What Makes Second Residency Easier?

Flexible Programs with Lower Investment and Documentation
Second residency programs are easier when they demand minimal investment, simplified paperwork, and no strict stay requirements—ideal for global citizens seeking freedom and stability.

Investment Choices and Barriers

Real Estate and Business Investment
Affordable and versatile investment options—like Portugal’s Golden Visa—let applicants qualify via property, job creation, or cultural contributions.

Low Requirement of Physical Presence

Ideal for Remote Residency
Countries like Thailand and Panama do not require continuous presence, offering flexibility for residents with global lifestyles.

Processing Speed and Flexibility

Fast Approvals, Fewer Hassles
Programs like Paraguay’s Permanent Residency offer quick processing and minimal documentation, making second residency more accessible.

Stability and Wellbeing

Secure Countries with High Quality of Life
Uruguay and Malaysia attract families with safety, solid infrastructure, and a comfortable cost of living.

Access to Visa-Free Travel

Freedom of Movement
Residency in countries like Portugal or Spain grants access to the Schengen Area, simplifying travel across Europe.

Portugal Golden Visa Program

Minimum Investment: From €250,000
Residency Validity: Initial 2 years, renewable
Citizenship Path: After 5 years

Investment Options:

• Cultural Donations: €250,000
• Research Activities: €500,000
• Venture Capital Funds: €500,000
• Job Creation: No minimum or €500,000 for job-based investments

Spain Golden Visa Program

Minimum Investment: From €500,000
Residency Validity: Initial 1 year, renewable
Citizenship Path: After 5 years

Investment Options:

• Real Estate: €500,000
• Business: €1 million
• Capital Transfer: €1 million
• Government Bonds: €2 million

Greece Golden Visa

Minimum Investment: €250,000–€800,000
Residency Validity: 5 years, renewable

Real Estate Options:

• High-demand areas: €800,000
• Rural areas: €400,000
• Converted properties: €250,000

Alternative Investments:

• Capital contribution: €500,000
• Bonds or deposits: €400,000
• Investment funds: €350,000

Panama Friendly Nations Visa

Eligibility: Citizens of 50+ countries
Key Requirement: Economic ties (job, business, or bank account)
Path to Permanent Residency: After several years

Malaysia MM2H Program

Silver: MYR 500,000 (~USD 150,000), 5 years
Gold: MYR 2 million (~USD 500,000), 15 years
Platinum: MYR 5 million (~USD 1 million), 20 years (work and invest allowed)

Thailand Elite Visa

Gold: THB 900,000 (~USD 25,000), 5 years
Platinum: THB 1.5 million (~USD 41,000), 10 years
Diamond: THB 2.5 million (~USD 70,000), 15 years
Reserve: THB 5 million (~USD 140,000), 20+ years (by invitation)

Uruguay Residency Program

Minimum Income Requirement: USD 1,500/month
HNW Investment: USD 510,000 (property or business), or USD 200,000 with 15 jobs
Digital Nomad Visa: 6 months + 6-month renewal, eligible for permanent residency

Paraguay Permanent Residency

Fast & Affordable
Simple process with minimal proof—no minimum income required
Investment Path: USD 70,000 in property or business

Dominican Republic Investment Residency

Minimum Investment: USD 200,000
Investment Options: Real estate, business, fixed deposits, or securities
Path to Citizenship: After 2 years of legal residency

Antigua and Barbuda Permanent Residency

Income Requirement: USD 100,000/year
Minimum Stay: 30 days per year
Tax Benefits: Favorable for global investors

FAQs

What is the difference between second residency and citizenship by investment?
Residency grants the right to live in a country, often with fewer rights. Citizenship grants full legal rights, including voting and passport issuance.

Is it possible to work or start a business with a second residence permit?
In many cases, yes—especially programs like Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa. However, some may require separate permits.

How long does it take to get a second residency?
Timeframes vary. Some programs like Paraguay’s are fast (a few months), while others like Portugal’s may take longer.

Are there age requirements for second residency?
Most programs do not have upper age limits, but financial independence is usually required, especially for retirement visas.

Can family members be included?
Yes, most programs allow spouses and dependents, sometimes with additional documentation and fees.