Top 17 countries to move from India in 2024: US and other destinations

In recent years, Indian migration to countries like the USA, Canada, and various European nations has risen significantly. This surge is driven by opportunities in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and engineering.

For instance, Canada has seen a 326% increase in Indian immigration over the past decade, with student enrollments skyrocketing by 5,800%.

The pursuit of better employment prospects and higher wages remains a primary factor for relocation. Countries with strong economies and favourable immigration policies attract many Indian professionals.

A large number of Indian students seek higher education abroad, especially in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia. The high quality of education, combined with post-study work opportunities, makes these destinations among the top choices for migration.

Investment programs in countries such as Italy, Portugal, and Spain are attracting a growing number of Indian investors and entrepreneurs. According to the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum, Indian nationals ranked among the top five applicants for the Portugal Golden Visa program in 2023, with 199 Indian investors securing Golden Visas that year.

Globally, over 35 million Indians are living abroad in 2024, according to Statista. A significant proportion resides in the Middle East and North America, while countries like the UK, Malaysia, and South Africa are also among the top 10 destinations.

Malta offers an affordable cost of living, high quality of life, strong security, and an expat-friendly environment. This Mediterranean country boasts a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and excellent spots for diving and surfing.

English is an official language in Malta, alongside Maltese, and is widely used in government, business, education, and daily life. With about 90% of residents speaking English, international residents and visitors find it easy to communicate and integrate.

Malta’s healthcare system ranks 19th globally for access to essential services, according to Statista. Education is also well-regarded, with private schools offering programs based on UK or US standards and university courses available in English.

Malta’s tax system is attractive compared to other EU countries. Shareholders can receive up to 100% of the corporate tax paid by companies in which they hold shares, and there are no inheritance, wealth, or estate taxes.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme can be obtained by investment in real estate, either through renting or purchasing. In case of signing a lease, minimum investments is €10,000 per annum, or ≈ $10,500. If an investor decides to buy housing, minimum expenses are €300,000, or ≈ $317,000.

Other investment requirements include:

• a state fee of €28,000, or ≈ $29,600, if buying real estate, or €58,000, or ≈ $61,300, if renting real estate;

• an administrative fee of €40,000, ≈ $43,000;

• a charitable donation of €2,000, ≈ $2,100.

Rajesh, 57 years old

Has a banking business

Malta permanent residence for a large Indian family

Rajesh sought EU residency to provide his children with a high standard of living, quality education, and access to new business opportunities.

The investor to participate in the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, including his spouse and children, as well as those from his first marriage, in the application. The process took 8.5 months to complete.

Once the residence permits were granted, Rajesh, along with his spouse and two younger children, relocated to Malta.

Learn a case

The Global Residence Programme in Malta offers eligible individuals a flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income remitted to Malta, with a minimum annual tax obligation of €15,000.

To qualify, investors must rent or buy real estate with minimum investments of:

• €34,150, or ≈ $36,100, for renting, and an administrative fee of €6,000;

• €220,000, or ≈ $211,000, for purchasing, and an administrative fee of €5,500—6,000.

Malta citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment is another pathway to consider. This requires a minimum investment of €690,000, or ≈ $733,000, and allows applicants to pursue a Maltese passport after one or three years of residence.

A Malta passport provides visa-free access to 169 countries, a higher quality of life for families, and new opportunities for international business.

According to Expat Insider 2023, Portugal ranks 10th among the best countries for expats due to its welcoming atmosphere, high standard of living, and lower consumer prices compared to the UK or the USA. Its beautiful landscapes and clean beaches along the Atlantic coast also make Portugal an attractive relocation choice.

The official language is Portuguese, but many adults speak English fluently, placing Portugal 8th in the EF English Proficiency Index.

Portugal is one of the world’s safest countries, ranking 7th in the Global Peace Index 2024, thanks to its stable political environment, low crime rates, and effective social policies.

