{ "release": { "id": "WIMA-POL-2026-10-02", "version": "2026.10.02", "schemaVersion": "policy-1.0", "methodVersion": "policy-method-1.0", "cutoff": "2026-10-02T00:00:00Z", "accessDate": "2026-10-02", "nextScheduledReview": "2026-11-01", "scopeStatement": "Release WIMA-POL-2026-10-02 contains 12 reviewed route records across 10 jurisdictions. Coverage is selective; an absent jurisdiction or route is not evidence that no policy exists.", "disclaimer": "WIMA is not a government authority and does not issue visas, residence permits or citizenship. Confirm current requirements with the responsible authorities before acting." }, "jurisdictionCount": 10, "recordCount": 12, "jurisdictions": [ { "id": "pt", "slug": "portugal", "name": "Portugal", "region": "Europe", "isoAlpha2": "PT" }, { "id": "es", "slug": "spain", "name": "Spain", "region": "Europe", "isoAlpha2": "ES" }, { "id": "gb", "slug": "united-kingdom", "name": "United Kingdom", "region": "Europe", "isoAlpha2": "GB" }, { "id": "hk", "slug": "hong-kong", "name": "Hong Kong", "region": "Asia-Pacific", "isoAlpha2": "HK" }, { "id": "ae", "slug": "united-arab-emirates", "name": "United Arab Emirates", "region": "Middle East", "isoAlpha2": "AE" }, { "id": "au", "slug": "australia", "name": "Australia", "region": "Asia-Pacific", "isoAlpha2": "AU" }, { "id": "ag", "slug": "antigua-and-barbuda", "name": "Antigua and Barbuda", "region": "Caribbean", "isoAlpha2": "AG" }, { "id": "ca", "slug": "canada", "name": "Canada", "region": "North America", "isoAlpha2": "CA" }, { "id": "za", "slug": "south-africa", "name": "South Africa", "region": "Africa", "isoAlpha2": "ZA" }, { "id": "cr", "slug": "costa-rica", "name": "Costa Rica", "region": "Central America", "isoAlpha2": "CR" } ], "records": [ { "id": "route_pt_ari", "versionId": "rv_pt_ari_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "residence-permit-for-investment-activity", "jurisdictionId": "pt", "officialName": "Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI)", "shortName": "ARI", "region": "Europe", "routeType": "Investor residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Capital investment", "authorities": [ "Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA)" ], "summary": "Portugal's ARI is a temporary residence route for eligible third-country nationals who complete and maintain one of the investment or job-creation options administered by AIMA.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "AIMA publishes the route under article 90-A of Law 23/2007.", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route", "pt-law" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "AIMA provides an electronic ARI portal for applications and renewals.", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-portal" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Application and renewal functions are available through AIMA's ARI portal.", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-portal" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "Third-country nationals who carry out an eligible investment activity, personally or through a qualifying company, may apply subject to the statutory conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route", "pt-law" ] }, { "value": "Applicants must maintain the qualifying investment for at least five years from grant.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "Create at least 10 jobs.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, { "value": "Transfer at least EUR 500,000 for research, at least EUR 250,000 for arts or cultural heritage, or at least EUR 500,000 into qualifying non-real-estate collective investment funds.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, { "value": "A EUR 500,000 company investment route is available subject to specified job-creation or job-maintenance conditions. Direct or indirect real-estate investment does not qualify under the listed options.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] } ], "family": { "value": "Family reunification is available subject to the general rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "work": { "value": "The permit holder may reside and work in Portugal.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "presence": { "value": "At least seven days in the first year and at least 14 days in each subsequent two-year period.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Two years for the initial temporary permit.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Renewable for successive two-year periods while the conditions continue to be met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Permanent residence or naturalisation may be requested separately if the applicable conditions are met; ARI does not make either outcome automatic.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "8 October 2012", "iso": "2012-10-08", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "pt-aima-route" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "This record does not calculate taxes, fees or sector-specific approvals.", "AIMA and the consolidated statute should be checked for procedural changes before filing." ], "sources": [ { "id": "pt-aima-route", "issuer": "Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum", "title": "Residence Permit for Investment Activity — article 90-A", "url": "https://aima.gov.pt/en/viver/autorizacao-de-residencia-para-investimento-art-90-o-a", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "pt-aima-portal", "issuer": "Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum", "title": "ARI portal", "url": "https://aima.gov.pt/pt/viver/autorizacao-de-residencia-para-investimento-art-90-o-a/portal-ari", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "pt-law", "issuer": "Diário da República", "title": "Law 23/2007, consolidated text", "url": "https://diariodarepublica.pt/dr/legislacao-consolidada/lei/2007-67564445-200304180", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Law 23/2007", "tier": "A1" } ] }, { "id": "route_es_telework", "versionId": "rv_es_telework_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "international-telework", "jurisdictionId": "es", "officialName": "International telework visa and residence authorisation", "shortName": "International telework", "region": "Europe", "routeType": "Remote-work residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Remote work", "authorities": [ "Ministry of Foreign Affairs", "Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit" ], "summary": "Spain provides a visa and residence-authorisation framework for qualifying third-country nationals who work remotely for enterprises outside Spain using telematic systems.