Residence by investment (RBI) schemes are frequently known as ‘investor visas’, ‘golden visa’, as these schemes grant investors from simple business visa to residence permits. Becoming a permanent resident also provides a path to naturalize for citizenship in most countries.

There are 195 countries in the world of which more than half 56% of world countries offer residence/investor visa schemes for foreigners participating in economic activity, business, startups or real estate or investment creating jobs.

Almost any country in the world offer a business visa if you invest a startup capital $50,000 or more. It need not be a golden visa. It could just be an innovative startup venture (startup visa) for entrepreneurs.

Investor visa or residence schemes is not limited to just ten or twenty countries.

The world is open for investment.

What is the difference between visa and residence permits? A short term business visa is valid for 3 months (90 days) while long term visas (residence permits) that are issued for stays of 90 days or more, usually for 1 or 2 years (can be prolonged thereafter). Note that some countries depending on investment issue immediate permanent residence status or even citizenship.

Citizenship by investment (CBI) schemes currently known to run in 12 countries, provide a red carpet welcome to foreign investors, offering fast track citizenship by waive requirements such as language, integration and living in the country for certain number of years.

We have compiled a total list of 109 citizenship, residence and investor visa schemes available worldwide with links to official websites.

Note: This is a long article and expected reading time is 30 minutes.

1. Albania

Albania has the second largest oil deposits in the Balkans and the largest onshore oil reserves in Europe.

“D/AE” investor visa for engagement in independent economic activity.

No minimum investment specified

Citizenship after 5 years of living

Albania is an official candidate for accession to the European Union

Albania passport ranks 49th powerful passport with visa free access to EU and other 114 countries.

Albania has a population of 2.8 million with 4 million tourists visiting every year contributing to 8% of GDP. Albania is a significant minerals producer and is ranked among the world’s leading chromium producers.

2. Andorra

Passive Residence by investment scheme

€400,000 in Property, bank deposit, Government debt securities/bonds (subjected to immigration quota’s).

in Property, bank deposit, Government debt securities/bonds (subjected to immigration quota’s). Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship after 20 years of living

Andorra passport is rare, ranks 19th powerful passport, with visa free access to 168 countries including US, Canada.

Andorra, sixth smallest country (principality) in Europe, tucked between Spain and France in Pyrenees mountains. Andorra is one of the wealthiest nations in Europe. The currency Euro is used widely. Spanish, Catalan and french are spoken commonly. Andorra 100% fibre optic connectivity for internet communications. Andorra has affordable costs of living compared to Monaco, Liechtenstein or Switzerland. Renting a flat will cost from 600 to 1500 euros. Andorra is not a EU member state or part of schengen area. Andorra has no personal tax, no wealth tax , 10% income tax, 10% corporate tax, no capital gains, no dividend taxes or estate duty taxes.

3. Antigua & Barbuda

Antigua offers both residency and citizenship by investment options.

Permanent residence scheme (have annual income of $100,000 and spend 30 days a year)

and spend 30 days a year) Instant Citizenship by investment scheme ( $100,000 NDF donation or $400,000 real estate)

NDF donation or real estate) Antigua passport ranks 27th powerful passport with visa free access to 150 countries (UK, Europe etc)

The island of Antigua was explored by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and named for the Church of Santa María La Antigua. Antigua was colonized by Britain in 1632. Antigua and Barbuda has a population of 100,000 residents. Antigua is famous for its many luxury resorts with tourism accounting for more than 50% of GDP. Antigua & Barbuda has a greater than 90% literacy rate.

4. Anguilla

Anguilla is a British overseas territory (BOT) in the caribbean

Launched new ARBI Residence by investment program in 2018

Donation of $150,000 to Capital fund or $750,000 real estate

to Capital fund or real estate Permanent resident status with path to BOTC citizenship after five years of uninterrupted residence

Anguilla has a population of 15,000 with 33 beaches. Anguilla has no capital gains, estate, profit, sales, or corporate taxes.

5. Argentina

Investment visa

Requires Investment of 1.5 million pesos ($45,000)

pesos ($45,000) One year multiple entry visa

Permanent residency after 3 years

Citizenship after five years of living

Argentine passport is 17th powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 170 nations including Europe, Russia, UK, New Zealand

Argentina has the second largest economy in South America, the third-largest in Latin America, from rich natural resources, a highly literate population, a diversified industrial base. Argentina has high Human development index and has around 6 million tourists. Argentina has the fourth-largest oil reserves in South America

6. Armenia

Special Residency Status issued to distinguished foreigners engaged in economic and cultural activities in Armenia. This status valid for ten years and exempt from military service and will be issued a Special Armenian passport.

and exempt from military service and will be issued a Special Armenian passport. Naturalize for citizenship after three year period of residence status, along with knowledge of language and constitution

of residence status, along with knowledge of language and constitution Armenia passport ranked 80th powerful passport in the world with visa waived to 61 countries.

Armenia was situated on the crossroads of the East and the West thus making the Armenian nation perceptible both in Europe and in Asia. Armenian investment and trade policies are considered to be the most open in the CIS. Armenia ranks 29th out of 162 economies according to the 2018 Report. Armenia produces and exports diamonds, copper, zinc, gold and lead.

7. Australia

Australia offers residence by investment schemes for business innovation and investment.

Investor stream (A$ 1 million)

Significant investor visa (A$5 million)

Premium investor visa (A$15 million

Entrepreneur/Business visa for entrepreneur activities

Australian citizenship after four years (permanent resident for 2 years)

Australia passport ranked 7th powerful passport with visa free access to 183 nations.

Australia is one of the developed economies with 25m population and high human development index. Australia is a highly developed country, with the world’s 13th-largest economy. It has a high-income economy, with the world’s tenth-highest per capita income. Australia is a major exporter of wheat and wool, minerals such as iron-ore and gold, and energy in the forms of liquefied natural gas and coal. Australia is also the world’s fourth largest exporter of wine, and the wine industry contributes A$5.5 billion per year to the nation’s economy

8. Austria

Self employed residence visa (must show adequate financial means of EUR 50,000 or more)

Permanent residence after 5 years

Austria has the 5th best passport in the world with visa waived to 186 countries.

Naturalise for Austrian citizenship after 10 years of legal residence.

Austria has a population of 9 million people and a hub of central Europe. Austria is consistently ranked as one of the richest countries in the world by per capita GDP with high standard of living and in 2018, ranked 20th in the world for its Human Development Index. Tourism in Austria contributes to 9% of GDP. The capital vienna is well known for music and operas and it is a birthplace of Mozart. Vienna has grown into a finance and consulting metropole and for international conferences.

9. Barbados

Special entry and residence permit valid for indefinite time

HNW investors with $5 million in assets

in assets Retired property owners can qualify

Permanent resident status after 5 years.

Barbados citizenship after 7 years of living by registration

Barbadoes passport ranked 61st in world rankings with visa free access to 161 countries.

Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. It does not have citizenship by investment program only residency. Barbados is the 53rd richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita, has a well-developed mixed economy and a moderately high standard of living. The Barbados literacy rate is ranked close to 100% and the Government spends 9% of GDP on education. Historically, the economy of Barbados had been dependent on sugarcane cultivation and related activities, but since the late 1970s and early 1980s it has diversified into the manufacturing and tourism sectors

10. Bahamas

Economic permanent residency program (fast track)

Invest BS$1.5 million (US$1.5m) in property (home) for residence

(US$1.5m) in property (home) for residence Bahamian citizenship after 6-9 years

Bahamas passport ranks 23rd best passport in the world with visa free access to 155 countries.

Bahamas has a population of 390,000 one of the richest countries in the Americas. Tourism accounts for over 60% of the Bahamian GDP, provides jobs for more than half the country’s workforce. No income tax, corporate tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax.

11. Bahrain

Self Sponsorship Residence Permit issued to foreign retirees, foreign property owners and the foreign investor.

Golden visa issued to property investment BHD 50,000 ($130,000) or more

Foreign investors must invest BHD 100,000 ($265,000) or more

Ten year investor visas with 100% foreign ownership.

Foreigners ineligible for citizenship

Bahrain has the fastest-growing economy in the Arab world. growth of Bahrain is projected at 3.2 percent in 2018. The banking system remains well capitalized and liquid. Fintech presents excellent opportunities. Bahrain has a population of 1.5 million people as of 2016. Bahrain has stabilized its oil production at about 40,000 barrels per day, and reserves are expected to last 10 to 15 years. Bahrain’s banking and financial services sector, particularly Islamic banking, have benefited from the regional boom driven by demand for oil. Petroleum production is Bahrain’s most exported product, accounting for 60% of export receipts, 70% of government revenues, and 11% of GDP

12. Bermuda

British Overseas Territory (BOT) in the North Atlantic

Global entrepreneur work permit

Fintech business permit

Permanent residence status after 20 years of residence

Bermuda has one of the richest caribbean island with highest standards of living in the world, excellent education, services and access to top-tier healthcare. Bermuda is a British overseas territory(BOT) with 63,000 population daily direct flights to US gateway cities, Toronto and London.. Bermuda’s largest economic sectors are offshore insurance and tourism. No corporate taxes. Bermuda is a tax-neutral jurisdiction, with zero income, corporate, withholding or capital gains taxes.

13. Brazil

Foreign investor scheme R$ 500,000 (USD 125,000)

(USD 125,000) Permanent residence visa R$ 500,000 (property investment)

Business Investment: R$ 600,000 (brazil company)

Permanent residence after 5 years

Brazil citizenship after four years of residence in Brazil.

Brazil passport ranks 16th powerful passport with visa free access to 161 countries.

The Economy of Brazil is the world’s eighth largest economy by nominal GDP and eighth largest by purchasing power parity. Brazil is the largest country in South America with 208 million people. In 2012 Forbes ranked Brazil as having the 5th largest number of billionaires in the world. Major industries in Brazil are textiles, machinery and equipment, agriculture and automotive.

