5 Practical Ways to Japa As An Investor and Start Afresh Abroad

We’re back again with more insights you can legally japa from Nigeria. If you want to learn how to japa as an investor, this is for you. If you have an investor friend or know any investor seeking to relocate, be a lifesaver by sending them this article.

Every investor and entrepreneur knows that running a business in Nigeria is like climbing a mountain with bare hands. The continuous challenges businesses face in Nigeria stifle the growth of investments.

The power outages disrupt operations. The unstable policies make planning almost impossible. Inflation eats into profits faster than they can grow. Also, add to that, the insecurity that looms over every decision. It’s no wonder many investors are looking for a way out.

However, leaving Nigeria doesn’t have to mean abandoning your ambitions. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, then these investor pathways are just what you need. They provide a legal, structured way to move abroad while building a new life and expanding your opportunities.

Imagine running your business in a country where systems work, policies are stable, and your investment is protected and rewarded.

Below are five practical ways to leave Nigeria as an investor and start fresh in a place where your hard work truly pays off. Let’s roll:

1. Investor Visa Programs

The most popular and rewarding way for you as an investor to relocate is via an Investor visa. Investor visas are special permits that allow you to live, work, and grow your wealth in another country.  In many cases, they even pave the way for you to obtain permanent residency or citizenship. All you need to do is invest a minimum amount in that country’s economy, often through real estate, business ventures, or government bonds.

Top Destinations for Investor Visas

1. United States (EB-5 Visa): For this visa, you’ll need to invest at least $800,000 in a rural area or $1.05 million in other regions. It grants permanent residency and the freedom to live and work anywhere in the US.
2. United Kingdom (UK Investor Visa): This is a tier 1 visa. It requires an investment of £2 million in UK businesses. It grants residency, with the option for permanent residency after 5 years, or just 3 years if you invest more.
3. Portugal (Golden Visa): To obtain the golden visa, you need to invest at least €280,000 in real estate. It offers you residency with minimal stay requirements. Citizenship is also possible after five years, with full EU benefits.
4. Canada (Start-Up Visa): To gain residency, you’ll need to invest at least CAD 200,000 in an eligible business. This visa is perfect for entrepreneurs planning to grow their ventures.
5. Australia (Business Investment Visa): Invest AUD 1.5 million in state projects or businesses to get this visa. It offers residency with options to make it permanent.
6. UAE (Golden Visa): Invest AED 2 million (around $550,000) in property or businesses to qualify. This visa gives you 10 years of residency without any income tax.

Benefits of an Investor Visa

1. Residency and citizenship: Many of these programs offer permanent residency or citizenship after a few years.
2. Portfolio growth: Investing abroad diversifies your assets and opens doors to stable, high-return markets.
3. Family benefits: Investor visa programs usually cover spouses and children, giving them full access to education and healthcare.

How to Apply

1. Select a program: Take the time to research different countries and pick one that aligns with your goals and budget.
2. Prepare your documents: Make sure you prepare your investment proof, financial records, and any other necessary documents.
3. Hire a consultant: To make things easier, consider talking to an immigration expert to make sure your application meets the country’s requirements
4. Submit Your Application: Provide all documents, pay application fees, and make the required investment.
5. Await Approval: The processing time depends on the country.
6. Relocate: Once your visa is approved, settle in and meet the residency requirements to begin your new life abroad.

2. Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer a fast and simple way to get a second passport by investing in a country’s economy. They’re a popular choice for investors seeking global mobility, financial security, and a solid backup plan for the future.

Popular CBI Destinations

1. Kitts and Nevis: With a minimum contribution of $125,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund or a $200,000 real estate investment, you can secure citizenship in about 3–4 months. This passport offers visa-free access to over 150 countries, including the UK and Schengen Area.
2. Antigua and Barbuda: With an investment of $100,000 (or $200,000 in real estate), you and your family can secure citizenship. Antigua’s program is perfect for families, as it includes up to four dependents in a single application.
3. Dominica: Dominica offers one of the most affordable options for citizenship. It requires a donation of $100,000 or a $200,000 real estate investment. The program is straightforward and well-regarded worldwide.
4. Cyprus: By investing €2 million in real estate, you can gain citizenship in just about six months. Cyprus gives you access to the European Union and visa-free travel to more than 170 countries.
5. Malta: With a €750,000 donation and a €700,000 real estate purchase, you can secure citizenship within 12 months. Malta’s program also offers access to the EU and a range of global travel benefits.

Benefits of CBI

1. Fast citizenship: Most programs offer citizenship within a year or less.
2. Global mobility: Depending on the program, you’ll enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 150 countries.
3. Family inclusion: Most programs allow you to include your spouse, children, and sometimes even your parents.

How to Apply

1. Choose a country: Research properly and choose the program that aligns most with your travel, business, and personal goals.
2. Prepare documents: Collect your proof of funds, background checks, and any other required documents.
3. Work with experts: Team up with a licensed CBI consultant to make sure your application goes smoothly and meets all requirements.
4. Make your investment: Complete the required donation or property purchase.
5. Submit your application: Submit all the necessary documents and payments according to the country’s requirements.
6. Receive citizenship: Once approved, you’ll receive your passport and enjoy full citizenship rights.