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Law 14/2013 contains the international telework provisions inserted by Law 28/2022.", "sourceIds": [ "es-law" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "Official consular and in-country application channels publish current filing requirements.", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate", "es-uge" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "The responsible unit publishes a current teleworker procedure.", "sourceIds": [ "es-uge" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The applicant must be a third-country national carrying out remote work or professional activity for enterprises outside Spain.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate", "es-law" ] }, { "value": "A recognised degree or professional training, or at least three years of relevant professional experience, is required.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate" ] }, { "value": "Employees may work only for enterprises outside Spain. Self-employed professionals may also work for Spanish clients if that work does not exceed 20% of total activity.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "The principal applicant must show monthly resources equal to 200% of Spain's minimum interprofessional wage. The first family member adds 75%, and each additional member adds 25%.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A spouse or unmarried partner, dependent children, and dependent ascendants may accompany the applicant subject to the published conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate" ] }, "work": { "value": "Remote work is permitted within the route limits; Spanish-client work is limited to qualifying self-employed professionals and capped at 20% of total activity.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate", "es-law" ] }, "duration": { "value": "A visa may be issued for up to one year. An in-country residence authorisation may be issued for up to three years.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate", "es-law" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "The residence authorisation may be renewed for two-year periods if the qualifying conditions continue.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "es-law" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "es-consulate", "es-law" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "23 December 2022", "iso": "2022-12-23", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "es-law" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "The resource threshold changes when the minimum wage changes; this record therefore states the statutory formula rather than a fixed euro amount.", "Consular documentary practice may vary by place of filing." ], "sources": [ { "id": "es-consulate", "issuer": "Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation", "title": "Digital nomad visa", "url": "https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/washington/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Telework-visa.aspx", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B2" }, { "id": "es-law", "issuer": "Boletín Oficial del Estado", "title": "Law 14/2013, consolidated text", "url": "https://www.boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2013-10074", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "BOE-A-2013-10074", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "es-uge", "issuer": "Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration", "title": "International teleworkers", "url": "https://ciudadaniaexterior.inclusion.gob.es/es/web/unidadgrandesempresas/teletrabajadores", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" } ] }, { "id": "route_gb_innovator_founder", "versionId": "rv_gb_innovator_founder_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "innovator-founder", "jurisdictionId": "gb", "officialName": "Innovator Founder visa", "shortName": "Innovator Founder", "region": "Europe", "routeType": "Entrepreneur residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Business entrepreneurship", "authorities": [ "Home Office", "UK Visas and Immigration" ], "summary": "The United Kingdom's Innovator Founder route requires endorsement for an innovative, viable and scalable business and can lead to settlement if the separate settlement criteria are met.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Appendix Innovator Founder remains in the Immigration Rules.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "The government route service accepts applications subject to endorsement and eligibility.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-overview" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Current application, extension and settlement guidance is published.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-overview", "gb-if-settlement" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "Applicants must be at least 18, meet English at level B2, obtain an endorsement, and score 70 points under the route rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] }, { "value": "The business proposal must be innovative, viable and scalable, and the applicant must play a key role in day-to-day management and development.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "No fixed minimum investment amount is stated. The endorsing body assesses whether the applicant has sufficient funding and a credible source of funds for the business plan.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] }, { "value": "An applicant entering the route, or present in the United Kingdom for less than 12 months, normally needs GBP 1,270 in personal funds held for 28 days.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A partner and dependent children may apply subject to the dependant rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-family" ] }, "work": { "value": "The holder may work for the endorsed business and may take other employment at RQF level 3 or above, subject to route conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] }, "presence": { "value": "For settlement, absences must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period during the qualifying three years.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-settlement" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Up to three years per grant.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-overview" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Further three-year extensions are available without a stated numerical limit if the requirements continue to be met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-overview" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Settlement may be available after three years with a fresh endorsement and satisfaction of the settlement criteria; it is not automatic.