Our legal team supports clients at all stages: from choosing a country to obtaining a passport. We offer only transparent schemes with full compliance with the law — without intermediaries, with a guarantee of results and confidentiality. We will select the optimal program, verify the legality of the source of funds, , and achieve successful approval. What is a Residence Permit by investment (“Golden Visa”)? A residence permit by investment is a legal status granted to foreign citizens who have invested funds in the economy of the host country. This form of immigration allows the investor and their family members to legally reside, study, and conduct business in the chosen jurisdiction without the need for traditional employment or other grounds. Unlike temporary visas, a residence permit provides more stable rights, can be extended, and subsequently converted into and even citizenship through the naturalization process. Specific conditions vary depending on the country, but the most common forms of investments are: Purchase of real estate (for example, in Portugal, Spain, Greece); Financial investments in government bonds, funds, and banks; Creating business and jobs; Investments in innovations or national strategic projects. The minimum investment amount can range from €100,000 to €500,000 and above, depending on the country and form of investment. For many investors, a residence permit is the first step toward full integration into a new country. Most programs allow for the renewal of a residence permit while maintaining investments, provide the opportunity to apply for permanent residence after 3–5 years, and pave the way for naturalization and if the conditions of residence, language proficiency, and integration are met. What rights does a residence permit grant to an investor and their family? The main advantage is the right to legally reside in the country that issued the residence permit without the need to obtain a work visa or other immigration grounds. The investor can enter the country at any time, live there permanently or temporarily, as well as freely leave and return. In most countries, a residence permit grants the right to start a business, purchase real estate, enter into contracts, and participate in the In some jurisdictions (for example, in Portugal or Spain), the right to engage in entrepreneurial activity is provided. Family members of the investor receive the same rights: access to the education system, the opportunity to study in public or private schools and universities, as well as access to the healthcare system: either on equal terms with local residents or under an established insurance program. A residence permit in most programs is a preliminary stage before applying for permanent residence or . That is, in addition to current rights, the status opens up the prospect of long-term integration into society and obtaining a full-fledged passport of the chosen country. Obligations and typical conditions for residence permit holders One of the key conditions is maintaining investments for the established period. For example, if you purchased real estate, you cannot sell it or transfer it to another person until the minimum term set by law (often 5 years) has expired. Many countries also require compliance with a minimum period of physical presence in the country, especially if the investor plans to apply for permanent residence or citizenship in the future. In Portugal, for example, it is sufficient to stay in the country for 7 days a year, while in other countries the requirements may be stricter: from 90 days a year or more. Failure to meet these conditions may become an obstacle to extending the status or result in a refusal to move to the next stage. In addition, the investor is required to update documents confirming the presence of investments and periodically provide information to immigration authorities: tax certificates, bank statements, lease agreements, or other forms of reporting. Additional requirements are also possible: obtaining medical insurance, having housing, confirmation of income sources. What is Citizenship by Investment (CBI)? is a legally established procedure through which a foreign citizen can obtain the passport of another country in exchange for certain investments in its economy. Unlike traditional migration routes, the CBI path allows obtaining a passport directly, bypassing years of residence and naturalization. This format of immigration is used by dozens of countries worldwide, especially in the Caribbean region, the Middle East, and the Pacific region. It serves not only as a means of attracting capital to the economy but also as a legitimate way for investors to ensure global mobility, financial security, and asset protection. Citizenship by investment programs are regulated by the internal legislation of the country and usually offer applicants a clearly defined list of : Non-refundable contribution to the state fund; Investments in approved real estate properties; Investments in government bonds or national development funds; Creating businesses and jobs in the country. In return, the investor and their family receive citizenship with full rights, including the right to reside, work, receive education, medical care, and to countries with which the state has concluded relevant agreements. The main difference between citizenship by investment and traditional citizenship acquisition is the absence of requirements for long-term residence in the country. In most CBI programs, there is no need to live in the country, take language exams, or complete adaptation courses. Some jurisdictions, such as Vanuatu, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, can issue a passport within 2 to 6 months after submitting the documents. What rights does full citizenship obtained through investment provide? Citizenship obtained through an investment program provides full legal status, equivalent to the status of citizens by birth. The investor has the right to reside in the country without restrictions, use the healthcare system, education, and social support. They are also entitled to conduct business, open accounts, acquire real estate, and inherit property. One of the is broad global mobility. The passport of this