Blog

An article written by Christina Georgaki, Founder of Georgaki & Partners Law Firm for the IM Yearbook 2025.

In 2024, Greece adopted a distinctive approach to investment migration, diverging from the broader European trend. While the European Union has expressed increasing opposition to such schemes, Greece has recalibrated its Golden Visa programme to attract foreign capital while addressing local concerns.

Despite external pressures, Greece’s programme has been restructured to ensure both local residents and investors benefit, maintaining economic growth without exacerbating housing challenges. Greece’s Golden Visa programme initially offered a five-year residency permit to non-EU/EEA nationals in exchange for a €250,000 property investment. However, in response to growing housing pressures, Greece has restructured the programme with a two-tiered zoning system. High-demand areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with over 3,100 inhabitants such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete now require a minimum investment of €800,000. Other regions have a reduced threshold of €400,000. Furthermore, Greece continues to offer exceptions at the €250,000 investment level for specific projects. These include urban renewal initiatives, such as converting commercial properties to residential use and restoring listed historical buildings.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also recently announced the inclusion of startup investments in the Golden Visa programme. Under this expansion, foreign investors who contribute €250,000 to Greek startups will be eligible for a five-year residency permit. Although detailed information is still forthcoming, this new pathway highlights Greece’s efforts to diversify its investment migration offerings and promote innovation.

The success of Greece’s Golden Visa programme can be attributed to the country’s stability and consistency in policy. Unlike other European nations that have reduced or eliminated similar programmes, Greece has remained flexible in adjusting the investment thresholds to align with local economic conditions.

Reports from 2018 indicate that the Golden Visa programme accounted for one-third of all real estate transactions in Greece, underscoring its importance in driving economic activity. Between 2014 and 2021, a total of 9,610 main applicants received Golden Visas in Greece.

Yet, in 2023, over 31,000 Greek Golden Visa permits were granted to the main applicants and their dependents, generating more than €2.6 billion in investment into the Greek economy. In the first seven months of 2024 alone, the country marked a total of 4,734 applications, contributing over €1.2 billion in economic benefit, reinforcing the program’s vital role in bolstering Greece’s economy.

By adapting to the changing needs of both the local population and global investors, Greece has created a programme that fosters long-term economic growth, supports innovation, and preserves its cultural identity.

As other European nations retreat from such initiatives, Greece’s commitment to maintaining a balanced, strategic approach ensures that both local communities and international investors continue to reap the rewards of the programme.

An article written by Hakan Cortelek, Chairman of Beyond Global Partners for the IM Yearbook 2025.

Beyond Global Partners stands at the forefront of the global investment migration industry, empowering high-net-worth individuals to explore new residency and citizenship opportunities through strategic investment pathways.

With an extensive network and a deep commitment to investor success, the firm has established itself as a trusted partner for investors seeking sustainable, secure and impactful migration solutions.

Beyond Global Partners brings years of expertise to guide investors through the complexities of investment migration. Headquartered in London and with offices worldwide, the firm is uniquely positioned to offer A-to-Z services. Under the visionary leadership of Chairman Hakan Cortelek, Beyond Global Partners has built a truly global presence with strategically located offices in major cities worldwide. These offices are supported by multicultural and highly skilled teams that bring an in-depth understanding of local markets and investor needs.

Hakan’s extensive background in private banking and immigration consultancy has been pivotal in shaping this global connectivity. His career includes instrumental roles at HSBC Canada and HSBC Private Bank UK, where he influenced investment-based immigration policies and worked closely with the UK Home Office.

As the former Managing Partner of Henley and Partners, Hakan played a key role in establishing and managing offices in Vancouver, London and Istanbul, creating exceptional teams to serve clients across Russia, the Middle East, China, North America and West Africa.

Beyond Global Partners reflects Hakan’s vast global experience, gaining firsthand insights into the complexities of investment migration. His leadership extends to the creation of the ‘Beyond’ brand, which connects various network partners globally.

Network partners in the Far East, led by long-time collaborators Liuqing and Sabrina and operations in the UK, helmed by Polina and Tatiana, demonstrate the firm’s extensive international reach and local expertise.

Beyond Global Partners has become a powerhouse in the investment migration industry. With Hakan’s guidance, the firm continues to set new standards in delivering seamless, investor-focused solutions. From the Caribbean’s citizenship by- investment programs to the EB-5 program in the United States, we provide tailored advice, ensuring that investors’ investments yield both immediate and long-term benefits.

