Important Updates
Important Updates
October 2, 2025 | United KingdomConstruction Management: Immigration Compliance: Is Your Firm Violating Visa Rules?
October 3, 2025 | KazakhstanKazakhstan: New Work Permit Process Rules, Including Labor Market Test and New Online Portal
October 3, 2025 | United StatesThe American Lawyer: Proposed H-1B Changes Make Foreign Lawyers More Expensive, but Also More Accessible
October 2, 2025 | Japan, United States 2025年9月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェスト
October 2, 2025 | United StatesComputer Weekly: How UK Immigration Must Evolve to Attract the Best Global Talent
October 2, 2025 | United KingdomConstruction Management: Immigration Compliance: Is Your Firm Violating Visa Rules?
October 3, 2025 | KazakhstanKazakhstan: New Work Permit Process Rules, Including Labor Market Test and New Online Portal
October 3, 2025 | United StatesThe American Lawyer: Proposed H-1B Changes Make Foreign Lawyers More Expensive, but Also More Accessible
October 2, 2025 | Japan, United States 2025年9月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェスト
October 2, 2025 | United StatesComputer Weekly: How UK Immigration Must Evolve to Attract the Best Global Talent
October 2, 2025 | United KingdomConstruction Management: Immigration Compliance: Is Your Firm Violating Visa Rules?
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsMagellan SeriesImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcasts & Videos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationTravel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle EastImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapCenter for Strategy and Applied InsightsVietnamese ImmigrationView More
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Magellan Series
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts & Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Travel & Mobility Considerations: Situation in the Middle East
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Center for Strategy and Applied Insights
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • View More

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMediaClient Portal
  • Insights

Passive Income Visas: Who Reaps the Rewards?

August 2, 2023

Passive Income Visas: Who Reaps the Rewards?

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

By: Olga Nechita, Maria Hutchings

Passive income visas are a captivating notion in the realm of immigration, gaining significant popularity in an increasingly deglobalised world. It is a unique offering that allows individuals, including British nationals, a new life abroad, and unlike traditional visas that often require active employment or investment, these visas offer a pathway for individuals who can sustain themselves through passive income streams.  

Who would benefit from applying for a passive income visa? 

This visa route is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, investors and retirees who wish to relocate to a foreign country whilst maintaining their freedom and independence, the passive income visa route is built for those with a steady stream of income from investments, royalties, pension, or other passive means. They offer appealing flexibility over traditional visas and provide a much-needed option for British nationals who dreamt of retiring in Europe prior to Brexit, but then lost their right of free movement.  

What are the benefits of passive income visas? 

Passive income visas are popular for several reasons. One of the primary benefits is the opportunity to legally live in a foreign country with the freedom to pursue personal interests, be it setting up a new business, working, investing, studying, or simply retiring in a new country. 

Many countries offer favourable tax regimes with attractive exemptions. This, in addition to lower cost of living, excellent health systems and pleasant climates, are all important factors when choosing a country to relocate to. Applicants can maintain a comfortable lifestyle using financial means from established ventures without engaging in active employment or other types of activity. Passive income visas grant the freedom to do just that, opening the doors to a world of opportunities in a new country. 

What are the requirements? 

While the specific requirements vary from country to country, certain criteria are commonly seen. The basic requirement for applicants is to demonstrate that they are financially self-sufficient and can support themselves and their family members comfortably. The financial thresholds depend on the host country’s cost of living. 

For example, Portugal's passive income visa, known as the D7 visa, is the most popular visa in Europe for persons of independent means with a minimum passive income requirement of just EUR 9,120 per year and the possibility to apply by relying on many various types of income, including pensions, rental income, dividends, investments or royalties. 

Another popular destination is Spain, and its non-lucrative visa also offers an appealing route for applicants who are required to have an annual passive income of EUR 33,600.  

Some countries require a tangible commitment, such as investment in a local business or real estate or contribution to a government fund. A popular example is the passive income visa in Malta, known as the Global Residence Programme, which requires applicants to invest in real estate in the country. This can be satisfied by buying a property in which no one else other than the applicants and their family members can reside with a minimum value of €220,000 or €275,000, depending on where the property is located. Alternatively, applicants can rent a property at a required threshold criterion. 

As with many other visas, health and character checks are also required to ensure applicants pose no risk to public health and safety. 

There are several other countries in Europe and beyond offering attractive pathways to residence and retirement in this way. This visa route also generally leads to permanent residence upon completion of continuous residence which, in turn, may lead to citizenship.  

How can Fragomen help? 

Fragomen has a well-established, extensive footprint around the world, with the ability to advise in and across more than 170 countries on all immigration categories. Our professionals are well-versed in the intricate requirements and regulations of the various passive income visa programmes, ensuring that our clients receive accurate and up-to-date advice tailored to their unique circumstances. 

We diligently explore visa options that align with our clients' goals. With our in-depth knowledge of visa processes, options, and legal considerations, we can provide a seamless and effective pathway for our clients to realize their aspirations of living abroad. 

Need to know more?

For details or questions related to passive income visas, please contact Director Olga Nechita at [email protected].  

This blog was published on 2 August 2023, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.   

