apply at your local Cayman Islands embassy.
The Certificate of Permanent Residence for Persons of Independent Means allows investors to become permanent residents of the Cayman Islands, with a limited right to work and a path to citizenship.
Bring family
0% tax
Permanent validity
$2.4 million invested in real estate
This visa has a $600 application fee and the applicant will pay $120,000 upon acceptance (plus $1,200 per dependent). Apply at your local Cayman Islands embassy.
With a Certificate of Direct Investment, business investors and their family can move to the Cayman Islands.
Bring family
Fast online application
Renewable after 25 years
$1.2 million invested in a business that creates jobs. Applicant must manage the business and have the professional background to run it successfully. Dependents do not have the right to work.
This visa has a $1,200 application fee, and the applicant will pay $24,000 upon acceptance (plus $1,200 upon application and paid again yearly per dependent). Apply at your local Cayman Islands embassy.
Investors can move to Costa Rica with an investment visa, and bring their family, with a path to permanent residence.
Bring family
0% offshore tax
Renewable after 2 years
$200,000+ in real estate, business, stocks, or other investments. Residency in Costa Rica required 6 months per year.
This visa costs $50+. Apply at your local Costa Rican embassy.
The Czech Business Investor Visa allows major investors in the Czech Republic to move there with their family, with a path to permanent residence.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 1 year
$3.25 million invested in a business that creates 20 jobs
This visa costs $234+. Apply at your local Czech embassy.
Large investors can move to Estonia with their family with a Residence Permit for Business.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Valid for 5 years
Invest $1.2 million in an Estonian business or fund. Also $3,120/yr income per person required.
This visa costs $121+ and takes 2 months to process. Apply at your local Estonian embassy.
The Residence Permit for Business lets sole proprietors and owners of small to medium-sized businesses move to Estonia with their families.
Bring family
Fast online application
Renewable after 2 years
For sole proprietors: $19,306 in your own business assets or capital. For a businesses with 2+ employees: $78,433 in assets or capital (can also be an investment held in an Estonian business). Also $3,120/yr income per person required.
This visa costs $121+ and takes 2 months to process. Apply at your local Estonian embassy.
The French Tech Visa lets startup investors, VCs, and angels move to France.
Bring family
Fast online application
Renewable after 4 years
Invest $361,000 in a tech business that creates jobs in 4 years.
This visa costs $488 ($120 for visa and $324 for residence permit), and it takes 30 days to process. Apply online here.
Investors in non-tech fields can move to France with their family with the Passeport Talent for Foreign Direct Investment.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 4 years
Invest at least $361,000 in a business and create or protect jobs.
This visa costs $388+ per person ($118 for visa and $270+ for residence permit), and it takes 15 days to process. Apply online here.
The Investment Residence Permit allows investors and their family to move to Georgia.
Bring family
Relatively low investment
Valid indefinitely
Invest $91,000 in real estate or $91,000 in a business that has $50,000 turnover in the first year, $100,000 in second year, and $120,000 in third, fourth, and fifth years.
This visa costs $55+. Apply at your local Georgian embassy.
Investors and their family can move to Greece by buying a home or making another approved investment.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 5 years
$320,000 in residential real estate or another approved investment. This visa does not include the right to work.
This visa costs ~$696 and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Greek embassy.
Real estate or commercial investors can move to Mexico with a Temporary Residence Permit.
Various investment paths
Relatively low investment
Valid for 4 years
$158,000 in real estate or $79,000 invested in stock, capital, or a business that employs 3 workers. This visa is valid for 4 years, and people who want to move permanently to Mexico will need to change visa types.
This visa costs $44+, and it takes 1+ month to process. Apply at your local Mexican embassy.
Real estate investors can move to Mauritius with their family under the Property Development Scheme (PDS).
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 20 years
$375,000 in real estate. Other investment options are possible.
This visa is free. Apply at your local Mauritian embassy.
Major investors in New Zealand can move there permanently with their family with an Investor Visa.
