Luxembourg Joins Greece, Costa Rica, Switzerland, Panama, Canada, United States, UAE, New Zealand and More as Unstoppable Leaders in the 2026 Global Residence-by-Investment Rankings, Offering Unmatched Access to EU Residency, High-Yield Investment Opportunities, and Visa-Free Global Mobility

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Luxembourg has firmly established itself as a leading contender in the 2026 Global Residence-by-Investment Rankings, joining an elite group of countries such as Greece, Costa Rica, Switzerland, Panama, Canada, the United States, UAE, and New Zealand. This remarkable achievement highlights Luxembourg’s unmatched offering of EU residency, high-yield investment opportunities, and visa-free global mobility. As an attractive destination for investors, the country’s robust economy, strategic location within the European Union, and access to diverse international markets make it a top choice for those seeking to expand their global presence. With these advantages, Luxembourg is set to continue its rise as one of the most desirable places for affluent investors looking for stability, growth, and global connectivity.

Greece has once again claimed the title of the world’s leading residence-by-investment destination, topping the Global Residence Program Index for the second consecutive year, according to a prominent global wealth advisory firm. This recognition further cements Greece’s position as a prime destination for those seeking residency through investment opportunities.

The Global Residence Program Index, published annually as part of the firm’s Residence and Citizenship Programs report, evaluates the appeal and competitiveness of residence-by-investment programs across the globe. This year’s 2026 edition of the index was compiled with input from academic researchers, economists, country risk experts, and independent immigration professionals, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of each program’s strengths and benefits.

Retaining its top position with an impressive score of 73, Greece continues to demonstrate its enduring international appeal, offering a combination of factors that attract investors from all corners of the globe. The country’s residence program stands out primarily because of its access to the European Union, the high quality of life it offers, and the relatively low investment threshold when compared to other leading programs around the world. These factors make Greece an especially attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking European residency.

While Greece maintained its dominant position, other countries have also made strong showings in the rankings. Italy, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates all tied for second place with 72 points, reflecting their robust residence programs that provide a range of attractive benefits for investors. Portugal, another popular European destination, ranked fourth with 71 points, while Australia came in fifth with 69 points. Canada and Uruguay, a new addition to the list this year, shared the joint fifth spot with 68 points. Luxembourg and the United Kingdom shared the sixth place with 67 points, demonstrating strong, yet slightly less competitive, residence programs in the global landscape.

Other countries ranked in the top 10 include Costa Rica, Panama, and Singapore, who all tied for seventh place with 65 points, just ahead of New Zealand with 63 points. Malta and Saudi Arabia held the joint ninth spot with 61 points, while Latvia and the United States rounded out the top-tier destinations with 60 points.

The continued leadership of Greece’s Golden Visa Program, which forms the backbone of the country’s residence-by-investment initiative, is largely attributed to a blend of regulatory clarity, European Union access, and flexible investment options that appeal to international investors. The program offers a streamlined pathway to residency through qualifying investments, making it one of the most attractive and accessible options for individuals looking to relocate to the European Union.

The Greece Golden Visa program has become a hallmark of success in the global residency landscape, with several key advantages that differentiate it from other programs. For one, Greece’s residency permits grant visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries. This access is highly coveted by individuals looking to travel freely throughout Europe without being restricted by national borders. Additionally, the program does not impose a minimum stay requirement, providing greater flexibility for investors who may not wish to reside in Greece full-time.

One of the key benefits of the Golden Visa program is that the residency permits remain valid as long as the investment is maintained. This flexibility allows investors to lease their properties or make other adjustments to their investments over time. Furthermore, the program extends to immediate family members, including spouses, dependent children, and parents, ensuring that the benefits of residency extend beyond the primary investor.

Another unique feature of the Greece Golden Visa is the potential pathway to Greek citizenship after seven years of legal residence. Those who have successfully maintained their residency status for this period can apply for Greek citizenship, which comes with the added advantage of obtaining a Greek passport. A Greek passport is currently ranked among the most powerful globally, providing visa-free access to 185 destinations, including some of the world’s most desirable travel hubs.

This ranking of Greece’s Golden Visa Program underscores the country’s continued leadership in the competitive and evolving residence-by-investment landscape. With its combination of attractive living conditions, access to the European Union, and regulatory transparency, Greece stands out as a top choice for individuals seeking long-term residency in Europe.

The Greece Golden Visa Program’s position as the world’s leading residency initiative is expected to remain strong, especially in the context of projections for continued cross-border movement among high-net-worth individuals in 2026. As wealthier individuals and their families seek stable, secure, and welcoming destinations, Greece continues to be an appealing choice that offers a gateway to Europe, robust investment opportunities, and the potential for long-term residency and citizenship.

Luxembourg joins Greece, Costa Rica, Switzerland, and other global leaders in the 2026 Residence-by-Investment Rankings, offering unparalleled access to EU residency, high-yield investment opportunities, and visa-free global mobility, making it a prime choice for affluent investors.

Greece’s success as the leading residence-by-investment destination highlights the country’s strong positioning in the global market. With the top score in the 2026 Global Residence Program Index, Greece continues to attract international investors who seek the benefits of European residency and a world-class lifestyle. As the landscape of residence-by-investment programs continues to evolve, Greece’s combination of EU access, investment flexibility, and long-term residency benefits positions it as the destination of choice for investors seeking to make a permanent move to Europe.