Portugal provides high-quality healthcare, contributing to a life expectancy of 82 years. Emphasis on preventative care and effective treatment of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes supports longevity.

The Portuguese Mediterranean diet is another factor in promoting health. Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and seafood, this diet helps support heart health, reduce cancer risk, and maintain a healthy weight. High fish consumption, especially in coastal areas, supplies omega‑3 fatty acids, which benefit cardiovascular health.

Children have access to high-quality education, with university courses available in Portuguese or English. Tuition fees for non-EU students range from $3,000—5,000 per year at public universities and up to $12,000 at private institutions. Scholarships for international students are available, covering tuition fees and offering a monthly stipend of up to $1,300.

Residency in Portugal can be obtained through several popular pathways:

1. The Golden Visa is a path for those who invest in fund units, support the arts or cultural heritage restoration, contribute to research, or open a company. The minimum investment required is €250,000, or ≈ $265,800.

2. The D7 Visa is designed for financially independent foreigners with a stable passive income of at least €820, ≈ $870, per month from abroad.

3. The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is issued to remote workers earning a minimum income of €3,280, ≈ $3,480, per month.

4. The Startup Visa is for entrepreneurs who propose innovative projects and secure approval from a Portuguese business incubator and the government agency IAPMEI.

After five years of residency, one can apply for permanent residence or citizenship in Portugal without full-time residence in the country. Applicants must meet certain requirements, such as demonstrating basic knowledge of the Portuguese language. For investors, permanent residency in Portugal requires only a minimum stay of seven days per year to maintain residency status.

Newborns in Portugal can gain Portuguese citizenship if their parents have held residence permits for at least one year before the child’s birth.

With 2.9 million Indians, Malaysia hosts one of the largest and oldest Indian communities outside India, with roots tracing back to the British colonial era. Indians, primarily from Tamil Nadu and Kerala, have settled in Malaysia for generations, creating a welcoming cultural environment for newcomers.

Malaysia’s proximity to India makes it a convenient choice for Indian expats. The countries are close, with regular, affordable flights, averaging around $57 for a one-way ticket, which eases travel for work, family visits, and holidays.

In the Expat Insider 2023 ranking, Malaysia placed 4th out of 53 countries as one of the best destinations for expats. Many find they can enjoy a higher quality of life, with frequent dining out, travel, and leisure that may be more expensive in their home countries. Living costs are relatively low: about $687 per month, including rent, compared to at least $2,200 in the UK or the US for a similar lifestyle.

Malaysia is among the top 10 most peaceful countries worldwide, according to the Global Peace Index 2024, with a low level of external conflict and a focus on diplomacy.

Known for its cultural diversity and tolerance, Malaysia is home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups living harmoniously. English is widely spoken in urban areas, often as a second language, making it easy for expats to communicate and adapt.

The warm Mediterranean climate, stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, abundant outdoor activities, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine make Greece an appealing choice for relocation.

Living in Greece is more affordable than in many other European countries. For example, the cost of living excluding rent is 26% higher in the UK and 28% higher in the Netherlands compared to Greece.

Residents gain access to Greece’s education and healthcare systems. With Greece ranked 12th in the EF English Proficiency Index, communication is easy, as many Greeks speak English fluently.

Greece offers a Golden Visa for investors who contribute at least €250,000, ≈ $265,800, to the economy, typically through real estate—making it the EU’s lowest property investment threshold for residency. The residence permit is issued for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely every 5 years if the investment is maintained.

The Golden Visa allows holders to live and study in Greece and travel visa-free to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Foreign investors are subject to a flat tax of €100,000, or ≈ $106,300, per year on their global income, with close relatives paying €20,000, ≈ $21,120, annually. Without this exemption, global income tax is applied progressively, reaching up to 45%.

Cyprus is an attractive relocation option due to its Mediterranean climate and clean calm environment. The country has a diverse culture, and with many English speakers, it’s easy for newcomers to settle in.

