The Golden Visa programs offered by 5 major countries are now seen as a fast-track route to settle abroad without going through the usual lengthy immigration processes. They often come with benefits such as the right to live, work, study, and access public services like healthcare in the host country. While the specific terms may vary from one country to another, the basic idea remains the same: invest a certain amount and gain permanent residency rights.
In recent years, the idea of moving abroad for a better lifestyle, career growth, or business expansion has become increasingly popular especially among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Many countries are now offering what is commonly known as a Golden Visa. These visas allow wealthy individuals to invest or contribute to a country’s economy and, in return, gain long-term residency or even permanent residency.
Major 5 Countries with Golden Visa Opportunity
Let’s take a look at five countries offering Golden Visas and what it costs to obtain one in each.
1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE has recently introduced a new version of its Golden Visa, specially targeted at Indian nationals. This time, the visa is based on nomination rather than the traditional route of buying property or making large investments in businesses.
This nomination-based Golden Visa is currently in its pilot phase and is being tested in India and Bangladesh. A consultancy firm named Rayad Group has been selected to carry out the nomination process in India.
The key benefit of this program is that eligible individuals can apply and receive pre-approval without even visiting Dubai. This makes the process smoother, especially for those who want a hassle-free way to secure lifetime residency in the UAE.
Cost: The fee for this new Golden Visa is AED 1,00,000, which is approximately ₹23.30 lakh. This is a one-time cost, and in return, you get lifetime residency rights in the UAE.
2. United States
The United States has long been a dream destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners. To attract such individuals, the U.S. offers a few investment-based immigration options, which are often grouped under the concept of a “Golden Visa.”
One such high-profile program was proposed during Donald Trump’s presidency and was referred to as the Trump Gold Card Visa. While this visa program is currently on hold, it highlighted the growing interest in premium residency options tied to significant financial investments.
Cost: The proposed cost for the U.S. Golden Visa under this program was $5 million. Even though it’s not active right now, similar programs like the EB-5 Visa still exist and also require substantial investments (typically $800,000 to $1.05 million depending on the location and nature of the project).
3. New Zealand
New Zealand offers a well-structured Golden Visa through its Active Investor Plus Visa, introduced in September 2022. This visa allows individuals and their families to live, work, and study in New Zealand for an indefinite period as long as certain investment and time-in-country requirements are met.
What makes New Zealand’s program attractive is its emphasis on active involvement in the country’s economy. This means applicants are expected to not only invest money but also engage in meaningful business activities within the country.
Cost: The minimum investment required for the Active Investor Plus Visa starts at NZD 5 million (New Zealand Dollars). This amount may vary based on the type of investment made, such as direct investments in businesses or managed funds.
4. Canada
Canada doesn’t use the term “Golden Visa” directly, but its Start-Up Visa Program functions in a very similar way. This visa is perfect for business-minded individuals, entrepreneurs, and investors who want to establish or support innovative businesses in Canada.
Under this program, applicants must get support from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Once approved, the applicant is granted permanent residency for themselves and their immediate family members.
Cost: The overall cost for Canada’s Start-Up Visa, including business setup, legal fees, and government processing charges, typically ranges between $215,000 to $275,000 USD, depending on the business model and supporting documents.
What sets Canada’s program apart is that it provides direct permanent residency rather than a temporary residency permit, making it one of the most attractive golden visa-like programs in the world.
5. Singapore
Singapore has positioned itself as a global hub for finance, business, and innovation. To attract foreign investors and entrepreneurs, it offers the Global Investor Program (GIP), which is Singapore’s version of a Golden Visa.
This visa is suitable for individuals who want to start a business or invest in a company in Singapore. Business owners, top-level executives, and experienced entrepreneurs are the main targets of this program. Once the investment is made and approved, applicants are eligible to receive Singapore Permanent Residency within 9 to 12 months.
Cost: The minimum investment starts at SGD 10 million and can go as high as SGD 50 million, depending on the business type and the size of the operation.
Although the cost is on the higher side, Singapore offers world-class infrastructure, political stability, and global connectivity, making it a worthy option for those who can afford it.
Final Thoughts
Golden Visas provide an excellent opportunity for wealthy individuals to gain residency in some of the most developed and stable countries in the world. Whether it’s the UAE’s new nomination-based system, the U.S.’s investor visa, or Singapore’s high-end business-focused program, each country offers a unique path to long-term settlement.
While the costs range significantly from ₹23 lakh in the UAE to tens of millions in Singapore, what they offer in return can be life-changing: better education, higher standards of healthcare, access to global business networks, and most importantly, a secure future for families.
Before applying for a Golden Visa, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements, tax implications, and long-term benefits in each country. Consulting with a qualified immigration expert can help you navigate the complexities and choose the best destination for your needs.
