Top Five Residency Options in Overseas Territories
There are a total of 28 territories in the world often affiliated with either the British, French, Dutch or US. These territories are not fully sovereign and are subject to the laws of the parent country to varying degrees. In particular they cannot offer citizenship to investors but some do offer residency by investment and these can be attractive arrangements for High Net Worth individuals able to live for a period in the territory because of the often favourable tax regimes.
Listed below are our Top 5 most favourable residency investment options in overseas territories:
Bermuda
High net worth individuals might be interested in obtaining residency in Bermuda for tax purposes. While this doesn’t lead directly to citizenship, it can provide certain tax advantages, given Bermuda’s reputation for being a tax-neutral jurisdiction. Purchasing property in Bermuda doesn’t automatically grant residency, but property owners might qualify for different types of residential certificates or permits, subject to stringent conditions.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands provides several options for those looking to obtain residency through investment. One of the primary routes is by purchasing real estate. The investment thresholds vary, and the minimum is substantial, typically $1.2million upwards reflecting the exclusivity and affluence of the local real estate market. For those resident in the Cayman Islands the tax benefits are second to none. Cayman does not impose direct taxes on residents or companies. This means there are no income taxes, corporate taxes, capital gains taxes, payroll taxes, or wealth taxes.
Anguilla
While not a direct investment route, Anguilla has a program for high-earning individuals wishing to become tax residents on the island. Applicants typically need to demonstrate substantial annual income and may be required to make a significant financial contribution to the government or local economy. This program is designed for wealthy individuals and families seeking tax residency in a jurisdiction with favorable tax conditions. Another pathways to obtaining residency in Anguilla is by purchasing real estate. While this doesn’t constitute a formal program, investing a significant amount in property, typically upwards of $750,000 might make one eligible for residency.
BVI
The British Virgin Islands have in the past considered residency investment routes but at present there isn’t a formal programme. Foreign nationals who make significant investments in real estate have been known to obtain residency status. This process is not standardised and might involve various stipulations, including a minimum investment level, direct contributions to the local economy, and potential government approval.
Curaçao
Individuals who purchase property in Curaçao can use this as a basis for applying for residency. The program allows investors to obtain residence permits in the nation and after five years, applicants are eligible to apply for Dutch citizenship. The territory offers a three year renewable residence permit requiring a minimum investment of $280,000 and a five year renewable residence permit with a minimum investment of $425,000.
Full List of Overseas Territories
The 28 overseas territories are: Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Mayotte, Reunion, St. Helena, American Samoa, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Guam, New Caledonia, Northern Marianna Islands, Niue, Anguilla, Aruba, Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curacao, French West Indies, Montserrat, Puerto Rico,St. Maarten, Turks and Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Falkland Islands, French Guiana.
