Interest among Americans in obtaining residency or citizenship abroad through investment programs is increasing, with numerous countries offering diverse options to accommodate varying budgets and lifestyle preferences. According to a Gallup poll conducted in 2025, about one in five Americans would consider moving permanently to another country, marking a significant rise since 2020.

Residency-by-investment programs, often referred to as “golden visas,” grant individuals the opportunity to acquire residency or citizenship by investing in local real estate, businesses, or government-sponsored projects. These schemes, initially designed to stimulate economic growth following the 2008 financial crisis, have recently faced scrutiny due to concerns over gentrification, tax evasion, and money laundering. This has led some countries to restrict or curtail their programs, though many remain available with varying terms.

Globally, between 30 and 35 countries offer some form of golden visa, while about a dozen provide direct citizenship through investment, enabling applicants to obtain passports without mandatory residency periods. These programs range from those targeting high-net-worth individuals, such as Singapore and Monaco, to options accessible to investors with more modest means.

Costa Rica presents an attractive destination with its low entry costs and flexible residency options, particularly appealing to retirees due to its favorable tax environment and access to national health care for those over 65. The country’s Inversionista program requires a one-time investment of $150,000 in real estate or approved financial assets, while separate visas cater to pensioners and individuals with independent financial means.

Greece offers one of the European Union’s least expensive golden visas, with minimum real estate investments starting at €250,000. The visa provides visa-free travel within the Schengen area and does not oblige holders to reside in the country, allowing for property rental or sale. Other routes include visas for financially independent retirees or remote workers demonstrating steady income.

Panama is recognized for its stability, efficient visa processing, and quality health care infrastructure, making it popular among retirees and investors. The Qualified Investor visa demands investments beginning at $300,000 in real estate or significant deposits in the banking sector. Panama also offers a Friendly Nations visa for nationals of over 50 countries, with various investment thresholds leading to either temporary or permanent residency and potential citizenship eligibility after five years.

Portugal’s golden visa program, initiated in 2012, underwent revisions in 2023 to address housing market concerns by increasing investment minimums and redirecting funds toward cultural, research, and venture capital projects rather than residential real estate. Residency is granted through investments starting at €250,000, with holders required to meet minimal physical presence requirements and eligibility to apply for citizenship after seven to ten years, depending on nationality.

The African island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe launched a citizenship-by-investment program in August 2025, attracting attention with its low entry cost—minimum donations of $90,000 to a government fund—and fast processing times. The program includes family members and requires no residency obligations, offering visa-free travel to over 60 countries, primarily within the global south.

Emerging trends suggest a gradual shift in citizenship-by-investment interest from Europe toward Latin American countries like Paraguay and Argentina, which are revising their citizenship regulations amid economic recovery. Additionally, island nations in the South Pacific, including Vanuatu and Nauru, have introduced or relaunched fast-track citizenship programs requiring investments between $115,000 and $180,000.

As global interest in relocation opportunities grows, applicants considering residency or citizenship by investment are advised to closely evaluate program requirements, investment thresholds, and geopolitical stability to determine the best fit for their circumstances.