As global wealth continues to increase and spread out, high net worth individuals are keen looking beyond borders to protect assets, enhance mobility, and secure long term opportunities for their families. In 2026, investment migration remains one of the most chosen options for achieving residency, citizenship, and to freely enjoy being able to live anywhere across the world.
From established Caribbean citizenship programs to European residency pathways and North American investor visas, this article explains the Top 10 Best Countries for Investment in 2026, backed by statistics, global rankings, and long-term strategic value.
At High Net Worth Immigration, we specialize in guiding investors through these programs with clarity, compliance, and confidence.
1. United States
Investment channel
Primary investment routes include the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program and E2 Treaty Investor Visa
Despite changing global conditions, the United States is still a preferred option among investors planning for permanent residency and citizenship. The EB-5 program requires a qualifying investment into a US business or government-approved project and leads to permanent residency, which would later be followed by eligibility for citizenship.
The United States remains one of the most appealing investment migration destinations in the world due to its deep capital markets, innovative economy, and world-renowned educational institutions, which is also reflected in current global interest in the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. Under the EB-5 program, investors can make a qualifying investment starting from USD 800,000 to support job creation and economic growth while gaining eligibility for permanent residence in one of the world’s most sought-after countries for long-term settlement and economic opportunity.
Holding a US passport continues to provide wide international travel access along with a strong sense of long-term security.
Explore US residency and dual citizenship strategies here
2. Canada
Investment Visa Option
Canada offers a Quebec Investor Visa for individuals through its long-running Immigrant Investor Program, designed for applicants who prefer a passive investment approach rather than hands-on business management.
As Canada’s only province with its own immigration selection system, Quebec sets its own economic immigration priorities. This autonomy has allowed the province to maintain a consistent, investor-focused pathway that emphasizes capital contribution, financial stability, and long-term settlement rather than entrepreneurial operations.
The Quebec Investor Program is particularly attractive to applicants seeking residence in a developed economy while maintaining flexibility in their business and personal affairs. Unlike active business programs, it does not require day-to-day involvement in a Canadian enterprise, making it suitable for globally mobile investors.
Quebec itself continues to benefit from a strong institutional framework, a diversified economy, and a high standard of living, supported by access to Canada’s broader market and international mobility advantages. Successful applicants ultimately obtain Canadian permanent residence, opening the door to long-term settlement and future citizenship.
For investors prioritizing stability, predictability, and a non-operational investment structure, Quebec remains a unique option within the Canadian immigration landscape.
Learn more about Canada's investment pathways
3. United Arab Emirates
Investment channel
Long-term residency through the Golden Visa program
The UAE has grown into an international center for business, investment, and entrepreneurial activity. Because of where it sits globally, along with regulations that support investors and strong modern infrastructure, it has become a popular residency choice in 2026.
Through the Golden Visa, eligible investors and entrepreneurs can secure renewable residency in the UAE and operate independently without a local sponsor.
Alongside the absence of personal income tax, this level of flexibility has made the UAE appealing to international investors.
According to CoinLaw statistics, approximately 158,000 Golden Visas had been issued by 2023, with projections suggesting the total could exceed 300,000 by the end of 2025. This level of demand points to strong investor confidence in the UAE’s regulatory framework, diversified economy, and long-term growth plans.
Among the main advantages are zero personal income tax, easy access to global markets, and a reliable regulatory system.
Find out more about residency in the UAE residency solutions
4. Portugal
Investment channel
Golden Visa Residency route available to investors
As one of Europe’s most recognized investment migration destinations, Portugal has adapted its program over time while maintaining clear residency options through approved funds and cultural contribution routes.
Portugal appeals to investors looking for EU access and stability, combined with a comfortable lifestyle. Its flexible residency requirements and predictable citizenship timeline are especially well-suited to those planning ahead.
Based on official figures by CoinLaw, Portugal has issued approximately 17,700 Golden Visa approvals and 24,887 family residence permits, bringing in over €7.3 billion in investment. This track record reflects Portugal’s continued appeal to global investors.
With Schengen mobility, flexible residency rules, and a straightforward route to citizenship, Portugal continues to stand out as a preferred destination for global investors.
Explore Portugal Golden Visa options
5. Greece
Investment channel
Golden Visa Residency Permit
Greece now stands out as a leading residency-by-investment option in Europe, combining comparatively affordable investment levels with strong lifestyle benefits and EU access.
Greece represented roughly 8% of total golden visa program uptake, with data showing steadily growing appeal among expats through 2025 across all visa categories.
Beyond the program itself, Greece’s improving economy, growing foreign investment, and strong real estate demand make it attractive not just for residency but also for long-term asset diversification.
CoinLaw data also shows that Greece issued over 17,000 Golden Visas in a single month, reflecting a clear sign of the program’s surging popularity.
Find out more about Greece residency strategies
6. Cyprus
Investment channel
Permanent Residency Investment Program
Cyprus's clear and dependable permanent residency by investment program appeals to investors who want secure European Union access without heavy long-term commitments. Unlike many European jurisdictions, Cyprus allows investors to secure permanent residency, making it especially attractive for internationally mobile investors.