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-settlement" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "13 April 2023", "iso": "2023-04-13", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "gb-if-rules" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "Endorsement is a separate assessment by an approved endorsing body.", "This record does not reproduce the full points or settlement criteria." ], "sources": [ { "id": "gb-if-rules", "issuer": "Home Office", "title": "Immigration Rules Appendix Innovator Founder", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-innovator-founder", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "publishedOrUpdated": "2026-08-03", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "gb-if-overview", "issuer": "UK Visas and Immigration", "title": "Innovator Founder visa", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "gb-if-settlement", "issuer": "UK Visas and Immigration", "title": "Indefinite leave to remain if you have an Innovator Founder visa", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain-innovator-founder-visa", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "gb-if-family", "issuer": "UK Visas and Immigration", "title": "Innovator Founder visa: your partner and children", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa/your-partner-and-children", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" } ] }, { "id": "route_gb_tier1_investor_legacy", "versionId": "rv_gb_tier1_investor_legacy_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "tier-1-investor-legacy", "jurisdictionId": "gb", "officialName": "Tier 1 (Investor) legacy route", "shortName": "Tier 1 (Investor) legacy", "region": "Europe", "routeType": "Legacy investor residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence with a legacy settlement path", "basis": "Capital investment", "authorities": [ "Home Office", "UK Visas and Immigration" ], "summary": "The Tier 1 (Investor) route is closed to new applicants. At this cut-off, only qualifying settlement applications remain within the published transitional deadline.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force for transition", "note": "Transitional provisions remain relevant to settlement applications from existing route holders.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "intake": { "code": "transition_only", "label": "Closed to new applications", "note": "Transition processing only. Initial applications closed on 17 February 2022. The extension deadline passed on 17 February 2026; the settlement deadline is 17 February 2028.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-closure", "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating for settlement cases", "note": "Current caseworker guidance describes the remaining settlement caseload.", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "No new applicants are eligible. Existing holders may pursue settlement only if they meet the applicable historical investment, residence and deadline rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance", "gb-t1-closure" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "The base historical investment level was GBP 2 million. Earlier cohorts and accelerated-settlement thresholds are governed by the rules that applied to the relevant grant.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] } ], "family": { "value": "Legacy dependant provisions may apply to existing family members; there is no new principal-applicant intake.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "work": { "value": "Legacy permission generally allowed work subject to route restrictions and the conditions on the person's grant.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Settlement normally requires absences not exceeding 180 days in any 12-month period.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Not applicable to new applicants", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-closure", "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Closed: the published extension deadline was 17 February 2026.", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "A qualifying legacy holder may apply for settlement by 17 February 2028. Historical qualifying periods varied with the investment level.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-guidance" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "17 February 2022 for closure to new applicants", "iso": "2022-02-17", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "gb-t1-closure" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2027-10-02", "limitations": [ "This is a legacy and transitional record, not an investable current route.", "Historical rules depend on application and investment dates; case-specific analysis is required." ], "sources": [ { "id": "gb-t1-closure", "issuer": "Home Office", "title": "Tier 1 Investor visa route closes over security concerns", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/news/tier-1-investor-visa-route-closes-over-security-concerns", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "publishedOrUpdated": "2022-02-17", "tier": "B2" }, { "id": "gb-t1-guidance", "issuer": "Home Office", "title": "Tier 1 (Investor) caseworker guidance", "url": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tier-1-investor-caseworker-guidance/tier-1-investor-caseworker-guidance-accessible", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "publishedOrUpdated": "2025-11-11", "tier": "B1" } ] }, { "id": "route_hk_new_cies", "versionId": "rv_hk_new_cies_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "new-capital-investment-entrant-scheme", "jurisdictionId": "hk", "officialName": "New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme", "shortName": "New CIES", "region": "Asia-Pacific", "routeType": "Investor residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Capital investment", "authorities": [ "Invest Hong Kong", "Immigration Department" ], "summary": "Hong Kong's New CIES combines a net-asset test, an HKD 30 million investment requirement and separate financial and immigration assessments.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Current scheme rules and official eligibility criteria are published.", "sourceIds": [ "hk-rules", "hk-eligibility" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "The scheme opened for applications on 1 March 2024 and current procedures are published.", "sourceIds": [ "hk-opening", "hk-procedure" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Invest Hong Kong and the Immigration Department publish a staged application process.", "sourceIds": [ "hk-procedure" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The principal applicant must be at least 18, fall within an eligible applicant category, demonstrate net assets of at least HKD 30 million for the preceding six months, and satisfy immigration and maintenance requirements.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-eligibility" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "At least HKD 30 million must be invested: HKD 27 million in permissible investment assets and HKD 3 million in the CIES Investment Portfolio.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-investment" ] }, { "value": "Permissible assets include specified financial assets and real estate within published caps and conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-investment", "hk-rules" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A spouse or recognised partner and unmarried dependent children under 18 may accompany the principal applicant.