14. Brunei

Business visa issued for the purpose of investment or business related activities in Brunei Darussalam.

Brunei has visa waiver with United States (ESTA)

Brunei passport ranks 20th best passport in the world, with visa free access to 165 countries including US, Canada, China, Russia, Europe, UK.

Brunei citizenship after 12 years of living (subjected toHis majesty by registration)

Brunei is the fourth richest country in the world. Brunei is the only sovereign state completely on the island of Borneo; the remainder of the island’s territory is divided between the nations of Malaysia and Indonesia. Brunei’s population was 423,196. Brunei is the third-largest oil producer in Southeast Asia and ninth-largest producer of liquefied natural gas in the world

15. British Virgin Islands (BVI)

Residency for persons with independent means including retirees with a net worth of $25 million or more.

or more. Permanent residence after 20 years of living

British overseas territory citizenship (BOTC) and passport

Chinese nationals given visa free access to visit BVI for business or tourism.

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) or “Virgin Islands”, are a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, to the east of Puerto Rico. BVI has a population of 30,000 and uses US dollar as national currency. Tourism accounts for approximately 45% of national income. The islands are a popular destination for US citizens. Financial services account for over half of the income of the territory. The British Virgin Islands holds Associate Member status in CARICOM.

16. Belize

Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) for retirees who have $2000 monthly income to permanently live and retire and relax in Belize.

Qualifies for QRP Resident Card

Remain in Belize for a minimum of 30 consecutive days annually.

Permanent resident card after five years

Belize citizenship possible for permanent residents after 5 years

Belize passport ranks 53rd in the world with visa free access to 101 countries

17. Bulgaria

Permanent residence scheme EUR 512,000 (Government bonds)

Bulgaria citizenship by investment EUR 1 million (after 1 year)

Bulgaria passport ranks 18th best passport in the world has visa free travel to Canada, UK, Europe, Australia etc. total of 169 countries

Bulgaria has EU membership and currently in the process of joining the Schengen area

Bulgaria has 7 million population with an open, upper middle income range market economy. Bulgaria is Europe’s fifth-largest coal producer with mining industry contributes to 5% of GDP. Bulgaria has some of the lowest corporate income tax rates in the EU at a flat 10% rate. On 1 January 2007 Bulgaria entered the European Union.

18. Cambodia

Citizenship by donation USD 250,000 cash to the economy of Cambodia

cash to the economy of Cambodia Khmer Citizenship by investment program Article 12 Cambodian Law of Nationality 1996

Cambodia permits dual citizenship

Cambodia also offers entry level e-visa option for tourists

Cambodia passport ranks 87th in the world with visa free access to only 54 countries

Cambodia has a population of over 15 million and Angkor wat is a world heritage site. Tourism was Cambodia’s fastest growing industry, with 3 million arrivals in first half of 2018 with mainly chinese tourists. The National Bank of Cambodia is the central bank of the kingdom and provides regulatory oversight to the country’s banking sector and is responsible in part for increasing the foreign direct investment in the country. Garment industry represents the largest portion of Cambodia’s manufacturing sector, accounting for 80% of the country’s exports. Cambodians drink plenty of tea

19. Canada

Express entry program for skilled workers

Quebec immigrant investor program ($1.2m)

Startup visa program

Provincial entrepreneur program ($200,000 or more)

Canadian citizenship after 3 years of living.

of living. Canada has sixth powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 185 countries

Canada is a developed country and ranks fifteenth-highest nominal per capita income globally as well as the tenth-highest ranking in the Human Development Index. Its advanced economy is the tenth-largest in the world, relying chiefly upon its abundant natural resources and well-developed international trade networks. Canada having a 13% share of global oil reserves, comprising the world’s third-largest share after Venezuela and Saudi Arabia. Canada was the third country to design and construct a satellite after the Soviet Union and the United States and a pioneer in Robotics. international migration accounted for 80% of population growth in Canada. Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents and are an integral part of the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada’s future economic success. Immigration spurs economic growth, addresses the challenges canada faces with an aging population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy.

20. Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands is a British overseas territory (BOT)

Permanent residence scheme for independent persons $2.4 million invested in real estate

invested in real estate Residence certificate for $1.2 million invested in real estate

invested in real estate BOTC (British overseas territory citizenship) after 5 years

Cayman islands is a British territory with a population of 60,000 with world class health care, and education, under British law and regulations. The Cayman Islands have more registered businesses than people, often considered a major world financial haven for international businesses and many wealthy individuals. Average income of around KYD$47,000, Caymanians have the highest standard of living in the Caribbean. No income tax, capital gains tax, or corporation tax. Foreign policy is controlled by the United Kingdom, as the islands remain an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. There are no taxes on corporate profits, capital gains, or personal income. There are no estate or death inheritance taxes payable on Cayman Islands real estate or other assets held in the Cayman Islands

20. Croatia

Investors residence scheme (employed/self-employed) with minimum investment of HRK 200,000

Temporary residence permit issued for investor family

Permanent residence status after 5 years

Croatia is EU member state but not part of schengen area

Croatia has 20th powerful EU passport in 2019 with visa free travel to 168 countries

Citizenship after 10 years of living

Croatia is a EU member state, developed country and top 20 most popular tourist destinations in the world contribution 20% to GDP. Croatia joined the European Union on 1 July 2013 . Croatia provides a social security, universal health care system, and a tuition-free primary and secondary education, while supporting culture through numerous public institutions and corporate investments in media and publishing. Croatia uses Kuna as currency.

21.Chile

Temporary Investor and Businessperson Visa

Investor visa issued for one year

Permanent residency after one year of living

Chilean citizenship after 5 years

Chile has 14th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 174 destinations (Europe, UK, Ireland, US visa waiver, Russia, Mexico and Canada)

Chile is one of the fastest growing economy in South America is a high income country with high living standards,one of South America’s most stable and prosperous nations. Chile offers attractive investment in sectors such as mining, services, the food industry, infrastructure, tourism and energy. Chile is a member of OECD and its economy is considered South America’s most stable and prosperous nations and rated as high-income economy by the World bank. Over 2 million tourists visit Chile every year.

22. Cyprus

Permanent residence scheme ( EUR 300,000 in real estate)

in real estate) Citizenship by investment scheme ( EUR 2 million in real estate or government bonds)

in real estate or government bonds) Startup visa scheme

Cypriot has 15th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 173 nations (Canada, UK, EU etc)

Cyprus is a major tourist destination with a population of 1.1 million is a high-income economy with very high Human Development Index. Cyprus joined Eurozone in 2008. Tourism, financial services and shipping are significant parts of the economy. Large quantities of offshore natural gas have been discovered in Cyprus in recent years. Cyprus allows 100% foreign ownership business with a friendly tax system of 12.5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the EU. Cyprus has concluded treaties on double taxation with more than 40 countries, and, as a member of the Eurozone, has no exchange restrictions. Non-residents and foreign investors may freely repatriate proceeds from investments in Cyprus

23. Czech Republic

Significant investment visa (CZK 75 million or USD 3.2 million)

Long term residence permit for investors with family

Permanent residence after five years of living

Citizenship after 10 years of living

Czech passport ranked 8th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 182 world countries including US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, UK etc..

The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union (EU), NATO, the OECD, the United Nations and Schengen area. The country is an advanced high income economy, ranks as the 6th safest most peaceful country and most non-religious countries in the world. After Czechoslovakia dissolved in 1992, the Czech government approved Czechia as the official short name in 2016. Skoda auto is the one the largest czech automobile companies by revenues. The capital Prague is the fifth most visited city in Europe after London, Paris, Istanbul and Rome

24. Colombia

Resident investor visa granted to foreigners for a direct foreign investment ($100,00 or more)

Investor visa for acquisition of real estate or property ($200,000 or more )

Permanent residence after five years of lawful living

Citizenship/passport after 10 years in total, with exception of spanish nationals (2 years of living), Latin america and caribbean nationals (1 year of living)

Colombia is the latin americas 4th largest economy in the Americas with population of 49 million, petroleum contributes to 49% of the exports and has largest shipbuilding industries in the world. Colombia is also the second most biodiverse country in the world, ranking first for rare bird species. Recent economic growth has led to a considerable increase of new millionaires, including the new entrepreneurs, Colombians with a net worth exceeding US $1 billion. 4 million tourists visited colombia in 2017 and financial services industry contributed 21% of GDP and trade, hotels contributed to 12% of GDP

25. Costa Rica

Investor residency program

$200,000 investment in property housing, business, securities, shares etc

Permanent residence after three years of legal living

Citizenship after 7 years of lawful resident.

Costa rican passport is 28th powerful in the world with 149 visa free destinations including UK, Ireland, EU. Visa required for travels to US and Canada.

Costa rica has a population of 2.9 million economically stable with moderate inflation, estimated at 2.6% in 2017. Costa Rica has free trade agreements with many countries, including the US. Pharmaceuticals, financial outsourcing, software development, and ecotourism have become the prime industries in Costa Rica’s economy. High levels of education among its residents make the country an attractive investing location.

26. Cuba

Business visa by investment

No minimum investment specified

Cuban passport recognized in 65 countries (visa free travel)

Cuba has 11 million population currently one of the world’s only planned economies, and its economy is dominated by the exports of sugar, tobacco, coffee and skilled labor. According to the Human Development Index, Cuba has high human development and is ranked the eighth highest in North America also ranks highly in national performance, including health care and education. Cuba has tripled its market share of Caribbean tourism in the last decade. The United States embargo against Cuba is a commercial, economic, and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba. Cuba embargo <a href=”https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Pages/cuba.aspx”>remains in place</a>. Most transactions between the United States, or persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction, and Cuba continue to be prohibited, and OFAC continues to enforce the prohibitions of the CACR.