Economically, Cyprus is built on a stable services-based economy, with established strengths in finance, professional services, shipping, and tourism, alongside a steadily expanding technology and fintech scene. Its position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa has also helped it grow into a practical business hub, making it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs and internationally mobile families.
While it is known that in recent years many EU schemes that offered temporary permits were eventually subject to renewal and policy shifts, whereas Cyprus, on the other hand, grants permanent residence by providing a well-established framework, with approvals typically completed in just months and lenient stay requirements.
Moreover, when it comes to residency security, Cyprus provides a more stable tax system with better incentives and access to real estate that would benefit investors in the long run.
This leaves investors with peace of mind rather than having to worry about constant renewals, as Cyprus proves to be a dependable choice to secure permanent residency.
Learn more about the topic of Cyprus investment residency
7. Latvia
Investment channel
Residency obtained through investment
Latvia offers one of the more affordable ways to gain entry into the European Union through an investment-based residency option. Although citizenship requires a longer-term commitment, the program remains appealing for investors looking for Schengen access and diversification without a high upfront threshold.
In recent years, Latvia has also allowed 5,500 new immigrants to obtain a residency permit longer than 1 year, with India, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan being the top three nationalities of newcomers.
Latvia benefits from its strategic position within the EU, improving economic fundamentals, and growing interest from investors that look beyond traditional Western European markets. As a result, its residency program is often used as a secondary European base within a broader global diversification strategy.
CoinLaw also notes rising interest in Latvia as investors look away from traditional Western European markets.
Learn more about Latvia residency options
8. Caribbean Citizenship Programs
Countries included
St Kitts and Nevis
Antigua and Barbuda
Dominica
Grenada
Saint Lucia
Investment channel
Citizenship by investment
Caribbean citizenship by investment programs continue to lead the global market, largely because of their efficiency, fast processing times, and strong international mobility benefits. These programs help create an easier and clearer path to citizenship, with a quicker approval process and minimal requirements for physical presence.
Those willing to invest $200,000 can obtain citizenship for St.Kitts and Nevis within 6 months through a citizenship by investment program with similar benefits, also found by opting for Dominica.
Caribbean passports typically provide visa-free or visa on arrival access to over 130 destinations and allow citizenship to be passed on to future generations, making them a powerful tool for long term mobility planning.
Explore Caribbean citizenship solutions here.
9. Turkey
Investment channel
Investment-based citizenship
Turkey offers one of the more straightforward and accessible citizenship through investment options worldwide, with most applicants qualifying through real estate investment. The program has remained popular thanks to its clear requirements, inclusion of family members, and a relatively fast approval process.
The total number of foreigners with a Turkish residence permit has gone from 178,964 in 2005 to 1,170,591 in 2026, with Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Syria, Iran, Russia and Iraq being the countries with the highest numbers of migrants.
Beyond the citizenship program, Turkey offers a large and diverse economy, with a population of over 85 million and strong domestic demand across sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure. Its position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East gives investors valuable geographic reach and regional connectivity.
Learn more about Turkey citizenship options
10. Mexico
Investment channel
Temporary and Permanent Residency
Mexico offers residency options for investors seeking lifestyle flexibility, proximity to North America, and a lower cost of living. While it does not operate a formal citizenship by investment program, Mexico’s residency framework allows qualified individuals to obtain temporary and permanent residence through financial solvency or investment-related criteria.
Mexico has become increasingly popular among global investors and entrepreneurs, especially as remote work and regional diversification have become more common. This shift has supported growth across manufacturing, logistics, technology services, and real estate, particularly in major cities and coastal areas.
For many investors, Mexico strikes a practical balance between affordability and quality of life. Living costs are generally lower than in many developed markets, private healthcare is widely available and well regarded, and the overall environment supports both business and day-to-day living. Residency also removes the need for repeated visa renewals and, over time, can open the door to citizenship through naturalization under Mexican law.
Mexico is often used as a secondary or lifestyle-focused residency within a wider international planning strategy. Its flexibility, ease of access, and regional importance make it an appealing option for investors who value choice, mobility, and quality of life alongside more traditional investment factors.
Global Investment Migration Industry Statistics
Based on data from CoinLaw and industry research
There are currently around 11 active citizenship by investment programs globally
In total, more than 40 combined citizenship and residency investment programs worldwide
An estimated 50,000 people obtain citizenship each year through investment migration programs.
Together, these numbers show that investment migration remains a well-established and expanding industry.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to invest in 2026 is less about finding the lowest price or the quickest passport and more about fit. The right decision brings together mobility, long-term security, tax considerations, lifestyle preferences, and legacy planning into a single, well-thought-out strategy.
At High Net Worth Immigration, we offer personalized solutions built on experience, strong compliance standards, and a truly global perspective.
👉 Book your free consultation today in 2026, backed by statistics, global rankings, and long-term strategic value.
At High Net Worth Immigration, we specialize in guiding investors through these programs with clarity, compliance, and confidence.
