UAE's Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh: 10 other nations that offer this visa, cost, how to apply

 

With the UAE launching a nomination-based Golden Visa for Indians, interest is rising in other countries offering similar residency-by-investment programmes.

These Golden Visas allow high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to gain residency rights. and in some cases, citizenship, by making financial investments in real estate, business, or national funds. Here's a full list of 10 countries that currently offer Golden Visa options to Indian nationals, with cost, benefits, and how to apply.

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Minimum Investment: AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore) via real estate or AED 100,000 (₹23.3 lakh) via nomination

• How to Apply: Via Dubai Land Department (real estate) or nominated consultancies like Rayad Group (nomination)

• Key Benefits:

  • 5–10 year renewable residency

  • No local sponsor needed

  • Family sponsorship allowed

  • Highly tax-friendly

2. United States

• Minimum Investment: $800,000 (₹6.6 crore, EB-5) or $5 million (₹41.5 crore, Trump Gold Card)

• How to Apply: File Form I-526 with USCIS (EB-5); Gold Card on hold

• Key Benefits:

  • Permanent residency (Green Card)

  • Family inclusion

  • Path to U.S. citizenship

3. New Zealand

• Minimum Investment: NZD 5–10 million (₹2.5–5 crore)

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• How to Apply: Through Immigration New Zealand with an investment plan and fund proof

• Key Benefits:

  • Residency for family

  • Flexible investment types

  • Minimal physical stay (21–105 days over 3–5 years)

  • Pathway to permanent residency

4. Singapore

• Minimum Investment: SGD 10–25 million (₹6.2–15.5 crore); SGD 200 million (₹124 crore) for family office

• How to Apply: Via Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)

• Key Benefits:

  • Fast-track permanent residency

  • Family inclusion

  • Citizenship eligibility after 2–3 years

  • Low physical presence required

5. Portugal

• Minimum Investment: €250,000–€500,000 (₹2.25–4.5 crore)

• How to Apply: Via Portuguese Immigration and Border Service (SEF)

• Key Benefits:

  • Residency for family

  • Free movement in Schengen Zone

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  • Citizenship after 5 years

6. Greece

• Minimum Investment: €250,000 (₹2.25 crore)

• How to Apply: Submit property investment and ID proof to Greek authorities

• Key Benefits:

  • Family residency

  • Schengen access

  • No physical stay required

  • Renewable every 5 years

7. Malta

• Minimum Investment: €182,000–€350,000 (₹1.64–3.15 crore)

• How to Apply: Via Malta Residency and Visa Agency

• Key Benefits:

  • Permanent residency or fast-track citizenship

  • Visa-free access across EU

8. Cyprus

• Minimum Investment: €300,000 (₹2.7 crore)

• How to Apply: Submit documents via Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department

• Key Benefits:

  • Permanent residency

  • Family inclusion

  • Tax benefits

  • Schengen access

9. Italy

• Minimum Investment: €250,000–€2 million (₹2.25–18 crore)

• How to Apply: Via the Investor Visa Committee with a fund declaration

• Key Benefits:

  • Residency for family

  • Fast-track visa

  • No minimum stay

  • Schengen access

10. Hungary

• Minimum Investment: €250,000–€1 million (₹2.25–9 crore)

• How to Apply: Via Hungary’s Investment Immigration Office with proof of funds

• Key Benefits:

  • Long-term residency

  • Family inclusion

  • Flexible investment channels