27. Denmark

Danish Startup visa scheme

Danish residence permit for foreign entrepreneurs (team of 3 people)

Permanent residence after five years

Danish citizenship after 9 years of legal residence

Denmark has the fourth powerful passport in the world with 187 visa free destinations

Denmark is considered to be one of the most economically and socially developed happiest countries in the world with a population of 5.8 million. Danish people enjoy a high standard of living in education, health care, protection of civil liberties, democratic governance, prosperity, and human development. Denmark is the fifth-most developed in the world, has one of the world’s highest per capita incomes, and one of the world’s highest personal income tax rates. Denmark has the world’s highest minimum wage. Denmark has considerably large deposits of oil and natural gas in the North Sea and ranks 32 in the world among net exporters of crude oil. Denmark is a long-time leader in wind energy power generation. Denmark is also a leading producer ofpork, and the largest exporter of pork products in the EU. Denmark is home to many multinational world famous companies such as Maersk (shipping), Lego, Aria foods, Carlsberg (beer) etc.

28. Dominica

Citizenship by investment scheme (CBI) since 1993

Donation to Government fund ($100,000) or Real estate ($200,000)

Instant citizenship and passport to family

No requirement to live in the country

Dominica passport ranked 37th powerful passport to 137 visa free countries (EU, UK etc..)

The Commonwealth of Dominica is known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean” for its natural environment has the world’s second-largest hot spring (Boiling Lake). The island has lush mountainous rain forests, and it is the home of many rare plants, animals, and bird species. Dominica’s economy depends on tourism and agriculture. Christopher Columbus, sailing for Spain, named the island as Dominica, after the Latin term dies Dominica for Sunday, the day on which the Spanish first saw it in November 1493. The Calibishie area in the country’s northeast has sandy beaches. Dominica has many waterfalls, springs, and rivers. Dominica is a full and participating member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Dominica’s mountains, rainforests, freshwater lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, and diving spots make it an attractive eco-tourism destination. The citizenship by investment program was an economic and fiscal “lifeline” in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika, and its new investment option had become the main source of Foreign Direct Investment into Dominica by early 2016

29. Ecuador

Resident investor program

Property investment of $30,000

Business company share capital invested with minimum salary $26,500

Citizenship after three years of permanent resident

Ecuador passport ranks 55th in the world with 93 visa free destinations including China, Russia.

Ecuador with 16m population is a country of vast natural wealth, one of 17 megadiverse countries in the world. Ecuador has a developing economy that is highly dependent on commodities, namely petroleum and agricultural products. Ecuador exports accounts 50% of crude petroleum. The country is classified as an upper-middle-income country. Ecuador’s economy is the eighth largest in Latin America. Ecuador is a major exporter of bananas first worldwide in production and export and the seventh largest producer of cocoa. Ecuador has grown in popularity among North American expatriates.

30. Egypt

Deposit Residence by investment scheme

Deposit EGP 7 million Egyptian pounds (US$391,000) in local Egyptian banks

Egyptian pounds (US$391,000) in local Egyptian banks Scheme offers path to Egyptian citizenship after 5 years

Egyptian passport has visa free travel to only 49 visa free destinations

Egypt has one of the longest histories of any country, tracing its heritage back to the 6th–4th millennia BCE. Egypt’s economy is one of the largest and most diversified in the Middle East, and is projected to become one of the largest in the 21st century. Egypt has huge reserves of gas. Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Egypt’s economy. More than 12.8 million tourists visited Egypt in 2008, providing revenues of nearly $11 billion. The Suez Canal is an artificial sea-level waterway in Egypt considered the most important centre of the maritime transport in the Middle East, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. 2.7 million Egyptians abroad contribute actively to the development of their country through remittances which reached US$21 billion in 2012

31. Estonia

Foreign investor residence permit ( €1 million)

Startup visa scheme (EUR 65,000) for five year TRP

E-residency scheme

Estonia has 12th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 178 countries

Estonia with a population of 1.2 million is a tech savvy country with blockchain, fintech, AI and ICO startups and one of the most digitally advanced countries. Estonia is EU member state and also a part of schengen zone. Estonia Estonia ranks very high in the Human Development Index ranks very high in freedom, liberties and press. Estonian introduced e-Residency is a digital identity that allows everyone in the world to do business online with ease and open bank accounts without visiting. Estonia has an investment-friendly taxation system, with transparent and functioning legislation. Estonia produces about 75% of its consumed electricity. Estonia’s economy benefit from a transparent government and policies that sustain a high level of economic freedom, ranking 6th globally and 2nd in Europe

32. Ethiopia

Ethiopia investment visa

Visa issued to foreign nationals engaged in investment activities (max 12 months)

Ethiopian passport has visa free access to 42 countries.

Ethiopia produces more coffee than any other nation on the continent. Coffee remains its most important export product, and with trademark deals around the world. Ethiopia is also Africa’s second biggest maize producer. Ethiopia has a population of 102 million with GDP total $222 billion. Ethiopia has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is Africa’s second most populous country.

33. Fiji

Investor permit $120,000 issued for 7 years

issued for 7 years Real estate investment $1m

Citizenship after five years

Fiji has visa waiver with 90 countries including China, Russia etc..

Fiji is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies. Fiji is an archipelago of more than 330 islands—of which 110 are permanently inhabited—and more than 500 islets with a population of 912,000. Fiji has a significant amount of tourism with the popular regions being Nadi, the Coral Coast, Denarau Island, and Mamanuca Islands. The biggest sources of international visitors by country are Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Fiji has a significant number of soft coral reefs, and scuba diving is a common tourist activity. Source/credit: Nanuku Resort & Spa, Fiji from Flickr

34. Finland

Startup permit

Entrepreneurs permit

Permanent settlement after four years of legal residence

Citizenship after 5 years of residence.

Finland has 4th best passport in the world with visa free to 187 nations

Finland has a population of 5.5 million is the eighth-largest country in Europe and the most sparsely populated country in the European Union. Finland has about 168,000 lakes. The largest sector of the finnish economy is the service sector at 66% of GDP, followed by manufacturing and refining at 31%. In 2017, Finland’s GDP reached EUR 224 billion. Forests play a key role in the country’s economy, making it one of the world’s leading wood producers. Finland joined the European Union in 1995. Tax is collected mainly from municipal income tax, state income tax, state value added tax, customs fees, corporate taxes and special taxes. There are also property taxes, but municipal income tax pays most of municipal expenses. Corporate tax is 20%

35. France

Economic investment visa ( EUR 300,000 talent passport scheme)

Innovative enterprise (visa issued for 4 years)

Business investor residence permit (entrepreneur)

Permanent residence after 5 years

Citizenship after residence of five consecutive years.

French passport #3rd powerful in the world with visa free access to 188 nations

France is a developed country with the world’s seventh-largest economy by nominal GDP and ranks fourth in terms of household wealth. France has fast and efficient connections with the rest of the world, particularly Europe, Africa and the Middle East. French companies benefit from a high-quality communications infrastructure, including high-speed network coverage, as well as electricity at competitive and stable prices. France is a leading tourist destination, receiving around 83 million foreign visitors annually and france issues most schengen visas than any other country in Europe. Financial services, banking and the insurance sector are an important part of the economy.

36. Georgia

Investment residence permit (GEL 300,000 or USD 112,000) immediate permanent residency issued for indefinite term

Property investor permit in real estate (GEL 350,000) issued for short term

Georgian citizenship after five years of living

Georgia has 50th powerful passport with visa free travel to 112 countries

Georgia has a population of 3.7 million, is bounded to the west by the Black Sea, to the north by Russia, to the south by Turkey and Armenia, and to the southeast by Azerbaijan. The capital and largest city is Tbilisi. Georgia is a member of the United Nations, the Council of Europe. Georgian winemaking is a very old tradition and a key branch of the country’s economy. The country has sizable hydropower resources. Throughout Georgia’s modern history agriculture and tourism have been principal economic sectors. Gold, silver, copper and iron have been mined in the Caucasus Mountains. In 2016, 2, million tourists spent approximately US$2.16 billion to the country. There are 103 resorts in different climatic zones in Georgia. Tourist attractions include more than 2,000 mineral springs, over 12,000 historical and cultural monuments, four of which are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites

37. Germany

Business investors or self employed person can receive residence permit § 21 AufenthG (€100,000)

Residence permit for property investment (€300,000)

Self employment permit

No minimum investment specified in the Law.

Temporary residence permit issued to holder to pursue an economic activity.

Permanent residence after 5 years of lawful living

Citizenship after eight years of uninterrupted residence

German passport #3rd best in the world, with visa free access to 188 nations

Germany is the founding member the European Union in 1993, part of the Schengen Area and became a co-founder of the Eurozone in 1999. Germany is the largest national economy in Europe with a highly skilled labour force, a large capital stock, a low level of corruption, and high level of innovation. German auto industry is one of the most competitive and innovative in the world, fourth largest by production. Germany is a global leader in science and technology and seventh most visited country in the world. After the US, Germany is the second most popular immigration destination in the world, home to successful artists, philosophers, musicians, sportspeople, entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, and inventors.

38. Gibraltar

British overseas territory of the UK

HNW individual with CAT2 status

Requires £2 million in net assets and minimum tax of £22,000 and maximum tax of £27,560 annually

Gibraltar is British overseas territory (BOT) with a population of 32,000 and the only British Overseas Territory which is part of the European Union. The head of state is the British monarch, currently Queen Elizabeth II, who is represented by the Governor of Gibraltar. Gibraltar’s economy is dominated by four main sectors: financial services, online gambling, shipping, and tourism, which includes duty-free retail sales to visitors. A number of British and international banks have operations based in Gibraltar. The currency of Gibraltar is the Gibraltar pound, issued by the Government of Gibraltar under the terms of the 1934 Currency Notes Act. These banknotes are legal tender in Gibraltar alongside Bank of England banknotes. The standard rate of corporate tax is <b>10%</b> (<b>20%</b> in the case of utility and fuel supply companies and companies abusing a dominant market position). Companies are taxed on profits accrued in or derived from Gibraltar (i.e., territorial basis of taxation)

39. Greece

Golden visa scheme property investment (EUR 250,000)

Strategic investment activity (minimum EUR 250,000)

Permanent residence permit for investor and family

Greek citizenship after 7 years of legal living

Greece has 7th powerful passport with visa free travel to 183 countries.