Cyprus ranks as one of the world’s safest countries, placing 11th among 180 countries in the Philtr Country Risk Index 2023. The island has low violent crime rates, a safe transportation system, a solid healthcare infrastructure, and moderate air quality. While Cyprus occasionally experiences seismic activity, the risk of severe natural disasters is low.

Tax incentives are a significant draw for residents in Cyprus. New tax residents are exempt from the Special Defence Contribution, and capital gains from selling securities are not taxed. Cyprus has a 12,5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the EU, and no taxes on global income or inheritance.

Investors can obtain a Cyprus permanent residence permit with a minimum investment of €300,000, ≈ $319,000, in real estate, shares in Cypriot companies, or securities.

The status is lifelong. Investors and their family members can relocate to Cyprus and apply for citizenship after five years of continuous residence.

Canada is consistently ranked among the top countries globally for quality of life, education, and economic opportunities. According to the United Nations Human Development Index, Canada holds the 15th position among 191 countries, measuring achievements in areas such as health, education, and living standards.

For Indian immigrants, Canada offers a wealth of economic and educational opportunities. The country has a robust economy and a strong social safety net, with comprehensive welfare and healthcare systems.

Canada’s diversity also makes it a welcoming place to live. The Indian diaspora numbers 1.6 million, and Indian culture is widely celebrated and respected. Canada is among the most tolerant countries, with strong anti-discrimination laws and a commitment to human rights.

There are various migration pathways to Canada. Highly qualified professionals, especially in fields like healthcare, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics can apply through the Express Entry route. This primary immigration pathway for skilled workers is designed to streamline permanent residency for qualified professionals.

Applicants create an online profile and receive points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability, including Canadian relatives or education. Successful candidates can obtain permanent residency within six months, making it an ideal route for those seeking a swift relocation.

Spain offers an excellent quality of life, high security, stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, making it an attractive destination for relocation.

Spain ranks 1st out of 53 countries for expat quality of life, according to Expat Insider 2023. The country offers an ideal mix of affordable living, outstanding healthcare, welcoming culture, scenic landscapes, and a strong work-life balance.

Spain’s economy is among the strongest in Europe, ranking 4th in the Eurozone and 14th globally by GDP. The business environment is accessible, with tourism as one of its major sectors. In fact, Spain ranks 2nd globally on the 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index, reflecting its prominent role in global tourism.

With 250–320 sunny days per year in regions like Andalusia and Valencia, Spain enjoys abundant sunshine. In contrast, the northern coast, including Bilbao and San Sebastian, averages around 150–200 sunny days annually due to Atlantic weather influences, resulting in more rainfall and greenery.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa is a way to residency in the sunniest EU country for those working remotely. It is issued to employees of foreign companies, sole proprietors, and self-employed individuals. Digital nomads need to confirm they work remotely and earn at least €2,646 per month.

Spain offers a Golden Visa for an investment of at least €500,000, or ≈ $530,000, with the most popular and affordable option being real estate purchase. This visa allows holders to live in Spain, establish a “safe haven, ” work or run a business, and travel visa-free across Schengen countries.

Children born in Spain to residents can obtain citizenship after just one year of residency, significantly shortening the usual 10-year naturalisation process.

With around 203,000 Indians, Italy has one of the largest Indian communities in Europe, supported by various organisations that aid cultural, social, and economic integration.

The Indian Chamber of Commerce for Italy promotes business initiatives and trade between India and Italy, while the Italian Hindu Union, officially recognised by the Italian government in 2012, represents Hindus and facilitates Hindu cultural and religious practices.