3. Real Estate Investment Programs

Real estate investment programs offer a great way to gain residency or even citizenship. By purchasing property in certain countries, you not only secure the right to live there but also have the potential for rental income and in many cases, a path to citizenship down the road.

Popular Real Estate Investment Programs

1. Portugal: Invest €280,000 in real estate to gain residency in Portugal. The program is flexible, requiring only 7 days of stay per year. After five years, you can apply for citizenship and enjoy full EU benefits.
2. Turkey: Invest $400,000 in property in Turkey and gain citizenship within months. The process is simple, and you can sell the property after three years without losing your citizenship.
3. Greece: Buy property worth at least €250,000 to secure a residency permit in Greece. After seven years, you may also be eligible for citizenship.
4. Spain: Invest €500,000 in real estate to gain residency in Spain. While the path to citizenship takes longer, the Golden Visa offers access to the Schengen Area, making it a great choice for frequent travelers.

Benefits of Investing in Real Estate

1. Residency rights: You obtain the legal right to live in the country of your choice.
2. Rental income: You can enjoy passive income by renting out your property.
3. Citizenship opportunities: Many programs allow you to gain citizenship once you meet the required residency criteria.
4. Asset growth: Real estate in these countries appreciates over time, which adds value to your investment.

How to Apply

1. Choose a country: Choose a program that aligns with your goals, whether it’s residency, citizenship, or both.
2. Identify a property: Partner with local real estate agents to find properties that meet the investment requirements of the program.
3. Make the purchase: Complete the transaction, making sure all the legal and financial paperwork is properly in place.
4. Submit your application: Submit your proof of purchase, financial records, and any other documents the country requires.
5. Meet residency requirements: Some programs have minimal stay requirements, while others may require you to spend more time in the country.

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4.    Business Startup Visas

The business startup visa is a great choice for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas who want to grow their ventures. These visas are designed to support startups and businesses in tech. It offers you access to funding, mentorship, and residency in international markets.

Popular Business Startup Visas

5. France’s Tech Visa: This visa is great for tech entrepreneurs. It offers residency for you and your family, access to France’s business scene, and support through mentorship and funding to grow your business.
6. Estonia’s Startup Visa: Estonia is a tech-friendly country, making this visa ideal for startups looking to operate in Europe. It’s especially great for IT and digital innovation companies.
7. UK Innovator Visa: This program is designed for entrepreneurs with unique and scalable business ideas. With a minimum investment of £50,000, you can gain residency and tap into the UK’s strong business networks.
8. Netherlands Startup Visa: This visa provides one year of residency for entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses. You’ll be paired with a local mentor to help grow your business, with the potential to extend your residency.
9. Portugal Startup Visa: Portugal is growing as a startup hub. This visa connects entrepreneurs with incubators, offering strong support for innovative businesses.

Benefits of a Startup Visa

• Residency and mobility: Live in your chosen country, grow your business, and travel freely across regions like the EU.
• Access to resources: Many programs offer funding, mentorship, and access to incubators or accelerators to help your business grow.
• Business growth opportunities: Start your business in a supportive environment with opportunities to reach international markets.
• Family inclusion: You won‘t be going alone as most startup visas allow your immediate family to join you.

How to Apply

1. Check eligibility: Check the requirements for the visa program in your desired country.
2. Prepare a business plan: Develop an innovative business plan that aligns with the objectives of your chosen program.
3. Secure endorsements: Some programs need backing from local incubators, accelerators, or government agencies.
4. Submit your application: Submit all the required documents, including your business plan, proof of funds, and background checks.
5. Launch your business: Once approved, establish your business and start operations in your new country
6. Angel Investor Networks: Angel investor networks allow for more than just funding for startups, they can also help you secure residency in certain countries. Many governments provide immigration opportunities to investors who support innovation and entrepreneurship.

How It Works

1. United States: The EB-5 Visa allows you to invest about $1.05 million (or $800,000 in certain areas) in U.S. businesses. In return, you’ll receive a green card, allowing you to live and work in one of the world’s largest markets.
2. Canada: With the Start-Up Visa, you can earn residency by investing in Canadian startups backed by approved angel groups or venture capital firms.
3. Australia: The Investor Stream Visa is for angel investors who support innovative startups in Australia. It offers residency and access to a strong, stable economy.

Why This is a Good Choice

1. Residency benefits: Your investment can secure long-term residency for you and your family.
2. Financial growth: Investing in startups will help grow your wealth while also supporting innovation.
3. Impact: You’ll play a role in shaping new international businesses and ideas.

How to Apply

1. Pick a country: Decide where you would love to invest and live.
2. Join a network: Sign up with accredited angel investor groups in that country. Click here to see a few options.
3. Select startups: Choose startups with strong growth potential to invest in.
4. Meet visa requirements: Work with immigration experts to ensure your investments qualify.
5. Apply and move: Submit your application, get approved, and start your journey.

Final Words

The opportunities to leave Nigeria as an investor are real, legal, and within reach. Each pathway offers you a chance to not just escape the chaos around you but to also build a life and future filled with stability, growth, and endless possibilities for you and your family. Careful planning and informed decisions are the keys to making your relocation a success. So start today, explore your options, and invest in a future that reflects your ambitions.