In this article, we discuss the 5 Easiest Countries to get a Residence Permit. If you want to check out our detailed analysis, go directly to 16 Easiest Countries to get a Residence Permit.
5. United Arab Emirates
Minimum Investment Cost Rank: 21
Minimum Application Process Time Rank: 2
Insider Monkey weighted Average: 13.4
A country extensively populated with expats, UAE has always attracted investors and businessmen. Although, the country mostly do not provide a path for citizenship, people can obtain residency. The different form of investment include public investment, real estate investment, and investment in company formation. The minimum investment can be made in an economic venture that cost about AED 500,000 (approximately US $135,000) and is associated with an accredited incubator in the UAE. The application takes about a month to be processed, making it one of the quickest and easiest ways of leading to residency permit.
4. Latvia
Minimum Investment Cost Rank: 5
Minimum Application Process Time Rank: 2
Insider Monkey weighted Average: 3.8
Latvia’s residency program is one of the fastest and cheapest that can be availed in the European region. A minimum investment of only €60,000 (approximately US $65,400) in a Latvian company that pays €40,000 annually is the lowest cost route available. Application approval time takes about 1-3 months after which the investor is expected to travel within three months to the country and get their residence permit which is valid for five years.
3. Austria
Minimum Investment Cost Rank: 3
Minimum Application Process Time Rank: 2
Insider Monkey weighted Average: 2.6
One of the developed nations, Austria has much to offer investors looking for residency permits. Under the country’s Residence by investment program, the aspirant investors must have €40,000 (approximately US $43,600) in liquid funds on a bank account (which increases with the size of the family), provide proof of a permanent residential property (owned or leased), have private healthcare insurance, and have documented German language skills. The application is processed within 1-3 months.
2. Thailand
Minimum Investment Cost Rank: 2
Minimum Application Process Time Rank: 2
Insider Monkey weighted Average: 2
Thailand’s Elite Residency Program is an exceptional option for expats and investors hoping to get residency in the country. From the range of four choices; the Gold Membership, the Platinum Membership, Diamond Membership, and the Reserve Membership, the Gold card has the minimum investment requirement which is THB 900,000 (approximately US $26,000). This five-year privilege entry visa’s application can be processed in 1-2 months.
1. Montenegro
Minimum Investment Cost Rank: 1
Minimum Application Process Time Rank: 2
Insider Monkey weighted Average: 1.4
One of the fastest growing economies, Montenegro’s government is encouraging investors and talented individuals to invest in their economy by offering them an enticing residency program. While there is no minimum value mentioned, the scheme provides the option of either a real estate acquisition, or investment in a legal entity. This would require creating and registering a legal entity in the country, opening up a bank account, renting or purchasing office space for business, and renting or purchasing residential property for personal use. It is estimated that annual costs for operating the company amounts to €3000 (approximately US $3,240).
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