Some countries grant residence to people who start or own a qualifying company. Here is how those routes work, what they ask for, and how they differ from passive investment.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
Many countries grant residence to people who form or own a qualifying company, on the logic that the business brings capital, jobs or innovation. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, owning a company on the mainland or in a free zone can support a renewable residence visa, and reforms now allow full foreign ownership in many activities. In Portugal, routes exist for entrepreneurs and for innovative startups that meet set conditions. Programmes and thresholds differ widely, so confirm the current rules with the relevant authority.
There is a real split between active and passive routes. Active routes expect you to run a genuine business, sometimes to create local jobs or to reach a turnover target. Passive routes, such as buying property or fund units, ask for capital but little operational involvement. An active route can demand far more of your time, but it may suit someone who wants to actually trade in the country.
Authorities commonly want a registered company, a business plan, proof of funds to run it, evidence that the business is real rather than a shell, and clean source of funds. Some set a minimum capital, some a job creation target, and some require approval from an incubator or a sector body. Tax registration usually follows. Treat any figure you read as indicative until the official authority confirms it.
Budget time as well as money. Company formation, licensing and visa issue each take their own timeline. Think about ongoing duties such as accounts, renewals and minimum activity, since letting a company lapse can put your residence at risk. Take licensed legal and tax advice for your situation, as this page is general information only.
Not always. Active business routes can involve more checks, a business plan and sometimes incubator approval. Timelines vary by country and by case.
Some routes require job creation or a turnover target, others do not. Confirm the specific conditions with the official authority for the programme.
Usually no. Many routes expect genuine activity, and a dormant company can threaten your residence at renewal. Check the minimum activity rules.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
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