India is rising—and so are its wealth creators. As of 2024, India is home to over 8,50,000 high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and 13,600 ultra-HNIs, with nearly 20% under the age of 40. Among the most strategic tools being explored by this new class of investors is citizenship by investment—a legal route to second passports, global access, and long-term security. In parallel, residency by investment programs are opening doors to relocation in Europe and beyond.
As Co-Founder of Trendvisionz, and through years of working with India’s leading business families. We’ve seen a clear shift—rising millionaires now prioritize global mobility, wealth diversification, and personal freedom.
From manufacturing and real estate to startups and tech, global-minded Indians are choosing second passports to access world-class education, healthcare, and visa-free travel.
This article explores how citizenship by investment and residency by investment are helping shape India’s next generation of global citizens in 2025.
Let’s decode where, how, and why to invest in your global future.
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Understanding the Difference – Citizenship by Investment vs Residency by Investment
Going forward before choosing an international investment route, it’s essential to understand the key difference between citizenship by investment and residency by investment. Both are legal, government-sanctioned paths to global mobility, but they offer different levels of rights, timelines, and long-term value. For Indian HNIs evaluating global relocation, wealth planning, or second passport options, understanding this distinction can help align the investment with personal and professional goals.
What is Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
Citizenship by investment offers a streamlined pathway to securing a second passport by committing funds to a qualifying investment in a host country. The CBI is typically through real estate, business, or government contributions. Under various CBI programs1, investors can gain full citizenship rights, including voting, work eligibility, and visa-free travel to dozens—or even hundreds—of countries.
Looking for the best citizenship programs for Indians in 2025? Grenada, Turkey, and Vanuatu continue to lead the way. These countries offer fast-track second passports, dual citizenship benefits, and flexible investment routes tailored to Indian HNIs.
The programs typically involve real estate purchases, government donations, or business investments. Most do not require long-term residency or physical presence, making them highly attractive for Indian entrepreneurs and global investors who want mobility without relocation.
Key benefits of citizenship by investment:
- Visa-free access to up to 150+ countries
- Full citizenship rights and legal protection
- Lifetime citizenship, often extended to family
- No need for language tests or cultural assimilation
What is Residency by Investment (RBI)?
2Residency by Investment, also known as a golden visa, allows foreign nationals to obtain a legal country of residence through investment. Unlike CBI, RBI grants long-term residence rights—sometimes leading to permanent residency or citizenship over time.
Investment visas in Europe, such as those in Spain, Greece, or Cyprus, typically require property investment or economic contribution. RBI is ideal for Indian HNIs seeking lifestyle relocation, children’s education in the EU, or healthcare access without renouncing Indian citizenship.
Key features of residency by investment:
- Legal entitlement to reside in the country and move freely
- Potential pathway to PR and eventual citizenship
- Includes family members under the same visa
- Often renewable with maintained investment
Grant of Permanent Residency Status (PRS) to Foreign Investors
Some countries offer Permanent Residency Status (PRS) to foreign investors as part of their RBI programs. This status grants indefinite legal residence, often without mandatory relocation, offering long-term stability and planning flexibility.
Countries like Portugal and Cyprus have offered such schemes that allow investors and their families to live, work, or study indefinitely. While Malta previously offered citizenship by investment, this route was officially closed as of July 2025. However, Malta still offers residency programs under its Permanent Residency Status (PRS) framework.
PRS provides a stable legal base and is often renewable without physical stay requirements. It’s an ideal for Indian investors who wish to retain ties to India while accessing global privileges.
Citizenship by investment offers immediate nationality. Whereas residency by investment provides a gradual route to long-term living abroad. Indian investors must weigh timelines, objectives, and mobility needs before choosing the right fit.
Top Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programs in 2025
Choosing the right citizenship by investment program depends on speed, travel freedom, taxation, and family benefits. For Indian HNIs, 2025 offers diverse CBI programs that provide second passports, global access, and long-term security. Let’s explore the top-performing options that combine value, flexibility, and ease of application.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Turkey continues to be a top preference for Indian investors, thanks to its simplified application process and investment pathway primarily based on real estate acquisition.
