When people think about international residency or citizenship, the spotlight usually falls on popular names—Portugal, Spain, the USA, or Canada. But beyond the headlines, there are lesser-known residency programs offering flexibility, speed, and strong benefits for investors, entrepreneurs, and global citizens.
These elite residency options are often overlooked in mainstream media but can provide unique advantages—from visa-free Schengen travel to business opportunities in emerging markets, to tax-friendly systems and low entry costs.
In this article, we explore five underrated programs that deserve your attention in 2025:
- Cyprus Permanent Residence
- Gulf States Residency Programs (Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)
- UAE Golden Visa
- Montenegro Residence by Company Formation
- Bonus: Personalized support for your journey
Let’s dive in.
Cyprus Permanent Residence Program
Cyprus offers a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) that is particularly attractive for investors who want long-term security in the EU without relocating full-time.
This program offers EU gateway access (though Cyprus is not in Schengen yet) and visa-free travel to the Schengen Zone for short stays.
Key Highlights:
- Minimum Investment: €300,000 in new or resale residential real estate
- Financial Proof: You must show adequate income to live in Cyprus without local employment
- Family Inclusion: Covers spouse, minor children, and dependent parents
- Travel: Stay in the Schengen Zone up to 90 days every 6 months
- Processing Time: Fast-track processing, often within 2 months
- Residency Validity: Indefinite, with no expiration if requirements are met
Who Is It For?
- Those who want permanent European residency with minimal stay requirements
- Families looking for a backup plan or second home base
- Investors interested in a stable real estate market in the EU
Cyprus stands out for its combination of lifestyle, EU access, and speed, making it a hidden gem for global citizens.
Gulf States Residency: Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar
The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries are often seen as short-term destinations for work or business. However, several Gulf nations now offer residency pathways for investors, entrepreneurs, and foreign professionals.
While not always packaged as “Golden Visas,” these programs provide stable long-term residence and access to low-tax, high-income economies.
Oman
- Program Type: Long-term residency through investment or business
- Requirement: Local sponsorship required
- Options: Real estate, entrepreneurship, or senior employment roles
- Attractive for: Entrepreneurs expanding into the Gulf
Bahrain
- Program Type: Residence through business ownership or employment
- Special Feature: Strategic location and business-friendly regulation
- Financial Center: Hub for financial services, fintech, and trade
Saudi Arabia
- Program Type: Premium Residency (aka Saudi Green Card)
- Eligible Applicants: Investors, highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs
- Minimum Investment: SAR 1M+ (~€250K) in some categories
- Perks: No local sponsor required, work and property ownership allowed
Qatar
- Program Type: Residence through investment or employment
- Real Estate Route: Invest in government-approved properties
- Other Pathways: Employment in Qatar-based companies
Why Consider Gulf Residency?
- No income tax in most countries
- Residency without citizenship requirements
- Ideal for businesses or professionals active in the MENA region
- High standard of living and international schools
If you’re doing business in the region—or want to—GCC residency can unlock financial and strategic advantages.
UAE Golden Visa
The UAE’s Golden Visa remains one of the most powerful long-term residence options globally. It provides a renewable 10-year residency for investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs—with multiple routes to qualify.
Unlike many other countries, you don’t have to live full-time in the UAE to maintain the visa, making it ideal for global citizens who want flexibility.
Main Routes to Qualify:
- Real Estate Investment
- Invest AED 2 million (~€500,000) in property
- Off-plan or completed projects accepted
- Invest AED 2 million (~€500,000) in property
- Bank Deposit
- Deposit AED 2 million in a UAE bank for at least 2 years
- Deposit AED 2 million in a UAE bank for at least 2 years
- Company Setup
- Establish a business with capital of AED 1 million+
- Must be operational and meet certain requirements
- Establish a business with capital of AED 1 million+
- Nomination / Sponsorship
- Nominated by a UAE employer or approved body
- Nominated by a UAE employer or approved body
Benefits of UAE Golden Visa:
- 10-year renewable residence
- Zero income tax
- No minimum stay requirement
- 100% business ownership for foreigners
- Family inclusion (spouse, children, even household staff)
- Prestigious location for banking, travel, and business
The UAE Golden Visa is ideal for crypto investors, real estate investors, and international entrepreneurs seeking security, prestige, and financial efficiency.
Montenegro Residence Permit by Company Formation
Montenegro offers a residence permit through company formation, making it one of Europe’s lowest-cost and flexible residency options.
It’s not as widely known as Golden Visa programs, but it’s a solid entry route to Europe—especially as Montenegro continues EU accession talks.
Key Facts:
- Business Route: Set up a company and invest in a local business
- Minimum Investment: From €15,000+ depending on the activity
- Residency Validity: Initial 1-year permit, renewable annually
- Path to Permanent Residency: Eligible after 5 years of legal residence
- Citizenship Path: After 10 years of residence, you can apply for citizenship
Benefits:
- Low-cost entry into European residency
- Visa-free travel to 120+ countries (with residence card)
- Beautiful nature, low cost of living, and emerging real estate market
- Strategic location: Borders EU countries and enjoys candidate EU status
Montenegro is one of the few remaining affordable European options for digital entrepreneurs or lifestyle migrants wanting a base in the Balkans with a European future.
Which Program Is Right for You?
Choosing the right residency path depends on your goals. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Program | Ideal For | Investment Level | Speed | Citizenship Option |
| Cyprus PR | EU access, family plan, real estate | €300,000 | 2 months | Not automatic |
| UAE Golden Visa | Tax-free income, business, lifestyle | AED 2M+ (~€500K) | 1–2 months | No |
| Montenegro Residence | Budget-friendly, EU track, business | €15,000+ | 3–6 weeks | After 10 years |
| Gulf States Permits | MENA region entrepreneurs or workers | Varies (SAR 1M+ in KSA) | 1–3 months | Rarely available |
Conclusion: Don’t Overlook the Elite Hidden Programs
In a world where second residency is becoming a must-have for investors, entrepreneurs, and families alike, not all roads lead through the usual suspects.
The programs we’ve covered offer:
- Greater flexibility
- Lower entry thresholds
- Legal tax advantages
- Easier lifestyle access to global hubs
They may not dominate headlines, but these under-the-radar programs could be the smartest move you make in 2025.
Want to Find the Best Option for You?
You’re not sure which path is right for your situation?
We help clients like you design tailored relocation and residency strategies—based on your goals, budget, and lifestyle needs.
Contact us now for a personalized eligibility check and step-by-step plan.
📩 info@solandworld.com
🌍 www.solandworld.com
📞 +971 4 266 8615
