The immigration procedure differs depending on the investment program selected. The sort of program you select may differ depending on your immigration goals, expectations, and financial resources. Processing time is important to consider: Some programs may be approved in as little as four weeks, while others may take as long as three to six months or longer depending on the current demand and the backlog.
What do you want?
- A financially secure future?
- Personal safety for you and your family?
- A high standard of living?
- A better education?
- The ability to start or expand a business?
- Lower taxes?
- Better weather?
- Retirement in a country with a mild climate and clean environment, or simply the freedom to travel the world?
Finding the answer to your desire will assist you in making the best decision possible. However, before making a decision, you need to weigh all the options and compare the programs thoroughly.
Program Requirements
When you’re making an application, it’s important that you fully understand the program requirements.
Stay Requirement
As an investor, you should be aware of the stay requirements and think carefully if you could abide by these requirements to maintain your status.
Pay attention to what the program promises and provides. Is it a temporary resident visa that grants access right to local benefits? Do you have to pass a language test? Is there an age limit to obtain permanent residence? Make sure the details are clear and that you’re prepared for the outcome.
Language Requirement
If you’re only after the residency status, you’re typically not required to prove your proficiency in the country’s official language. However, if you’re going to apply for citizenship, you’ll almost always need to pass a language test. These tests are usually basic levels but shouldn’t be overlooked.
Tax Liability
Another important element is to understand your tax liability. In most cases staying in a country for more than 183 days in a tax year might result in taxation responsibilities. Getting crystal clear answers to your questions is important when inquiring about your tax liability.
Asset Types
Investment migration schemes offer different types of investment routes such as real estate acquisition, fund subscription, investment in government bonds, or donation.
Real Estate Acquisition
Real estate is the most popular route. However, it’s normal to be concerned about the secondary market, where reselling or exiting your investment may be difficult. If you’re not familiar with the country where you’re going to invest, make sure you’re working with professionals who look out for your best interest.
If you’re going to buy property from a developer, get an answer to these questions:
- How big is their portfolio?
- Do they have a good track record?
- Are the developments in popular locations?
- Do the properties qualify for the investment scheme?
Investment Funds
Investment funds are getting a lot of attention too, especially in Portugal Golden Visa program. Fund subscription can be more complex than the traditional real estate route. This is why working with independent advisors is vital. You need to make sure thorough due diligence is run before investing your money in any fund.
Bonds
Some investor visas are available for those who invest in government or corporate bonds. Government bonds are usually considered low-risk investments because the government backs them. Corporations issue bonds, which normally have a greater yield than government bonds, but they also have a larger risk. Because these are equity market-linked, their value can be influenced by a company’s credit rating, resulting in increased price volatility and a higher risk level.
Donation
This is perhaps the easiest option: You donate the required amount and you don’t later deal with managing your investment, taxes, or costs. Sounds good on the paper but note that most of these options require almost the same amount as the investment amounts do. Plus, you get no profit in exchange for a donation. This is why we recommend not to be illusioned by the hassle-free nature of the donation method.
Company Creation
Many countries like the US offer visas in exchange for company creation. For this, you’re usually required to submit a detailed business plan and support letter. If you’re planning to take this route, you need to consider many factors, such as hiring local staff and the competition in the destination market. You need to have a thorough understanding of the local market. Being successful in your home country may not guarantee success in another.
Questions To Ask Yourself
- Do you want to stay in the country as a permanent resident?
- Are you willing to relocate to get citizenship?
- Is it important for you and your family to relocate quickly?
- Are you looking for full residency privileges or do you think a simple residency visa will suffice?
- What is the projected return on investment?
When making life-changing decisions such as migrating overseas and applying for a second citizenship or permanent residency, you must have professionals on your side. Aside from family and friends, you will require the assistance of professionals who can assist you in accomplishing your goals. This is the most crucial phase since it lays the foundation for a successful process.
Get Golden Visa: Who We Are and How We Can Help You
Get Golden Visa is a bespoke investment advisory firm. We help people get an additional residency and citizenship by making a qualifying investment through property acquisition, fund subscription, or other investment vehicles.
With our team of legal professionals in several locations around the world, we offer our clients a tailor-made and transparent journey in their quest for a second residency and citizenship through real estate acquisition and investment funds.
Contact us and talk to one of our experienced team members to help you with any and all your questions.
