Immigration and Golden Visa Update
Published Date: January 18, 2025, 10:00 AM
Greece Increases Minimum Investment for Golden Visa Program
Summary: Greece has raised the minimum investment threshold for its Golden Visa program to €500,000 in major metropolitan areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Mykonos. The program remains popular for granting EU residency with a real estate investment. Investors targeting smaller towns and rural areas still benefit from the original €250,000 threshold. This move aims to balance regional investments.
Canada’s Express Entry Adds STEM Stream for Global Talent
Summary: Canada has introduced a STEM-specific pathway under its Express Entry program to attract professionals in fields like AI, robotics, and clean energy. This addition aligns with the government's goals to address labor shortages and bolster innovation. Eligible candidates are fast-tracked for permanent residency, further solidifying Canada’s position as a global tech hub.
UAE Golden Visa Expands to Healthcare and Education Professionals
Summary: The UAE has expanded its 10-year Golden Visa eligibility to include top healthcare and education professionals. This initiative acknowledges contributions to essential sectors and aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional credentials or experience to qualify.
Portugal Suspends Golden Visa for Coastal Properties
Summary: Starting February 2025, Portugal will no longer allow Golden Visa investments in coastal residential properties. This move directs investors towards rural areas or commercial projects. The program’s overhaul aims to promote sustainable housing policies amid increasing property market concerns.
Singapore Tightens Family Office Residency Requirements
Summary: Singapore now requires family offices to manage at least SGD 20 million in assets to qualify for its Global Investor Program. The changes aim to attract high-net-worth individuals while ensuring alignment with local economic goals. Tax exemptions under the new rules incentivize long-term commitments.
Italy Launches Digital Nomad Visa for Non-EU Workers
Summary: Italy’s new Digital Nomad Visa welcomes remote workers earning at least €30,000 annually. This program offers a one-year renewable visa and access to Italy’s healthcare system. The initiative caters to the growing trend of location-independent work and boosts Italy’s economy through tourism and local spending.
New Zealand Reopens Parent Residency Visa Pathway
Summary: New Zealand has resumed its Parent Residency Visa program, allowing migrants to reunite with their families. Applicants must meet financial requirements, with children sponsoring their parents. This reopening signals a return to family-oriented immigration policies post-pandemic.
Germany Introduces "Opportunity Card" for Skilled Migration
Summary: Germany’s new Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) uses a points-based system to attract skilled workers. Factors like language skills, age, qualifications, and work experience are assessed. This card addresses the country’s labor market gaps and simplifies entry for international talent.
Turkey Reduces Citizenship-by-Investment Threshold
Summary: Turkey has lowered the minimum investment requirement for citizenship by real estate purchase from $400,000 to $300,000. This decision follows declining program participation, aiming to reignite foreign interest. Investors receive full Turkish citizenship within 60 days of application.
Australia Offers Faster Pathway for Regional Skilled Migrants
Summary: Australia has introduced priority processing for skilled migrants settling in regional areas. The initiative encourages population distribution and addresses skill shortages in non-urban regions. Migrants receive additional benefits, such as quicker PR pathways and financial incentives.
Date: January 18, 2025, 10:00 AM
