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Malta\u2019s new program has seen the EU country remain at the top of the Global Citizenship Programs Index (GCPI) – while the Austria Private Residence Program and the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program share the top spot in the Global Residence Programs Index (GRPI).<\/p>\n
This according to Investment Migration Programs 2021, published by the leading international residence and citizenship advisory firm, Henley & Partners.<\/p>\n
The annual publication, now in its sixth edition, provides a systematic analysis and comprehensive benchmarking of the world\u2019s most notable investment migration programs and is the industry gold standard for this type of evaluation.<\/p>\n
The 12 citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs and 24 residence-by-investment (RBI) programs are appraised by a panel of distinguished independent experts \u2014 including leading academic researchers, economists, expert immigration and citizenship lawyers, and other country risk and industry specialists \u2014 who consider a broad range of factors.<\/p>\n
Dr Christian H. Kaelin, an international immigration and citizenship law expert and Chairman of Henley & Partners, said: \u201cInvestment Migration Programs 2021 is an invaluable tool for international investors and entrepreneurs looking to hedge volatility and create short-term value as well as long-term yield through enhanced global mobility.<\/p>\n
“It is also highly relevant to policy makers and governments wishing to manage these programs to achieve greater fiscal autonomy and economic growth.\u201d<\/p>\n
For the sixth consecutive year, Malta is the world\u2019s top-ranking CBI country, with its Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment process scoring 80 out of 100.<\/p>\n
It is followed by Austria\u2019s CBI option in 2nd place, the Montenegro Citizenship-by-Investment Program in 3rd place, and the St. Lucia Citizenship-by-Investment Program is ranked 4th, with a score of 71.<\/p>\n
Each scoring 75 out of 100, the Austria Private Residence Program and the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program have emerged as the world\u2019s top RBI programs, with the Italy Residence-by-Investment Program and the Swiss Residence Program sharing 2nd place in this ranking.<\/p>\n
The Greece Golden Visa Program is not far behind in 3rd place with a score of 72.<\/p>\n
Dr Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, said: \u201cDemand for RCBI programs is at an all-time high because of the undeniable advantages they provide, including giving families alternative relocation options in a time of crisis or global volatility.\u201d<\/p>\n