The Global Residence Index 2025 ranks and compares the top residence-by-investment programs worldwide. Compiled by Henley & Partners, the global leader in investment migration consulting, the index is an authoritative guide for high-net-worth individuals and families seeking second residency options.
Who Publishes the Global Residence Index?
The index is curated by H & P, known for its expertise in residence and citizenship planning. Their analysis evaluates 23 of the world’s leading investment migration programs based on a comprehensive scoring system.
Top Countries for Residence-by-Investment in 2025
According to the latest Global Residence Index, here are the top-ranked countries:
| Rank | Country | Total Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Greece | 73 |
| 2nd | Switzerland | 72 |
| 3rd | Italy | 70 |
| 3rd | Portugal | 70 |
What Are Residence-by-Investment Programs?
Residence-by-investment (RBI) programs allow foreign nationals to obtain legal residency in a country in exchange for a qualifying economic investment. These programs typically offer:
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to major travel destinations
- Access to high-quality education and healthcare
- Potential path to permanent residency and citizenship
- Family inclusion (spouse, children, and in some cases, parents)
How the Global Residence Index Is Scored
Henley & Partners evaluate each program using multiple criteria:
- Minimum investment amount
- Processing time
- Visa-free travel benefits
- Application complexity
- Due diligence and security
- Tax implications
- Eligibility for dependents
- Pathways to permanent residency and citizenship
Programs that strike a balance between benefits, ease of process, and investment amount receive higher scores.
Residence vs Citizenship-by-Investment Programs
While both RBI and CBI (Citizenship-by-Investment) programs offer mobility and lifestyle benefits, they differ significantly:
| Feature | Residence-by-Investment | Citizenship-by-Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Investment | ~€100,000 | ~€500,000 |
| Residency Rights | ✔ | ✔ |
| Passport & Nationality | ✘ | ✔ |
| Processing Time | 3–6 months | 12+ months |
| Naturalization Path | Yes (usually 5+ years) | Immediate citizenship |
Choosing the Right Investment Migration Program
When selecting a residency-by-investment program, consider your:
- Budget and investment preferences
- Desired travel access
- Tax residency benefits
- Family inclusion options
- Long-term plan for naturalization or citizenship
Popular destinations like Portugal, Greece, Thailand, Malaysia, and Caribbean nations offer diverse benefits, depending on your goals.