Dreaming of a life abroad without the long wait for work permits or permanent residency approvals? That’s exactly what a Golden Visa can offer. From sandy beaches in Mauritius to the business hubs of Singapore, Golden Visa programs allow you to secure long-term residency by making a qualifying investment in a country’s economy—often through real estate, government bonds, or entrepreneurship.
For Indians, these programs open doors to global mobility, better education, healthcare opportunities, and even a backup plan in times of uncertainty. Depending on your budget, you can find options ranging from under ₹50 lakh to over ₹70 crore.
This guide explores 14 countries where Indians can apply for Golden Visas, divided into three price ranges.
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residence permit granted by a country in exchange for an investment. The investment could be in property, local businesses, government-approved bonds, or even cultural projects. In return, the applicant (and their family) gain the right to live, work, study, and access healthcare in that country.
Golden Visa vs. Citizenship by Investment
- Golden Visa: Grants residency rights (you can live, work, and travel freely in that country) but does not provide a passport.
- Citizenship by Investment: Directly grants citizenship and a passport, often at a much higher cost. Some Golden Visa programs (like Portugal and Greece) allow you to transition to citizenship after living in the country for a few years.
Why Indians Apply for Golden Visas
✔️ Flexibility and security for families
✔️ Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to multiple countries
✔️ Access to world-class education and healthcare
✔️ International business opportunities
✔️ A safety net during political or economic instability
Golden Visas for Indians Under ₹60 Lakhs
1. Mauritius – Residence by Investment
- Valid for entire family (spouse, parents, and children up to 24 years old)
- Investment options include real estate or setting up a business
- Long-term validity (10 years or tied to property ownership)
Minimum Investment: USD 50,000 (~₹43.7 lakh)
2. Austria – Private Residence Program
- Ideal for financially independent individuals
- Visa-free travel across Europe’s Schengen Area
- Citizenship eligibility after 10 years of residence
Minimum Investment: EUR 50,000 (~₹51.1 lakh) in liquid funds
3. United Kingdom – Innovator Founder Visa
- Path to permanent residency in just 3 years
- Includes spouse and dependent children
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in the UK
Minimum Investment: GBP 50,000 (~₹59.1 lakh) in a new, endorsed business
Golden Visas for Indians Under ₹2.5 Crore
4. Canada – Start-Up Visa Program
- No age or education restrictions
- Path to citizenship in 3 years (dual citizenship allowed)
- Includes spouse and children under 22
Minimum Investment: CAD 295,734 (~₹1.8 crore)
5. Malaysia – My Second Home (MM2H)
- 20-year renewable residence visa
- Covers spouse, parents, parents-in-law, and unmarried children under 21
- No minimum stay requirement
Minimum Investment: MYR 1 million (~₹2 crore) fixed deposit
6. Switzerland – Swiss Residence Program
- Includes spouse and children under 18
- High standard of living, healthcare, and education
- One of the world’s most stable economies
Minimum Investment: CHF 200,000 (~₹2.18 crore) annual lump-sum tax
7. United Arab Emirates – Golden Visa
- Long-term residence (5–10 years, renewable)
- Family included without extra investment
- Ideal for entrepreneurs and investors
Minimum Investment: AED 1 million (₹2.3 crore) property (5-year visa, age 55+)₹4.7 crore) property (10-year visa, no age limit)
OR AED 2 million (
8. Greece – Golden Visa Program
- Visa-free travel across Schengen Area
- No residence requirement to maintain status
- Citizenship eligibility after 7 years
Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000 (~₹2.5 crore) in real estate
9. Italy – Investor Visa Program
- Visa-free Schengen travel
- Citizenship option after 10 years
- Family included without extra cost
Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000 (~₹2.5 crore) in innovative start-ups
10. Portugal – Golden Residence Permit
- Citizenship eligibility after just 5 years
- Low physical presence requirement (only 35 days over 5 years)
- Visa-free Schengen travel
Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000 (~₹2.5 crore) in cultural/artistic projects
Golden Visas for Indians Over ₹7 Crore
11. United States – EB-5 Investor Visa
- Green Card for investor, spouse, and children under 21
- Pathway to U.S. citizenship
- Must create/preserve 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers
Minimum Investment: USD 800,000 (~₹7 crore) in a targeted employment area
12. New Zealand – Active Investor Plus
- Includes spouse and dependent children up to age 24
- Flexible investment categories (growth or balanced)
- Path to permanent residency
Minimum Investment: NZD 5 million (~₹25.7 crore)
13. Hong Kong – Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
- Residency in one of Asia’s top financial hubs
- Strong business opportunities
Minimum Investment: HKD 30 million (~₹33.7 crore)
14. Singapore – Global Investor Program
- Pathway to permanent residency
- Requires job creation (at least 30 employees)
- Access to world’s top financial and business hub
Minimum Investment: SGD 10 million (~₹68.2 crore) in a new/existing business
Final Thoughts
For Indian investors, Golden Visa programs open a world of opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful island escape in Mauritius, a business hub in the UAE, or the ultimate passport to the U.S., there’s a program tailored to different goals and budgets.
From affordable residency under ₹50 lakh to prestigious global hubs over ₹70 crore, these visas are more than just paperwork—they’re investments in your family’s future security, mobility, and lifestyle.
If you’re considering applying, consult with a professional immigration advisor to choose the program that matches your financial goals and long-term plans.
