Investor Visa
A residence permit — and in some countries a step toward citizenship — granted to a foreign national in exchange for a qualifying investment in the economy.
An investor visa is a residence permit — and in some countries a step toward citizenship — that a state grants to a foreign national in exchange for a qualifying investment in its economy. It is one of the core instruments of residence by investment (RBI) and, where it leads directly to a passport, of citizenship by investment (CBI).
Recognised forms of investment depend on the programme and may include buying real estate, contributing to a licensed investment fund, investing in a business and creating jobs, or purchasing government bonds. Due diligence and proof of the lawful source of funds are almost always required; minimum amounts, holding periods and presence requirements differ from country to country.
Investor visas are often marketed under commercial labels such as 'golden visa'; in the United States a comparable mechanism is the EB-5 programme. The resulting status usually grants residence rights to the investor and their family and, subject to conditions, a prospect of permanent residence or citizenship.
“An investor route is a commitment you hold, not a payment you make. Sell the property or close the deposit early and the ground under your renewal disappears; swapping one asset for another has to qualify in advance.”
Levan Pogosov — LawyerFAQ
Do I have to live in the country on an investor visa?
Presence requirements vary widely: some programs ask for almost no physical stay, others set a minimum number of days per year. Where the goal is later naturalization, genuine residence usually becomes unavoidable.
Does an investor visa allow me to work or run a business?
It depends on the country: some statuses include the right to work and trade, others restrict it or require a separate permit. The scope of rights is defined in the program conditions.
What happens to my status if I sell the investment?
Status is generally tied to keeping the qualifying investment for a set period, and an early exit can lead to revocation or refusal to renew. Holding conditions should be clarified before the transaction.
Does an investor visa make me a tax resident?
No. The visa grants the right to reside, whereas tax residency follows physical presence, centre of vital interests and domestic rules — these are separate statuses.
Does an investor visa give passport-like travel freedom?
No: a residence permit is not a travel document and does not substitute for citizenship. Regional mobility depends on the agreements in force between the countries concerned and should be checked separately.