Greece is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa is developed country with an advanced high-income economy, a high quality of life, and a very high standard of living and a part of EU and Schengen area. Greece has a 10 million population with unique cultural heritage, large tourism industry, prominent shipping sector and geostrategic importance classify it as a middle power. It is the largest economy in the Balkans, where it is an important regional investor. In 2009 Greece faced its severe crisis and currently Greece still has the large debts in the EU. Its property sector and GDP is recovering but real estate prices is stable attractive for foreign property buyers. Greece has a significant shipbuilding and ship maintenance industry. The six shipyards around the port of Piraeus are among the largest in Europe. Recently Greece has also become a leader in the construction and maintenance of luxury yachts. Greece welcomed over 28 million visitors in 2016 with tourism contributing 18% of GDP.

40. Grenada

Citizenship by investment + Permanent residence

Donation to Government fund ($150,000 onwards)

Real estate investment ($220,000)

Grenadian passport has visa free access to 144 countries, ranks 33rd best passport in the world.

Grenada with the population of 108,000 is known as the “Island of Spice” due to its production of nutmeg and mace crops, of which it is one of the world’s largest exporters. Grenada consists of the island of Grenada itself plus six smaller islands: Petite Martinique, Ronde Island, Caille Island, Diamond Island, Large Island, Saline Island, and Frigate Island. Carriacou and Petite Martinique are dependencies of Grenada. Christopher Columbus renamed it ‘Concepción Island’ when he visited it in 1498. Grenada was a French and British colony, but gained independence from the United Kingdom on February 7, 1974. Grenada’s population is highly educated and has a very high literacy rate. St George’s University hosts 6,000 students from over 140 countries, offers faculties of Medicine and Veterinary Science, and has been operating for thirty-five years. Grenada is the world’s second-largest producer, cocoa beans, fish, and wheat flours.

41. Guernsey

Residence by investment scheme for HNW

Invest in the Bailiwick of Guernsey amounting to no less than £1 million

Guernsey passport holders will be impacted by Brexit after the UK leaves EU in March 2019

Guernsey is an island with a population of 63,000 in the English Channel off the coast of Normandy, with several smaller nearby islands, it forms a jurisdiction within the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a Crown dependency. The jurisdiction which has highest standards of living, is not part of the United Kingdom, although defence and most foreign relations are handled by the British Government. The entire jurisdiction lies within the Common Travel Area of the British Isles and is not a member of the European Union, but has a special relationship with it, being treated as part of the European Community with access to the single market for the purposes of free trade in goods. Taken together with the separate jurisdictions of Alderney and Sark it forms the Bailiwick of Guernsey. The two Bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey together form the geographical grouping known as the Channel Islands. Financial services, such as banking, fund management, and insurance, account for about 37% of GDP. The finance industry forms the largest economic sector in Guernsey, generating around 40% of Guernsey’s GDP and directly employing around 21% of its workforce. Banks began setting up operations in the island from the early 1960s onwards in order to avoid high onshore taxes and restrictive regulation. Individuals resident in the Jurisdiction of Guernsey (not include Sark) pay income tax at the rate of 20% on their worldwide income, whereas non-residents are only liable on income arising from activity or ownership within Guernsey.

42. Hong Kong

HKSAR Entrepreneur investor program

Startup visa for businesses

No minimum investment specified

Nationals of China, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Laos, Nepal cannot apply

Permanent settlement after 7 years of living

HKSAR citizenship after 7 years of settlement status

Hong Kong passport ranks 17th powerful passport with visa free access to 170 countries worldwide.

Hong Kong is the world’s fourth-most-densely-populated region 7.4 million population is one of the world’s most significant financial centres and commercial ports.Hong Kong is major port and global financial center in Asia and service oriented economy. Hong Kong has the largest number of skyscrapers in the world, most surrounding Victoria Harbour. Also ranks seventh on the UN Human Development Index, and has the seventh-longest life expectancy in the world. Hong Kong is the seventh-largest trading entity in exports and imports, trading more goods in value than its gross domestic product. Products from mainland China account for about 40 percent of that traffic making HK as world’s fifth-busiest container port and the busiest airport for international cargo. Hong Kong has the second-highest number of corporate headquarters in the Asia-Pacific region and a gateway for foreign direct investment in China, giving investors open access to mainland Chinese markets through direct links with the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. The territory’s minimal taxation, common-law system, and civil service attract overseas corporations wishing to establish a presence in Asia

43. Hungary

Residence permit for gainful activity (Hungary entrepreneur residence program HER)

Residency bond scheme with EUR 300,000 (currently closed)

Permanent settlement card after 3-5 years of living

Naturalise for Hungarian Citizenship after 8 years

Hungary passport ranks 10th powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 188 nations.

Hungary is a landlocked country in eastern europe with a population of 9.7 residents. Hungary is the 15th safest country in the world, ranks 20th in quality of life, 24th in the Good Country Index. Hungary joined the European Union in 2004 and has been part of the Schengen Area since 2007. Hungary continues to be one of the leading nations for attracting foreign direct investment in Central and Eastern Europe, the inward FDI in the country was $119.8 billion in 2015. Electronics manufacturing and research are among the main drivers of innovation and economic growth in the country. In the past 20 years Hungary has also grown into a major center for mobile technology, information security, and related hardware research. Budapest is a leading R&D and financial center in Central and Eastern Europe. Hungary’s achievements in science and technology have been significant, and research and development efforts form an integral part of the country’s economy. Hungary’s high technology industry has benefited from both the country’s skilled workforce and the strong presence of foreign high-tech firms and research centres making Hungary of the highest rates of filed patents and has been the home of some of the most prominent researchers in various scientific disciplines, notably physics, mathematics, chemistry and engineering. There are 13 Hungarian scientists have received the Nobel Prize. Income tax in Hungary is levied at a flat rate of 15%, corporate tax at 9% lowest in the EU.

44. Ireland

Immigrant investor program (EUR 1 million in enterprises, investment fund, real estate trustr)

Startup entrepreneur visa scheme (EUR 50,000)

High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) (EUR 1 million plus create 10 jobs)

Permanent residence after 5 years

Irish citizenship after 5-6 years

Ireland passport 6th powerful in the world with visa free access to 185 nations.

Ireland is most open economy in the developed world. Politically, Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland (officially named Ireland), which covers five-sixths of the island, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Ireland ranks fifth economic freedom and first in high-value foreign direct investment (FDI) flows.. US multinationals contribute significantly to Ireland’s economy, making up 14 of the top 20 Irish firms (by turnover), directly employing a quarter of the private sector labour-force,paying 80% of business taxes. Ireland as one of the best countries for business and home to over 1000 multi national companies. Ireland is home to many of the world’s leading high-performance companies including Intel, Twitter, Pfizer, Citi, Huawei, Takeda, Fujitsu, Novartis and Trend Micro. 17 out of 20 global software companies are based in ireland. Ireland has a low corporate tax rate of 12.5%. he Irish tax regime is open and transparent and complies fully with OECD guidelines and EU competition law.

45. Israel

B5 investor visa (minimum $100,000)

Startup visa for foreign innovative entrepreneurs

Permanent residency after five years

Naturalize for citizenship after five years.

Dual citizenship allowed.

Israel has 21st powerful passport in the world with visa free access 161 countries

Israel has the second-largest number of startup companies in the world after the United States, and the third-largest number of NASDAQ-listed companies after the U.S. and China. Israel’s development of cutting-edge technologies in software, communications and the life sciences have evoked comparisons with Silicon Valley Israel has a population of 8.9 and its economic and technological center is Tel Aviv. Israeli economy has been identified as one of the healthiest and most secure in the world. Israel is the world’s spiritual hub for innovation and a powerhouse for revolutionary R&D. Israel benefits from a highly skilled workforce and is among the most educated countries in the world with one of the highest percentages of its citizens holding a tertiary education degree. Israel has the highest standard of living in the Middle East. Israel is considered the most advanced country in Southwest Asia and the Middle East in economic and industrial development.

46. Isle of Man

British crown dependency between Ireland and Great Britain

Tier1 Investor visa (£2,000,000)

Tier1 Entrepreneur visa (£200,000)

Permanent settlement after five years

Citizenship after 6 years

Isle of man is a self-governing British Crown dependency in the Irish Sea between Great Britain and Ireland, home to 83,314 people. Under British law, the Isle of Man is not part of the United Kingdom. The Isle of Man is neither part of the European Union, nor has a special status, and thus did not take part in the 2016 referendum on the UK’s EU membership. Insurance and online gambling generate 17% of GNP each, followed by information and communications technology and banking with 9% each. There is no citizenship of the Isle of Man as such to speak of under the British Nationality Act 1948 and also the British Nationality Act 1981. The Passport Office, Isle of Man, Douglas, accepts and processes applications for the Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man, who in turn officially-speaking issues Isle of Man-issued British passport entitled “British Islands – Isle of Man”. Because the Isle of Man is not part of the United Kingdom, its passports do not carry the words United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on the front cover and on the biodata page.

47. Italy

Startup investor visa (€500,000) issued for two years

Italian companies investment (€ 1 million)

Italian government bonds (€ 2 million)

Philanthropic donations (€ 1 million)

Permanent residence after 5 years

Italian citizenship after ten years of legal residence in Italy

Italy has 4th powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 187 countries

Italy with a population of 60 million is considered to be one of the world’s most culturally and economically developed countries, with its economy ranking eighth largest in the world and third in the Eurozone at the heart of mediterranean sea. Italy is home to 54 World Heritage Sites, the most in the world, and is the fifth-most visited country. Italy is a founding and leading member of the European Union. Italy is a key gateway to the European Single Market and its 500 million consumers, but is also close to Northern Africa and the Middle East and their further 270 million potential customers; at the same time, it represents an ideal bridge between Southern Europe and Central and Eastern EU countries. Milan is a global financial centre and a fashion capital of the world. Italy has the biggest auto industry contributing of 8.5% to Italian GDP. In 2016, Italy had about 5.05 million foreign residents, making up 8.3% of the total population.

