Prominent countries all over the world are rapidly tightening the knot on residency and citizenship conditions. Ironically, in a world of global travel where freedom of movement is paramount, immigration is becoming progressively more difficult, save for the increasingly popular investment citizenship programs offered by an ever-growing number of countries worldwide.
These programs are making business immigration a reality and a viable way for business leaders and entrepreneurs to expand their reach, enter new markets, and obtain a second passport. Not only are the benefits of owning another passport numerous, but the option to optimise taxes, consolidate resources, and attract new talents to the company only make the golden visa programs that much more alluring. Here are the most prominent countries business immigrants should review in 2018.
Hungary
There are plenty of golden visa (investment residency and citizenship) programs worldwide worth looking at, and Hungary is definitely one of the most promising countries business leaders should consider. Apart from its rising start-up scene and favourable 9% corporate tax, the country is graced with numerous other benefits its residents readily enjoy.
Hungary is a full member of the EU, which allows you to travel visa-free within the entire Schengen Zone. Aside from mobility, Hungary offers an excellent education system, low living expenses, minimal crime rates, and much more. The minimum investment amount is EUR 200,000, with additional fees from EUR 20,000. The investment is intended for real estate acquisition only.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Located in the Caribbean, St. Kitts and Nevis is a true island paradise, graced with honey-hued beaches, perpetually beautiful weather, and an easy way of life. What’s more, if you buy a passport in this country, you and your family will be able to enjoy visa-free travel to the EU and 125 countries worldwide.
Business-wise, you will not be required to pay any taxes on your worldwide income, if you choose to retain the investment citizenship without being a full resident. The application process is short, requiring a favourable investment of only USD 150,000 put into real estate or donations. Additional fees start from USD 7,500.
Belgium
Home of the European Union and NATO, Belgium is one of the most influential countries in the world whose citizens and residents enjoy numerous benefits such as freedom of movement across the globe, high quality of life, stellar education and healthcare.
Opening its doors to business immigration, the country offers visa-free travel to over 150 countries for its citizens, as well as the immediate re-joining of family members upon approval. The investment citizenship program begins and ends at EUR 500,000 put into business opportunities, with no additional fees.
Dominica
Another island paradise located in the Caribbean is making a name for itself as one of the best cost-effective golden visa programs in the world. Along with a beautiful living environment and one of the best living standards in the Caribbean region, Dominica also offers fast application and processing times.
You are also not required to travel to the country during the application process, nor are you required to live there after your application has been approved. This means that you will not have to pay taxes as a non-resident. The minimum investment put into either real estate or donations is USD 100,000, and additional fees start from USD 11,250.
Malta
Malta is a true island paradise, nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, located east from Tunisia and south from Sicily. This vibrant nation is not only a popular holiday destination for travellers around the world, but it is also a blooming entrepreneurial eco-system where business opportunities are plentiful and the living is easy. And the Malta golden visa program is open to business immigrants as well.
The Maltese archipelago has excellent air connections to the rest of the world, and a Malta passport allows you to travel visa-free to over 150 countries around the globe. The minimum investment is EUR 290,000 spread across real estate, bonds, and donations. The Malta investment citizenship application process is also strict, short, and straightforward.
Business immigration is seeing a steady rise around the world, with an ever-increasing number of countries offering a golden visa program to individuals and businesses willing to expand their reach while aiding the growth of the local economy. These were some of the most promising investment citizenship choices for 2018, with numerous other countries worth your careful consideration