In each project, the firm’s goal is to align investors’ ambitions with the best possible outcomes for their families and businesses.

As a responsible player in the industry, we emphasise transparency in all investor interactions. The team upholds strict due diligence processes, ensuring compliance and integrity in every transaction.

“Our mission is to help you find the best citizenship or residency solution, regardless of your situation.”

With over two decades of experience, Hakan Cortelek has pioneered an investor-centered approach to investment migration. Known for his dedication and deep industry knowledge, Hakan has guided Beyond Global Partners to become a leader in a rapidly evolving field.

An article written by Lisa Chanesman, Chairperson of the IM Community of Practice for the IM Yearbook 2025.

With approval and encouragement from the Investment Migration Council Board of Governors, the IMC Secretariat is embarking on an innovative and bold strategy aimed at enhancing its global outreach.

It is fostering improved exchanges with its current and future members through a new structured exchange of information and best practice framework aptly named Communities of Practice or CoPs for short which replace the Advisory Committee.

IMC Professional CoPs are groups of people who share a common interest and who come together benevolently to share their knowledge, experiences, and best practices. These communities, which are typically centred around a specific field of interest, will foster collaboration and learning among the IMC community.

They will come together on a specialised online platform powered by Microsoft and benevolently share knowledge, experiences and best practices in the following areas communication, membership development, advocacy, digital transformation, academics, education and training, professional standards, and events. The CoPs have been designed to address key aspects of our profession – to foster collaboration and to support the evolution of global investment migration.

The IMC Board has appointed Lisa Chanesman as its inaugural Chairperson. Lisa, as an IMC member and holder of the IMC certification, comes to the IMC with over 17 years’ experience managing her migration law practice whilst contributing her expertise to various government and private advisory boards.

Lisa lectured in the Migration law programme at Australia’s prestigious Australian National University for
eight years. She then accepted the role as the National Lecturer in Charge of Migration Law at Australian Catholic University, where she developed and integrated the first online law programme for the Thomas Moore Law School.

During this time, Lisa also led a Community of Practice of migration law professionals. This experience, along with Lisa’s academic and professional background makes her the perfect fit as Chairperson of the IMC Communities of Practice.

Lisa’s vision for the CoPs is one of collaboration, innovation and thought leadership for the benefit of the Investment Migration Council. As chairperson, she will play a crucial role in guiding the different CoP chapters, facilitating its activities, and ensuring that it achieves its goals.

“Communities of Practice serve as collaborative platforms where members can formally share best practices, explore new ideas and engage in meaningful conversations within a specific area of interest within the Investment Migration Council. Our aim is to foster a culture of thought leadership, shared learning, innovation and professional development across the IMC’s global membership.”

Communities of Practice will consist of three to five members each. Each one will be facilitated by a CoP Leader. IMC CEO Bruno L’ecuyer said: “I encourage all IMC members to apply for membership to a Community of Practice that aligns with their expertise and interest and where they can contribute most meaningfully. The recent establishment of new CoPs marks a significant step forward, emphasising the IMC’s commitment to enhancing professional standards and knowledge sharing for all members.”

The CoPs embody the IMC’s vision for a united and forward-thinking profession. By addressing critical areas and engaging diverse expertise, these groups will not only strengthen the IMC but also empower professionals to navigate the complexities of investment migration with confidence and purpose.

More information on this new initiative can be obtained from: www.investmentmigration.org/ about/communities-of-practice

An article written by Brandon Daniels, CEO of Exiger and Dario Aquilina, Head of Business and Digital Services at the Investment Migration Council for the IM Yearbook 2025.

The Investment Migration Council (IMC) has taken a bold and visionary step in launching its Due Diligence service aptly named the IM Intelligence Hub (IMIH), addressing the evolving regulatory landscape in investment migration.

This initiative aligns with the European Union’s latest antimoney laundering (AML) directives, which now categorise investment migration operators as obliged entities under AMLD6. As the EU enforces stricter rules to combat money laundering and counter the financing of terrorism (CFT), IM operators face heightened scrutiny to ensure compliance and uphold integrity.

