Belgium Golden Visa: Golden opportunity to obtain residency and citizenship through business investment in Europe, know the full details

The Belgian golden visa scheme offers investors the opportunity to acquire permanent residence and citizenship in Europe through business. This scheme is exclusively for investors over the age of 18, and family members can also be included.

Belgium, a small but economically strong European country, has become a hub of stability, a high standard of living, and business opportunities for professionals and investors worldwide. Its world-class infrastructure, high quality of life, and the presence of key EU institutions make it ideal for foreigners. Belgium offers foreign investors the opportunity to acquire residency and subsequent citizenship through business investment under the Golden Visa scheme, which is why this scheme is gaining increasing popularity among global investors.

Under this scheme, investors from outside the European Union can apply for permanent residence in Belgium by investing in the Belgian economy or setting up a business. While there is no minimum investment amount, investors typically need to invest approximately €30 million to €43 million (approximately ₹3 to ₹43 million) over the first five years. Investors can include their spouses and dependent children in the application process. Applications are individually assessed based on criteria such as age, financial capacity, business experience, and management ability.

There are also several strict requirements for obtaining a Belgian Golden Visa, such as a minimum age of 18, a clean criminal record, proof of the source of investment capital, and demonstration of business management skills. Applicants must also attend Belgian immigration meetings in person and maintain a registered address in Belgium. Once granted, the visa initially grants renewable residency rights for a period of one year, which can be converted to permanent residency status after three years of continuous residence. Citizenship can then be applied for after five years of permanent residence, provided language, social integration, and tax compliance requirements are met.

Businesses require private limited company registration in Belgium, called a "BVBA" or "SPRL," with proof of office and operations. An initial investment of at least €200,000 is required, with additional capital of €100,000 to €200,000 expected. Application fees range from approximately €10,000 to €20,000, with annual renewal fees of up to €5,000.

Acquiring Belgian citizenship offers investors a number of significant benefits, including visa-free travel to 184 countries, including the Schengen Area, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, and Singapore. These include attractive tax policies, high-quality healthcare, the ability to include family members in the citizenship, the opportunity to study at leading European schools and universities, and the freedom to work, live, or establish a business in any EU member state.

PC:MoneyControl