Europe’s Top Domiciliary Investment Programmes

Europe is home to some of the most sought-after residency programmes in the world. These programmes offer a range of benefits, including visa-free travel, access to quality healthcare and education, and attractive tax incentives. Portugal, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland, among others, offer some of the most attractive residency programmes in Europe. Let's explore the top programmes and their highlights.
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Portugal’s Golden Residence Permit Programme: A Haven for Investors and Their Families

Ranked number one in the Global Residence Programme Index, the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Programme has consistently proven to be an attractive option for domicile investors. This programme offers a five-year residence permit to non-EU nationals who make a qualifying investment. 

Portugal, a member of the EU, offers a stable political and economic environment, excellent healthcare, and a high quality of life. Investors can choose from several investment avenues, including real estate acquisition, capital transfer, and business creation.

One of the key benefits of the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Programme is the option to apply for citizenship after five years of legal residence. This provides investors with long-term security and the opportunity to become citizens of an EU member state.

Austria’s Private Residence Programme: A Wealth of Options for the Ultra-Wealthy

The Austria Private Residence Programme, ranked second in the Global Residence Programme Index, offers a range of residence permits for financially independent individuals. Known for its stability and high quality of life, Austria attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking a safe and prosperous environment.

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Investors can choose from 10 different types of residence permits, depending on their employment status and qualifications. Austria welcomes financially independent individuals who can demonstrate sufficient resources and meet specific criteria: the Highly Skilled Category, for highly qualified individuals and special executives, and the Austria Private Residence Programme, for financially independent individuals.

Austrian residence permits provide access to the country’s excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure. After a period of legal residence, investors may also apply for Austrian citizenship.

Italy Investor Visa Programme: Attractive Options for High-Net-Worth Families

Italy’s Investor Visa Programme, also ranked second in the Global Residence Programme Index, offers high-net-worth individuals the opportunity to obtain residency in one of Europe’s most culturally rich countries. Investors can choose from three qualifying investment options: government bonds, corporate bonds, equity, or non-refundable donations to projects of public interest.

Italian residency provides access to quality healthcare, education, and a high standard of living. Investors may also benefit from special tax regimes that provide favourable tax treatment for foreign income.

After a period of initial residency, investors may apply for permanent residency and eventually Italian citizenship. Italy’s central location in the Mediterranean makes it an ideal base for individuals seeking access to Europe and beyond.

Switzerland Residence Programme: An Excellent Business Environment for Corporations and Entrepreneurs

Ranked third in the Global Residence Programme Index, the Swiss Residence Programme offers non-EU or non-European Free Trade Association nationals the opportunity to obtain a residence permit. Known for its political and economic stability, Switzerland attracts companies, entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking a business-friendly environment.

The programme requires financially independent individuals to pay a minimum annual net tax, depending on the applicant and the canton of residence. This tax-based residence permit allows investors to take advantage of Switzerland’s exceptional infrastructure, secure banking system, and high quality of life.

Swiss residency provides access to the country’s renowned healthcare, education, and international networking opportunities. Investors also have the option of applying for Swiss citizenship after a period of legal residence.

Learn More about Wealth Management

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