48. Japan

Investor/Business Manager visa (¥ 5 million or $45,000)

Permanent residency minimum 5 years to 10 years of living.

Japanese citizenship after 5 years of residence.

Japanese passport No.1 in the world with visa free travel to 190 world nations.

Japan is world’s third-largest economy after US an China, world’s fourth-largest exporter and importer. Japan is a highly developed country with a very high standard of living and Human Development Index. Its population enjoys the highest life expectancy and the third lowest infant mortality rate in the world, but is experiencing issues due to an aging population and low birthrate. Japan is renowned for its animation, video gaming with highly skilled workforce and is among the most highly educated countries in the world, with one of the highest percentages of its citizens holding a tertiary education degree. Japan leader in scientific research, ranking second among the most innovative countries in the Bloomberg Innovation Index. Japan leads the world in robotics production and use, possessing more than 20% of the world’s industrial robots. Japan is the world’s third largest automobile manufacturing country has the largest electronics goods industry, and is often ranked among the world’s most innovative countries leading several measures of global patent filings. Japan is also leads in fintech, blockchain and crypto industry startups.

49. Jersey

Investor scheme £2 million

High value resident £1.75 million in a property

Permanent residence after 5 years of living.

Jersey passport is a British passport issued by the Passport Office of the Jersey Government in St Helier to British citizens connected to the Crown Dependency of Jersey.

The Bailiwick of Jersey is a Crown dependency located near the coast of Normandy, France. The Bailiwick consists of the island of Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands. Although the bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey are often referred to collectively as the Channel Islands, the “Channel Islands” are not a constitutional or political unit. Jersey has a separate relationship to the Crown from the other Crown dependencies of Guernsey and the Isle of Man, although all are held by the monarch of the United Kingdom. Jersey is not part of the United Kingdom, and has an international identity separate from that of the UK, but the UK is constitutionally responsible for the defense of Jersey. Jersey has a population of 100,000 not part of the United Kingdom, and has an international identity separate from that of the UK, but the UK is constitutionally responsible for the defense of Jersey. Jersey’s economy is based on financial services (40% of GVA in 2012), tourism and hospitality. Jersey is ranked as a tax haven by many organizations with the Financial Secrecy Index ranking Jersey as 16th, one rank behind the United Kingdom as of 2015. Jersey belongs to the Common Travel Area and the definition of “United Kingdom” in the British Nationality Act 1981 is interpreted as including the UK and the Islands together. For immigration and nationality purposes, the United Kingdom generally treats Jersey as though it were part of the UK

50. Jordan

Citizenship by investment ($1.5m in bank deposit, bonds or securities, $1m in enterprises)

Residency by investment ($200,000 in property)

Citizenship or Permanent residence after 5 years of living

Jordan passport has access to 50 visa free destinations, ranks 91th for best passport

Jordan is strategically located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe with population of 10 million in 2018. The Jordanian economy, one of the smallest economies in the region, is attractive to foreign investors based upon a skilled workforce. The country is a major tourist destination, also attracting medical tourism due to its well developed health sector. Jordan is classified by the World Bank as an “upper-middle income” country. Jordan signed the Jordan–United States Free Trade Agreement, thus becoming the first Arab country to establish a free trade agreement with the United States. Jordan enjoys advanced status with the EU, which has facilitated greater access to export to European markets. Jordan receives 330 days of sunshine every year and is home to around 100,000 archaeological and tourist sites, well preserved sites like Petra (image above). Jordan also is a hub for natural treatment methods from Dead sea, which contains ten times more salt, therapeutic for skin diseases.

51. Kazakhstan

A5 investor visa (minimum investment of $100,000)

Business visa (B1/B3)

Citizenship after 5 years of legally living in the country.

Kazakhstan passport has visa free access to 76 countries, ranks 69th in the HPI rankings

Kazakhstan has one of the most favorable investment climates in the region. Kazakhstan was ranked 28th in the world by net FDI inflows. Kazakhstan is ranked 16th among the developing countries. The country has a GDP of $500 billion with population of 18 million people. Kazakhstan is a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Economic Cooperation Organization and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. As of 2014, foreign investors had placed a total of $211.5 billion in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan has the largest and strongest performing economy in Central Asia. Supported by rising oil output and prices, Kazakhstan’s economy grew at an average of 8% per year until 2013. The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is a financial hub in Astana, Kazakhstan that officially launched on July 5, 2018. The Astana International Financial Centre plays one of the main roles in attracting financial resources. It is positioned as a financial hub for the countries of Central Asia, the Caucasus, Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Middle East, Western China, Mongolia and Europe. Corporate tax waiver till 1 January 2066 is given to AIFC bodies and AIFC participants providing Islamic banking, asset management, reinsurance and insurance brokerage, brokerage and dealer, underwriting services and other financial services determined by the resolution of the AIFC Management Council. Individuals and legal entities are exempted from paying individual income tax and corporate tax on capital gains, dividends and compensation on the securities listed on AIFC Exchange as well as capital gains and dividends on the shares of AIFC participants.

52. Kyrgyzstan

Investment visa (“I” type) issued to foreigners for SOM 10 million ($140,000) invested for three years

Family and children can qualify

Permanent residence permit after five years

Citizenship after 5 years of living with permanent resident status.

Kyrgyz passport ranks 78th, with 63 visa free destinations.

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country with mountainous terrain bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west and southwest, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the east. The country has about 6 million population. Agriculture is the main economy, and Kyrgyzstan is rich in mineral resources with substantial deposits of coal, gold, uranium, antimony, and other valuable metals. Metallurgy is an important industry. In 2014, Kyrgyzstan’s exports including gold were a total of $1.88 billion. The GDP of 2016 is 6.5 billion USD.

53. Laos

Business visa for foreign investors (NI – B2) including Startups

Business in Laos with an investment value of at least US$500,000 can also apply for permanent residency after five years.

Lao citizenship after 10 years of living.

Lao passport has visa free access to 52 destinations.

Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia at the heart of the Indochinese peninsula and one of the fastest growing economies. The Lao economy depends heavily on investment and trade with its neighbors, Thailand, Vietnam, and, especially in the north, China. China, Thailand and Vietnam are the biggest investors in Lao economy. Laos is rich in mineral resources and imports petroleum and gas. Metallurgy is an important industry, and the government hopes to attract foreign investment to develop the substantial deposits of coal, gold, bauxite, tin, copper, and other valuable metals. The country’s plentiful water resources and mountainous terrain enable it to produce and export large quantities of hydroelectric energy. The country’s most widely recognized beer Beerlao produced by Lao Brewery Company. , which is exported to many developed countries around the world such as the US, Britain, Germany, Japan, South Korea. Laos’s population was estimated at 6.8 million in 2016.

54. Latvia

Golden visa scheme offers residency to foreign investors

Real estate investment (€250,000 plus 5% state fee)

Interest free government bonds (€250,000)

Permanent settlement card after five years

Citizenship after 9 years of legal residence

Latvia passport ranks 11th powerful in the world, with visa free to 179 countries (US, UK, Canada, Europe)

Latvia has 1.9 million inhabitants. Latvia is a member of the European Union and Schengen area, uses Euro currency since 2014. Latvia has 25% russian population in the country. Latvia is a natural gateway between the US, EU and Asia (especially Russia/CIS). The transport sector is around 14% of GDP. Latvia has three major ports. The Free port of Ventspils is one of the busiest ports in the Baltic states. Latvia’s workforce is ranked in the top five in the world in terms of university students per capita. World Bank’s report Doing Business 2019 ranks Latvia as 19th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business. Latvia has one of the fastest telecommunications infrastructures in the world, providing companies seamless connection with customers and partners abroad.

55. Liechtenstein

Startup Business visa with gainful employment

Permanent residence permit after five years of legal residence

Citizenship after 30 years of living

Liechtenstein passport is rare ranks 12th powerful passport with visa free to 178 countries in HPI 2018

Liechtenstein the fourth smallest country in Europe and has a population of 37,000 and is one of the wealthiest nations for billionaires. Liechtenstein is a german speaking landlocked alpine country bordered by Switzerland to the west and south and Austria to the east and north. Liechtenstein is mainly mountainous, making it a winter sport destination. The country has a strong financial sector centered in Vaduz. Almost 20,000 people commute to work in Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein participates in both the Schengen Area and the European Economic Area. Liechtenstein is one of the few countries in the world with more registered companies than citizens. Liechtenstein participates in a customs union with Switzerland and employs the Swiss franc as the national currency. Lately Liechtenstein is becoming popular for blockchain startups. Liechtenstein follows a policy of neutrality and is one of the few countries in the world that maintain no military.

56. Lithuania

Startup visa for entrepreneurs

Business residence permit for two years

Permanent residence permit after five years of living

Apply for citizenship after 10 years of legally living

Lithuania has 11th best passport in the world with 179 visa free destinations

Lithuania has been one of the Baltic states with a population of 2.8 million people, its capital and largest city is Vilnius. Lithuania is a member of the European Union, Eurozone, Schengen Agreement, NATO and OECD. On 1 January 2015, Euro became the national currency of Lithuania. Lithuania has a flat tax rate rather than a progressive scheme. According to Eurostat, the personal income tax (15%) and corporate tax (15%) rates in Lithuania are among the lowest in the EU. The country has the lowest corporate tax rate 15% and 5% for small businesses. Information technology production is growing in the country, reaching 1.9 billion euros in 2016. In 2017, 35 FinTech companies came to Lithuania – a result of Lithuanian government and Bank of Lithuania simplified procedures for obtaining licences for the activities of e-money and payment institutions. Europe’s first international Blockchain Centre launched in Vilnius in 2018. Lithuania has launched three satellites to the cosmos. Lithuania has the highest percentage of hot air balloons per capita.

