Malta, Austria lead as top countries for citizenship and residency programs

According to Henley & Partners’ latest rankings, European nations dominate the top spots, with Malta and Austria emerging as the top countries in the 2025 Global Citizenship and Residency Programs.  The 2025 Global Citizenship and Residency Program ranks the world’s top investment migration options, highlighting the most attractive destinations for investors.

Specifically, the indexes evaluate programs based on key factors such as reputation, quality of life, visa-free access, processing time, compliance, and investment requirements.

For citizenship programs, residence requirements, relocation flexibility, and physical visit requirements are also considered. Residence programs are further evaluated on tax implications, total costs, and time to citizenship.

Investment migration programs offer individuals the opportunity to secure alternative residency or citizenship, providing global mobility, economic benefits, and security against geopolitical instability.

High-net-worth individuals are turning to residency and citizenship through investment programs for greater security, mobility, and financial benefits.

As the demand continues to rise, these programs will remain a key tool for investors seeking diversification and financial security.

Here’s a look at the top 8 investment programs worldwide.

Malta 

Malta retains the top position for the 10th consecutive year with a score of 76/100. The country’s Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment allows foreign investors and their families to obtain citizenship after a 12 or 36-month residence period. This program is known for its strong economic benefits and global mobility advantages.

The minimum contribution is EUR 182,000 with mixed capital requirements. It allows residency in an EU country, with visa-free access across Europe’s Schengen Area for 90 days out of 180 days.

Austria 

With a score of 75, Austria holds the second spot. The country’s investment program requires a significant contribution to the national economy, which makes it one of the most prestigious and exclusive options available.

The minimum capital requirement is to provide a substantial contribution, such as a joint venture or business investment.

Key visa-free travel destinations are the EU and Schengen Area, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and the USA. Visa on arrival is to approximately 190 destinations.

Grenada

Grenada ranks third with a score of 69, offering a well-regarded citizenship-by-investment program. Investors can benefit from visa-free access to major global destinations and eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.

The citizenship by investment investment is from EUR 235,000. The benefit is visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations, including China, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and Europe’s Schengen Area.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda remains a popular choice among investors due to its low investment threshold, tax-friendly policies, and visa-free access to over 150 countries. The island nation scored 67.

A minimum investment of USD 300,000 needs to be made in real estate. Nauru, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia

These three nations share the fifth spot with a score of 66.

Nauru’s recent entry into the index highlights its appeal, offering investors a passport with strong global mobility and investment opportunities focused on climate resilience.

The investment required is the purchase of real estate with a minimum value of USD 325,000 from an approved real estate development, or a minimum of USD 325,000 for a condominium unit or USD 600,000 for a single-family private dwelling.

Dominica 

Dominica secures the sixth position with a score of 65, maintaining its reputation for affordability and straightforward application processes. A minimum real estate investment of USD 200,000 needs to be made after which the investor can get visa-free access to 140 countries.

Türkiye

Türkiye ranks seventh, offering multiple investment routes, including real estate. The program provides easy access to European, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets.

Requires an investment of USD 400,000. A key benefit is the freedom to travel to Türkiye, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, among others.

Egypt, Jordan, and North Macedonia 

Egypt stands out as Africa’s only citizenship-by-investment program, while Jordan and North Macedonia provide strategic access to the Middle East and Europe.

These three nations tie for the eighth spot with a score of 63.

A minimum investment of EUR 200,000 is needed after which the investor obtains the freedom to travel to Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Türkiye, and Europe’s Schengen Area, among others, as well as an e-visa to India.