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-eligibility" ] }, "work": { "value": "Entrants may take employment, hold office, be self-employed or join a business, subject to immigration conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-faq" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "hk-procedure" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Initial formal approval is normally for 24 months.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-procedure" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Further permission may be granted in three-year periods if the scheme requirements continue to be met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-procedure" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Permanent residence may be available after seven years of continuous ordinary residence. An entrant who maintained the investment requirements but is not ordinarily resident may seek unconditional stay under the scheme rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "hk-procedure" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "1 March 2024", "iso": "2024-03-01", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "hk-opening" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "The route pages link ordinary residence to permanent-residence eligibility but do not state a single minimum-day presence test.", "Asset eligibility and caps have changed since launch and require confirmation against the current scheme rules.", "Financial assessment by Invest Hong Kong does not replace immigration approval." ], "sources": [ { "id": "hk-eligibility", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "New CIES eligibility criteria", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/eligibility-criteria/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "hk-investment", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "Investment requirement", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/application-procedures/application-to-investhk/investment-requirement/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "hk-procedure", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "Application procedures overview", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/application-procedures/overview/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "hk-opening", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme opens for application from March 1", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/resources/news/new-capital-investment-entrant-scheme-opens-for-application-from-march-1/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B2" }, { "id": "hk-rules", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "Scheme rules and documents", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/resources/scheme-rules-and-documents/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "A2" }, { "id": "hk-faq", "issuer": "Invest Hong Kong", "title": "Frequently asked questions", "url": "https://www.newcies.gov.hk/en/resources/faqs/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B2" } ] }, { "id": "route_ae_golden_residency_real_estate", "versionId": "rv_ae_golden_residency_real_estate_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "golden-residency-real-estate-investor", "jurisdictionId": "ae", "officialName": "Golden Residency for real estate investors", "shortName": "Golden Residency — real estate", "region": "Middle East", "routeType": "Investor residence", "outcome": "Long-term residence", "basis": "Real estate", "authorities": [ "Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security" ], "summary": "The federal identity authority lists a Golden Residency category for qualifying real-estate investors, but two current official federal pages state different permit durations.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "not_established", "label": "Not established", "note": "The current service is published, but this review did not establish the controlling legal instrument from the cited official pages.", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-service" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "The identity authority publishes an active service for the category.", "sourceIds": [ "ae-service" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "A current smart-service entry and eligibility guide are available.", "sourceIds": [ "ae-service", "ae-icp-guide" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The applicant must own one or more properties in the United Arab Emirates with a total value of at least AED 2 million and meet the published documentation and insurance requirements.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide" ] }, { "value": "The current identity-authority guide permits qualifying mortgages from approved local banks and qualifying off-plan property from approved local developers.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "Minimum qualifying real-estate value: AED 2 million, subject to registration and evidence requirements.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-portal" ] } ], "family": { "value": "The current identity-authority guide states that the holder may sponsor a spouse, children regardless of age, and parents, subject to the published conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide" ] }, "work": { "value": "The current identity-authority guide describes the residence as permitting holders and family members to live, work, study and invest.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-portal" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Not established — official sources conflict. The identity-authority guide states 10 years, while the general government portal page updated on 26 February 2026 states five years for real-estate investors.", "state": "official_sources_conflict", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-portal" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "The identity-authority guide describes automatic renewal, but the unresolved duration conflict limits this statement.