Residency by investment (RBI) programs allow individuals to legally acquire residency in another country by investing in real estate, business, or government bonds. These programs are becoming a cornerstone of international wealth planning.
What Is Residency by Investment?
RBI programs offer a pathway to live, work, and sometimes travel freely within a region (such as the EU) in exchange for qualified investment.
Common Investment Options
- Real estate (e.g., Portugal, Greece)
- Government bonds (e.g., Malta)
- Business creation or job generation
- National development funds (e.g., St. Lucia)
Benefits of RBI
- Geographic diversification
- Education and healthcare access
- Tax optimization
- Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship
FAQ:
Q1: Is RBI the same as citizenship by investment (CBI)?
A: No. RBI offers residency rights, not immediate citizenship.
Q2: Can family members be included?
A: Yes. Most programs allow spouses and dependent children under a certain age.
User Comments:
“Portugal’s golden visa opened doors to Europe for my family.” — Javier M.
“I used Malta’s bond option to diversify without moving full-time.” — Helen D.
Editor’s Note:
Residency by investment is more than a Plan B—it’s a wealth strategy.
Tags: residency-investment, golden-visa, mobility-strategy, relocation-options