The Monaco Residency by Investment program offers high net worth individuals and families an attractive pathway to residency in the prestigious principality. Key benefits include a low tax environment, visa-free EU travel, an unmatched lifestyle, and potential for citizenship.
Benefits of living in Monaco
Monaco is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera known for its luxury lifestyle, casinos, Grand Prix, and tax haven status. Key benefits of taking residency include:
- Prestigious location ranked top 10 globally in quality of life.
- No income tax, wealth tax, property tax, or capital gains tax.
- Visa-free travel within the EU Schengen area.
- Year-round sunny Mediterranean climate, safety, and excellent international schools.
- Stable real estate market for buy-to-let investments.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for Monaco’s residency by investment program, applicants must meet the following key requirements:
Proof of accommodation
You must show evidence of a leased or owned residential property in Monaco. This can be through a property purchase or rental contract.
Proof of financial Means
You must have sufficient recurring income or funds to demonstrate self-sufficiency. Minimums vary based on individual circumstances.
Criminal record check
A clean criminal record from your country of origin and last two countries of residence is required.
Good character references
Two reference letters attesting to your good character are required for the application.
Investment options
There are several investment options to acquire residency in Monaco:
- Real Estate Investment: Purchasing or leasing property in Monaco valued at over €1 million.
- Bank Deposit: Depositing €500,000 in a Monaco bank account which must be maintained.
- Business Incorporation: Investing in and actively managing a Monaco company.
Costs
The main costs associated with Monaco’s residency by investment program include:
- Government Fees: Application fees of €80-150 per person plus a residency card fee of €200-250 per person.
- Due Diligence Fees: Approximately €7,000-€10,000 for background checks on the main applicant and dependents.
- Property Purchase or Rental: Buying or leasing suitable property in Monaco if following the real estate investment route.
Application process
The Monaco residency by investment application involves the following key steps:
- Consultation and document preparation with an authorized agent.
- Submission of the residency application along with supporting documents.
- Interview in Monaco with the Residents Section.
- Processing time of 4-8 weeks for approvals and compliance checks.
- Issuance of 3-year residency cards.
Family members
The following family members can be included in an application:
- Spouse or legally recognized partner.
- Minor children under 18 years.
- Dependent children up to the age of 25 if enrolled in full-time studies.
- Parents and grandparents if financially dependent on the main applicant.
Permanent residency
Permanent residency status can be obtained after 10 years of living in Monaco continuously as a temporary resident. It is indefinitely renewable every 10 years. Permanent residents gain additional privileges not available for temporary residents.
Pathway to citizenship
After 10 years of residency in Monaco, it is possible to apply for Monegasque citizenship, provided you meet eligibility criteria:
- Sufficient knowledge of French language and Monégasque cultural norms.
- Renouncement of any other citizenships held by the applicant.
- Strong ties and integration within Monaco society.
Monaco vs other programs
Compared to other European investor immigration programs, Monaco offers a faster and more prestigious residency option but also comes with a higher cost of living and investment requirements. Alternatives like Portugal, Greece, and Malta offer lower investment thresholds and easier pathways to EU citizenship.