What if your next investment can help you get permanent residence in another country? This is a reality because many countries are now offering golden visas to investors. People from the UAE can get a golden visa to explore new opportunities in other countries. It allows you to live, work, and study in another country by making a certain type of investment.
These visas are popular because they offer permanent residence and can lead to citizenship in the future. However, with various countries offering residency by investment programs, choosing the right option can be confusing. Don’t worry! We have got you covered. In this informative blog, we will tell you about the 6 best golden visas for UAE residents.
1. USA EB-5 Investor Visa
It is one of the most trusted residence-by-investment programs across the globe. It was first introduced in 1990 by the United States to strengthen the economy and create more jobs. This program allows people from the UAE or other parts of the world to get a Green Card by investing in a U.S. business.
The minimum investment is $80,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA). For other regions, you have to invest around $1.05 million. Apart from that, the business must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
The EB-5 Visa is a suitable option for investors, as it offers permanent residency to your immediate family, high-quality education, and better business opportunities. Once you become a permanent resident of the United States, you can explore different options that can lead to citizenship.
2. UK Innovator Founder Visa
This program is ideal for UAE residents who want to start a new business in the United Kingdom. If you have an innovative idea that is different from existing businesses in the market, you can get an Innovator Founder Visa. It means this visa type is suitable for entrepreneurs with some unique ideas.
Before you apply for this visa, you need to get your business plan approved by a recognized endorsing body in the UK. You also have to prove that your business is original, scalable, and has a higher chance of succeeding in the UK. Moreover, you also need English language skills and a clear criminal record.
Once approved, this visa allows you to reside and work on your business in the UK for 3 years. After that, it can lead to permanent residence and even citizenship. This region has a strong economy, a world-class education system, and modern medical facilities, which make it ideal for people from the UAE.
3. Spain Golden Visa
Spain offers a golden visa to people who invest in the real estate market. To qualify for this program, you need to purchase property worth at least €500,000. You can also explore other options. However, they often require more investment. For example, you have to invest €2,000,000 in Spanish public debt. If you want to deposit an amount in a Spanish bank or invest in an existing Spanish company, you need €1,000,000.
The Spanish Golden Visa is one of the most attractive programs for people from the UAE. The application process is simple, and regulations are relatively less strict. Moreover, you don’t have to be permanently in Spain to keep your residency. This makes it ideal for UAE residents who want residency in another country as a backup.
This visa is initially issued for 2 years and can be renewed. It leads to permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10 years. You can enjoy a high quality of life, a pleasant climate, and modern facilities in Spain. Above all, the real estate market is continuously growing in Spain, which makes this program a smart financial move for investors or business owners.
4. Greece Golden Visa
It is one of the most affordable residence-by-investment programs in Europe. UAE residents can apply for it by investing €250,000 in real estate. The Greek Golden Visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed as long as you own the property. This program is suitable for UAE residents primarily because of its low overall cost and easy application process.
Greece is a part of the Schengen countries. It means visa holders can travel freely across 26 European countries, including Switzerland, France, Austria, etc. Moreover, Schengen countries have removed border checks between them, which makes travelling hassle-free.
5. Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP)
This program gives UAE residents a golden chance to gain long-term residency in a European Union country. This program requires financial funding from the government. It also requires renting or buying a property in Malta. Moreover, the applicants have to show proof of stable income and a clean background.
Malta is a small but well-developed country with high living standards. English is one of its official languages, which makes it easier for people from the UAE to adjust there. The Malta Permanent Residency Program applicants can reside in Malta along with their family, including spouse, children, dependent parents, or even grandparents.
The key advantages of opting for this program are that you don’t have to live in Malta. Moreover, it also gives you visa-free access to Schengen countries. It also opens doors to obtain residency or citizenship in other European countries.
6. Portugal Golden Visa
It is one of the most popular and flexible investment residency programs in Europe. You can either invest in qualified funds, local businesses, or research projects to qualify for this visa. Previously, it was offering investment options in real estate as well. However, this route is no longer applicable.
You only need to spend 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain your residency. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. However, you can do so only when you meet all regulations.
Portugal is a safe and affordable country. It offers good education and healthcare facilities. Above all, the Portugal Golden Visa offers European Union residency without needing you to leave your home country.
How to Choose the Right Golden Visa
To make the right decision, you should consider the following tips.
- Each country requires a specific amount of investment. You should choose one that suits your budget.
- Opt for a Golden Visa that allows you to invest in the business you want.
- Understand whether you want long-term residency, permanent residency, or citizenship and choose the Golden Visa accordingly.
- Never ignore your family’s needs. You should consider a country that offers better education and healthcare facilities for your kids. Similarly, if you want to reside with your parents, you should opt for a country that includes them in a single application.
- Choose a place where you feel comfortable living, traveling, or communicating.
Once you know what matters the most for you and your family, you can compare the aforementioned options and choose the suitable one. No matter which program you choose, DM Consultants offers expert guidance and support. You can get in touch with their experienced immigration experts to get assistance throughout the application process.
Bottom Line
Golden Visas are a smart choice for UAE residents to expand their future options. They can get one to access better facilities and business opportunities. It also serves as a backup in case of emergencies.