Many Indians work in agriculture, services, manufacturing, and technology. In northern Italy, especially in Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, Indian workers play a key role in the dairy industry, contributing to the production of iconic Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Many Indians find work in agriculture, particularly in northern Italy, as well as in services, manufacturing, and technology. In regions like Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, Indian workers have become integral to the dairy sector. They are involved in the production of renowned Italian cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Italy’s various immigration programs make it an accessible destination for Indians. Applicants begin with a temporary residence permit, becoming eligible for permanent residency after five years and for citizenship after an additional five years.

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa is available for remote workers earning at least €2,700, or ≈ $2,800, per month, with required savings of at least €30,000, ≈ $31,900, and proof of rented or owned property in Italy. The visa is valid for 1 year, with the option to include close family members in the application.

The Italy Golden Visa is granted to those who invest at least €250,000, ≈ $265,000, in the Italian economy. This 2-year residence permit can be renewed, and the main applicant’s spouse, children, and parents are also eligible for residency.

Indians make up 18% of Singapore’s resident population, with around 650,000 individuals. The Indian community’s presence dates back to the early 19th century, following Singapore’s establishment as a British trading post in 1819. Indian labourers, traders, and soldiers contributed significantly to the island’s development.

Singapore’s proximity to India, with frequent direct flights starting from $68 for one-way tickets, allows Indians to visit family or travel for business easily.

Indians in Singapore work across various sectors, including finance, information technology, and education, playing a key role in the economy and strengthening bilateral relations.

Singapore is one of the world’s top destinations for business, particularly in tech, finance, and trade, as reflected in global rankings:

• 1st out of 139 countries — Logistics Performance Index;

• 1st out of 184 countries — Index of Economic Freedom;

• 1st out of 67 countries — The IMD World Competitiveness Ranking;

• 2nd out of 190 countries — Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Singapore’s business-friendly environment and straightforward setup process attract Indian entrepreneurs and investors. The standard corporate income tax rate is 17% on chargeable income, with a partial tax exemption offering a 75% exemption on the first SGD 10,000, ≈ $7,500, and a 50% exemption on the next SGD 190,000, ≈ $142,500.

English is the primary working language, and Tamil is also an official language, making it easier for Indian expats to feel culturally at home in Singapore.

The United States has the largest Indian diaspora in the world, with about 4.46 million Indians residing there.

The country attracts expats with numerous opportunities for residents. Indians can access high-quality education, build careers, and run businesses.

Top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT are located in the USA. The country also offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the popular Fulbright Program, which covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend for living expenses.

The Optional Practical Training program allows international graduates to work in the USA for up to three years in STEM fields. This experience enhances their chances of securing an H‑1B work visa, providing a pathway to long-term employment.

US hospitals are world-renowned, especially for modern treatment methods. Facilities like the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Hospital frequently rank among the top globally for specialties such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology.

The EB‑5 Visa. Indian investors can obtain an immigrant visa. This requires a minimum investment of $800,000 in a US commercial enterprise and the creation of 10+ permanent full-time jobs.

A US immigrant visa enables one to secure a Green Card and apply for citizenship after five years of residence.

Those with Grenada citizenship can qualify for an E‑2 visa to the USA on beneficial terms. The minimum investment amount for them isn’t stipulated, but at least $100,000 is usually required. E‑2 visa allows them to live and work, establish or buy a business in the USA. To acquire Grenada citizenship, applicants need to invest $235,000+ in the country’s economy.

Citizens of all the Caribbean countries including Dominica, Grenada, St Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, and St Kitts & Nevis, can receive a 10-year B‑1/B‑2 visa to the USA. It allows them to stay in the country for up to 180 days a year, for example, to attend business meetings and conferences, travel, and get medical treatment.

Reasons to choose the UK as a place to live include its highly developed infrastructure and strong economy, making it ideal for pursuing career and business goals. The UK also shares a strong cultural connection with India, with a large Indian diaspora of 1.7 million, alongside numerous Indian restaurants, shops, and cultural events.

The UK offers world-class healthcare and education, with renowned universities such as Oxford and Cambridge. In 2024, Ceoworld Magazine recognized the British education system as the best-developed globally.