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-portal" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-portal" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "ae-icp-guide", "ae-service" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "The two cited current federal pages conflict on duration; WIMA has not resolved the discrepancy.", "Emirate-level property and registration requirements are outside this record." ], "sources": [ { "id": "ae-icp-guide", "issuer": "Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security", "title": "UAE Golden Residency", "url": "https://icp.gov.ae/en/services/uae-golden-residency/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ae-service", "issuer": "Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security", "title": "Issuance of a Golden Residence Permit — real estate investors", "url": "https://icp.gov.ae/en/services-details/?serviceid=68e34eea5ae59b00117383d5", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ae-portal", "issuer": "United Arab Emirates Government", "title": "Golden visa", "url": "https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/golden-visa", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "publishedOrUpdated": "2026-02-26", "tier": "B1" } ] }, { "id": "route_au_niv_858", "versionId": "rv_au_niv_858_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "national-innovation-visa-subclass-858", "jurisdictionId": "au", "officialName": "National Innovation visa (subclass 858)", "shortName": "National Innovation visa", "region": "Asia-Pacific", "routeType": "Talent and innovation migration", "outcome": "Permanent residence", "basis": "Innovation and talent", "authorities": [ "Department of Home Affairs" ], "summary": "Australia's National Innovation visa is an invitation-only permanent visa for people with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "The subclass appears in the current Migration Regulations and the department publishes a current route page.", "sourceIds": [ "au-regulations", "au-route" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting_limited", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "Invitation required. A person must submit an expression of interest and receive an invitation before applying.", "sourceIds": [ "au-process", "au-route" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "The department publishes current expression-of-interest and invitation procedures.", "sourceIds": [ "au-process", "au-after" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "An applicant must have an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in a profession, sport, the arts, academia or research.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, { "value": "An eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or Australian organisation with a national reputation must nominate the applicant.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, { "value": "An invitation following an expression of interest is required and is valid for 60 days.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "au-route", "au-after" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "No fixed investment amount is stated. Selection is based on invitation, achievement and nomination criteria.", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "au-route", "au-process" ] } ], "family": { "value": "Members of the family unit may be included before the application is decided, subject to health and character requirements.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, "work": { "value": "Permanent residents may work and study in Australia under the route benefits stated by the department.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "au-route", "au-process" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Permanent residence. The associated travel facility is stated as five years.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Not applicable to permanent residence; travel after the travel facility expires is governed separately.", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Australian citizenship may be available if the separate eligibility rules are met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "au-route" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "au-route", "au-regulations" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "Submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee an invitation.", "Priority settings and invitation volumes may change without altering the visa subclass." ], "sources": [ { "id": "au-route", "issuer": "Department of Home Affairs", "title": "National Innovation visa (subclass 858)", "url": "https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "au-process", "issuer": "Department of Home Affairs", "title": "National Innovation visa", "url": "https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/national-innovation-visa", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "au-after", "issuer": "Department of Home Affairs", "title": "After submitting a National Innovation visa expression of interest", "url": "https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/national-innovation-visa/after-submission", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "au-regulations", "issuer": "Federal Register of Legislation", "title": "Migration Regulations 1994", "url": "https://www.legislation.gov.au/F1996B03551/2026-01-22/2026-01-22/text/original/pdf/3", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "A1" } ] }, { "id": "route_ag_cbi", "versionId": "rv_ag_cbi_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "citizenship-by-investment", "jurisdictionId": "ag", "officialName": "Citizenship by Investment Programme", "shortName": "Citizenship by Investment", "region": "Caribbean", "routeType": "Citizenship by investment", "outcome": "Citizenship", "basis": "Economic contribution", "authorities": [ "Citizenship by Investment Unit" ], "summary": "Antigua and Barbuda's programme provides citizenship through approved contribution, real-estate, business or higher-education-fund options after statutory checks and approval.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "The administering unit publishes the Act, regulations and current programme criteria.", "sourceIds": [ "ag-act", "ag-regulations", "ag-route" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "The unit publishes current application options and fees.", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route", "ag-fees" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Current programme materials and fee schedules are available from the administering unit.", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route", "ag-fees" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The principal applicant must be at least 18 and pass the statutory application, due-diligence and source-of-funds process.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route", "ag-regulations" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "National Development Fund contribution from USD 230,000, or an approved real-estate investment from USD 300,000 held for at least five years.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route" ] }, { "value": "Approved business investment requires at least USD 1.5 million for a sole investor, or a qualifying joint investment totalling at least USD 5 million with at least USD 400,000 per investor.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route" ] }, { "value": "The University of the West Indies Fund option begins at USD 260,000 for a family of six or more, subject to the current programme terms.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route" ] } ], "family": { "value": "Published dependant categories include a spouse, financially dependent children up to age 30, specified disabled adult children, dependent parents or grandparents aged 55 or over, and an unmarried sibling, subject to definitions and fees.