Top 6 Countries for Permanent Residency Without Property

So, you’ve been dreaming of settling abroad. Maybe for better opportunities, more freedom to travel, or just the peace of knowing you have a second home somewhere safe and sunny. But here’s the twist—you don’t want to tie up your money in foreign real estate. We hear you loud and clear.

The good news? 

Several countries are rolling out the red carpet with permanent residency programs that don’t require you to buy property. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or simply someone planning ahead, these countries welcome you with open arms (and no real estate deeds).

Let’s take a close look at the top 6 countries offering permanent residency without buying property—what they offer, what they ask, and why they might just be your next big move.

Portugal: A Golden Visa Without the Gold Rush for Property

Portugal has always been a favourite for global citizens. And now, it’s even more attractive for Indian applicants. In 2023, the country revamped its Golden Visa program, waving goodbye to the real estate requirements.

Instead, you can now invest in:-

• Approved venture capital funds
• Scientific research
• Cultural or heritage projects
• Businesses creating local jobs

Minimum Investment Required

Perks

• Access to all 27 Schengen countries
• Route to Portuguese citizenship in just 5 years
• No real estate hassle
• EU-level lifestyle and infrastructure 

Note: You’ll need to clear a basic A2-level Portuguese language test. Also, if you want to get Portuguese citizenship, you’ll have to give up your Indian passport (India doesn’t allow dual citizenship). 

Saudi Arabia: The Gulf’s “Green Card” is Here

You might not expect Saudi Arabia on this list, but the Kingdom has opened its doors wider than ever with its Premium Residency program—part of the bold Vision 2030 initiative.

Here’s the deal:-

You can get long-term residency without a local sponsor and without buying property. Instead, you pay a one-time fee or an annual charge. 

Cost Breakdown 

Benefits

• Own property and run businesses
• Sponsor your family
• No property investment needed
• Ideal for Gulf-based professionals ‘

Limitations: It does not lead to citizenship, and the conservative lifestyle may not suit everyone. 

Paraguay: Residency for the Price of a Bike

If you’re on a tight budget but big on dreams, Paraguay might be your golden ticket. This South American gem offers one of the cheapest and fastest routes to permanent residency. 

All you need to do is either-

• Deposit ₹4.15–5 lakh in a local bank
• Or invest a similar amount in a small business

Residency Cost Overview

Processing Time: 3-6 months

Perks

• Permanent residency from Day One
• Citizenship eligibility in 3 years
• Visa-free access across South America

Drawback: The Paraguayan passport doesn’t offer wide global travel freedom like EU or Caribbean countries. 

Vietnam: 10-Year Residency Without Real Estate Drama

Vietnam is buzzing—not just with scooters and street food, but now with Golden Visa opportunities too. Their new Golden Visa program is a tiered residency scheme that allows you to live, work, and build a business—no property purchases needed. 

Visa Options and Costs

Benefits

• Work and run businesses legally
• Residency to citizenship in 5 years
• Lower cost of living and a thriving economy.

Heads up: Citizenship means giving up your Indian passport. 

Hungary: Europe’s Quiet Gateway to Residency 

Want a European base without the usual hustle? Hungary is offering a unique path with its Guest Investor Residency Program—another golden door to the Schengen zone that doesn’t make property a must. 

Here’s how you qualify:-

• Invest in a real estate fund or
• Donate to a public trust 

Cost Overview

Benefits

• 10-year renewable visa
• Permanent residency in 3 years
• Citizenship after 8 years
• Access to the entire Schengen zone

Warning: Processing has been slow so far—only 30 approvals in the first 6 months. 

Caribbean Nations: Fast-Track Passports (But Not Residency) 

Technically, Caribbean programs don’t offer permanent residency, but they’re too interesting not to mention. Countries like St. Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, and Antigua & Barbuda offer citizenship-by-investment, no property required. 

Your Options

• Donate ₹83 lakh ($100,000) 
• Or invest ₹1.66 crore ($200,000) in real estate 

Benefits at a Glance

Important Note: You get a passport and travel privileges, but not residency rights in the EU or the US. 

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Final Thoughts: Where Will You Put Down Roots?

You don’t have to buy a beachfront condo or a luxury villa just to earn your second home overseas. These six countries prove that permanent residency is more about smart choices than real estate purchases. Whether your heart beats for Europe’s charm, Asia’s opportunities, or Latin America’s laid-back vibe—there’s a door open for you.

And remember, it’s not just about moving somewhere—it’s about belonging. Whether you’re building a future for your family, chasing global opportunities, or just preparing a Plan B, the right residency program can change your life forever.

So take your pick. Your passport might say India, but your second home is just a visa away.

Pro Tip: Bookmark this guide and revisit whenever you’re ready to make the leap. Permanent residency is more than a legal status—it’s a step toward your global future.

Good Luck 🙂