By investing a minimum of $400,000 in approved property, applicants can obtain Turkish citizenship in 3 to 6 months.
This program allows for visa-free travel to over 110 countries. Turkey’s strong ties with Europe and Asia enhance its appeal. No minimum stay is required, and dual citizenship is permitted, offering strategic mobility for entrepreneurs and families.
Grenada Second Passport
Grenada stands out as one of the most powerful Caribbean passport programs. It allows visa-free travel to 145+ countries, including China, and uniquely offers access to the US E2 Visa—an exclusive treaty benefit.
Investors have the option to either purchase approved real estate or make a $150,000 contribution to Grenada’s national transformation fund (NTF).
The process typically takes under 4 months and includes dependent family members. This program is ideal for Indian HNIs seeking business expansion into the US and enjoying dual citizenship benefits.
Trinidad and Tobago
An emerging CBI contender, Trinidad and Tobago is developing structured pathways for high-value investors. With a growing Indian diaspora and English-speaking environment, it offers cultural familiarity and regional travel freedom. Program details are expected to become more formalized in 2025.
The momentum behind citizenship by investment programs isn’t limited to Caribbean nations or isolated regions. According to Christian Kälin
“If Europe decides to go backwards, let them go backwards. But the rest of the world is going forward, and it’s only one direction.” — Christian Kälin, Chairman, Henley & Partners
For Indian investors, this global movement is not just about access—it’s about choice, security, and freedom. And choosing the right program depends on much more than budget.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers the fastest second passport route globally, often processed within 60 days. A contribution of $130,000 to the Development Support Program provides citizenship with no residency or physical stay requirements. The country’s zero income tax policy and peaceful island setting attract Indian investors seeking privacy and simplicity.
Best Residency by Investment Destinations for Indians
For Indian HNIs who prefer long-term relocation and access to the European Union without giving up Indian citizenship, residency by investment offers a flexible and future-proof solution. Known as golden visa programs, these schemes allow investors to obtain legal residency in exchange for real estate or financial contributions.
What is a Golden Visa?
A golden visa is an official residency by investment scheme that allows foreign investors to legally reside in a country by making an eligible investment. The investment is typically in real estate or a business venture.
These programs often provide visa-free travel, family inclusion, and a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship over time. Golden visa countries like Spain, Greece, and Portugal are popular among Indian HNIs. These countries are ideal destinations for golden investment strategies that combine mobility with real estate or business growth.
Here are the most attractive options in 2025 for those seeking a strategic country of residence.
Spain & Greece – Golden Visa Europe, real estate investment
Spain and Greece continue to dominate the golden visa landscape in Europe. Both countries offer residency by investment through real estate, starting at €250,000 in Greece and €500,000 in Spain. Investors gain access to the Schengen zone, along with family inclusion and a clear route to permanent residency. These golden visa countries offer a relaxed lifestyle, growing expat communities, and solid investment potential in tourism and residential sectors.
Poland & Cyprus – Affordable, education-friendly, EU access
These countries are gaining traction among Indian investors looking for affordable entry points into the EU. Poland offers business-based residency with access to strong education systems and a stable economy. Cyprus provides residency through real estate from €300,000, allowing visa-free travel across Europe and eligibility for citizenship after several years. These programs are ideal for families prioritizing schooling, lower living costs, and EU residency for investors.
France, Italy & Monaco – Lifestyle, healthcare, long-term PR
France and Italy provide residency by investment through business creation or economic contribution, with added benefits like universal healthcare, heritage-rich living, and long-term permanent residency options. Monaco, while more exclusive, is appealing for Indian ultra-HNIs seeking a luxurious lifestyle, zero income tax, and political stability. These countries cater to those who value legacy planning, premium healthcare, and fast-track European residency without immediate citizenship.
How to Choose the Right Investment Path
Selecting between citizenship by investment and residency by investment depends on personal goals, financial strategy, and long-term vision. For Indian HNIs, the decision often goes beyond just acquiring a second passport—it’s about aligning investment with lifestyle, legacy, and security.
