Malta’s new programme 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 top spot in the Global Residence Programs Index (GRPI) — this according to Investment Migration Programs 2021, released by Henley & Partners.

The annual publication benchmarks the world’s most notable investment migration programs. The 12 citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs and 24 residence-by-investment (RBI) programs are appraised by a panel of independent experts – including leading academic researchers, economists, expert immigration and citizenship lawyers, and other country risk and industry specialists.

Dr Christian H Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, says, “Investment 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. It is also highly relevant to policy makers and governments wishing to manage these programs to achieve greater fiscal autonomy and economic growth.”

For the sixth consecutive year, Malta is the world’s top-ranking CBI country. It is followed by Austria, Montenegro, and Saint Lucia.

Austria and Portugal have the top RBI programs, with Italy and Switzerland sharing second place, followed by Greece in third place.

CEO of Henley & Partners CEO Dr Juerg Steffen said “demand 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.”