country provides visa-free or simplified entry to more than 100 countries, including the United Kingdom, Singapore, Hong Kong, Caribbean countries, and a number of European states. Obligations of a citizen (and their specifics for citizens of Vanuatu under the investment program) First and foremost, this is compliance with the Constitution and legislation of the country, including and criminal law. Although investors are not required to reside in Vanuatu, they are obligated not to use the passport for criminal or fraudulent purposes, as well as to maintain a positive international reputation. At the same time, citizens of Vanuatu who obtained a passport through the investment program are exempt from a number of traditional obligations typical for other countries. For example, there is no mandatory military service in Vanuatu. There is also no requirement to pass language exams or undergo an adaptation course — the procedure is as simplified as possible. Tax obligations in Vanuatu are minimal: there is no income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax, which is especially beneficial for high-net-worth investors. The state does not require regular financial reports from citizens who obtained a passport under the CBI program. Residence Permit vs. Citizenship by Investment: Key Differences in Detail Investment immigration remains one of the most in-demand and strategically advantageous tools for wealthy individuals worldwide. However, investors often face a key question: choose residency or CBI? Both options are legal, effective, and allow for expanding the horizons of personal and financial freedom. But the differences between them are significant. Status and scope of rights: Resident or full Citizen? A residence permit provides a limited resident status, allowing one to legally reside, sometimes work, and access basic rights in the country of issuance. However, the holder of a residence permit does not have access to elections, full diplomatic protection, and many citizen rights. In contrast, citizenship is a full and permanent status. By obtaining a Vanuatu passport, an investor becomes a full-fledged citizen with the ability to live, work, travel, inherit property, and enjoy consular protection worldwide. The path to a passport: Multi-year through a residence permit or instant through CBI? Standard residence permit programs provide for naturalization within 5–10 years, including compliance with residency requirements, language proficiency, and integration into society. This path requires time, effort, and oversight. CBI programs allow obtaining a second passport in 1–3 months, without mandatory residency, exams, or waiting periods. Requirements for living Most residence permit programs require minimal physical presence: from a few days to several months per year. Failure to comply with this rule may lead to the loss of status. Citizenship by investment programs do not require residency. For example, Vanuatu does not obligate the investor to come to the country either before or after obtaining citizenship. Global mobility A residence permit does not provide a passport and does not grant the possibility of visa-free entry to other countries (except for limited cases within the Schengen area). A Vanuatu passport offers visa-free or simplified access to more than 100 countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and island jurisdictions. This makes it a full-fledged tool for international mobility. Processing time Obtaining a residence permit usually takes from 3 to 12 months, depending on the country and the complexity of the process. Sometimes the procedure can extend up to one and a half years. Citizenship by investment can be obtained significantly faster: in the Vanuatu program — from 30 to 90 days, making it one of the fastest in the world. Investments: Size, nature (returnable/non-returnable), and complexity Residence permit programs often require investments in real estate from €250,000 to €500,000 or in the creation of a business. These investments are refundable but require long-term commitment and additional expenses (taxes, maintenance). CBI programs offer transparent conditions. For example, Vanuatu citizenship can be obtained for a non-refundable contribution starting from . The procedure is simple, with no hidden costs for real estate, repairs, maintenance, etc. Tax aspects Obtaining a residence permit in most countries automatically makes an investor a tax resident, with obligations to file declarations and pay taxes. In the case of Vanuatu, obtaining citizenship does not mean tax residency. The country has no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, which makes it attractive for asset protection and tax planning. Conditions for the family: Who and how can be included? Residence permit programs usually allow the inclusion of a spouse and minor children. In some cases, a separate application, proof of dependency, and additional fees may be required. The Vanuatu citizenship program allows the inclusion of a spouse, children up to 25 years old, and parents from 50 years old, while the application structure remains simple and transparent. If you are planning investment immigration, contact our lawyers. We will help you choose the optimal strategy, ensure legality at all stages, and achieve a sustainable result—whether it is a residence permit or a full second passport. In what cases is a residence permit by investment a justified choice? 1. Moving and permanent residence in the chosen country If an investor intends to actually reside in the country, choose a school for their children, integrate into the local community, or conduct business on-site, a residence permit through an investment program will be the best choice. It provides the legal right to reside and conduct business activities in the country without obligations for naturalization. 2. Access to European education and healthcare For families with children, education in EU countries and access to quality medical services often become a priority. By obtaining a residence permit in a country with developed social infrastructure, the investor gains the opportunity to provide children with access to public or international schools, and for themselves and their loved ones — medical care at the level of residents. 