Tired of visa restrictions or limited global mobility? Residency and citizenship by investment programs can change that.
These programs offer high-net-worth individuals the chance to secure second residency or citizenship and improve their global reach. Whether you want market access or travel freedom, there’s an option.
In this article, you’ll learn:
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A comparison of the top residency and citizenship programs for 2025
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How investment costs, family inclusion, and residency rules compare
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How to find the program that matches your needs
Let’s jump right in!
1. Latvia: Affordable European Residency
The first program that is worth mentioning in the top 5 best residency investment programs in 2025 is Latvia’s Investor visa.
This residency by investment program offers a cost-effective gateway to Europe, making it a top choice for investors seeking EU access. Strategically located in the Baltics, Latvia boasts a solid economic outlook with GDP growth expected to rise to 1.0% in 2025 and 2.1% in 2026. Inflation is forecasted to remain stable at 2.2% in 2025, ensuring better purchasing power for residents and investors alike.
Additionally, Latvia’s unemployment rate is expected to decline from 6.7% to 6.5% by 2026, reflecting an increasingly stable labor market. And with Schengen visa privileges, investors gain access to 27 European countries for business and leisure, all while maintaining an affordable investment threshold.
Key details
- Investment threshold: Starts at €50,000 for contribution or €250,000 for real estate.
- Residency requirements: Minimal—just one annual visit.
- Family Inclusion: Spouse and dependent children can be added to the application.
2. Greece: Mediterranean Living with Property Investment
Next up on our list of top residency and citizenship by investment programs in 2025 is the Greece Golden Visa.
Greece’s residency by investment program offers an enticing combination of lifestyle benefits and European market access. The program is particularly attractive to investors seeking Mediterranean living, EU mobility, and long-term security. With its recent real estate boom and a reputation for swift processing, Greece remains a top choice for high-net-worth individuals.
The program allows you to benefit from real estate returns if you decide to rent out your property and provides an optional path to citizenship after seven years of residency.
Key details
Real estate investment options:
- €250,000: Conversion of commercial to residential or restoration of listed buildings, any location.
- €400,000: Real estate purchases in rural areas or smaller cities, 120 sqm minimum.
- €800,000: Properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, or large islands (3,100+ residents).
Other qualifying investments:
- €500,000: Greek government bonds, time deposits, or corporate shares.
- €400,000–€800,000: 10-year hotel or tourist property lease, depending on location.
Residency requirements: None—there is no requirement to live in Greece.
Family inclusion: Spouse, children, and parents of the main applicant and spouse.
3. Portugal: Another Mediterranean Alternative
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has long been a favorite among global investors, thanks to its flexible requirements and direct pathway to citizenship.
Since October 2023, Portugal no longer offers real estate as an eligible investment option. Instead, the program focuses on investments that boost the local economy, such as cultural heritage projects and investment funds. The program allows applicants to gain EU residency while only needing to spend seven days a year in Portugal.
Key details
- Investment options:
- €250,000: Supporting arts and restoring cultural heritage.
- €500,000: Investment in scientific research or investment fund units.
- €500,000: Business investment with the creation of at least five jobs.
- Company formation: Creation of at least 10 jobs.
- €1.5 million: Capital transfer to Portugal.
- Residency requirements: Seven days per year.
- Family inclusion: Spouse, children under 26, and dependent parents if they are older than 65 years old.
4. Antigua and Barbuda: Caribbean Citizenship with Global Perks
If European residency programs don’t interest you, you have plenty of options in the Caribbean. One of them is Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the most family-friendly and affordable ways to secure a second passport. With visa-free access to over 160 countries, including the UK, Canada and Schengen Zone, this program offers both mobility and a stunning tropical lifestyle. Recent updates have made the program even more appealing, especially for larger families.
Key details
- Investment options:
- $230,000: Non-refundable donation to the National Development Fund for families of up to five.
- $300,000: Real estate purchase in government-approved developments (can be resold after five years).
- $260,000: Donation to the West Indies University Fund. This is an ideal option for larger families.
- $1.5 million: Sole business investment, or $400,000 in a group business investment (minimum $5 million total).
- Residency requirements: Stay five days in Antigua and Barbuda within five years.
- Family inclusion: Spouse, children under 31, parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings, regardless of their age and financial means.
With no global income, inheritance, or capital gains taxes, this program is ideal for investors seeking financial flexibility alongside a high-quality tropical lifestyle.
5. Vanuatu: One of The Fastest CBI Programs
The last, but certainly not least, of the top CBI programs in 2025 is Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program.
Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment program offers the fastest path to a second passport, with approvals typically within 30 to 90 days.
This South Pacific nation’s process is refreshingly straightforward—no residency, language tests, or interviews are required. With its beautiful landscapes and favorable tax policies, Vanuatu appeals to both adventurers and investors seeking financial privacy and a backup plan.
Key details
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Investment options:
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$130,000: Non-refundable contribution for a single applicant.
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$150,000: Contribution for a couple.
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$165,000: Family with one child below 18 years of age.
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$180,000: Contribution for a family of four.
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Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)/Cocoa Sustainable Fund (CSF): $155,000 for a family of four (includes a direct investment of $50,000 into the Cocoa Sustainable Fund).
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Development Support Program (DSP): $130,000 for a single applicant, $185,000 for a family of four (non-refundable donation).
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Residency requirements: None—citizenship is granted without living in Vanuatu.
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Family inclusion: Spouse, children under 25, and parents over 50.
The Bottom Line: Finding the Best Residency or Citizenship Program for You
Choosing the right residency or citizenship by investment program depends on your priorities—whether it’s travel freedom, tax benefits, or securing a safe and beautiful place to call home.
In this article, we’ve explored five leading programs:
- Latvia offers affordable EU access with a minimal residency requirement.
- Greece combines European mobility with a scenic Mediterranean lifestyle and lucrative real estate options.
- Portugal remains one of the most flexible programs, despite recent policy shifts, providing a clear pathway to EU citizenship.
- Antigua and Barbuda stands out with its family-friendly options, low taxes, and access to over 160 visa-free destinations.
- Vanuatu delivers the fastest route to citizenship, offering financial privacy and tropical charm with quick approval timelines.
When considering your options, reflect on your long-term goals—whether it’s expanding business opportunities, global mobility, or securing a legacy for your family.
If you’d like expert assistance navigating these programs or comparing additional options, contact the High Net Worth Immigration team for personalized guidance. We’re here to help you choose the program that matches your unique needs and future plans. We can also help you with the entire application process starting with document collection and finishing up with the collection of your residency permit or passport.