Bring family
Two investment tiers
Renewable after 3 years
Investor 2 Visa: $2.15+ million invested and held 4+ years, plus applicant must have 3+ years business experience, English proficiency, and be under age 65. Investor 1 Visa: $7.14 million invested and held 3+ years. Both visas have points and residency requirements.
This visa costs ~$2,875 (varies greatly by nationality), and it takes 8+ months to process. Apply at your local New Zealand embassy.
Real estate investors and people who add to the economy, facilitate research, or create jobs in Portugal can move there with an ARI, a visa with tax and residency advantages.
Bring family
Favorable tax terms
Renewable after 1 year
$416,000 in real estate requiring renovation (or $594,000 without). After July 2021, investment must be outside of Lisbon, Porto, and the coast. Other investment options exist for entrepreneurship, job creation, and philanthropy, starting from $297,000. Low residency requirements (2 weeks per year) and tax advantages make this an attractive route to permanent residency and citizenship.
This visa costs $7,000+ with additional fees for dependents. Apply online here.
Investors who are interested in opportunities in Angola can use the Privileged Visa to travel to Angola to investigate their options and make an investment.
Facilitates business travel
0% tax
Valid for 2 years
This visa allows investors to travel to Angola for business and investment purposes.
This visa costs $250-650. Apply at your local Angolan embassy.
The Irish Immigrant Investor Program allows major investors and philanthropists to move to Ireland with their family, with a path to citizenship.
Path to citizenship in 5 years
$60,000 incentive if dependents attend Irish university
Renewable after 2 years
Personal net worth of $2.4 million and an approved investment. Investments include $1.2 million invested in 1 or several businesses that create jobs (can be a new business started by investor), $1.2 million in approved investment fund, $2.4 million in real estate investment trust, or $595,000 donated to a philanthropic project (can be $476,000 each if pooled between 5 people). 1 visit to Ireland required per year.
This visa costs $1,786. Apply at your local Irish embassy.
Technology investors can move to Thailand with the SMART I Visa, bring their family, and receive the right to work for themselves and their spouse.
Bring family
Includes right to work
Valid for 4 years
$163,000+ in a startup or accelerator or $651,000 in a VC fund or other approved tech investment.
This visa costs $325 per year, and other fees may apply. Apply at your local Thai embassy.
Real estate investors with a stable remote income can gain residency in Cyprus with their families.
Bring family
No physical residency required
Renewable after 2 years
$357,000 in real estate, $36,000 bank balance, and $36,000+/yr income (plus $6,000/yr income per additional person). No physical residency is required.
This visa costs $600+ and takes 2 months to process. Apply at your local Cypriot embassy.
High net worth individuals (HWNI) or people who are financially independent through passive income can move to Gibraltar with their family.
Bring family
0% offshore tax
Renewable after 1 year
For HNWI/Category 2 status: Personal net worth of $2.8 million and a residential real estate purchase. Self-sufficiency status: Proof of financial self-sufficiency through passive income and residence deed or lease.
Apply at your local Gibraltar embassy.
People who own and operate businesses that make a major contribution to Austria can move there with a Self-Employed Key Worker Red-White-Red Card.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$119,000 capital invested in the business or other "macroeconomic benefit going beyond its own operational benefit," such as job creation, introduction of new technologies, or "considerable" regional significance.
This visa costs ~$191 for various fees. Apply at your local Austrian embassy.
Investors can move to Latvia after investing in business, real estate, or securities, with a path to permanent residence.
Bring family
No physical residency required
Renewable after 5 years
Investment options include: $60,000 in a major Latvian company plus $12,000 government fee; $298,000 in real estate plus a 5% government fee; deposit $333,000 in in a Latvian bank for 5 years plus $30,000 government fee; or $298,000 in interest-free bonds plus a $45,000 government fee. There is no physical residency requirement.
This visa takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Latvian embassy.
Malta's Permanent Residence Program is one of the few available for property renters as well as real estate investors, with a path to citizenship.