3. Tax planning through changing tax residency Unlike citizenship, an investment residence permit is often directly linked to obtaining tax residency, which can be beneficial with a well-thought-out income structure. In some countries, preferential tax regimes are in place for new residents, including fixed tax rates on foreign income. This is especially important for investors looking to restructure their assets or move their tax base to a more predictable jurisdiction. 4. Interest in real estate and local business Many residence permit programs involve investments in real estate, making them attractive for those who want to combine immigration with the purchase of a liquid asset. For example, Greece, Spain, and Portugal provide residence permits for investments in housing that can be rented out, used personally, or resold. Such programs are also suitable for businessmen interested in opening branches, representative offices, or local startups. Resident status simplifies these processes. 5. Flexibility in planning future citizenship Some investors do not strive to immediately obtain a second citizenship, preferring to take a flexible approach to this matter. A residence permit provides such an opportunity: after living for several years, an investor can make an informed decision—extend the status, transition to permanent residence, or apply for naturalization. In this case, the path through a residence permit allows one to explore the country, its legal system, and standard of living without making radical decisions right away. 6. Strategic location and access to regional agreements Countries providing investment residence permits often participate in regional agreements. For example, a resident of the European Union can travel and conduct business within the Schengen area, while a holder of a residence permit in the UAE can enjoy privileges within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). 7. Lower investment threshold compared to CBI For some countries, the entry threshold for residence permit programs may be lower than for citizenship programs. For example, the golden visa in Latvia is possible from €60,000, while CBI programs start from $100,000 and above. When Citizenship by Investment is your best choice? 1. You need a second passport — quickly and without bureaucracy If you are not ready to wait 5–10 years for naturalization, take language exams, or prove integration, the Vanuatu program is the optimal option. The passport is issued within 1–3 months, the entire procedure is conducted remotely, and there are no residency requirements in the country. 2. You are looking for maximum mobility without visas Citizenship of Vanuatu provides visa-free or simplified entry to more than 100 countries, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Caribbean states. For citizens of countries with limited travel opportunities, this is a real tool for global mobility, allowing them to freely attend business events, hold meetings, vacation abroad, and invest without visa barriers. 3. You want to protect your assets and minimize risks In conditions of political instability, sanctions, tightening of currency control, and pressure on business in many countries, a second passport is an insurance for personal and financial security. With Vanuatu citizenship, you gain a neutral jurisdiction that does not participate in international conflicts and provides a high level of confidentiality. 4. You do not want to become a tax resident Vanuatu offers a unique advantage: citizenship does not make you a tax resident of the country. There is no income tax, inheritance tax, gift tax, or capital gains tax here, which makes the Vanuatu passport an ideal element of international tax planning—especially in combination with trusts, holding structures, and other assets. 5. You want to legally formalize a family in one package The Vanuatu program allows including a spouse, children up to 25 years old, as well as parents from 50 years old, which favorably distinguishes it from programs with a limited family composition. 6. You do not want to participate in complex investment schemes. Many CBI programs require the purchase of real estate, investments in funds, or business creation. In Vanuatu, it is different: a single non-refundable contribution to the state fund (from $130,000) — with no obligations for purchasing, managing, or maintaining assets. 7. You already have a residence permit, but do not want to become a tax resident of another country. If you already have a residence permit but do not want to lose tax independence or do not meet the requirements for naturalization, CBI is the next logical step. The Vanuatu program will allow you to obtain a second passport without canceling your current resident status and use both tools depending on the situation. Conclusion The choice between citizenship and a residence permit by investment is not just a matter of status but an important strategic decision that should be based on your personal goals, financial capabilities, and future plans. For some investors, the priority may be actual residence, access to social infrastructure, and the possibility of integrating into a new society — in this case, a residence permit can become the first logical step. For others, the key factors are quick status processing, freedom of movement, tax neutrality, and confidentiality, and then direct citizenship programs become the most effective and beneficial solution. Residence permit or Citizenship of Vanuatu? We will help you choose the best solution for your goals! We recommend taking a balanced approach to the choice, evaluating all the “pros” and “cons” from the perspective of your individual tasks. Seek professional consultation — our team will help select the most suitable program, explain the legal and financial nuances, and provide full support at every stage. We will help you objectively compare both options, assess risks and advantages, and select a solution that fits your specific request. Our team has international experience and dozens of successful cases of obtaining status through investments. Contact us to receive a personalized consultation and choose the best path to your freedom and security.
