Latest news with #InvestorVisa
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa vs Trump's US Golden Visa: Which one is better for you?
As the race for the global elite's loyalty intensifies, two nations have rolled out the red carpet with the same golden promise: permanent residency without strings. On one side is the UAE's well-established Golden Visa scheme—sleek, efficient, and tax-friendly. On the other, Donald Trump's revived version of the EB-5 Investor Visa—controversial, political, but undeniably powerful. So which one is better for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and ambitious expats? Let's break it down. 1. The Basics: What Are They Offering? UAE Golden Visa: A renewable 10-year residency permit for investors, professionals, creatives, and property buyers. No need for a local sponsor, with the freedom to live, work, and study across all seven emirates. Trump's Golden Visa (EB-5 Reboot): Under Trump's second term, the EB-5 immigrant investor program has been fast-tracked and rebranded. It now promises Green Cards within 12–18 months for those who invest at least $800,000 in 'Trump-approved' infrastructure or real estate projects. Winner: UAE for flexibility. Trump's version remains tied to specific, government-favoured projects. 2. Real Estate Route: Who Makes It Easier? UAE: Invest Dh2 million (around $545,000) in property—mortgaged or off-plan—and you're eligible. You can co-own, buy under-construction assets, and still apply, provided the developer is government-approved. USA (Trump-era EB-5): Requires a minimum $800,000 in a designated Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1.05 million elsewhere. The property must generate at least 10 jobs, directly or indirectly. Winner: UAE. Less red tape, no job creation requirement, and faster processing. 3. Speed and Bureaucracy: Who's Swifter? UAE: Submit your title deed, take a medical test, and get your Emirates ID. The process can take as little as one month via the Dubai REST app or GDRFA. Trump's EB-5: Even with fast-tracking, investors must deal with USCIS scrutiny, job calculations, regional centre audits, and lengthy adjudications. Winner: UAE by a mile. American bureaucracy, even under Trump, is legendary. 4. Lifestyle & Tax: Who Offers a Smoother Ride? UAE: No personal income tax. Safe cities. World-class infrastructure. Direct flights to every major hub. Indian investors especially benefit from cultural proximity and established expat networks. USA: You pay taxes on worldwide income—even if you never live there. But it does come with the soft power of a Green Card , access to elite schools, and future citizenship. Winner: UAE for lifestyle and taxation. USA for long-term power plays. 5. Political Luggage: What's the Catch? UAE: The Golden Visa is technocratic, apolitical, and consistent. It's built to attract value—not votes. Trump's America: The EB-5 reboot is entangled with Trump's brand and MAGA politics. Critics say it's a pay-to-stay programme. Supporters say it's a capitalist filter for immigration. Winner: Depends on your politics. UAE is neutral. Trump's version is America, uncensored. 6. Family & Freedom: Who Wins Here? UAE: Sponsor your spouse, children, and even domestic workers. No residency time requirements—you can stay abroad and retain your visa. USA: Family Green Cards are included, but living outside the US for too long risks re-entry issues. And don't forget the IRS follows you globally. Winner: UAE. More freedom, fewer restrictions. So, Which One Should You Choose? Choose UAE if... You want speed, simplicity, tax advantages, and regional access. Perfect for Indian investors, digital nomads, and Middle East-linked entrepreneurs. Choose Trump's Golden Visa if... You're looking for the long game: US permanent residency, eventual citizenship, and a foothold in the world's most powerful economy—even if it's wrapped in populism and paperwork. Final Word In many ways, the UAE's Golden Visa is what America's EB-5 used to be—before it got bogged down by politics, fraud, and backlog. Trump may have put it back on the map, but the UAE has mastered the formula. The choice, ultimately, isn't just about geography—it's about how much friction you're willing to tolerate for a flag.
