This article will explore Passive Income Visa Countries in 2025. Countries worldwide welcome new residents and citizens based on income that does not come from work or employment. It is a win-win; you spend money in the local economy without competing for local jobs. And, that means that if you have a steady source of income like a position or investment, you could be eligible for a residence permit in some awesome countries. The programs are often called Income Visa, Retirement Visa, Person of Independent Means Visa, Non-lucrative Visa, or Rentista Visa programs.
Passive Income Visa Countries
Currently, over twenty countries offer some form of this type of visa. The programs vary in quality and complexity. For this reason, we strongly suggest seeking advice from a respected immigration lawyer to ensure you get the best possible outcome. Here are some of the countries that currently offer Passive Income Visa, Person of Independent Means Visa, Non-lucrative Visa, Retirement, or Rentista Visa programs.
| Argentina | Guatemala | Malta | Portugal |
| Austria | Honduras | Mauritius | Spain |
| Costa Rica | Indonesia | Nicaragua | Thailand |
| Czech Republic | Ireland | Panama | United Kingdom |
| Germany | Malaysia | Philippines | Vanuatu |
How much income would qualify you for an Income visa?
Interestingly, it is often not a large sum of monthly income that you have to prove. The cost of living in a country usually influences the income level required. Lower cost-of-living nations generally have lower income requirements. The reason for this is that the government wants to know that you can conformably support yourself.
Here are some examples of the amounts to qualify for a visa.
| Country | Monthly Income | Restrictions | |
| Argentina | USD $2,000 | The published minimum is lower, but our Argentina Immigration lawyer recommends at least USD $2,000 of monthly passive income. | |
| Aruba | USD $2,300 | Applicants must be over 55 years old. There is a USD $4,600 option for younger applicants. | |
| Austria | USD $2,100 | Medical insurance plus basic German language skills at the A1 level. | |
| Costa Rica | USD $1,000 | Applicants must prove that this income will last for the applicant’s lifetime. | |
| France | USD $1,300 | Applicants must have a place to stay and health insurance. | |
| Greece | USD $2,100 | Applicants must deposit and maintain at least €48,000 in a local Greek bank account for the entire duration of residency. | |
| Honduras | USD $1,500 | Applicants must have a lifetime pension or annuity of at least $1,500 per month. | |
| Ireland | USD $4,400 | Applicants must have an annual income of at least €50,000 and additional lump sum savings equivalent to the price of a residential home in the State. | |
| Italy | USD $2,800 | Applicants must demonstrate a stable, ongoing income source. | |
| Malaysia | USD $2,300 | Applicants aged 50 and above are required to show proof of liquid assets of RM350,000 and offshore income of RM10,000 per month. | |
| Mauritius | USD $1,500 | Applicants must be over 50 years old. | |
| Nicaragua | USD $600 | Applicants must be over 45 years old. | |
| Panama | USD $1,000 | Applicants must have a lifetime pension or annuity of at least $1,000 per month. | |
| Portugal | USD $900 | Income must be external |(from outside Portugal) | |
| Spain | USD $2,350 | Income must be ongoing, and you’ll need private health insurance in Spain. | |
| Thailand | USD $2,000 | Alternatively, a deposit account of $25,000; applicants must be over 50 years old. | |
| United Kingdom | USD$ 2,900 | You must be over 50 and show USD 83,000 in assets. | |
| Vanuatu | USD $2,800 | This amount needs to be transferred to a commercial bank in Vanuatu. |
Note: All amounts are in USD converted at the Exchange rate as of February 2025.
Passive Income vs Active Income
To qualify for these visas, you need to have access to particular income types. There are two main types of income for immigration purposes: passive and active.
A passive income is usually money earned without you actively working to receive it when it is paid to you. There are many forms of passive income. Examples include renting out a property or income (like dividends) from a company where you are not actively involved. It can also be income from a pension, annuity, or silent partnership in a business. Investment income, royalties, and other similar sources would also be a passive income. In other words, it is money earned with little current effort on the part of the person receiving it.
An active income is where someone pays you for work. This income includes freelancing, working for your own company, and being employed by a company.
Internal income vs External income
Countries also look at where you generate your income. Money coming from outside their borders (external income) is much more attractive as this boosts the local economy. If you are earning money from, for example, an investment property in your new home, you may have to show additional income sources.
Spotlight on some examples of Passive Income Visa Countries
Let’s take a look at some of our favorite passive visa country offerings in a bit more detail.
Spain Non-Lucrative visa
The NLV only allows passive income, so you cannot work in Spain on this visa. It does allow you to include dependant family members. Passive income earners and retirees are best suited to this residence permit.
You’ll need to show an income of €28,000 and €7,290 for each dependent family member. You’ll also need comprehensive Spanish health insurance for all of the family.
We cover this visa in detail in our article on the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain.
Alternatively, you can book a planning session with our trusted immigration partner in Spain. They will review your personal situation and give you advice on the steps to take for your visa. Click here to book a consultation.
Mauritius Retirement Visa
The Mauritius retirement visa is for people over 50. As long as you can show a steady transfer of more than USD $ 1,500 per month, you can live in this island paradise.
The visa is valid for ten years and is renewable. You can read more about this visa in our Mauritius Visa Article.
France Visitor residence permit “Carte de séjour visiteur“
France offers a 12-month renewable visa. You need to show around an income of €1,300, depending on the amount you are paying for rent. See more details in our long-term French Visa guide.