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-dependants" ] }, "work": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route", "ag-regulations" ] }, "presence": { "value": "At least five days in Antigua and Barbuda during the first five calendar years after citizenship, subject to the statutory consequences of non-compliance.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ag-route", "ag-regulations" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Citizenship; no permit duration applies.", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "ag-act" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Not applicable", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "ag-act" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not applicable", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "ag-act" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "ag-act", "ag-regulations" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "Government, due-diligence, passport and agent fees are additional and vary by family composition.", "Only applications submitted through an authorised representative are accepted under the published process." ], "sources": [ { "id": "ag-route", "issuer": "Citizenship by Investment Unit", "title": "Citizenship", "url": "https://cip.gov.ag/citizenship/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ag-dependants", "issuer": "Citizenship by Investment Unit", "title": "Dependants", "url": "https://cip.gov.ag/citizenship/dependants/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ag-fees", "issuer": "Citizenship by Investment Unit", "title": "Schedule of fees", "url": "https://cip.gov.ag/schedule-of-fees/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ag-act", "issuer": "Government of Antigua and Barbuda", "title": "Citizenship by Investment Act 2013", "url": "https://cip.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Antigua-and-Barbuda-Citizenship-by-Investment-Act-2013.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Act No. 2 of 2013", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "ag-regulations", "issuer": "Government of Antigua and Barbuda", "title": "Citizenship by Investment (Amendment) Regulations 2024", "url": "https://cip.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Antigua-and-Barbuda-Citizenship-By-Investment-Amendment-Regulations-2024.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "S.I. 2024 No. 50", "tier": "A1" } ] }, { "id": "route_ca_startup_visa", "versionId": "rv_ca_startup_visa_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "start-up-visa", "jurisdictionId": "ca", "officialName": "Start-up Visa Program", "shortName": "Start-up Visa", "region": "North America", "routeType": "Entrepreneur permanent residence", "outcome": "Permanent residence", "basis": "Business entrepreneurship", "authorities": [ "Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada" ], "summary": "Canada's Start-up Business Class remains in the immigration regulations, but new application intake has been paused since 30 June 2026 while accepted files continue to be processed.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "The Start-up Business Class remains in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.", "sourceIds": [ "ca-regulations" ] }, "intake": { "code": "paused", "label": "Suspended", "note": "IRCC states that new applications have been paused since 30 June 2026.", "sourceIds": [ "ca-about", "ca-notice" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating for accepted files", "note": "IRCC continues to process accepted applications.", "sourceIds": [ "ca-about" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "An applicant needs a qualifying business, a commitment from a designated organisation, language results at Canadian Language Benchmark 5, and sufficient settlement funds.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility", "ca-regulations" ] }, { "value": "Each applicant must hold at least 10% of voting rights, and the applicants together with the designated organisation must hold more than 50% of voting rights.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "A designated venture-capital fund commitment is normally at least CAD 200,000, a designated angel-investor-group commitment at least CAD 75,000, or the applicant must be accepted into a designated business incubator.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility" ] }, { "value": "Settlement funds are required under a formula tied to family size; the amount is updated periodically.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility", "ca-regulations" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A spouse or partner and dependent children may be included in the permanent-residence application subject to general admissibility rules.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility" ] }, "work": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "ca-about", "ca-notice" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility", "ca-regulations" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Permanent residence if the application is approved.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "ca-regulations" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Not applicable to the immigration class; permanent-resident status and card renewal are governed separately.", "state": "not_applicable", "sourceIds": [ "ca-regulations" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "ca-eligibility", "ca-regulations" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "30 June 2026 for the current intake pause", "iso": "2026-06-30", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "ca-about", "ca-notice" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "The route is not open to new applications at this cut-off.", "Work-permit measures for applicants awaiting permanent residence have changed and must be checked directly with IRCC.", "This record distinguishes the continuing legal class from the paused intake and continuing processing of accepted files." ], "sources": [ { "id": "ca-about", "issuer": "Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada", "title": "Start-up Visa Program: about the process", "url": "https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa/about.html", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ca-eligibility", "issuer": "Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada", "title": "Start-up Visa Program: who can apply", "url": "https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa/eligibility.html", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "ca-notice", "issuer": "Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada", "title": "New immigration measures for