Europe’s economic resilience, health security, and prevalence of liberal democratic institutions have long made it an attractive destination for global high-net-worth individuals seeking investment opportunities.
There has been a notable increase in the number of African nationals pursuing European residence-by-investment programmes, as noted by Henley & Partners. Portugal, Malta, Latvia, and Greece offer popular EU residence-by-investment programmes, each with unique requirements and financial thresholds.
Each programme offers benefits such as visa-free access to Europe's Schengen Area and eligibility for citizenship after a certain period of legal residence.
Portugal Golden Residence Permit Programme:
Investment options in Portugal include allocating EUR 500,000 towards acquiring an investment or venture capital fund, investing the same amount into research endeavours (with a reduced requirement of EUR 400,000 in low population density regions), contributing EUR 250,000 towards cultural preservation efforts (EUR 200,000 in low population density areas), or directing EUR 500,000 towards establishing a company registered in Portugal.
Renowned for its attractive investment options and favourable tax regime, the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Programme is the leading EU residence-by-investment programme.
It offers wealthy African families the right to reside in Portugal with visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area and a direct pathway to Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence, without needing to spend significant time in the country.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme:
Investment opportunities in Malta include purchasing property valued at EUR 350,000 (with a reduced requirement of EUR 300,000 in South Malta or Gozo) along with a contribution of EUR 28,000 to the Maltese economy, or opting for a property lease at EUR 12,000 annually (EUR 10,000 in South Malta or Gozo) in addition to a contribution of EUR 58,000 to the Maltese economy.
Aside from the key benefits of residency, visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area, and eligibility to apply for Maltese citizenship through fulfilling extended residence requirements, successful applicants gain access to top-tier healthcare and education in Malta, a member state of the European Union.
Malta's favourable tax regime, which does not require wealth or inheritance tax, also presents an attractive proposition for African investors seeking to optimise their financial portfolios.
Latvia Residence-by-Investment Programme:
Investment in Latvia offers a host of advantages, including the opportunity to reside in the country, visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area, and eligibility for citizenship after 10 years of residence.
Positioned strategically with a thriving economy, Latvia stands out as an ideal choice for global entrepreneurs and investors. It is also the most affordable EU residence-by-investment programme and grants the right to live in a country with one of the lowest costs of living in Europe.
Greece Golden Visa Programme:
Investment options in Greece include acquiring real estate with a minimum value of EUR 250,000, placing a term deposit of EUR 400,000, making a capital contribution of EUR 400,000, investing in Greek government bonds, units, or shares worth EUR 400,000, or purchasing shares or corporate bonds amounting to EUR 800,000.
Investing in Greece offers a range of benefits, including the right to reside in the country, visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area, and eligibility for citizenship after seven years of residence. Famous for its natural beauty and thriving tourism industry, Greece's residence is an ideal investment for holidaymakers or those considering holiday buy-to-lets.
With no physical presence requirement, several investment options, and a quick processing time, acquiring Greek residence is a seamless and stress-free process.
Spain Residence-by-Investment Programme:
Investment options in Spain include acquiring real estate worth EUR 500,000, purchasing government bonds with a minimum value of EUR 2 million, or investing in investment funds, bank deposits, or company shares with a minimum value of EUR 1 million.
The Spain Residence-by-Investment Programme offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to live in the country, visa-free access to Europe's Schengen Area, and eligibility for citizenship after 10 years of residence.
Favoured by real estate investors, the programme provides accessibility to the EU and surrounding countries. There are also considerable tax benefits for new Spanish residents, making it an attractive option for families looking to establish their second home in Europe.
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