Daily Mail
01-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
As Europe bans 'golden passport', here's another option for Americans looking to relocate
The 'golden passport' is no more in Europe, but for wealthy Americans eager to relocate, there are still plenty of options to escape to new horizons. On April 29, the European Court of Justice delivered a stunning blow, ruling against Malta's controversial golden passport scheme, which allowed affluent foreigners to buy citizenship by investing in the country. The landmark decision marks a pivotal moment for Europe as other countries crack down on - or abandon - their own citizenship-for-investment programs under increasing scrutiny. Malta's scheme, one of the most popular in Europe, allowed investors to fast-track citizenship by splashing out on real estate, business ventures or charitable donations, according to Reuters. The court ruled the program violated EU rules, especially the principle of fair treatment for EU citizens. 'A member state cannot grant its nationality – and indeed European citizenship – in exchange for predetermined payments or investments, as this essentially amounts to rendering the acquisition of nationality a mere commercial transaction,' the court said. 'Such a practice does not make it possible to establish the necessary bond of solidarity and good faith between a member state and its citizens, or to ensure mutual trust between member states.' Following the ruling, Malta's Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed that new applications for the golden passport program would be halted immediately, as reported by Fortune. Existing passport holders are unaffected, but other European countries with similar programs - such as Cyprus and Bulgaria - are expected to follow suit. Spain ended its golden visa program on April 3, while Ireland and the Netherlands have already axed theirs. Greece is also planning tighter restrictions, and in 2023, Portugal removed real estate as a qualifying investment for its residency program. Meanwhile, Hungary reinstated its golden visa program last year but has also abolished the real estate option as of 2025. So, where does this leave wealthy Americans looking to fast-track their relocation to Europe? While the EU may be closing its doors, there are still plenty of alternatives for those willing to invest significant sums. Portugal remains a top destination, its 'golden visa' program, unlike Malta's, grants residency instead of citizenship. Investors can secure residency by investing in property or business, with a relatively low entry threshold, which has made Portugal's golden visa an appealing option for those seeking a second home in Europe without the red tape. Greece is another contender, offering residency to those who invest in property. While a handy investment doesn't immediately provide citizenship, it's a solid long-term investment for those wanting to settle in the EU. However, with options narrowing across Europe, time is of the essence for those still eyeing the continent. Then, there's New Zealand. As Europe slams the door on golden passports, New Zealand's Investor Visa program is becoming increasingly popular. While the country doesn't offer citizenship-by-investment, wealthy individuals can gain residency by investing in New Zealand's businesses or economy, Fortune reported. The process is slower than Europe's fast-track programs, but after several years, applicants can apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship. However, New Zealand's Investor Visa isn't cheap. Applicants must invest between $2.5 million to $5 million USD, plus meet residency requirements and hold their investments for several years, according to Fortune. 'Attracting super successful, highly wealthy people has a lot of positive effects for New Zealand,' Dominic Jones, managing director of Greener Pastures New Zealand, said, noting that around 40 percent of inquiries come from Americans. Other countries like Australia and Canada also offer investor visas for those seeking a fresh start, while Caribbean nations like St. Kitts & Nevis and Antigua & Barbuda still offer relatively affordable, quick routes to citizenship in exchange for investment. While Europe pulls the plug on golden passports, the dream of securing a second passport remains alive. Whether through Portugal's golden visa or New Zealand's investor visa, wealthy Americans still have options for a new life abroad - if they're willing to invest.
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
U.S. could join 10 lower ranked states to offer golden visas
HONOLULU (KHON2) — While the United States ranks at the top of the world for its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), it has the largest economy in the world with the highest paid workers. The U.S. is ranked top of the heap for its economic power, and we are ranked at the top for both importing goods and exporting are also ranked at the top for global economic influence, innovation and finance with a commanding position amongst the global markets. Here are the significantly lower rankings of other countries who need to offer incentives for foreign investment. Program: Permanent Residence Permit. Investment: €250,000 ($262,800) in real estate. Renewal: Every five years. Economy: Greece has a diversified economy with a strong focus on tourism, shipping, and agriculture. It ranks as the 51st largest economy in the world by GDP. Global ranking: GDP: $327 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Greece's economy has been recovering since the financial crisis, showing positive growth rates in recent years. International ranking: Greece ranks 30th in the world for tourism (important for its economy) and 22nd in global shipping. Program: Citizenship. Investment: €600,000 ($630,000) for 36 months of residence. Benefit: Grants full citizenship. Economy: Malta's economy is highly service-oriented, focusing on finance, tourism, and IT. It ranks as the 127th largest economy by GDP globally. Global ranking: GDP: $17.6 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Malta has one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe, driven by technology, tourism, and investment