57. Luxembourg

Golden visa /Residence by investment scheme (RBI)

EUR 500,000 in a new business or Investment funds (EUR 3 million) or Bank Deposit ( EUR 20 million) for five years

Investors permit issued for maximum of three years.

Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship after five years of living (knowledge of luxembourgish language)

Luxembourg passport 5th powerful in the world with 185 visa free destinations

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a small landlocked country in western europe with a population of 600,000. Luxembourg is the richest country in Europe with the highest per capita GDP $104,003 and also a founding member of the European Union, OECD, United Nations, NATO, and Benelux. Luxembourg’s stable and high-income market economy features moderate growth, low inflation, and a high level of innovation. Luxembourg is part of the Schengen Area, the EU single market, and the Eurozone. Luxembourg ranks sixth in financial secrecy index of 2018.

58. Macedonia

Investor permit

Temporary residence permit for work/self-employment/business

Permanent residency after three years of legal residence

Citizenship after five years of living

Macedonia passport has visa free travel to 125 countries, 43rd best passport in the world.

Macedonia is a landlocked country bordering Kosovo, Greece, Bulgaria, Albania and Bulgaria with 2 million population. Macedonia is a beautiful balkan country with mountains, lakes and rivers. Macedonia is a EU and NATO member and has free access to large markets. Skopje is the capital and largest city. The country encourages business investment and has low tax on profits and income – 10%. Foreign entities can directly own or lease property in Macedonia. Investment sectors such as agriculture, Information Technology, Clothing attract major investments. Macedonia offers additional incentives for development in the TIDZ (economic zones) which gives personal and corporate tax exemption for first 10 years. Since 2005 it has also been a candidate for joining the European Union. Macedonia has made significant progress in developing an open, market-based economy. Tourism is an important part of the economy of the Republic of Macedonia. The country’s abundance of natural and cultural attractions make it an attractive destination of visitors. It receives about 700,000 tourists annually

59. Macau

Macau Investment residency scheme (MOP 1 million capital or $125,000)

Temporary residency for investors (hotels, manufacturing, services etc..)

Permanent resident status in Macau after continuously living for 7 years.

Macau passport is the 33rd best passport in the world with visa free travel to 144 countries. (UK, Europe etc)

Macau is among the world’s richest regions and its GDP per capita by purchasing power parity was higher than that of any country in the world.. Macau officially the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, is an autonomous territory on the western side of the Pearl River estuary in East Asia. Macau was formerly a colony of the Portuguese Empire remained under Portuguese control until 1999, when it was returned to China. Macau is known as the gambling capital of the world. Its economy is heavily dependent on gambling and tourism, with the largest gaming revenue since 2006. As a special administrative region, Macau maintains a separate political and economic system apart from mainland China. Macau has a population of 650,000 earning the nickname”Las Vegas of Asia.”. Macau is an offshore financial centre, a tax haven, and a free port with no foreign exchange control regimes. In Macau, the unit of currency is the pataca, which is currently pegged to the Hong Kong dollar at a rate of HK$1 = MOP1.03. Macau is the most densely populated region in the world with 650,000 population.

60. Malaysia

MM2H Investor Residency program (My Second Home)

Investors: Financially capable of RM500,000 ($120,000) liquid assets and offshore income of RM10,000 per month (below 50 years)

($120,000) liquid assets and offshore income of RM10,000 per month (below 50 years) Retirees: financial proof of R M350,000 ($85,000) in liquid assets and offshore income of RM10,000 per month.

($85,000) in liquid assets and offshore income of RM10,000 per month. Investors qualify for 10 year multiple entry visa

Malaysia has 10th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 180 countries (UK, Europe etc)

Foreign nationals who have lived in Malaysia continuously for 5 years, can apply for permanent residency.

Citizenship to foreigners who have lived more than ten years.

Malaysia has a newly industrialised market economy, ranked 4th largest in Southeast Asia and 38th largest in the world. Malaysia has had one of the best economic records in Asia since its independence from the United Kingdom with its GDP growing at an average of 6.5% per annum for almost 50 years. The economy has traditionally been fuelled by its natural resources, but is expanding in the sectors of science, tourism, commerce and medical tourism. It is also one of the few developing countries to heavily subsidise education and healthcare. Malaysian citizens are entitled to free public education up to secondary level and public tertiary education fees are subsidised by up to 90%. Malaysian healthcare services have been regarded as among the best in the world and the UN Development Program called the Malaysian healthcare system “a model to other developing countries”

61. Maldives

Maldives investor visa for investors valid for five years

Investment Investors with USD 50 million or more invested in Maldives

Bank deposit: Investors maintain a bank deposit of USD 1 million at Maldivian bank for a period of not less than 2 years or who has invested in a financial security

Real estate: investors who have invested at least USD 1 million in a real estate, approved by the government authorities.

Maldives citizenship after five years of living.

Maldivian has 58th powerful passport with visa free access to 87 countries

Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean, situated in the Arabian Sea, lies southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The Maldives is a founding member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), also a member of the United Nations, with upper middle income economy Fishing has historically been the dominant economic activity, and remains the largest sector by far, followed by the rapidly growing tourism industry. Maldives per capita income one of the highest among SAARC nations. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. The Maldives are known for their natural environment including the blue ocean, white beaches, and clean air. The natural environment of the Maldives attracts tourists all over the world and every year. The Maldives has no income, sales, property, or capital-gains taxes, and has been considered to have the simplest tax code in the world.

62. Malta

Malta Residency Visa Programme (€250,000 Government bond/stocks) offers permanent residency

Malta Individual Investor Programme (€900,000) offers citizenship to foreign investors

Family and children also qualify

Rent or buy a home under both schemes

Maltese passport 7th powerful in the world with visa free access to 183 countries in the world

Malta is one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated countries with Valletta, the smallest national capital in the European Union. Malta, Gozo and Comino are three inhabited islands of Malta. Malta has been inhabited since approximately 5900 BC because of its strategic centre in the mediterranean. Malta participates in Schengen area and joined the European Union in 2004; it became part of the eurozone monetary union in 2008. Film production is a growing contributor to the Maltese economy. Malta is visited by three times more tourists than its residents. Malta became Blockchain island in 2018, popular for blockchain, fintech and AI startups and companies.

63. Mauritius

Investor Residence permit ($100,000)

Real estate investment permit ($500,000)

Permanent residence after three years

Citizenship after five continuous years of living

Mauritius passport has visa free travel to 58 countries

Mauritius is an island nation off the southeast coast of the African continent in the Indian ocean with a population of 1.2 million. Mauritius is the only country in Africa and outside of South Asia where Hinduism is the majority religion. The administration uses English as its main language. The country is home to some of the world’s rarest plants and animals. Since independence from Britain in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low-income, agriculture-based economy to a middle-income diversified economy, based on tourism, textiles, sugar, and financial services. Mauritius is ranked high in terms of economic competitiveness, a friendly investment climate, good governance and a free economy. Mauritius in 2018 Budget speech proposed a economic citizenship by investment program for $500,000 to sovereign fund. Financial services is one of the growing sectors of the economy. Mauritius has an outsize offshore sector which it built on a low tax regime and extensive treaty network. Mauritius accounted for 42 per cent of India’s foreign direct investment between 2000 and 2011

64. Mexico

Temporary resident investor visa

Property: Real estate investment ($220,000) in the territory of Mexico

Investor: Investment in company shares/stocks for $110,000 and own personal property of atleast €148,000

Permanent residence after four years of living as temporary resident.

Naturalization in Mexico for citizenship requires five years of residency prior to the application date

Mexico has 22nd powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 158 countries (Canada, Europe, UK etc)

Mexico with estimated population of over 120 million people, is the eleventh most populous state and the most populous Spanish-speaking state in the world. The country is an emerging global power became the first Latin American member of the OECD and it was the eighth most-visited country in the world with 35 million international arrivals in 2016. Mexico has the sixth largest electronics industry in the world and largest exporter to US represent 30% of exports. Mexico produces the most automobiles of any North American nation. Mexico is the country with the world’s third largest solar potential. The remittances from Mexican citizens working in the United States account for 0.2% of Mexico’s GDP. Mexico is the most visited country in the Americas after United States. As of 2017, Mexico was the 6th most visited country in the world and had the 15th highest income from tourism in the world. As of 2017, it is estimated that 1.2 million foreigners have settled in the country. The vast majority of migrants come from the United States (900,000), making Mexico the top destination for U.S. citizens abroad

65. Moldova

Residence permit for entrepreneur activity

Newly opened Citizenship by investment scheme in 2018 for Donation to Government fund (EUR 100,000)

Moldova passport has visa free travel to 122 countries, ranks 46th powerful passport

Moldova is a landlocked country in eastern europe with a population of 3.3 million bordered by Ukraine and Romania. Moldova has signed the Association Agreement and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union during summer 2014. Moldova has also achieved a Free Visa Regime with the EU which represents the biggest achievement of Moldovan diplomacy since independence. Moldova imports almost all of its energy supplies from Russia and Ukraine. Moldova has a well-established wine industry. The official language of Moldova is Romanian and currency is Leu. Approximately 100 Leu equals $5.8 US dollars

66. Morocco

Investor category visa (MAD 200 million or $21 million)

Business visa

Certificate of residence after 10 years of living

Morocco passport has visa free travel to 61 countries in 2018

Morocco has a population of 35 million bordered by Spain in the north, with its capital is Rabat, the largest city Casablanca. The area of present-day Morocco has been inhabited since Paleolithic times, sometime between 190,000 and 90,000 BC. Morocco has become a major player in African economic affairs, and is the 5th African economy by GDP (PPP).Morocco attracted more than 10 million tourists in 2013. Tourism is the second largest foreign exchange earner in Morocco after the phosphate industry. The services sector accounts for just over half of GDP and industry, made up of mining, construction and manufacturing, is an additional quarter. The industries that recorded the highest growth are tourism, telecoms, information technology, and textile. Casablanca is the major cruise port in Morocco. Morocco has a large diaspora, most of which is located in France, which has reportedly over one million Moroccans of up to the third generation and also in nearby countries Spain, Netherlands and Belgium. Moroccan cuisine is considered as one of the most diversified cuisines in the world.