Indian students benefit from attractive post-study work options, such as the Graduate Route, which allows them to stay and work in the UK for up to three years without employer sponsorship. This provides valuable professional experience and flexibility across various fields and levels.

Many Indian graduates transition from the Graduate Route to the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer from an approved UK employer. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency, with a minimum salary threshold of £26,200, ≈ $33,150, per year.

Living in the UK also offers a chance to experience rich cultural attractions, from historic sites in London to the scenic countryside of Scotland, and a thriving music and art scene, with festivals and events year-round.

Citizenship of some Caribbean countries simplifies travelling to the UK. Passports from Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia allow Indians to stay in the UK for up to 180 days per year visa-free. Those without these passports must obtain a visa.

Austria, home to 31,000 Indians, offers a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and historic cities. Indian expats enjoy Austria’s museums, music festivals, and iconic architecture, with the country’s strong emphasis on work-life balance allowing them to fully experience these attractions.

Austria’s expanding tech sector has created high demand for IT professionals, particularly in software development, cybersecurity, data science, and AI, with Indian professionals frequently filling these roles in both multinational corporations and tech startups.

As one of the world’s most developed and prosperous countries, Austria provides a stable economy, high standard of living, and excellent education and healthcare systems. Ranked 3rd on the Global Peace Index 2024, Austria is known for its low crime rate and overall safety.

The official language is German, though about 73% of Austrians also speak English, facilitating easier integration for expats.

Financially independent foreigners may apply for residency in Austria. They must rent or buy housing, demonstrate a legal monthly income of at least €2,000, ≈ $2,125, from sources outside Austria, and have German language proficiency at an A1 level or higher.

Residence permit holders are required to spend at least 183 days per year in Austria. During the remaining time, they can travel to other Schengen countries, enjoying visa-free access for up to 90 days within any 180-day period with an Austrian residence permit.

With nearly 500,000 Indians living in Australia, it’s an attractive relocation choice, reflected in its high rankings across various areas. According to the United Nations Human Development Index, Australia ranks 10th globally for quality of life indicators such as health, education, and standard of living. The country also offers extensive job and business opportunities.

Australia is among the top 10 countries for foreign professionals, as per Expat Insider 2023. The average annual salary for foreign workers is $289,000, with major employment sectors being IT, healthcare, and mining—key drivers of Australia’s economy. In comparison, the average annual salary in India is around $10,200, with physicians earning approximately $14,270 and data scientists — around $9,500 per year.

Australia’s education system is ranked among the best in the world. Its public school system is well-funded and highly regarded, and its universities are internationally recognised. Six Australian institutions, including the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales, are among the top 50 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.

While Australia doesn’t have an official national language, English is the primary language used across government, education, business, and media.

According to the Global Liveability Index 2024, five Australian cities—Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane—rank among the top 20 best places to live worldwide. These cities are renowned for their safety, low crime rates, efficient public transport system, and well-maintained public spaces.

The country offers a diverse range of climates, from tropical savannas in the north to Mediterranean climates in the south. Australia is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife.

New Zealand offers a developed and stable economy, vast business opportunities, a low unemployment rate of 4,4%, and a high standard of living. Ranked 4th on the Global Peace Index 2024, New Zealand provides a high level of safety.

The World Bank ranks New Zealand 1st in the Doing Business index, where a business can be started in just one day. The ranking evaluates factors such as ease of business setup, labour laws, tax policies, property registration, credit access, contract enforcement, and insolvency resolution.

With around 240,000 Indians in New Zealand, many are drawn through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. The country also offers a specific visa for dairy farm workers, appealing to Indians with agricultural backgrounds, given New Zealand’s large dairy industry and rural labour shortage.

For Indian students, New Zealand provides post-study work visas for up to three years, allowing graduates to gain valuable local work experience.

