…assuming, of course, you have the financial means. Long established and widely practiced, the “golden passport” system allows people to relocate abroad relatively easily, bypassing many of the usual hurdles that others face when making such a move. Here’s what you need to know…
What exactly is a “Golden Passport”?
A “golden passport” refers to a special program that allows you to reside in—and even relatively easily obtain citizenship of—a country through investment alone. Often you can retain your original nationality too, if you wish. There’s also a similar option called a “Golden Visa,” which grants long-term residence permits, with the possibility of later obtaining citizenship if desired.
In both cases, it’s essentially a commercial transaction that gives you the opportunity to relocate and enjoy the same benefits as native citizens of your chosen country. This comes in exchange for a substantial financial investment in that country’s economy—whether through real estate purchases, creating or investing in a business, or simply maintaining a well-funded bank account.
And it’s fair to say the system works, particularly for nationals who traditionally face difficulties relocating abroad. While precise figures aren’t available, estimates suggest over one million people currently hold golden passports or visas worldwide. In Europe alone, the number exceeds 100,000, generating several billion dollars in revenue for participating countries.
Contrary to what you might expect, it’s not just tax havens or small nations seeking revenue that open their doors. Within the European Union itself, Malta, Cyprus, Italy, and Greece remain viable destinations, offering Schengen Area access to applicants—though others like Spain and Ireland have recently ended their programs.
Elsewhere, to varying degrees, Golden Passports and Golden Visas are available in numerous countries: the UK, Australia, Canada, Dubai and the UAE, Thailand, Malaysia, and many others. While the target audience is primarily the ultra-wealthy, some countries remain surprisingly “affordable” for a broader range of people. For instance, the investment required to settle in Mauritius is just $50,000 USD (the lowest anywhere), $60,000 in Latvia, $100,000 in Panama, or $150,000 USD in Costa Rica. Certainly not cheap, but not entirely out of reach either…
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