67. Monaco

€1 million Business capital transfer in a Monaco company

€1 million real estate purchase

€500,000 in a bank deposit and €500,000 property purchase

Permanent residence after five years

Monegasque citizenship after ten years of living

Monaco passport is rare and 14th powerful passport with 174 visa free countries

Monaco (aka. Monte Carlo) is the second smallest country in the world in the french riviera after vatican. Monaco is the richest country has the world’s second-highest GDP nominal per capita at US$153,177. The country has highest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita in the world, infact 30% of the country population was made up of millionaires. Monaco’s mild climate, scenery, and gambling facilities have contributed to the principality’s status as a tourist destination and recreation centre for the rich. In more recent years, Monaco has become a major banking centre and has sought to diversify its economy into the services sector and small, high-value-added, non-polluting industries. The state has no income tax, low business taxes, and is well known for being a tax haven. Monaco is not formally a part of the European Union (EU), but it participates in certain EU policies, including customs and border controls. Through its relationship with France, Monaco uses the euro as its sole currency. Monaco has never levied income tax on individuals,[90] and foreigners are thus able to use it as a “tax haven” from their own country’s taxes, because as an independent country, Monaco is not obligated to pay taxes to other countries. The absence of a personal income tax in the principality has attracted to it a considerable number of wealthy “tax refugee” residents from European countries who derive the majority of their income from activity outside Monaco.

68. Mongolia

T1 Investor permit

Citizenship after living five years (with knowledge of mongolian language)

Mongol passport has visa free access to 61 countries

Mongolia is the 18th-largest and the most sparsely populated unitary sovereign state in the world, with a population of around 3 million people. It is also the world’s second-largest landlocked country behind Kazakhstan and the largest landlocked country that does not border a closed sea. Mongolia has approximately 30% of the population is nomadic or semi-nomadic; horse culture is still integral. Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city, is home to about 45% of the country’s population. Minerals represent more than 80% of Mongolia’s exports, a proportion expected to eventually rise to 95%. About 3,000 mining licences have been issued. Mining is continuing to rise as a major industry of Mongolia.

69. Montenegro

New citizenship by investment scheme launched in 2018

€250,000 in real estate plus €100,000 state fee for citizenship

€450,000 in hotel or tourism in Podgorica plus fees

Permanent residency issued in 3 weeks

Montenegrin citizenship after 6 months

Montenegrin passport has visa free travel to 123 countries, ranks 45th best passport in the world

Montenegro is a country inSoutheastern Europe on the Adriatic Sea with a population of 640,000, classified by the World Bank as an upper middle-income country, Montenegro is a member of the UN, NATO, the World Trade Organization and is a founding member of Union of the Mediterranean. Montenegro is a candidate country for EU membership and expected to join EU and Schengen area in 2025. Montenegro uses the Euro as its national currency. Montenegro has both a picturesque coast and a mountainous northern region with 1.6 million visitors and a major contributor to GDP. Montenegro has experienced a real estate boom in 2006 and 2007, with wealthy Russians, Britons and others buying property on Montenegrin coast. Montenegro received, as of 2008, more foreign investment per capita than any other nation in Europe. Due to foreign direct investment, the Montenegrin economy has been growing at a very fast pace in recent years. Banking sector of Montenegro is highly concentrated with high share of foreign capital. Banks in Montenegro usually operate as universal banks, providing retail and corporate banking products and services. Montenegro provides attractive incentives to businesses with foreign investment.

70. Montserrat

Economic residence by investment in British overseas territory (BOT)

USD 150,000 in Bank deposit, Property or Government bonds

Permanent residency is possible after five years of living in the island.

of living in the island. Montserrat passport is a BOTC passport.

Montserrat is a Caribbean island in the Leeward Islands, is a British Overseas Territory (BOT) with a limited population of just 5000. Montserrat is an internally self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom. The island’s operating budget is largely supplied by the British government and administered through the Department for International Development (DFID) amounting to approximately £25 million per year. Additional amounts are secured through income and property taxes, licence and other fees as well as customs duties levied on imported goods. In July 1995, Montserrat’s Soufrière Hills volcano, dormant for centuries, erupted and soon buried the island’s capital, Plymouth, in more than 12 metres (39 ft) of mud, destroyed its airport and docking facilities, and rendered the southern part of the island, now termed the exclusion zone, uninhabitable and not safe for travel.

71. The Netherlands

Start up visa

Foreign investor scheme requires capital investment of €1.25 million in Dutch companies

in Dutch companies Residence permit issued for three years

Permanent settlement after five years of legally living

Dutch citizenship after five years

Dutch passport is fifth best in the world with visa free travel to 186 countries

The Netherlands has the 17th-largest economy in the world and one of the most developed and densely populated countries in western europe. Netherlands ranks among the highest in international indexes of press freedom, economic freedom, human development, and quality of life. Netherlands’ literally means ‘lower countries’, referring to its low land and flat geography, with only about 50% of its land exceeding 1 metre above sea level. The country has a long history of social tolerance and is generally regarded as a liberal country, having legalised abortion, prostitution, and euthanasia, while maintaining a progressive drug policy. Amsterdam is the financial and business capital of the Netherlands. The Dutch strategic location gives it prime access to markets in the UK and Germany for international trade, with the Port of Rotterdam being the largest port in Europe. The Netherlands continues to be one of the leading European nations for attracting foreign direct investment and is one of the five largest investors in the United States. The country has a migration rate of 2.0 migrants per 1,000 inhabitants per year (2%).

72. New Zealand

Startup entrepreneur work visa (N$ 100,000 or US$ 70,000)

Entrepreneur residence visa (N$ 500,000 or US$350,000)

Business Investor visa (Investor 2) N$ 3 million or US$ 2m

Business Investor visa (Investor 1) N$ 10 million or US$ 7m

Acceptable investments: Bonds, Equities in companies, Properties non personal use

Permanent residence after two years of living.

New Zealand citizenship after five years of residence.

New Zealand has 8th powerful passport with visa free travel to 182 countries in 2018

New Zealand one of the last lands to be settled by humans now has a population of 4.9 million residents. The capital city is Wellington, while its most populous city is Auckland. New Zealand ranks highly in international measurements of human development, quality of life, education, government transparency, civil liberties, and economic freedom. New Zealand currently has become popular migrant destination for very wealthy migrants from US, UK and China. New Zealand has an advanced market economy, ranked 16th in the 2018 Human Development Index and third in the 2018 Index of Economic Freedom. It is a high-income economy with a nominal gross domestic product (GDP) per capita of US$36,254. In the 2013 census, 74.0% of New Zealand residents identified ethnically as European, and 14.9% as Māori. The United Kingdom remains the largest source of New Zealand’s overseas population, with a quarter of all overseas-born New Zealanders born there

73. Oman

Investor residence visa

No minimum investment specified

Permanent residency or citizenship not possible for foreigners

Omani passport has visa free travel to 78 countries

Oman is categorized as a high-income economy and ranks as the 70th most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index. Oman has sizable oil reserves, ranking 25th globally, and a significant portion of its economy involves tourism and trade of fish, dates, and certain agricultural produce. Oman’s foreign workers send an estimated US$30 billion annually to their home states in Asia and Africa, more than half of them earning a monthly wage of less than US$400. Oman’s proved reserves of petroleum total about 5.5 billion barrels, 25th largest in the world exports about 61% of petroleum oils. Oman is the fastest growing tourism destination in the Middle East

74. Panama

Business investor visa ($160,000)

Pacific investor visa ($250,000)

Economic permanent residence visa ($300,000 in bank deposit or real estate)

Movie investor visa ($150,000)

PR after five years of living

Citizenship after three years with PR

Panama passport has visa free travel to 141 countries ranks 35th best passport in the world.

Panama has a population of 4 million second-most competitive economy and fastest growing countries in Latin America. The Panama canal connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea to the North of the Pacific Ocean. Canal tolls represent a significant portion of Panama’s GDP, although commerce, banking, and tourism are major and growing sectors. The banking sector employs more than 24,000 people directly. Financial intermediation contributed 9.3 percent of GDP. Panama still has a reputation worldwide for being a tax haven but has agreed to enhanced transparency, especially since the release in 2016 of the Panama Papers. Panama enacted Law No. 80 in 2012 to promote foreign investment in tourism. Law 80 provides 100 percent exemption from income tax and real estate taxes for 15 years, duty-free imports for construction materials and equipment for five years, and a capital gains tax exemption for five years

75. Papa New Guinea

Permanent residence for Business investment (K 10 million or US$3m) or

Retired persons of $15K per annum

Passport has visa free travel to 82 countries

Papa New Guinea is one of the most diverse countries in the world located in the oceania north of Australia. Papua New Guinea is richly endowed with natural resources, including mineral and renewable resources, such as forests, marine with booming mining sector and sector gas exploration.

76. Paraguay

Paraguay permanent residence valid for five years issued for economic activity

Bank deposit ($5000) or Real estate property

Citizenship after three years of residence

Paraguay passport has visa free travel to 143 countries (UK, Russia, Europe), ranks 34th best passport in the world.