To enhance the efficiency and reliability of this new service, the IMC has partnered with Exiger, a global leader in AI driven risk and compliance solutions. Exiger’s award-winning technology platform, DDIQ, is an AI-powered due diligence solution that greatly enhances and accelerates organised fact-finding, enabling confident and timely decision-making.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Investment Migration Council, bringing Exiger’s award winning AI platform to their membership. Together we’ll help the investment migration industry meet the increased complexity and demand for greater due diligence efforts. This collaboration is a natural fit for Exiger and the IMC as we both share a commitment to integrity and transparency,” says Exiger’s CEO Brandon Daniels.

By integrating Exiger’s advanced capabilities, the IMC reinforces the integrity of its due diligence processes, ensuring members can confidently navigate complex regulatory challenges.

“Exiger was the first to bring technology-enabled solutions to Investment Migration risk management. This partnership with the IMC now brings a harmonised approach to IM programs and industry practitioners alike in navigating their risk, charting a path to a safer and more sustainable future for the industry,” Mr Daniels asserts.

This service, which IMC will offer at a competitive introductory rate, underscores IMC’s commitment to strengthening trust, transparency, and professionalism within the investment migration sector.

To explore the nuances of this new service, Dario Aquilina IMCM Cert(IM), IMC Head of Business & Digital Services, shares insights on how IMC’s Due Diligence solution stands out in the global investment migration arena.

What inspired the Investment Migration Council (IMC) to launch the IMC Intelligence Hub, and how does it fit into the organisation’s mission?

Our mission has always been to set global standards and promote transparency and ethical behaviour in the investment migration field. The new Due Diligence service builds on this foundation by offering a superior quality, affordable, and rapid solution to address the growing complexities of compliance and risk management faced by practitioners and clients. This addition strengthens our role as a trusted global platform.

What differentiates IMC’s Due Diligence service from existing offerings in the market?

Our service is powered by Exiger’s DDIQ technology solution. After thorough analysis, IMC determined DDIQ to be the most advanced, cutting-edge AI technology, which ensures optimal, qualitative results. Unlike traditional methods, it’s fully automated, enabling us to deliver risk assessments with unparalleled depth, speed and accuracy. This combination of advanced technology and affordability makes our service cost-effective and highly competitive.

How will the integration of AI technology enhance the efficiency and reliability of the Due Diligence process?

Exiger’s AI allows us to streamline the risk analysis process by rapidly ingesting and interpreting data from multiple sources, including premium data sources, open web, and proprietary lists.

The system uses configurable risk rules to organise and rank information by relevance. This reduces false positives and provides clear, actionable insights, empowering businesses to make confident decisions quickly.

Could you elaborate on the types of clients or scenarios where IMC’s Due Diligence service will prove most beneficial?

Our service is ideal for investment migration practitioners and compliance teams managing Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements and third-party partnerships. It also facilitates ongoing monitoring. It is precious for those operating in complex regulatory environments or emerging markets, where discreet, local expertise is often crucial.

How does this initiative align with IMC’s broader goals of fostering trust and professionalism within the investment migration industry?

By offering a robust, streamlined Due Diligence approach, this initiative supports IMC’s broader objectives of fostering trust and professionalism within the investment migration industry.

By adopting this platform, stakeholders, including governments, can reduce processing times, enhance efficiency, and lower costs. IMC encourages governments to recommend licensed agents and marketing agents to make use of this platform, which is continuously updated with the latest directives and legislation from the EU and the US.

Through the provision of a comprehensive due diligence service, we aim to raise industry standards and strengthen trust among all stakeholders. This initiative reflects our commitment to equipping members with the necessary tools to not only enhance their compliance efforts but also to establish themselves as responsible and ethical participants in the global market.

What long-term impact do you anticipate this service will have on IMC’s membership and the wider investment migration community?

We expect it to solidify IMC’s role as the sector’s preeminent authority in the field by offering members a valuable resource that drives both business growth and regulatory compliance. Over time, this will contribute to increased transparency and professionalism in investment migration, benefiting clients, practitioners, and governments alike.

This article was originally printed in the IIUSA Regional Center Business Journal’s November 2024 edition, written by George McElwee, founding member and managing partner of Commonwealth Strategic Partners (CSP) and Aaron Grau, Founder of Grau & Associates, LLC.

IIUSA has long wanted to establish better communications with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). As IIUSA’s members know, meaningful communications with USCIS are non-existent. After much discussion and exploration on possible solutions, IIUSA conceived the idea to pursue better communications with USCIS by having Congress establish a federal advisory committee.

