Residency by Investment (RBI) programs are increasingly popular among entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility, financial security, and a better quality of life. These programs allow investors to obtain legal residence in a country by making a significant economic contribution, usually through real estate, business investment, or government funds.

As we approach 2026, several countries continue to attract international investors with flexible, fast, and rewarding residency options. Here’s a detailed look at the top countries offering residency by investment in 2026.

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Residency by Investment Opportunities Around the World in 2026

  1. Australia

Australia remains a top destination for investors and skilled professionals seeking residency through investment. Its investor visa programs offer a pathway to permanent residency and even citizenship over time.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum investment: AUD 1.5 million in complying investments for significant investor visas
  • Family members included in the application
  • Access to world-class healthcare, education, and business opportunities
  • Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship after meeting requirements

Australia appeals to investors due to its high standard of living, economic stability, and diverse culture.

  1. Canada

Canada offers investor programs through its Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and federal business immigration streams. Canada is known for its safe environment, multicultural society, and strong economic opportunities.

Key Highlights:

  • Investment threshold varies by province, typically CAD 200,000 – CAD 1.2 million
  • Must invest in provincial business or economic development projects
  • Fast-track permanent residency for eligible investors
  • Access to Canadian healthcare, education, and high-quality living

Canada is ideal for investors who want long-term stability, family-friendly policies, and global business access.

  1. United Arab Emirates (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

The UAE has emerged as a major destination for global investors, offering long-term residency options through its Golden Visa program.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum investment: AED 1 million in business or real estate
  • 5-year and 10-year residency visas available
  • Family members included in the visa
  • Tax-free environment, world-class infrastructure, and strategic global location

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are especially attractive for investors looking for business opportunities, luxury living, and an international lifestyle.

  1. Portugal

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program remains highly popular in Europe due to its attractive investment thresholds and lifestyle benefits.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum investment: €280,000 in low-density areas; €500,000 in general areas
  • Family members included in the application
  • Free travel across the Schengen Area
  • Pathway to citizenship after five years

Portugal combines safety, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for families and retirees.

  1. Spain

Spain’s Golden Visa program is a preferred option for investors seeking European residency through real estate.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum investment: €500,000 in real estate
  • Family members included
  • Residence permit renewable every two years
  • Access to the Schengen Area

Spain offers a rich cultural experience, warm climate, and robust infrastructure for international investors.

  1. Greece

Greece offers one of the most affordable residency by investment programs in Europe, making it ideal for cost-conscious investors.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum real estate investment: €250,000
  • Residency granted for investor and family
  • No minimum stay requirement to maintain residency
  • Potential citizenship pathway after seven years

The Mediterranean lifestyle, affordable investment, and visa-free travel in Europe make Greece a strong contender for investors in 2026.

  1. Malta

Malta provides multiple residency and citizenship by investment options, perfect for those seeking a strategic European location.

Key Highlights:

  • Investment options: property purchase or rental, government fund contribution, or government bonds
  • Minimum investment: €250,000 – €350,000
  • Family members included
  • Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area

Malta is ideal for investors seeking a safe, English-speaking environment with strong financial services.

  1. Caribbean Nations

Caribbean countries, including Saint Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, and Grenada, offer some of the fastest and most flexible residency and citizenship by investment programs.

Key Highlights:

  • Minimum donation: USD 100,000 – USD 200,000 or real estate investment from USD 200,000
  • Quick processing: 3–6 months
  • Family members included
  • Visa-free travel to over 140 countries

These programs attract investors seeking low-cost, fast, and flexible solutions with favorable tax benefits.

Conclusion:

Residency by investment programs offer more than relocation—they provide global mobility, security, and a chance to diversify assets. Countries like Australia, Canada, UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi), Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta, and Caribbean nations are leading the landscape in 2026.

Investors should carefully evaluate investment requirements, family inclusion, visa benefits, tax implications, and long-term citizenship pathways. Professional guidance can ensure a smooth application process and maximize the benefits of these programs.

Residency by investment is not just about living in a new country—it’s about expanding horizons, securing your family’s future, and opening doors to global opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Residency by Investment?

Residency by Investment (RBI) is a legal program that allows individuals to obtain residency in a country by making a significant financial contribution. Investments may include real estate, business ventures, or government funds. These programs often include family members and can provide a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. RBI also offers benefits like global mobility, tax planning, and access to quality education and healthcare.

2. Which countries offer the best residency by investment programs in 2026?

Some of the top countries in 2026 include Australia, Canada, UAE (Dubai), Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta, and select Caribbean nations. Each country has its own investment thresholds, residency benefits, and family inclusion policies. The choice depends on your goals, whether it’s European access, global mobility, or tax advantages.

3. How much investment is required for residency by investment?

Investment amounts vary by country and type of investment. For example, Australia requires AUD 1.5 million, Canada ranges from CAD 200,000 – 1.2 million, and Caribbean nations start at USD 100,000. European programs like Portugal and Greece may require €250,000 – €500,000. The investment type—real estate, business, or donation—also influences the threshold.

4. Can family members be included in the application?

Yes, most residency by investment programs allow you to include your spouse, dependent children, and sometimes parents. This ensures that the entire family benefits from residency, education access, healthcare, and travel privileges. Family inclusion is often a key factor for investors considering relocation.

5. How long does it take to get residency by investment?

Processing times vary by country. Caribbean programs are the fastest, sometimes taking 3–6 months. European programs like Portugal or Spain typically take 6–12 months, while countries like Canada or Australia may take 12–24 months depending on the specific visa stream. The timeline also depends on document readiness and government approvals.

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