Southeast Asia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for residency by investment, where individuals can acquire residency rights through investments in real estate, business ventures, or financial assets. Such programs appeal to global investors seeking both greater mobility and opportunities to grow their wealth in a dynamic region.
Countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia offer various investment programs tailored to their respective economic needs. The region's appeal lies not only in its investment potential, but also in its relatively affordable cost of living, rapid economic growth, and access to the broader Asian market.
In addition, modern infrastructure, improving healthcare facilities, and ease of travel within ASEAN countries are driving global investor interest in Southeast Asia.
5 Southeast Asian Countries Offering Investor Residency
1. Singapore
Singapore, one of Asia's premier destinations, offers a residency-by-investment option through the Singapore Global Investor Program. This program is designed for experienced entrepreneurs and business owners with significant assets who wish to reside and expand their businesses in the country.
To qualify for Permanent Resident (PR) status, investors must make a minimum investment of SGD 10 million (approximately US$ 7.46 million) and own a company with an annual turnover of at least SGD 200 million (approximately US$ 149.1 million).
Although the requirements are relatively stringent, the program offers several benefits, including access to a stable economy, world-class facilities, and the opportunity to apply for citizenship after two years.
Investment opportunities under the program are diverse, ranging from business ventures and real estate to government funds. With its high standards and attractive benefits, this program positions Singapore as a preferred destination for global investors seeking exclusive residency opportunities.
2. Thailand
Thailand, one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia, offers an investment-based residency program that combines luxurious living with the convenience of long-term stay. To obtain permanent residency, prospective investors are required to invest a minimum of THB 10 million (approximately US$ 289,000), with verified proof of investment from a local commercial bank.
While the investment amount is substantial, the benefits are well worth it. Thailand’s flagship program, the Elite Residence Program, grants residency for up to 20 years, offering VIP services and exclusive access to the country’s top tourist destinations.
The initial investment starts at US$ 18,000 for a five-year residence permit, making it an attractive option for retirees and high-income professionals.
Additionally, Thailand offers a Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa pathway, allowing qualified individuals—including investors and skilled professionals—to stay for up to 10 years.
This program is designed to attract global talent and stimulate economic growth, with requirements such as holding a non-immigrant visa for three years, a minimum monthly income of THB 80,000 (around US$ 2,400), or an investment of THB 3 million in local entities.
3. Malaysia
Malaysia offers an appealing residency program through the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) scheme, designed for individuals seeking to settle in Asia at a relatively affordable cost.
The program grants a renewable 10-year residence permit, requiring participants to maintain a fixed deposit in a Malaysian bank—RM150,000 (around US$ 33,570) for those over 50 years old, and RM300,000 (around US$ 67,150) for those under 50. Participants must also have health insurance and meet specific health criteria.
As a business and lifestyle hub, Kuala Lumpur boasts modern infrastructure comparable to Singapore or Hong Kong, but with a more affordable cost of living. The MM2H program is also quite flexible, allowing participants to bring family members, including spouses, children, and parents.
For high-net-worth individuals, Malaysia offers the Premium Visa Program (PVIP), which provides a 20-year visa with more exclusive requirements. Applicants must maintain a fixed deposit of RM1 million (approximately US$ 210,000) and demonstrate a foreign income of at least RM40,000 (around US$ 8,500) per month.
Both programs offer numerous benefits, including access to quality healthcare services and a territorial tax system that only taxes income earned within Malaysia.
4. Vietnam
While Vietnam does not have a formal Golden Visa program, it does offer attractive residency options through the Vietnam Investor Visa. This program allows foreign nationals to live and work in Vietnam for up to five years, with four visa categories available: DT1, DT2, DT3 and DT4.
Investment requirements range from VND3 billion (approximately $118,000) to VND100 billion (approximately $3.93 million), depending on the size and sector of the business chosen.
Although the initial stay is limited, visa holders can extend their stay for up to 10 years through the Vietnam Resident Card, which also grants residency rights to the applicant's immediate family members.
5. Indonesia
Indonesia offers a Golden Visa, an exclusive program that allows investors to enjoy long-term residency in dream destinations such as Bali in exchange for financial investment. More than just a visa, this program offers holders the opportunity to transition to permanent residency status after three years.
Although the investment required is substantial, the benefits are equally rewarding. Imagine living in Bali, surrounded by tropical beaches and lush rainforests, a lifestyle that once seemed like a distant dream.
There are five Golden Visa categories, each with different investment requirements. For individual investors, options include establishing a company with a minimum capital of $2.5 million or investing $350,000 in government bonds. Meanwhile, corporate investors are required to establish a company with a minimum investment of US$ 25 million.
The program offers residency permits valid for five to ten years, positioning Indonesia as a strategic destination for investors looking to grow their businesses while enjoying an exclusive lifestyle in the archipelago.