services. International ranking: Malta is ranked 1st in Europe for its GDP growth rate in recent years. Program: Investor Visa. Investment: €250,000 to €2 million, depending on the type of investment. Benefit: Visa-free access to Schengen Area. Economy: Italy has a diverse and industrial economy, with significant sectors in manufacturing (especially luxury goods), automotive, and agriculture. It ranks as the 8th largest economy globally by GDP. Global ranking: GDP: $2.1 trillion (2023 estimate). Growth: Italy's economy is large but faces long-term stagnation issues, particularly in southern regions. International ranking: Italy is 4th in Europe for GDP and is a leading economy in the luxury and fashion industries. Program: Golden Visa. Investment: €300,000 ($315,000). Benefit: Grants residence. Economy: Cyprus's economy is driven by services, particularly financial services, tourism, and shipping. It ranks as the 118th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $27.4 billion (2023 estimate) . Growth: Cyprus has experienced strong economic recovery post-2013, largely due to banking reforms and the expansion of its services sector. International ranking: Cyprus is ranked as 22nd globally in shipping and 35th in financial services. Program: UAE Golden Visa. Investment: 2 million dirhams ($544,602). Benefit: Grants a residence permit. Economy: The UAE has a highly diversified economy, with oil, tourism, aviation, and real estate contributing significantly. It ranks as the 32nd largest economy globally by GDP. Global ranking: GDP: $501 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: The UAE economy is one of the fastest growing in the Gulf region, thanks to diversification efforts, particularly in tourism and real estate. International ranking: UAE is ranked 1st in the Middle East for economic diversification and 16th globally for ease of doing business. Program: Citizenship by Investment. Investment: $200,000. Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family. Economy: Dominica's economy is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and services. It ranks as the 165th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $0.6 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Dominica has been growing at a modest rate, with significant improvements in tourism and services. International ranking: Dominica is ranked 5th in the Caribbean for tourism growth. Program: Citizenship by Investment. Investment: $235,000. Benefit: Visa-free travel to Grenada, China, Russia, Singapore, Britain, and Schengen Area. Economy: Grenada has a small, open economy, focused on agriculture (especially spices), tourism, and services. It ranks as the 170th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $1.3 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Tourism and agriculture are key sectors, with growth driven by these industries. International ranking: Grenada is ranked 6th in the Caribbean for tourism and has access to significant markets like China and Russia. Program: Citizenship by Investment. Investment: $250,000. Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family. Economy: The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and increasingly on financial services. It ranks as the 175th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $1.0 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Economic growth is driven by tourism, sugar, and increasing offshore financial services. International ranking: St. Kitts is ranked 4th in the Caribbean for its banking and finance services. Program: Citizenship by Investment. Investment: $240,000. Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family. Economy: Dominated by tourism, agriculture, and services, Saint Lucia has a small but growing economy. It ranks as the 171st largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $2.2 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: The country has made strides in improving its tourism infrastructure. International ranking: Saint Lucia is ranked 3rd in the Caribbean for tourism. Program: Citizenship by Investment. Investment: $230,000. Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family. Economy: Antigua and Barbuda has a tourism-driven economy, supplemented by agriculture and financial services. It ranks as the 162nd largest economy globally. Global Ranking: GDP: $1.7 billion (2023 estimate) . Growth: Economic growth is primarily driven by tourism and related services. International ranking: Antigua is ranked 2nd in the Caribbean for its tourism growth. Program: Thailand Privilege Residence Program. Investment: 650,000 baht ($19,299). Benefit: Residence for up to 20 years, access to privileged services. Program: Long Term Residence Program. Investment: 50,000 baht ($1,453). Benefit: Residence and work for up to 10 years, reduced administrative requirements. Economy: Thailand has a well-diversified economy, with strong sectors in manufacturing, agriculture, and services, including tourism. It ranks as the 26th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $568 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Thailand has a moderately growing economy, with manufacturing and tourism driving growth. International ranking: Thailand is ranked 9th globally in automotive manufacturing and is 1st in Southeast Asia for tourism. Program: Long-Term Visa (Launched 2024). Investment: Up to $10 million. Benefit: 10-year visa and access to Southeast Asia's largest economy. Economy: Indonesia's economy is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, with significant contributions from natural resources, manufacturing, and agriculture. It ranks as the 17th largest economy globally. Global ranking: GDP: $1.3 trillion (2023 estimate). Growth: Indonesia's economy is growing steadily, with a booming middle class and strong export sectors. International ranking: Indonesia is ranked 5th globally in production of palm oil and 1st in Southeast Asia for GDP. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 The era of golden visas is upon us. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Local Italy
28-02-2025
- Business
- Local Italy
Is Italy's 'golden' visa still available in 2025?