Investors can apply for the Active Investor Plus Visa, which grants indefinite stay with an investment of NZD 15 million, ≈ $8.9 million. Other pathways are available for those seeking to work, run a business, or study in the country.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes—beaches, mountains, and forests—New Zealand’s low population density also means ample space to enjoy the outdoors. The country’s kiwi culture, known for its warmth and focus on equality, helps Indians integrate comfortably, letting them enjoy local traditions such as Matariki and Waitangi Day.

The United Arab Emirates is an appealing destination for relocation, thanks to its stable economy, diverse cultural environment, and high quality of life.

In 2023, Global Finance magazine ranked the UAE as the second safest country globally, with low risks of natural disasters, crime, terrorism, and war.

The UAE’s favourable tax policy further enhances its attractiveness: individuals do not pay taxes on income, inheritance, gifts, or capital gains. While corporate tax was introduced in 2023 at a rate of 9%, it applies only to businesses earning more than AED 375,000, or ≈ $102,000, annually. Additionally, a 5% VAT applies to most goods and services.

The UAE has one of the largest Indian diasporas, with about 3.42 million Indians living there in 2024—nearly a third of the country’s population. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, and Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, and Tamil are common among the large Indian and South Asian communities.

The UAE Golden Visa offers long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals, and other foreigners. The visa duration ranges from 1 to 10 years, depending on the applicant’s eligibility. For example:

• entrepreneurs who register a business can receive a 3-year visa;

• real estate investors who purchase a property valued at AED 750,000, or ≈ $204,000, obtain a 2-year visa;

• property investors contributing AED 2,000,000, or ≈ $545,000, get a 10-year visa.

With around 195,000 Indians, Thailand ranks 6th among the best destinations for expats, according to Expat Insider 2023.

The country’s booming tourism industry creates opportunities in hospitality, wellness, and event management. Indian professionals skilled in these fields find ample opportunities, particularly with the rising popularity of Indian weddings and events hosted in Thailand.

The country is also a major hub for the trade of textiles, gems, and jewellery. Many Indian-owned businesses thrive in these sectors, especially in Bangkok’s wholesale markets and jewellery districts.

Thailand offers the Thailand Elite Visa, a long-term tourist visa allowing residency for 5 to 15 years. Visa holders enjoy exclusive privileges, such as assistance with settling in, discounts at hotels and golf clubs, access to VIP lounges, and private airport transfers. Pricing ranges from $25,500 to 71,000, depending on the duration and benefits.

Thailand ranks 1st in terms of housing, according to the Expat Insider 2023. The ranking survey evaluates how satisfied expats are with their housing experiences, and assesses affordability of housing, ease of finding one, quality, and variety.

Ranked 1st for housing satisfaction, Thailand provides diverse housing options. Expats can choose from modern apartments in cities like Bangkok to private villas near beaches in Phuket and Krabi. Options range from compact studios to luxury condos, often with pools, gyms, and 24-hour security, catering to various budgets and lifestyles.

Thailand’s housing costs are lower than in many Western and Asian countries, with high-quality apartments and villas available at a fraction of the price in places like the USA, UK, or Singapore. Prices per square metre start at $1,000 in suburban areas and reach $5,400 in central Bangkok.

Indians are increasingly choosing the Netherlands for its robust job market, high standard of living, and welcoming environment, now comprising around 215,000 of the Dutch population. Indian cultural events, Bollywood screenings, and festivals like Diwali are widely celebrated, helping expats feel at home.

The Netherlands ranks 1st out of 113 countries in English proficiency among non-English-speaking nations, according to the EF English Proficiency Index. English is widely spoken in workplaces, particularly in multinational companies, allowing Indians to integrate smoothly.

With an unemployment rate of 3,7%, the Netherlands offers a stable job market. Indians are in demand for roles in software development, data science, artificial intelligence, and IT consulting. As a European tech hub, the Netherlands hosts major global and regional tech firms like Philips, ASML, IBM, and Tata Consultancy Services.