After many drafts and exchanges of information with IIUSA, this past February, Congressmen Greg Stanton (D-AZ-4), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), Lance Gooden (R-TX- 5), and Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) introduced bipartisan legislation, H.R. 7220, EB-5 Regional Centre Programme Advisory Committee Authorisation Act.

This legislation intends to break the communication log jam with USCIS and provide a better path forward for the EB-5 ecosystem (regional centres, mayors, state and county economic development officers, and representatives from the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Commerce). IIUSA was seeking a mechanism to allow our members the opportunity to engage USCIS and to ensure that the industry could participate in meaningful meetings and dialogue with the agency.

Establishing a federal advisory committee via legislation is one tool that IIUSA identified to achieve improved communications. Advisory committees, which have been used successfully in efforts like this in the past, not only give the public and industry partners a seat at the table with an agency, but they also assist Congress with policymaking via the recommendations offered at required mandatory meetings.

Since the committee is established by Congress, it is responsible for reporting back to Congress on their progress and the agency is held accountable. At IIUSA’s urging, H.R .7220, EB-5 Regional Centre Programme Advisory Committee Authorisation Act, would establish an advisory committee composed of experts in the EB-5 Regional Centre Programme space.

The advisory committee, hosted by USCIS, will bring together Regional Centre owners, and state and local officials to communicate, coordinate, and advise UCSIS on administering the Regional Centre Programme. Regional Centres sitting on the Committee would be capable of interacting directly with the USCIS EB-5 leadership.

While USCIS has facilitated several ’listening sessions’ and appeared to field questions about the Regional Centre Programme’s operations, these engagements fall short of meaningful dialogue.

For those IIUSA members who have had opportunities to work with other federal agencies, USCIS’s reluctance to engage, answer questions, or effectively promulgate rules is anomalous. Their decision to function in their own silo is outside the norm.

USCIS’s decision to remain closed to stakeholders is seemingly based on its misinterpretation of section 107 of the Reform and Integrity Act. Section 107(a) mandates that USCIS shall act impartially and may not give preferential treatment to any entity, organisation, or individual in connection with any aspect of the immigrant visa programme described in section 203(b)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1153(b)(5).

While this mandate at first glance seems broad, in reviewing the complete text, it becomes clear that the focus of section 107 is to prohibit case-specific preferential treatment to specifically defined EB-5 program beneficiaries and to ensure that more general information about the Programme’s administration which is provided to specific stakeholders also be shared promptly with the industry at large.

In recognition of this prohibition, HR 7220 specifically states that, “[t]he Advisory Committee shall not make any petition or case-specific recommendations to the programme…” What is decidedly not prohibited by the RIA’s section 107 is communicating, meeting, or engaging with individuals, industry stakeholders and industry associations seeking to engage the agency on policy guidance.

The advisory committee’s primary task is to, “advise, consult with, report to, and make recommendations to the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding the EB-5 Regional Centre Programme.” Such recommendations are not required to be taken, but they are a matter of public record and they, along with the professional deliberations and conversations had to make them are a precise reason the bill was introduced in the first place: ’meaningful communications’.

IIUSA earnestly believes that meaningful dialogue, in which USCIS and the EB-5 stakeholders have mutual respect and can exchange ideas without the spectre of lawsuits, is a better path forward for the EB-5 ecosystem.

The advisory committee can facilitate not only dialogue, but also a new relationship between USCIS and EB-5 stakeholders that shares the goals set out by Congress, i.e. economic development and job creation.

With reauthorisation of the EB-5 Regional Centre Programme not too far off, the legislation states that the advisory committee will be in place, “notwithstanding any lapse or termination of the EB-5 Regional Centre Programme,” to assure that USCIS has the benefit of clear guidance during times when it would arguably need it most. Due to numerous factors, it is unlikely that the legislation will be acted on before the end of the 118th Congress. The bill will be reintroduced next Congress and one of IIUSA’s asks of Congressional offices will be to lend their support as a cosponsor and also to have a Senate companion bill introduced.

This has been a focus of our three advocacy days on Capitol Hill this year and IIUSA will continue its work to educate policymakers about the benefits of EB-5 and what is necessary to protect this program and make it work better. HR 7220 is a sound, good government, bi-partisan public policy that would finally deliver meaningful communications with USCIS. It is born out of a sincere desire to make the EB-5 Regional Center Program function better for everyone involved: investors, regional centres, and yes, USCIS.

If you would like more information about HR 7220 or the legislative process, please contact IIUSA’s executive director, Aaron Grau at aaron.grau@iiusa.org or IIUSA’s lobbyist, George McElwee at gmcelwee@commonwealthstrategic.com.