Bring family
Renters are eligible
Permanent residency with indefinite validity
Applicants must have $595,000+ net worth ($179,000 of that in financial assets). For property purchase: $369,000 in real estate in South of Malta or Gozo, $417,000 in the rest of Malta. For property rental: $12,000/yr rent in South of Malta or Gozo, $14,300/yr rent in the rest of Malta.
This visa has several categories of fees. For property purchase: $81,000 in government fees. For property rental: $117,000 in government fees. $2,380 charitable donation also required. $5,953 fee for spouse and children. Apply at your local Maltese embassy.
Major investors who add significant value to the Dutch economy can move to the Netherlands with their family, with a path to permanent residence.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 5 years
Invest $1.5 million in a business or fund and meet 2 of 3 criteria: create 5 jobs in 10 years, increase innovation, or bring "non-financial added value" such as specialized knowledge or clients.
This visa costs $2,717 and takes 3 months to process. Apply at your local Dutch embassy.
Business investors who create jobs in Romania can move there with their family.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 3 years
$120,000 invested in a business that creates 10 jobs for at least 5 years, or create a business meeting these requirements and present a 3-year business plan. Applicant must deposit funds in a Romanian bank and then complete the investment within 1 year. $833/m income also required.
Apply at your local Romanian embassy.
Major investors can move to the U.K. with their family with a Tier 1 Visa.
Bring family
Path to settlement
Renewable after 3 years
If investing $2.8 million, investor can apply to settle permanently in the U.K. after 5 years. If investing $6.9 million, investor can apply to settle after 3 years. If investing $13.9 million, investor can apply to settle after 2 years.
This visa has a $2,254 fee plus health care surcharge of $867/y per adult and $653/y per child. It takes 3 weeks to process (5 days with expedited service, available in the U.K. for an additional $695). Apply at your local British embassy.
Investors in Ukraine can move there with their family through the Permanent Resident Permit Investment Scheme.
Bring family
Relatively small investment
Permanent residency with indefinite validity
$120,000 invested in qualified industries. Investor must start a company in Ukraine to manage investment.
Apply at your local Ukranian embassy.
High-income people with an international lifestyle can become tax residents of Anguilla through the High Value Resident program.
Bring family
Limited physical residency required
Renewable after 5 years
$400,000 in real estate, held at least 5 years. $75,000/yr flat tax (applicant must show ability to pay 5 years of tax up front). 45 days/yr of physical residency required. Cannot spend more than 183 days/yr in any other country.
Apply at your local Anguillan embassy.
High-income individuals can move to Antigua and Barbuda (and take advantage of low taxation rates), with a Path to Permanent Residence.
Bring family
Favorable tax terms
Renewable after 1 year
$100,000/yr income and a home in Antigua and Barbuda. 30 days/yr physical residence required. $20,000/yr flat tax. After 4 years, can apply for a new residency type that is valid for 3 years, renewable, and no longer requires $20,000 flat tax.
Apply at your local Antigua and Barbuda embassy.
Owners of a second home in the Bahamas can spend a year there with their family.
Bring family
No minimum property value
Renewable after 1 year
Own a residential property
This visa costs $600 ($100 application fee and $500 fee for card). Apply at your local Bahamanian embassy.
Financially independent people and investors can move to the Bahamas permanently, with a path to citizenship.
Bring family
Path to citizenship
Permanent residency with indefinite validity
Applicant should be financially independent or have made major investments in the Bahamas. Investing $750,000 in real estate gets expedited consideration.
This visa costs $15,200 ($200 application fee, $15,000 upon acceptance), with additional fees for spouse and dependents. Apply at your local Bahamanian embassy.
Major investors in Barbados can move there for at least 5 years with a Category 1 Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP).
Bring family
Can include right to work
Valid 5+ years
$2 million invested in Barbados, $5 million individual net worth. Permit is issued for 5-10 years if the applicant is under 60. After 60, the permit is indefinite.
There is a $250 application fee, plus $150 per person for spouse and dependents. Fees of $3,500-$5,000 are charged upon issuance, depending on applicant's age and permit length. For work permit, there is an additional fee of $1,750-$2,000/yr or $15,000-$20,000. Apply at your local Barbados embassy.