The country is also home to renowned institutions like the University of Amsterdam and Delft University of Technology, which are among Europe’s top universities. Indian students benefit from scholarships and post-study work visas, providing clear paths for career development.

After completing their studies, Indian graduates can use the orientation year to secure a job, then transition to the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa if they meet the salary threshold. This visa supports long-term employment and often leads to a stable career and potential citizenship in the Netherlands after 5 years of living in the country.

Ease of getting residency. To live legally in another country, one needs a long-term visa or residence permit. In some countries, the requirements for these permits are relaxed, while in others, the process can be more challenging.

Residency by investment programs simplify the process for entire families by allowing applicants to obtain residency without learning a new language or securing employment. Applicants simply invest in the host country’s economy—such as purchasing property or starting a business—and complete a government Due Diligence check.

Golden Visa Programs are available in Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Greece. Minimum investment thresholds start at €250,000, or ≈ $265,800, although Spain’s requirement is higher, at €500,000, or ≈ $530,600.

While obtaining an ordinary residence permit may take years, residence by investment can be acquired within months.

Practical Guide

Practical Guide

Ultimate comparison of Golden Visa programs

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Quality of life considers factors like environment, security, personal freedom, and opportunities to enjoy life fully. Many countries included in the list offer a safe environment, a pleasant climate, and easy access to high-quality healthcare, and schools and universities for children.

Cost of living also matters when choosing a country to relocate to. Some countries, like the UAE, the UK or the US, are quite expensive to live in, while prices in Portugal are relatively low.

For example, a family of four needs about $3,800 in Dubai or nearly $4,800 in Los Angeles or London per month, excluding rent. In Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, the same family will need about $2,800 to cover their everyday expenses.

Indian diaspora. A well-established Indian community can provide crucial support, cultural continuity, and integration opportunities for newcomers, making the adjustment to a new country smoother.

English is widely spoken in most of the countries in the list, simplifying communication with locals and easing the transition for English-speaking expats.

Taxation is a key consideration when choosing a country to relocate to. Countries like the UAE have no personal income tax, making it attractive for those seeking tax-free living. In contrast, taxes in the US and many European countries are generally higher than those in India.

Property taxes are also important for those considering real estate purchases. Some countries, such as Malta and the UAE, do not impose annual property taxes, reducing long-term ownership costs.

Business climates vary widely. Some countries, like the Netherlands, Canada, and Singapore, have streamlined processes for company registration and business operations, making it easier to start and run a business.

Obtaining citizenship may be a priority if one is prepared to renounce Indian citizenship in favour of a stronger passport. India does not permit dual citizenship, and using an Indian passport after acquiring foreign citizenship is a punishable offence.

However, since 2005, former Indian citizens or those eligible for Indian citizenship can acquire Overseas Citizenship of India, OCI. The OCI status allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to enjoy many of the privileges of Indian citizens, such as unrestricted travel to India, though they cannot vote, hold government posts, or own agricultural land.

The pathway to citizenship varies by country. For example, EU countries typically require 5—10 years of residence before naturalisation, while the UAE requires over 30 years for eligibility.

1. The largest Indian diaspora resides in the USA, with 4.46 million Indians. The UAE, the UK, and Canada are also top destinations for Indian migration.

2. The choice of destination depends on individual goals. For instance, UAE, New Zealand, Austria, and Portugal are known for their high levels of safety, while the USA and the UK offer robust opportunities for children’s education and business development.

3. Certain countries, such as Italy, Portugal, Malta, Greece, Cyprus, Spain, and the UAE, are more accessible for relocation due to their residency by investment programs.

4. Minimum investment sum for obtaining residency is €34,150, ≈ $36,100. The whole procedure takes at least 2 months.

5. When choosing a country for relocation, factors like ease of obtaining residency, a strong Indian diaspora, quality and cost of living, tax policies, and business opportunities are essential.