An article written by Kristina Lapshina, Business Development Director at Quadrantis Capital for the IM Yearbook 2025.

Kristina Lapshina, Business Development Director at Quadrantis Capital, delves into the strategic investment opportunities available for international investors aiming to secure Portugal’s coveted Golden Visa.

What are the types of investment funds Quadrantis Capital currently promotes for the Portuguese Golden Visa programme?

Quadrantis Capital offers three investment funds tailored for the Portuguese Golden Visa program, each carefully structured to meet residency requirements while delivering stable returns.

The Quadrantis Private Equity Fund prioritises security by focusing on acquiring bonds and credit from tier-1 companies, offering fixed returns for investors seeking lower-risk options.

The Quadrantis Private Equity Hospitality Fund targets Portugal’s tourism boom, investing in hospitality management companies, in particular luxury hotels and resorts that align with the country’s strengths as a travel destination.

Lastly, the Portuguese Energy Efficiency Investment Fund II supports renewable energy, a sector in which Portugal ranks fourth in EU production, aligning with the nation’s sustainability goals and benefiting from EU funding support.

Each fund complies with the Golden Visa’s criteria, including the requirement that 60% of invested capital is directed toward assets within Portugal.

What strategies does Quadrantis Capital employ to ensure that investors achieve financial growth and risk mitigation?

Quadrantis Capital employs a highly diversified portfolio strategy, currently offering over 13 funds across sectors such as agro-business, private equity, innovation, real estate, financial project and clean energy.

This broad range provides balanced exposure to different industries and asset classes, allowing investors to mitigate risk while maximising growth.

Quadrantis’ Managing Partners invest personally in these funds, ensuring alignment with investor interests.

How does Quadrantis Capital adapt its portfolio offerings to remain competitive and attractive for investors aiming for long-term benefits from the Portuguese Golden Visa programme?

Quadrantis Capital proactively adapts its portfolio to align with emerging trends and evolving investor needs, prioritizing industries with strong growth trajectories.

With a commitment to transparency, fixed returns, and secure investments, Quadrantis remains a competitive choice for investors looking for reliable, future focused opportunities under the Portuguese Golden Visa programme.

We maintain a carefully diversified range of funds, giving investors the flexibility to select options that align with their specific goals.

Our close relationships with investors and partners set Quadrantis apart; we prioritise personalised, direct contact over scale, offering a responsive, flexible approach supported by in-depth business knowledge Investors choose Quadrantis not only for the strength of our offerings but also for our commitment to understanding and supporting their unique investment goals.

An article written by Mehdi Kadiri, Vice President at Mercan for the IM Yearbook 2025.

Born to a diplomat father, Executive Vice President at Mercan, Mehdi Kadiri grew up moving to a new country every four years, gaining a deep understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives.

Mr Kadiri’s global upbringing, combined with professional experience across three continents, has profoundly shaped his approach to Mercan’s strategies for fostering cross-border collaborations.

What do you consider the key milestones that have defined Mercan’s evolution?

In 1989 our chairman, Jerry Morgan became one of the pioneers of the Canada Immigrant Investor Program. This initial success allowed us to expand into the U.S. market through the EB-5 programme.

In 2015, we entered the Portuguese market. Mercan quickly emerged as a leading player in the €280K and €350K Golden Visa real estate rehabilitation segment.

To date, we’ve raised over €1.2 billion, partnered with more than 4,000 investors, and developed 31 hotels. This initiative has attracted internationally renowned brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham, IHG and Hard Rock, cementing Mercan as the fourth-largest hotel group in Portugal, employing over 600 people.

When the real estate category ceased to qualify for the Golden Visa in Portugal, we launched a successful hospitality-focused Golden Visa fund. Additionally, we introduced a ground breaking capital increase category, making Mercan the only player in the industry offering this innovative option.

We also adapted quickly to Greece’s evolving Golden Visa market, focusing on the €250K investment option even after the timeshares category was removed. We are now pioneering two new €250K categories: the conversion of industrial buildings into multi-residential units and the transformation of historical buildings into residential properties.

Mercan’s success is built on its ability to innovate, adapt swiftly, and consistently deliver exceptional value to investors and communities, contributing to a balanced economic footprint.

The Portugal Golden Visa Fund 2024 has garnered significant attention for its innovative approach to investment and residency. What sets this initiative apart from previous programmes?

