An attractive alternative to acquiring a second citizenship by investment is to obtain a permanent residence permit or a long-term visa. This is where you and your family can apply for permanent residency in a country by making an investment or the purchase of a property. During this residency, you do not necessarily have to live in the country. Most permanent residency programmes, can also lead to citizenship, via the natural way, after a couple of years. During this residency you do not necessarily have to live in the country. 

We present below seventeen countries that make the list of the world's premier residency options: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Greece, Jersey, Hong Kong, Malta, Ireland, Monaco, Portugal, Singapore, Switzerland, UAE/Dubai, the UK and the USA. All of these countries are open to foreign nationals and offer residency options which are summarized in the pages below. 

Of course, there are other countries that are of interest to entrepreneurs and wealthy individuals in terms of residency and citizenship planning, however if you weigh in all criteria which are really relevant, you end up with just a handful of what we call the premier residency options.

All these countries are attractive and viable, but of course vary within those parameters. Some may offer a wonderful and safe way of life for families and children, but it may be difficult to become a citizen. Others may be very easy to settle in, but then demand onerous number of days in the country to meet residency requirements. Taxation will always be a key factor and is one of the most widely varying criteria, not only in terms of tax rates but also in terms of reporting and planning requirements.