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Related contacts

Olga Nechita Porthole

Olga Nechita

Practice Leader

London, United Kingdom

Email

[email protected]

T:+44 (0) 20 3540 3249

Related offices

  • London

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Media mentions

The American Lawyer: Proposed H-1B Changes Make Foreign Lawyers More Expensive, but Also More Accessible

Partner Bo Cooper outlines how the proposed H-1B changes could affect Big Law hiring for foreign lawyers.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年9月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Media mentions

Computer Weekly: How UK Immigration Must Evolve to Attract the Best Global Talent

Senior Manager Kinka Tonchev highlights how UK immigration must adapt to attract, retain and support the world’s top talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

Construction Management: Immigration Compliance: Is Your Firm Violating Visa Rules?

Manager Kirsty Moore and Trainee Solicitor Amanda Ong highlight rising UK construction sponsor licence risks and how businesses can stay compliant.

Learn more

Awards

Partner Abeer Al Husseini Recognised at the Gulf Business Awards 2025

Partner Abeer Al Husseini is recognised on the shortlist for "Women Leader of the Year" at the Gulf Business Awards 2025.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Washington Post: How Companies Might Avoid Trump’s New $100K Visa

Co-Chair Enrique Gonzalez highlights approaches for companies navigating changes to the H-1B visa process.

Learn more

Video

How to Get Your French Work Visa After Graduation: Job Seeker / Company Creation Permit

Learn how international graduates can stay in France for one year to find work or start a business. Discover eligibility requirements, application steps and transition options for the Job Seeker/New Business Creator permit. 

Learn more

Awards

Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp Named 2025 National Law Journal Awards Finalist for "DC Managing Partner of the Year"

Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp is a finalist for the 2025 National Law Journal Awards category, "DC Managing Partner of the Year."

Learn more

Media mentions

Post Bulletin: Trump’s New $100K Fee on Certain Work Visas Could Impact Rochester’s Medical Staff

Partner Bo Cooper highlights that new $100K H-1B fees could affect US employers, with possible exemptions for critical roles.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Caterer: Businesses Need to Be Ready for Government Crackdown on Sponsor Licences

Partner Louise Senior highlights the impact of record-breaking UK sponsor licence revocations and the steps hospitality businesses can take to manage compliance.

Learn more

Media mentions

Folha de São Paulo: Taxa de US$ 100 mil para visto dos EUA muda planosde brasileiros; veja opções

Partner Bo Cooper explores the impact of H-1B visa changes on companies and their talent strategies.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Lawyers Try to Make Sense of Trump’s Confusing H-1B Fee Hike

Partner Bo Cooper explains that while new H-1B fees affect future petitions, US opportunities for international talent remain highly valued.

Learn more

Media mentions

The American Lawyer: Proposed H-1B Changes Make Foreign Lawyers More Expensive, but Also More Accessible

Partner Bo Cooper outlines how the proposed H-1B changes could affect Big Law hiring for foreign lawyers.

Learn more

Fragomen news

2025年9月 アメリカ移民法ダイジェストLearn more

Media mentions

Computer Weekly: How UK Immigration Must Evolve to Attract the Best Global Talent

Senior Manager Kinka Tonchev highlights how UK immigration must adapt to attract, retain and support the world’s top talent.

Learn more

Media mentions

Construction Management: Immigration Compliance: Is Your Firm Violating Visa Rules?

Manager Kirsty Moore and Trainee Solicitor Amanda Ong highlight rising UK construction sponsor licence risks and how businesses can stay compliant.

Learn more

Awards

Partner Abeer Al Husseini Recognised at the Gulf Business Awards 2025

Partner Abeer Al Husseini is recognised on the shortlist for "Women Leader of the Year" at the Gulf Business Awards 2025.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Washington Post: How Companies Might Avoid Trump’s New $100K Visa

Co-Chair Enrique Gonzalez highlights approaches for companies navigating changes to the H-1B visa process.

Learn more

Video

How to Get Your French Work Visa After Graduation: Job Seeker / Company Creation Permit

Learn how international graduates can stay in France for one year to find work or start a business. Discover eligibility requirements, application steps and transition options for the Job Seeker/New Business Creator permit. 

Learn more

Awards

Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp Named 2025 National Law Journal Awards Finalist for "DC Managing Partner of the Year"

Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp is a finalist for the 2025 National Law Journal Awards category, "DC Managing Partner of the Year."

Learn more

Media mentions

Post Bulletin: Trump’s New $100K Fee on Certain Work Visas Could Impact Rochester’s Medical Staff

Partner Bo Cooper highlights that new $100K H-1B fees could affect US employers, with possible exemptions for critical roles.

Learn more

Media mentions

The Caterer: Businesses Need to Be Ready for Government Crackdown on Sponsor Licences

Partner Louise Senior highlights the impact of record-breaking UK sponsor licence revocations and the steps hospitality businesses can take to manage compliance.

Learn more

Media mentions

Folha de São Paulo: Taxa de US$ 100 mil para visto dos EUA muda planosde brasileiros; veja opções

Partner Bo Cooper explores the impact of H-1B visa changes on companies and their talent strategies.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Lawyers Try to Make Sense of Trump’s Confusing H-1B Fee Hike

Partner Bo Cooper explains that while new H-1B fees affect future petitions, US opportunities for international talent remain highly valued.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.