Property investors in Barbados can move there with a Category 2 Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP).
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 5 years
$300,000 invested in real estate. Does not include the right to work.
This visa costs $5,250+ ($250 application fee and $150 per person for spouse and dependents plus $5,000 fee per adult upon issuance and renewal). Apply at your local Barbados embassy.
Investors and their family can move to Brazil permanently with a VIPER Permanent Visa, and attain citizenship after 4 years.
Lower-cost tech investment may be approved
Limited physical residency required
Citizenship after 4 years
$88,000+ of commercial investment or $123,000 in real estate in Northern Brazil ($176,000 elsewhere) typically qualify, but investment must be government approved. $26,400 in innovative technology or creating 10 jobs may also qualify.
This visa costs ~$390 in combined fees. Apply at your local Brazilian embassy.
Ecuador's Investor Visas is one of the most affordable, beginning at $40,000.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$40,000 invested in Ecuadorian CO-OP Certificate of Deposit (CD) for 2+ years or in real estate.
This visa costs $450 ($50 to apply and $400 upon issuance) and takes 3+ months to process. Apply at your local Ecuadorean embassy.
Real-estate and commercial investors can move to Egypt with a Residency by Investment, which offers a path to citizenship for major investors.
Multiple tiers of investment
Expedited citizenship possible after 5 years
Valid 1+ year
$100,000 in real estate for 1 year residence permit, $200,000 for 3 years, and $400,000 for 5 years. Citizenship is usually possible after 10 years of residence, but $390,000 invested in a state-owned bank allows for a 5 year resident permit and citizenship granted after 5 years.
The fees and processing time vary for this complex program. Apply at your local Egyptian embassy.
Investors can move to South Africa to start a new business with a Business Visa, with many fields eligible for a lower capital investment.
Bring family
Path to Permanent Residence
Renewable after 2 years
$171,000 (cash or capital) to invest in a business that will create 5 jobs. Must submit detailed 3-year business plan and meet additional requirements for international scale, introduction of technology, and investor's entrepreneurial background. These industries can request a lower investment: IT and communications, chemistry and biotech, tourism, textiles and handicrafts, agriculture, transportation, and metals.
This visa costs $75. Apply at your local South African embassy.
Investors who plan to start a business and transfer skills to employees can move to Namibia with a Residency by Investment.
Path to Permanent Residence
Expedited Permanent Residence possible
Renewable after 2 years
$136,000 investment in the business, detailed business plan, and knowledge transfer plan to local employees. The investor needs the skills/qualifications to run this business. Lower investment can be requested. $680,000 investment may be approved for Permanent Residence in a single year, but 5 years is the normal requirement.
Visa fees vary, and this visa takes 4 months to process. Apply at your local Namibian embassy.
St. Kitts and Nevis offers Citizenship by Investment starting at $150,000, with 0% tax on worldwide income, visa-free entry to 156 countries, and no residency requirement.
0% offshore tax
60-day expedited service available
Passport power: #25 on HPI
$150,000 in Sustainable Growth Fund ($195,000 for a family) or $200,000 in real estate
Fees start at $7,500. The accelerated process (with large extra fees) takes 60 days. The official site is here.
Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment program is a lower-cost option that offers 0% tax on worldwide income and visa-free entry to 151 countries, with no need to travel there to apply.
0% offshore tax
No need to travel there
Passport power: #28 on HPI
$100,000 investment in NDF for a family of 4. $400,000 in real estate or $1 million in business also possible.
Fees start at $37,500 for each adult, with significant additional fees for dependents. This citizenship takes 3-4 months to process. Official site is here.
Considering its low cost and powerful passport offering visa-free entry to 143 countries, Dominica's Citizenship by Investment program is arguably the world's best value program. (Hurry, costs may increase in 2021.)
Bring family
Lower investment
Passport power: #34 on HPI
$100,000 in Economic Development Fund ($175,000 for a family of 4). $200,000 in real estate also possible. Investments are expected to increase in 2021 ($175,000 in EDF for an individual, $200,000 for a family of 4).
