Which countries offer residency by real estate investment in 2024?

I am currently exploring options to relocate and am interested in purchasing property abroad to secure a residency permit. Could anyone share a list of countries where buying real estate still grants a direct path to a residence permit or Golden Visa? I am particularly looking for stable jurisdictions with clear legal frameworks and reasonable investment thresholds. Any personal experiences or advice on the current state of these programs would be greatly appreciated.

Greece remains one of the most popular choices in Europe. The Golden Visa program is still active, though they recently increased the investment threshold in high-demand areas like Athens and Thessaloniki to 800,000 euros.

If you are looking at Europe, Portugal is still a solid option, but keep in mind that they officially ended the direct real estate investment route for their Golden Visa. You now have to look into investment funds instead.

Spain is still a great option if you have 500,000 euros to invest. The legal framework is very stable, but there is ongoing political talk about potentially tightening the rules, so act sooner rather than later.

Don't overlook the Balkans. If you are interested in best regions and reliable agencies for buying property in Serbia?, it is a fantastic emerging market with a lower cost of living and a relatively straightforward residency process.

I moved to Dubai two years ago. The real estate residency program is very transparent. If you invest 750,000 AED, you get a two-year renewable visa, and for 2 million AED, you get the Golden Visa for ten years.

If you're considering North America, it is more complex. Check out these steps to buying a house in the US as a non-resident, though be aware that buying property in the US generally does not grant a direct residency permit like it does in Europe.

Turkey offers a citizenship-by-investment program for a 400,000 USD property purchase. It is one of the fastest routes to a second passport if that is your ultimate goal.

I would suggest looking into Cyprus. Their program is quite stable, though it requires a significant investment of at least 300,000 euros in new residential real estate to qualify for permanent residency.

Italy has a great 'Elective Residency' visa, but it is not technically a real estate investment visa. For those curious about the specifics, there is a guide on buying property in Italy for Russian citizens: current legal and financial realities that covers some of the hurdles.

Malta has a very prestigious program, but it is quite expensive compared to the rest of the Mediterranean. You need to be prepared for a substantial financial commitment and a long due diligence process.

Thailand offers the 'Elite Visa' which is essentially a long-term residency program. While it is not a traditional real estate 'investment' visa, many expats buy condos there to live in while holding the visa.

Caribbean nations like St. Kitts and Nevis or Grenada offer citizenship-by-investment programs where you can buy shares in luxury hotel developments. It is a very hands-off way to get a second passport.

Consider Panama. Their Friendly Nations Visa combined with a real estate investment is often touted as one of the most affordable paths to residency in the Americas.

Be very careful with 'guaranteed' programs. Always hire an independent lawyer who doesn't work for the developer to ensure your property purchase actually qualifies for the residency permit you are targeting.