entrepreneurs", "url": "https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/immigration-measures-entrepreneurs.html", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "publishedOrUpdated": "2025-12-19", "tier": "B2" }, { "id": "ca-regulations", "issuer": "Justice Laws Website", "title": "Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, section 98.01", "url": "https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2002-227/section-98.01.html", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "SOR/2002-227, s. 98.01", "tier": "A1" } ] }, { "id": "route_za_business_visa", "versionId": "rv_za_business_visa_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "business-visa", "jurisdictionId": "za", "officialName": "Business visa", "shortName": "Business visa", "region": "Africa", "routeType": "Business residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Business entrepreneurship", "authorities": [ "Department of Home Affairs", "Department of Trade, Industry and Competition" ], "summary": "South Africa's business visa is a temporary-residence route for a foreign national establishing or investing in a business, subject to capital, local-employment and compliance conditions.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Section 15 of the Immigration Act and regulation 14 provide the route framework.", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "The trade department publishes a current Visa Recommendation System for business-visa recommendations.", "sourceIds": [ "za-dtic" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "The responsible trade department provides an online recommendation process and current guidance.", "sourceIds": [ "za-dtic" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The applicant must establish or invest in a qualifying business, obtain the required trade-department recommendation, and meet registration and compliance requirements.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations", "za-dtic" ] }, { "value": "At least 60% of the total staff complement must be South African citizens or permanent residents, subject to the statutory and regulatory detail.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "The published prescribed capital contribution is ZAR 5 million. A reduction or waiver may be available for specified businesses or sectors through the responsible recommendation process.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-notice", "za-dtic" ] } ], "family": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] }, "work": { "value": "The holder may work only in the business for which the visa was issued, subject to its conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-act" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Up to three years under regulation 14.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-regulations" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Further temporary permission may be sought if the route requirements continue to be met; this record does not establish a standard renewal term.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "za-act", "za-regulations" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "26 May 2014 for the cited regulatory framework", "iso": "2014-05-26", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "za-regulations" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "A published reform proposal is not treated as enacted law in this record.", "Sector recommendations, professional permissions and company registrations remain separate requirements." ], "sources": [ { "id": "za-act", "issuer": "Department of Home Affairs", "title": "Immigration Act 13 of 2002, updated text", "url": "https://www.dha.gov.za/images/PDFs/IMMIGRATION-ACT-2002---UPDATED-2015.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Act 13 of 2002, s. 15", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "za-regulations", "issuer": "Department of Home Affairs", "title": "Immigration Regulations 2014, updated text", "url": "https://www.dha.gov.za/images/PDFs/ImmigrationRegulations2014-Updated2018-compressed.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Regulation 14", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "za-dtic", "issuer": "Department of Trade, Industry and Competition", "title": "Business facilitation and Visa Recommendation System", "url": "https://www.thedtic.gov.za/business-facilitation/", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "B1" }, { "id": "za-notice", "issuer": "Government of South Africa", "title": "Financial or capital contribution in respect of a business visa", "url": "https://www.gov.za/documents/notices/immigration-act-financial-or-capital-contribution-business-respect-business-visa", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "tier": "A2" } ] }, { "id": "route_cr_pensionado", "versionId": "rv_cr_pensionado_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "pensionado-temporary-residence", "jurisdictionId": "cr", "officialName": "Temporary residence as a pensionado", "shortName": "Pensionado", "region": "Central America", "routeType": "Pension residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Pension", "authorities": [ "General Directorate of Migration and Immigration" ], "summary": "Costa Rica's pensionado subcategory provides temporary residence to a foreign national who proves a permanent and stable foreign pension at or above the statutory monthly threshold.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Articles 79 and 81 of Law 8764 establish the subcategory and income test; current regulations govern grant and renewal.", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law", "cr-reg-pension" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "Current migration procedures continue to address first applications and renewals in the subcategory.", "sourceIds": [ "cr-procedure", "cr-reg-pension" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Current regulations and the 2024 procedure resolution describe documentation and renewal.", "sourceIds": [ "cr-procedure", "cr-reg-renewal" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The principal applicant must prove a permanent and stable monthly pension from abroad of at least USD 1,000 or its equivalent.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "Minimum foreign pension: USD 1,000 per month, permanent and stable.", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A spouse, children under 25 and older children with a disability may be included subject to the regulatory conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law", "cr-reg-pension" ] }, "work": { "value": "Remunerated or profit-making activity requires authorisation from the migration authority; dependants also require prior authorisation to work.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law", "cr-reg-renewal" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Two years between renewals under the current regulation.