Residence by Investment: The Easiest Countries to Get Residency in 2025

Residence by investment has become a popular route for investors seeking global mobility, tax advantages, and better living opportunities. Many countries offer residency by investment, with varying requirements and benefits. 

Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, will walk you through the easiest countries to get residency by investment in 2025, highlighting both affordability and ease of application.

What is Residence by Investment?

Residence by investment allows individuals to obtain residency in a country by making a financial commitment. This usually involves either investing in real estate, a business, or government bonds. The program’s goal is to attract foreign investment while granting the investor and their family the right to reside in the country. 

While the investment amounts and conditions vary, most residency programs are designed to be straightforward and offer benefits such as visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to better healthcare and education.

Easiest Countries to Get Residency

Easiest countries to get residency by investment are known for their simplified procedure to obtain a second passport. These countries offer faster application processes, less paperwork, and more favourable investment terms. Here are some of the easiest countries for investors looking to obtain residency.

Vanuatu. Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation, is one of the easiest countries to obtain residency by investment. With a minimum investment of $130,000, Vanuatu offers a straightforward process and allows investors to obtain residency within just a few months. Additionally, Vanuatu provides visa-free travel to over 100 countries, making it a popular choice among investors looking for global mobility.

Caribbean Countries. The Caribbean islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica are known for their quick and cost-effective residency programs. The investment thresholds in these countries typically range from $200,000, depending on the country and the type of investment. 

These programs are designed to attract investors with minimal bureaucracy and quick approval timelines. Additionally, the Caribbean offers visa-free travel to several countries, making it an attractive option for investors seeking both convenience and mobility.

Cheapest Residency by Investment

For those looking to secure residency with lower financial commitments, several European countries offer affordable options. Among these, Hungary, Greece, Portugal, and Malta stand out for their cost-effectiveness and relatively simple application processes.

Hungary residence by investment program is among the most affordable in Europe. Investors can obtain a residence permit by investing €250,000 in real estate funds. 

The program offers residency within 5 months, and the investment requirement is lower than many other European options. Hungary is a member of the European Union, offering access to EU countries, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable residency with additional benefits.

Greece is one of the cheapest residency by investment programs with a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate. This program has become one of the most popular in Europe due to its low investment threshold and the opportunity for permanent residency in Greece. 

The process typically takes around 4 months, and Greece offers visa-free access to the Schengen Area, providing investors with greater flexibility and mobility across Europe.

Portugal is among the easiest countries to get residency. It offers various investment options, including fund units, business, and research investment. The minimum investment starts at €250,000. This residency program is popular for its relatively low financial commitment, flexible application process, and fast processing time. 

Portugal also offers a path to citizenship after five years of residency, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term benefits in the EU.

Malta offers residency through the Malta Permanent Residency Program, requiring an investment of €182,000, which includes contributions to government funds and investments in real estate. 

This programme grants long-term residency with a pathway to citizenship. To apply for the Malta MPRP, applicants must meet several key requirements:

1. Rent real estate for at least €14,000 per annum or buy a property for at least €375,000.
2. Application administrative fee. Investors pay €15,000 as an initial payment and €35,000 at the final stage, regardless of whether they choose to buy or rent property.
3. Government contribution. Investors must make a one-time, non-refundable contribution of €30,000 to the government if purchasing property, or €60,000 if renting.
4. Donation to a non-governmental organisation. An additional donation of €2,000 is required to a local NGO. This donation contributes to social projects in Malta.
5. Proof of funds. Applicants need to demonstrate assets worth at least €500,000, with €150,000 in liquid financial assets. This ensures that applicants have sufficient financial stability to support themselves and their families.

With this program, investors gain access to all the benefits of living in Malta, including visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. Malta is also an EU member, making it an appealing choice for those looking to live in Europe with easy mobility.

11 Benefits of Second Residency

Obtaining second residency by investment provides numerous advantages, both personally and professionally. Here are 11 key benefits of holding a second residency:

1. Global mobility. Residency often grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries.

2. Tax optimisation. Some residency programs offer tax advantages, including lower tax rates or tax exemptions.

3. Access to better healthcare. Many countries with residency programs provide high-quality healthcare services.

4. Business opportunities. Residency can offer opportunities for business expansion and operations in a new market.

5. Education options. Investors and their families gain access to world-class educational institutions.

6. Citizenship pathway. Many residency programs offer a pathway to citizenship after a few years.

7. Security and safety. A second residency offers a safe haven in case of political instability or financial issues in your home country.

8. Real estate investment. Many residency programs require real estate investment, which can also provide a profitable long-term investment.

9. Lower cost of living. Many countries offering residency programs have a lower cost of living, especially in comparison to major cities.

10. Favourable residency conditions. Several countries offer minimal stay requirements and flexible residency conditions.

11. Cultural exposure. Living in a new country exposes individuals to different cultures, which can be a valuable personal experience.

Conclusion

Residence by investment offers a straightforward route to living in desirable countries, with a range of benefits tailored to investors. Whether seeking a second passport, tax optimisation, or better access to healthcare and education, many countries offer easy and affordable residency options. Hungary, Greece, Portugal, and Malta provide attractive European programs, while Vanuatu and the Caribbean nations offer faster processing times and more accessible entry.