Fess start at $8,810 per adult, with additional fees for dependents and different investment programs. This citizenship takes 3 months to process. The official site is here.
Get citizenship in Grenada with a minimum investment of $150,000, which is the only Caribbean program with potential access to the USA through the E-2 non-immigrant visa.
0% offshore tax
Eligible for US E-2 visa
Passport power: #44 on HPI
$150,000 in National Transformation Fund ($200,000 for a family of 4) or $350,000 in real estate
Fees start at $8,000 per adult, with additional fees for dependents and different investment programs. This citizenship takes 3-4 months to process. The official site is here.
The Montenegro Special Citizenship by Investment Program (MSCIP) offers an investment path to citizenship in Montenegro, which will be admitted to the Schengen zone in 2025.
Access to Schengen zone
Bring family
Passport power: #45 on HPI
Invest at least $297,000 in development projects (in northern Montenegro) or $534,000 (in southern Montenegro), and donate $118,000.
Fees start at $18,200 per person, plus additional fees for due diligence and dependents. This citizenship takes 3 months to process.
St. Lucia's Citizenship by Investment program starts at $100,000, and it offers visa-free entry to 136 countries and 0% tax on offshore income.
0% offshore tax
Lower investment
Passport power: #31 on HPI
$100,000 in National Development Fund ($150,000 for a family of 4). Other investment paths exist.
Fees start at $30,000 (additional fees for spouse and dependents). This citizenship takes 3 months to process. The official site is here.
Investors and their families can receive Turkish citizenship with a $250,000 real estate investment, which offers visa-free entry to 110 countries and eligibility for an E-2 Investor Visa to the USA.
Eligible for US E-2 visa
Bring family
Passport power: #53 on HPI
$250,000 in real estate
This citizenship takes 6-9 months to process. The official site is here.
The Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN) program allows major investors and their families to gain citizenship after living in Malta, (an EU member state with visa-free access to 184 countries), for at least 1 year.
EU citizenship
Bring family
Passport power: #8 on HPI
$729,000+ investment and must live in Malta for 36 months (or 12 months by exception and with larger investment). Real estate options exist. Additional investment for dependents.
Fees start at $31,600 (additional fees for dependents). This citizenship takes 12-36 months of residency to complete.
Vanuatu, a Commonwealth member with 0% tax, offers the the fastest citizenship by investment program with visa-free entry to 130 countries through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP).
0% tax
Fastest program
Passport power: #41 on HPI
$130,000 in Local Government Fund/$180,000 for a family of 4. Net worth of $500,000+ (50%+ in bank balance).
The up-front $5,000 application fee includes all applicants, and there are $400 per person in passport and other fees after acceptance. This citizenship takes 2 months to process. The official site is here.
Major investors in Jordan can move there with their families, gaining visa-free entry to 51 countries.
Bring family
No residency requirements
Passport power: #92 on HPI
Invest $1 million in SMEs (held 5 years), $1.5 million no-interest bank deposit in Jordan (held five years), $1.5 million in treasury bonds (held 10 years), $1.5 million in securities (held 5 years), or $1.5 million ($2 million within Amman) in a project that creates 20 jobs (held 3 years).
Fees and processing time can vary for this complex program.
Major investors in Bulgaria can obtain permanent residency there, and be granted citizenship within a few years, obtaining visa-free access to 171 countries and the Schengen Zone.
Bring family
No residency requirements
Passport power: #18 on HPI
$611,000+ invested in approved funds or trusts. Fast-track option available after total donation of $1.2 million. Applicants must maintain accomodation in Bulgaria for 1-5 years to obtain citizenship, but physical residency is not required.
Fees and processing times vary for this complex program.
Major investors and their family can move to Egypt and gain visa-free entry to 93 countries.
Several investment tiers
Bring family
Passport power: #50 on HPI
$250,000 donation to state treasury, $500,000 invested in real estate, or $750,000 deposited in an Egyptian bank (held for 5 years, refundable)
This visa costs $10,000 (including family members) and takes 3 months to process.