Seven countries in the ranking offer residency or citizenship programs by investment. The countries' legislation provides for several investment options, such as buying real estate or bonds, creating businesses or jobs for the population.
European countries with investment programs
Portugal is called the "European Florence" for its comfortable climate and good attitude toward immigrants. In recent years, the flow of retirees has increased: the state creates favorable conditions for their lives, for example, canceled the pension tax for 10 years.
Residence permit in Portugal is issued within 8 to 10 months. Investors buy real estate, bonds or shares of venture capital funds, open a deposit, create companies or invest in science and cultural heritage. After five years, the investor and his family can apply for Portugal citizenship.
On January 1, 2022, the terms of the program will change: real estate will be allowed to buy only in the Azores, Madeira and inland regions, the minimum amount of investment will grow.
Austria is a country with a high standard of living. For example, Vienna has been ranked first several times in the ranking of the best cities to live in over the past 10 years, according to Mercer.
Switzerland is a great option for wealthy retirees. About a quarter of the population in the country are foreigners. The quality of life is high, and so is the cost of living. Switzerland is chosen for the good environment, clean cities and beautiful nature.
Residence permits in Austria and Switzerland offer financially independent people without the right to work. Austria issues a residence permit on a quota.
In Switzerland, the investor enters into an agreement with the local authorities and pays a chord tax of ₣450,000. It takes about six months to obtain a residence permit.
Greece is a country with a warm climate and beautiful nature. The islands are full of secluded beaches for a quiet holiday, cafes with local cuisine and historical sites from different eras of time.
Residence permit in Greece is issued for opening a deposit, the purchase of real estate or government bonds. It takes about three months to obtain a residence permit.
Malta is an affordable option for retirement living. The average cost of living for two people is about € 1,500. The country has a high level of private medicine at relatively low prices compared to the US.
Permanent residence in Malta is designed for a period of six months. To do this, the investor leases or buys a property, makes a non-refundable contribution to a public fund and a contribution to a non-governmental organization, pays the administrative fee and proves the existence of assets in the amount of € 500,000.
Montenegro attracts a favorable climate, a measured lifestyle and a low crime rate. The country is also first on the list of applicants for membership in the European Union.
Citizenship in Montenegro is granted for non-refundable contributions to the government fund and the purchase of shares in approved real estate projects. Passport processing time takes from 4 months. 2022 is the last year to participate in the program.
Immigrant Invest is a licensed agent that helps cosmopolitans obtain citizenship and residency by investment. If you want to move to one of the best countries to live in retirement, seek advice from investment program experts.