Families focused on relocation, education, and healthcare may find residency programs in Europe more suitable. On the other hand, entrepreneurs and frequent travelers might prefer the speed and global mobility of a second passport. Strategic tax planning through second citizenship is also a growing motivation.
Quick Comparison – Which Investment Path Is Right for You?
Choosing between citizenship and residency programs depends on your financial objectives, lifestyle preferences, and long-term plans. Here’s a quick comparison to help Indian HNIs align their investment with lifestyle, mobility, and financial priorities.
- If your budget is under $150,000 and you want quick processing, consider Grenada or Vanuatu for citizenship by investment
- If real estate investment with lifestyle relocation is your goal, look at golden visa programs in Spain, Greece, or Cyprus
- For business-friendly policies with access to the US market, Grenada’s E2 visa treaty offers a unique advantage
- If privacy, no residency requirement, and dual citizenship are key, Turkey and Vanuatu provide fast-track citizenship with minimal hassle
- For families seeking EU education, healthcare, and long-term PR, residency by investment is ideal
Whether your focus is immigration by property investment, legacy planning, or freedom of movement, choosing the right program involves more than money—it’s about securing your future on your terms.
Role of Trusted Advisors and Immigration Consultants
Investing in a second passport or golden visa is a high-stakes decision. For Indian HNIs, the guidance of a qualified visa and immigration consultant is critical. From avoiding fraud to handling country-specific documentation, immigration consultants streamline the complex process and protect your investment. Due diligence ensures your funds are directed into verified programs while minimizing the risk of rejection or delays.
Top 10 Immigration Consultants for Global Investors
Here are ten leading global and Indian visa and immigration consultants known for integrity and results:
- Henley & Partners
- CS Global Partners
- Arton Capital
- Harvey Law Group
- La Vida
- Savory & Partners
- XIPHIAS Immigration
- VisaExperts
- The SmartMove2UK
- ValueADZ Global
Visa and Immigration consultant like ValueADZ, help Indian HNIs choose the right path. Whether through citizenship by investment or residency by investment. The experienced team provides complete support, from program selection to documentation and compliance. They also have special expertise in real estate-driven immigration by property investment and tax planning through second citizenship.
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FAQ – Citizenship by Investment
Which are the top countries easiest to get citizenship by investment?
Countries like Vanuatu, Grenada, and Turkey offer some of the easiest and fastest citizenship by investment programs. The timelines ranging from 60 days to 6 months, minimal residency requirements. In addition direct passport access through real estate or donation routes.
What is a Golden Visa?
Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows foreign investors to obtain legal residence in a country by making a qualifying investment, usually in real estate or government bonds. It offers visa-free travel, family inclusion, and a potential path to permanent residency or citizenship.
What qualifies someone as a high-net-worth individual in India?
In India, a high-net-worth individual (HNI) is defined as someone possessing an investible surplus of over INR 5 crore, typically excluding primary residence and business ownership assets. This includes liquid financial assets like stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, and excludes real estate or primary business ownership value.
What is Permanent Residency Status (PRS) in investment programs?
Permanent Residency Status (PRS) allows foreign investors to live indefinitely in a country after meeting specific investment criteria, usually through real estate or business. PRS is renewable, often without physical presence, and can include family members.
Conclusion
The rise of global Indians signals a bold shift in how wealth, identity, and opportunity are redefined. With the right strategy, tools like citizenship by investment and residency by investment can unlock second passports, tax-efficient living, and access to global markets. Whether your goal is relocation, global education, or legacy building, these investment programs offer powerful, future-ready options for Indian HNIs.
At Trendvisionz, we decode such transformative strategies to help entrepreneurs, investors, and families make informed global moves. If you’re ready to explore intelligent pathways to global mobility, there’s no better time to start—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Additional Resource:
- Hukka, J. A. (2025). ECCU CBI Programs – Regional Significance and Risks. Selected Issues Papers, 2025(067), A001. Retrieved Jul 31, 2025 ↩︎
- Patroklos Patsoulis, Konstantinos Eleftheriou, Christos Alexakis, Golden visa programs and tourism receipts, Annals of Tourism Research, Volume 111, 2025, 103902, ISSN 0160-7383 ↩︎
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