You must have a place to stay and Expat health insurance.
German Freelancer Visa “Freiberufler”
Anyone with an income of around €800 per month can apply for this German residence permit. You’ll need to show you have your principal residence in Berlin and that you’ll add value to the Berlin economy. Also, if you are over 45, you need to have an adequate pension plan (some countries are excepted.) And, once you’re over 67, you’ll need to show a minimum of €1280 per month pension.
Portugal D7 Passive Income Visa
The Portugal passive income visa requires proof of a passive income stream. The government doesn’t publish a minimum figure to cover living expenses; however, in the experience of our Portugal partner, €12,000 of annual income should be enough.
You will also need to be based in Portugal for at least eight months each year to qualify for this visa. Read more about the Portugal D7 Passive Income Visa requirements here.
Austria Person of Independent Means visa
As well as a passive income of around €2,100, Austria has other requirements. You’ll need to show some German language capability (Level A1), health insurance, and that you have a place to live in Austria. Dependant family members are welcome, but you’ll need to show additional income for each person you want to include.
Ireland Person of Independent Means (Stamp 0)
There are no age restrictions on this Ireland residence permit program. You’ll need to prove an income of €50,000 per annum. Also, you’ll need to show enough savings to cover significant expenses that arise. Health insurance is required.
Aruba Passive Income Visa
Aruba will give you a residence permit if you can show a passive income of Afl100,000 or approximately USD58,000 annually. If you are over 55 years old, then that requirement drops to Afl50,000 or approximately USD29,000 annually.
Indonesia Retirement Visa (KITAS)
This visa is for people 55 years and older to live in Indonesia. You’ll need to show an income of around USD $ 1,500 and health and life insurance. You also need to hire an Indonesian citizen in some capacity (domestic worker, nurse, gardener, assistant, etc.)
Nicaragua Pensionado Residency Visa
Nicaragua has a large Expat population taking advantage of the excellent climate and low cost of living. The country offers a pensionado residency visa. This retirement visa is available to people over 45 years of age. Nicaragua’s program is the lowest income level for a retirement visa worldwide.
How to Apply for a Passive Income Visa
Applying for a passive income visa can be complex, as each country has different requirements. However, most follow a general process:
Step 1: Research Visa Requirements
- Check the minimum income requirements and whether the income must come from external sources.
- Confirm whether the visa leads to permanent residency or citizenship (some do, some don’t).
- Verify age restrictions (some visas, like retirement visas, require applicants to be 50+).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Most applications require:
✅ Proof of Income (bank statements, pension records, investment returns)
✅ Proof of Accommodation (rental contract, property deed, or letter from a host)
✅ Health Insurance (some countries require comprehensive coverage)
✅ Criminal Background Check
✅ Visa Application Forms & Fees
Step 3: Submit the Application & Attend Visa Interview
- Some countries allow online applications, while others require applying at an embassy or consulate.
- You may need to attend an interview to explain your financial stability and plans in the country.
Step 4: Receive & Renew Your Visa
- Passive income visas are typically granted for 1-2 years and can be renewed if financial conditions remain met.
- After 5-10 years, some countries allow visa holders to apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Application Insider Tip
Applying for a passive income visa can be complicated. Some countries require origonal documents, others required copies certified in a specific way. There are age restrictions on document copies and translations (official and unofficial). How do you navigate this minefield?
We recommend finding a great local immigration lawyer to assist with your passive income visa application. You can see some great immigration lawyer partners for many of the visas listed above.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Passive Income Visa
🚨 1. Not Providing Sufficient Proof of Income
- Governments require clear, documented proof that your passive income is stable and consistent.
🚨 2. Ignoring Health Insurance Requirements
- Many visa programs require private health insurance that covers medical expenses.
🚨 3. Assuming the Visa Will Lead to Citizenship
- Some visas do not lead to permanent residency or citizenship (e.g., Thailand’s retirement visa).
🚨 4. Failing to Meet Residency Requirements
- Some visas require you to spend a minimum number of days in the country to maintain residency (e.g., Portugal’s D7 requires 8 months per year, and Spain’s NLV requires 183 days per year.).
🚨 5. Not Understanding Tax Obligations
- Some countries tax worldwide income after you become a resident.
Retirement Visas
Many people want to change for their golden years. Retiring abroad is becoming more and more popular. Governments have recognized this demand, and several are offering retirement visas. For these visas, there is generally an age requirement which ranges from 45 – 60 years old. You’ll also need to show that you can cover all your health costs with a comprehensive health insurance plan.
We have an article dedicated to Retirement visa countries with more detail on these programs. Also, see our blog on Retirement abroad pros and cons to see if this could be the right choice for your golden years.
Income Visas can open up your world
A Passive Income Visa is an excellent way to gain residency in another country without working locally. Whether you want to retire abroad, enjoy a lower cost of living, or experience a new culture, these visas provide a clear pathway to a new lifestyle.
🌎 If you’re ready to take the next step, consider consulting an immigration expert to help with your application. You can also explore our guides on:
I am a Pakistani citizen working in Saudia Arabia since 2012. Graduated in Mechanical Engineering and working in a public sector with monthly earning 6000 USD. Can I get a residency permit (passport) for any other company while I stay & work in Saudi Arabia?
Lowest passive income monthly country D visa retirement visa from Pakistan