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "cr-reg-renewal" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Renewable every two years while the conditions, insurance and documentary requirements continue to be met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law", "cr-reg-renewal" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law", "cr-reg-pension" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "1 March 2010 for Law 8764", "iso": "2010-03-01", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "cr-law" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "This record does not cover tax incentives or customs benefits under separate legislation.", "Documentary and in-country filing rules should be checked against the current migration resolution." ], "sources": [ { "id": "cr-law", "issuer": "Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica", "title": "General Law on Migration and Immigration No. 8764", "url": "https://www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Leyes/Ley%20General%20de%20Migraci%C3%B3n%20y%20Extranjer%C3%ADa%208764.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Law 8764, arts. 79–82", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "cr-reg-pension", "issuer": "Costa Rican Legal Information System", "title": "Immigration Regulations — pensionado and dependants", "url": "https://www.pgrweb.go.cr/DOCS/NORMAS/1/VIGENTE/D/2010-2019/2010-2014/2012/11B29/14BA0D.HTML", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Decree 37112-GOB, art. 100", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "cr-reg-renewal", "issuer": "Costa Rican Legal Information System", "title": "Immigration Regulations — pensionado renewal", "url": "https://www.pgrweb.go.cr/DOCS/NORMAS/1/VIGENTE/D/2010-2019/2010-2014/2012/11B29/158B36.HTML", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Decree 37112-GOB, art. 228", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "cr-procedure", "issuer": "General Directorate of Migration and Immigration", "title": "Migration procedures resolution", "url": "https://www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Normativa%20Legal%20Migratoria/2024/Tramites%20Migratorios%20-%20Resoluci%C3%B3n%20D.%20JUR-220-05-2024-JM-ABM.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "D.JUR-220-05-2024-JM-ABM", "tier": "A2" } ] }, { "id": "route_cr_rentista", "versionId": "rv_cr_rentista_2026_10_02", "version": "2026.10.02", "slug": "rentista-temporary-residence", "jurisdictionId": "cr", "officialName": "Temporary residence as a rentista", "shortName": "Rentista", "region": "Central America", "routeType": "Independent-means residence", "outcome": "Temporary residence", "basis": "Independent means", "authorities": [ "General Directorate of Migration and Immigration" ], "summary": "Costa Rica's rentista subcategory provides temporary residence to a foreign national who proves stable monthly income from abroad or the national banking system at the statutory level.", "statuses": { "legal": { "code": "in_force", "label": "In force", "note": "Articles 79 and 82 of Law 8764 establish the subcategory and income test; current regulations govern grant and renewal.", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] }, "intake": { "code": "accepting", "label": "Accepting applications", "note": "Current migration procedures continue to address first applications, renewals and category changes.", "sourceIds": [ "crr-procedure", "crr-reg" ] }, "operational": { "code": "operating", "label": "Operating", "note": "Current regulations and the 2024 procedure resolution address the subcategory.", "sourceIds": [ "crr-procedure", "crr-reg" ] } }, "eligibility": [ { "value": "The principal applicant must prove permanent and stable monthly income of at least USD 2,500 from abroad or from banks in Costa Rica's national banking system.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] } ], "mechanism": [ { "value": "Minimum stable income: USD 2,500 per month. The regulation does not treat a simple return of the applicant's own deposit as income unless the regulatory conditions are met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-definitions" ] } ], "family": { "value": "A spouse, children under 25 and older children with a disability may be included subject to the regulatory conditions.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] }, "work": { "value": "Remunerated or profit-making activity requires authorisation from the migration authority; dependants also require prior authorisation to work.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law" ] }, "presence": { "value": "Not stated", "state": "not_stated", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] }, "duration": { "value": "Two years between renewals under the current temporary-residence framework.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-reg" ] }, "renewal": { "value": "Renewable while the income, insurance and documentary requirements continue to be met.", "state": "conditional", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] }, "laterOutcome": { "value": "Not established", "state": "not_established", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law", "crr-reg" ] }, "effectiveDate": { "value": "1 March 2010 for Law 8764", "iso": "2010-03-01", "state": "established", "sourceIds": [ "crr-law" ] }, "lastVerified": "2026-10-02", "nextReviewDue": "2026-11-01", "limitations": [ "This record does not cover tax incentives or customs benefits under separate legislation.", "The method used to prove or secure the income must be confirmed against current migration instructions." ], "sources": [ { "id": "crr-law", "issuer": "Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica", "title": "General Law on Migration and Immigration No. 8764", "url": "https://www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Leyes/Ley%20General%20de%20Migraci%C3%B3n%20y%20Extranjer%C3%ADa%208764.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Law 8764, arts. 79–82", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "crr-reg", "issuer": "Costa Rican Legal Information System", "title": "Immigration Regulations — rentista and dependants", "url": "https://www.pgrweb.go.cr/DOCS/NORMAS/1/VIGENTE/D/2010-2019/2010-2014/2012/11B29/158B2C.HTML", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Decree 37112-GOB, art. 99", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "crr-definitions", "issuer": "Costa Rican Legal Information System", "title": "Immigration Regulations — definitions", "url": "https://www.pgrweb.go.cr/DOCS/NORMAS/1/VIGENTE/D/2010-2019/2010-2014/2012/11B29/158B2B.HTML", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "Decree 37112-GOB", "tier": "A1" }, { "id": "crr-procedure", "issuer": "General Directorate of Migration and Immigration", "title": "Migration procedures resolution", "url": "https://www.migracion.go.cr/Documentos%20compartidos/Normativa%20Legal%20Migratoria/2024/Tramites%20Migratorios%20-%20Resoluci%C3%B3n%20D.%20JUR-220-05-2024-JM-ABM.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-02", "identifier": "D.JUR-220-05-2024-JM-ABM", "tier": "A2" } ] } ] }