How to Choose an Investment Migration Programme for Your Family

Start with the outcome you need. Families typically want one or more of the following: easier travel, a place to live or educate children, a business base, or a contingency plan. Each goal points towards different types of programme.

Next, check eligibility for every family member. Look at how each programme defines dependants — the age limits for children, whether adult children in education qualify and whether parents can be included — and whether your nationality is accepted.

Then build a realistic budget. Add the qualifying investment, government fees for each person, due diligence fees, legal and property costs, and professional fees. Ask whether the investment is refundable or recoverable and how long it must be held.

Consider time and presence. Compare typical processing times with your deadline, and compare the stay requirement with how much time your family can actually spend in the country. Remember that spending time somewhere can create tax residence.

Finally, shortlist two or three programmes and test them against your documents: can you evidence the lawful source of funds cleanly? A specialist adviser can pressure-test the shortlist and confirm current rules before you commit.