The Italian Investor Visa - to give it its correct name - has been a gateway for non-EU nationals to obtain residency in Italy. But as the political climate in Europe shifts, with growing concerns over the impact of these schemes on housing markets and inequality, the future of the programme is under scrutiny. Despite changes across the EU and other European countries limiting or scrapping golden visa programs, Italy's Investor Visa still remains active as of 2025. The 'golden' visa allows wealthy non-EU nationals the opportunity to gain residency in exchange for an investment into the country. Applicants can choose from four distinct investment routes, all of which involve varying levels of financial commitment: €2 million in Italian government bonds (minimum two-year maturity) €500,000 in an Italian company, with the option to invest in a publicly listed company €250,000 in an innovative start-up €1 million donation to a project of public interest (such as supporting Italian arts or cultural initiatives) The visa's most common path is the €500,000 investment in a company, often in the form of an Italian business or venture capital fund, while the €250,000 threshold for start-ups makes this a particularly attractive route for those interested in Italy's burgeoning tech scene. Who Can Apply? Anyone from outside the EU, except for citizens of Russia and Belarus, is eligible to apply for Italy's investor visa. This restriction also applies to dual passport-holders, such as UK-Russian or Israeli-Russian nationals. The application process involves the following steps: The application is submitted remotely to the Investor Visa committee (which should answer within 30 days), with key documents such as a passport with at least 2 years validity and information on the source of funds for Anti-Money Laundering checks. The applicant will receive approval, and can use it to book an appointment at the Italian consulate in their country of residence (a circular recommends Consulates to give appointments within 72 hours). Applicant's passport is stamped with a Schengen Visa D, which can be used to enter Italy in the subsequent 6 months. Applicant enters Italy and registers (should return in 1-2 months to pick up the residency card). Family members can be added to the application subsequently in various ways depending on the circumstances. Benefits and Limitations The main attraction of the Italian Investor Visa is its flexibility. Unlike some other golden visa programs, the investment is not required upfront. The applicant first receives approval, and only then makes the financial commitment, which reduces the uncertainty compared to schemes that require immediate investment, as applicants are not at risk of losing their funds if the visa is denied. Furthermore, the Italian visa is one of the fastest in Europe. However, there are hurdles, especially for applicants with families. The process is staggered, and dependants can only be added to the application at a later stage. There are also logistical challenges as applicants must meet Italian banking standards, secure digital signatures, and navigate Italy's bureaucratic immigration system, all of which can cause delays. Jacopo Zamboni, Managing Partner at residence and citizenship firm, Henley and Partners, said: 'For applicants with families, the process is staggered, meaning spouses and children can only be added later, which can sometimes create complications. 'There are also other potential challenges, such as ensuring the applicant's bank provides a reference letter in line with Italian standards or dealing with overloaded local immigration authorities, but if properly guided and assisted, all these challenges can be overcome. " What is important is understanding the ultimate goals and wishes the investor is trying to achieve.' What's Next for Italy's Golden Visa? Currently, there's little political appetite in Italy to remove or further restrict the investor visa program. The number of applicants has remained relatively small - 79 applications in 2022 - suggesting that the scheme does not represent a major issue for Italy's immigration policies. Additionally, the lack of connection between the visa and property purchases means that the programme is not under the same scrutiny as Spain's. Zamboni said: 'As long as the Italian investor visa remains flexible and offers clear pathways for investment, it's likely to continue being an attractive option for wealthy individuals. "However, the changing tax landscape and broader political shifts in Europe could lead to future adjustments, making the program's long-term sustainability something to keep an eye on.' However, with Italy's government recently increasing its flat tax rate for foreign residents, the landscape could change. The tax hike from €100,000 to €200,000 has raised concerns that Italy's overall appeal to wealthy foreigners may diminish, potentially leading to fewer investor visa applications in the future. As Europe tightens its immigration policies, the future of Italy's investor visa remains uncertain. For now, the visa continues to be a viable option for wealthy individuals seeking residence in Italy—but its long-term availability is far from guaranteed.
