Permanent residence, also known as a green card or PR, refers to the right to permanently reside in a country. With the development of globalization, more and more countries have launched permanent residence projects to attract foreign investment. For those who want to obtain residence rights overseas, understanding the specific policies of each country can help make wise investment decisions.
The United States EB-5 investment immigration requires a minimum investment of $500,000
The United States’ EB-5 investment immigration program requires foreign investors to invest a minimum of $500,000 in commercial enterprises that create at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers. After 2 years of conditional permanent residence, investors can apply for unconditional permanent residence if they meet requirements. The EB-5 program provides a path to US citizenship for investors and their families.
Canada’s investment immigration programs have flexible investment options
Canada has multiple investment immigration programs that allow foreign investors to obtain permanent residence. The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program requires a minimum investment of CAD 1.2 million, while the startup visa program has more flexible investment options starting from CAD 200,000. Investors can choose between passive investments or active involvement in managing a business.
The UK Tier 1 investor visa provides residence after 2 years with £2 million investment
The UK Tier 1 investor visa requires applicants to invest £2 million in UK government bonds, share capital or loan capital in active UK registered companies. Applicants must keep the investment for at least 5 years. After 5 years of residence in the UK, investors can apply for permanent settlement.
Australia requires AUD 1.5 million investment but has long processing times currently
Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Programme requires a minimum investment of AUD 1.5 million into an eligible investment. Investors can apply for permanent residence after holding a provisional visa for at least 4 years. However, processing times for the permanent visa has increased to 2-3 years recently.
Smaller European countries offer residence for €250k-€500k property purchase
Some European countries like Portugal, Greece and Spain offer residence permits through property investment of around €250k-€500k. Investors need to hold the property for 5 years before becoming eligible for permanent residence. These countries provide an affordable route to EU residence.
In summary, major countries offer permanent residence to foreign investors but have different investment thresholds and requirements. Understanding the policies can help investors find the most suitable programs based on their budgets and goals.