Paraguay is a landlocked countries in South America with a population of 7 million. Paraguayans are known for being a very happy and easy-living people and many times the country topped the “world’s happiest place” charts. Paraguay is the world’s largest exporter of electric power, from two large hydroelectric power projects along its borders. Paraguay is the sixth-largest soybean producer in the world (exports 39%), second-largest producer of stevia, second-largest producer oftung oil, sixth-largest exporter of corn. The mineral industry of Paraguay produces about 25% of GDP and employs one third of workforce. Paraguay is a bilingual nation. Both Spanish and Guaraní are official languages. Asunción is the capital and largest city of Paraguay

77. Portugal

Startup visa scheme

Golden visa residence permit for investment activity (€350,000 property) or Business (€250,000)

Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship after five or six years.

Portugal has the fifth powerful EU passport in the world with visa free travel to 186 countries

Portugal with a population of 10 million is a developed EU country with a high-income advanced economy and high living standards and 4th most peaceful country in the world. Portugal one of the founding countries of the euro and the eurozone and joined schengen area in 1995. Portugal is one of the largest exporter of wine and a significant European minerals producer and is ranked among Europe’s leading copper producers. The nation is also a notable producer of tin, tungsten and uranium. Portugal is among the top 20 most-visited countries in the world, receiving an average of 20 million foreign tourists each year. Popular Tourist hotspots in Portugal are: Lisbon, Cascais, Fatima, Algarve, Madeira, Porto and the city of Coimbra. Lisbon attracts the sixteenth-most tourists among European cities. Portugal also has considerable resources of wind and river power, the two most cost-effective renewable energy sources.

78. Philippines

Special investor residence visa (SIRV) for Business investment (US$ 75,000 or more)

Visa validity for unlimited or investment expiry

Live, work and also retire in Philippines

Live outside the country and reenter anytime

Citizenship after 10 years of living.

Philippines passport has visa free travel to 66 countries

Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia in the Pacific, consists of about 7,641 islands. The country is the eighth-most populated country in Asia and the 12th most populated country in the world with an emerging market and a newly industrialized country. The Philippine economy is the 34th largest in the world, with an estimated 2018 gross GDP (nominal) of $371.8 billion and a major exporter of semiconductors electronic products and garments. The economy is heavily reliant upon remittances from overseas Filipinos, which surpass foreign direct investment as a source of foreign currency. Service industries such as tourismand business process outsourcing (BPO) have been identified as areas with some of the best opportunities for growth for the country. Goldman Sachs estimates that by the year 2050, Philippines will be the 20th largest economy in the world. The travel and tourism sector is a major contributor to the economy. The country’s rich biodiversity is one of the main tourist attractions with its beaches, mountains, rain forests, islands and diving spots among the most popular tourist destinations.

79. Qatar

Investor residence visa (property owners)

Business visa

Business or property investment

Exempted from income tax for ten years

Qatar is a high-income economy, backed by the world’s third-largest natural gas reserves and oil reserves with a population of 2.3 million and 70% expat population, of which 60% represent south asians. Qatar is the richest country in the world in terms of per-capita income. In 2018 Qatar announced 100% foreign ownership in companies and approved permanent residency for foreigners who have lived 20 years capped to 100 foreigners annually. With no income tax, Qatar is one of the countries with the lowest tax rates in the world. Qatar established its sovereign wealth fund in 2005, specializing in foreign investment. Due to billions of dollars in surpluses from the oil and gas industry, the Qatari government has directed investments into United States, Europe, and Asia Pacific. As of 2013, the holdings were valued at $320 billion, tenth biggest in the world in terms of assets in 2018.

80. Romania

Business visa long stay visa (D/AE) for economic activities

Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship after 8 years of living

Passport ranks 18th best with 169 visa free countries.

Romania one of the fastest growing economies in the EU. Romania is the world’s 47th largest economy by nominal GDP and an annual economic growth rate of 7% (2017). Romania joined European Union since 2007 but the country does not participate in Schengen area. Romania along with Bulgaria received visa waiver (need electronic authorization) with Canada in 2018. Romania has an economy predominantly based on services, and is a producer and net exporter of machines and electric energy, featuring auto companies like Automobile Dacia and OMV Petrom. Romania tourism reached 9.33 million foreign tourists in 2016 contributing to 5% of GDP. In 2005, the government replaced Romania’s progressive tax system with a flat tax of 16% for both personal income and corporate profit, among the lowest rates in the European Union attractive for investment. Romania is a net exporter of electrical energy and is 48th worldwide in terms of consumption of electric energy

81. Russia

Business visa (multiple entry valid for 90 days)

Permanent residence after three years of living

Citizenship after five years of living

Russian has 47th powerful passport in the world with visa free travel to 119 countries

Russia is a energy superpower and the largest country in the world, being 2,5 times bigger than Europe, almost 2 times bigger than the US and China. Russia is the world’s largest country in terms of territory, with a consumer market of over 140 million people, vast natural resources, a highly educated workforce, and technologically advanced research and production capabilities. Russia is rich in mineral resources estimated to reach 14.1 billion barrels (6,1% of the global reserves) . Russia has more than a fifth of the world’s forests, biggest source of timber, also a significant contributor to science, space and tech industry. Oil, natural gas, metals, and timber account for more than 80% of Russian exports abroad Russia’s consumer market will be the largest in Europe by 2020 and the fourth largest in the world, offering rich pickings for investors, according to European analysts. Russia is the 3rd largest electricity producer in the world. Russia has the world’s largest natural gas reserves, the 8th largest oil reserves, and the second largest coal reserves. Russia has 20% corporate tax, 13% personal income tax and 18% VAT.

82. San Marino

Economic Residence by investment scheme (elective residency) limited quota for 50 per year

Property investment of €500,000

Sammarinese Government bonds € 600,000 for 10 years (non-interest bearing)

Residency for economic reasons (create 3 jobs and guarantee € 75,000 deposit)

Reside in in the territory of San Marino for a minimum of 10 years for citizenship

San marino passport ranks 19th powerful in the world with 168 visa free destinations (US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia etc).

San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe, after Vatican City and Monaco with a population of 33,000 and approximately 5000 foreign residents. It is also the fifth smallest country in the world. San Marino is an enclaved microstate surrounded by Italy, situated on the Italian Peninsula on the northeastern side of the Apennine Mountains. The country’s economy mainly relies on finance, industry, services and tourism. It is among one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of GDP (per capita), with a figure comparable to the most developed European regions. San Marino is considered to have a highly stable economy, with one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, no national debt and a budget surplus. It is the only country with more vehicles than people. San Marino is not a European Union member and euro is used widely. Tourism and banking are the country’s main source of revenue. The corporate profits tax rate in San Marino is 19%. Capital gains are subject to a five per cent tax; interest is subject to a 13% withholding tax.

82. Saudi Arabia

New investor permanent residence scheme introduced in 2019 (Special Privilege Iqama )

Premium residence scheme : SR 800,000 ($220K) for permanent permit (Green card)

Limited residence scheme: SR 100,000

No citizenship for foreigners and no free movement in GCC countries

Saudi Arabia is the largest oil producer in the world and the country recently opened up for foreign direct investment launching first ever permanent residency gold visa scheme to foreigners investing in properties and businesses.

83. Slovenia

Residence permit on economic interest (no minimums)

Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship after 10 years but there is a provision for exceptional naturalization for citizenship in state’s interest

Slovenia is a EU member state and participates in schengen area

Slovenia has 10th powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 180 nations.

Slovenia has historically been the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Romance languages and cultures. Slovenia has a population of 2 million with GDP $80 billion (PPP). Slovenia joined European union in 2004 and currently participates in schengen area. Slovenia has a developed economy and is per capita the richest of the Slavic countries by nominal GDP and the second richest by GDP (PPP) behind the Czech Republic. Slovenia was in the beginning of 2007 the first new member to introduce the euro as its currency, replacing the tolar. Since 2010, it has been member of the OECD. Almost two-thirds of people are employed in services, and over one-third in industry and construction.[162] Slovenia benefits from a well-educated workforce, well-developed infrastructure, and its location at the crossroads of major trade routes. The level of foreign direct investment (FDI) per capita in Slovenia is one of the lowest in the EU. Slovenia is the country with the highest percentage of casinos per 1,000 inhabitants in the European Union

84. Slovakia

Major investment scheme (EUR 100 million) creating 300 jobs adding economic benefit to slovakia

Investors receive residence permit to live and work in Slovakia

Slovakia also has provisions for discretionary naturalization for citizenship in state’s interest

Permanent residence after five years

Citizenship through naturalization after 8 years

Slovakia has 10th powerful EU passport in the world with access to 180 countries

Slovakia has a population of 5 million residents with GDP $200 billion uses euro currency. The country is EU member state and also participates in schengen area. Slovakia is a high-income advanced economy with a very high Human Development Index, a very high standard of living and performs favorably in measurements of civil liberties, press freedom, internet freedom, democratic governance and peacefulness. The country provides comprehensive social security system. Citizens of Slovakia are provided with universal health care, free education and one of the longest paid parental leave in the OECD. Slovakia is an attractive country for foreign investors mainly because of its low wages, low tax rates and well educated labour force. Slovakia’s GDP comes mainly from the tertiary (services) sector, the industrial sector also plays an important role within its economy. The main industry sectors are car manufacturing and electrical engineering. Since 2007, Slovakia has been the world’s largest producer of cars per capita, with a total of 1 million cars manufactured in the country in 2016 alone.

85. South Korea

Immigrant investor scheme with F-2 resident status (KRW 500 million ($450,000) in public deposit fund or development projects)

Immigrant Investor Scheme for Real Estate (IISRE) with minimum KRW 500 million

F-5 permanent resident status after five years of maintaining the investment.

Naturalize for citizenship after five years.

South Korean passport ranks #3rd powerful passport in the world with visa free access to 188 destinations.

South Korea is a high-income economy is the world’s 11th largest economy by nominal GDP. South Korea is a global leader in the industrial and technological sectors, being the world’s 5th largest exporter and 8th largest importer. Its export-driven economy primarily focuses production on electronics, automobiles, ships, machinery, petrochemicals and robotics. South Korea is one of the t