THE ADDRESS Magazine No.20 | Page 44

for people who are internationally recognized as world leaders or potential world-leading talent in the fields of science and the arts. Henley & Partners have regular involvement in the consultation process with the Home Office and UK Border Agency regarding the Tier 1 (Investor) category, including its last iteration in April 2011 and the most recent consultations and recommendations of the Migration Advisory Council 2014. Portugal Residence The program gives investors the opportunity to qualify for a Portuguese residence permit by investing €500,000 in real estate. A Portuguese resident can travel visa-free to all Schengen countries, as well as work, live and study in Portugal. The application process designed by Henley & Partners is fast and efficient and a single process-motivated visit is feasible. A typical application can be completed within three months, and totals just under €600,000 for a five year journey including applicable government charges and application fees. Canada Residence There are several ways to become a permanent resident in Canada. The programs include the Quebec Investors Immigration Program, the Federal Start-Up Visa Program, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Provincial Nominee Program. Each program has a different set of conditions that should be met and requirements may include education, business experience, age, English/French language ability, funds, and adaptability. Canada offers one of the highest standards of living in the world and offers access to the entire North American market. It is possible to apply for citizenship after four years of residence. 50 Switzerland Residence Henley & Partners have responsibility for the design, implementation and international promotion of the Swiss Residence Program, which links immigration law to the forfait tax provisions in the law for wealthy individuals and families. In Switzerland, non-EU/EFTA citizens may obtain a residence permit as gainfully employed persons, as pensioners with close ties to Switzerland, or as financially independent persons who are not gainfully occupied in Switzerland and who pay considerable annual taxes. There are also permits for students, trainees and patients on health treatments. The application process can take between two to four months. A residence permit gives visa-free access to all Schengen states. Singapore Residence There are defined categories of foreigners who are eligible to apply for permanent residence. These include professional, technical personnel and skilled workers; employment pass holders; and investors and entrepreneurs. Investors and entrepreneurs applying under the Global Investor Program are required to invest SG$2.5 million in a new or existing business entity, expansion of an existing business operation or in a venture capital natured fund. An advantage of permanent residence status is that it gives entitlement to live and work in Singapore for at least five years. Spain Residence In September 2013, the Spanish Government created and has now implemented incentives aimed at attracting foreign investment through the simplification of the existing visa procedures. The key concept of the program is to allow a foreigner who wishes to enter the Spanish territory to make a “significant invest- www.theaddressmagazine.com