Unlike traditional real estate based programs, this fund focuses on hospitality investment, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable, high-impact ventures.

By directing funds into Portugal’s hospitality sector, it fosters economic growth while creating significant direct and indirect employment opportunities. Mercan’s track record includes raising over €1.2 billion and spearheading projects that have rehabilitated urban areas and established new benchmarks in ethical investment.

With Mercan Group’s recent focus on investments in Greece, what are the unique opportunities and challenges you foresee in this market?

Greece’s Golden Visa programme offers an exciting opportunity for Mercan. Our innovative projects, such as converting industrial buildings into multi-residential units and transforming historical properties into residences, tap into niche markets while aligning with Greece’s urban development goals.

Challenges like regulatory complexities and timely project delivery are addressed through Mercan’s proven expertise and robust operational framework.

This expansion aligns perfectly with Mercan’s objectives of diversifying its portfolio and creating impactful investment opportunities.

Our 400+ unit industrial-to residential conversion, Greece’s largest Golden Visa initiative to date, reaffirms our industry leadership while contributing to Greece’s economic revitalisation.

An article written by Afi Ventour, Managing Partner of Afi Ventour & Co., and CEO of Global Services Inc., for the IM Yearbook 2025.

In the interview below, Managing Partner of Afi Ventour & Co., and CEO of Global Services Inc., Afi Ventour focuses on why Investment Migration is a streamlined approach to achieving citizenship in a foreign country and why it has been an attractive option for many.

The desire for a better quality of life and access to improved social services such as education and healthcare has enticed people.

Another factor is the increased levels of globalisation due to the world’s increased connectivity. People now fancy themselves global citizens and are eager to invest internationally and diversify their investment portfolios.

Perhaps one of the greatest draws of Investment Migration is the opportunity to benefit from various tax benefits offered by individual countries. It is no secret that some countries’ tax regimes are stricter or more conservative than others, which can be the bane of investment forward individuals’ existence.

Countries with business-forward tax incentives tend to attract higher levels of IM. These incentives allow investors to better plan against political and economic instability. This point feeds into the final factor worth mentioning: perceived and actual geo-political instability.

Amid geopolitical tensions, High net-worth individuals are increasingly drawn to politically stable countries that mitigate risks of sudden policy changes or social unrest threatening their assets or businesses.

Nations like the UAE, Monaco, and certain Caribbean jurisdictions, including Grenada, also continue to gain prominence due to their favorable fiscal policies and welcoming investment climates.

To protect assets and investments or even as contingency plans, people gravitate towards IM to better navigate the uncertainties of the global market.

As IM continues to develop and grow, countries begin to separate and distinguish themselves from the competition in a bid to become the most coveted IM destination.

Greece has been shown to be an attractive offer for 2025’s IM attention with its Golden Visa. In the Middle East, the UAE attracts investors through its zero-income tax policy, and strategic global connectivity. Asia-Pacific, Australia and Singapore appeal to those seeking economic stability and high-quality living standards, while Malaysia’s MM2H program is regaining momentum with revised terms.

The Caribbean has also become a prime location for investment migration due to having one of the lowest financial investment requirements. Grenada in particular offers a unique advantage as its status as a U.S. E-2 treaty country which allows a national of a treaty country to move and gain citizenship in the USA with the aim to open and start a business.

Finally, Caribbean countries such as Grenada are becoming hot spots for migration due to low crime rates and cheaper education.

“Amid geopolitical tensions, HNWIs are increasingly drawn to politically stable countries that mitigate risks of sudden policy changes or social unrest threatening their assets or businesses.”

An article written by Mark Laferla Jr, Joint Managing Director of Laferla Insurance Group for the IM Yearbook 2025.

As Laferla Insurance Group celebrates its 40th anniversary, Joint Managing Director Mark Laferla Jr. speaks about how the company has grown ove the years, and its foray into the investment migration industry.

Laferla started out as an agency representing various Lloyds of London underwriters back in the 1980s, initially focusing primarily on motor insurance in Malta. Gradually the areas of business widened to commercial and industrial property, and, in 1987, Laferla became one of the first health insurance providers on the island.

How would you describe the company’s key milestones?

A key milestone along company’s journey was in 2014, when we got involved with the investment migration industry, which was still in its infancy in Malta.

We quickly established ourselves as the go to insurance partner of choice for all leading immigration firms, onboarding over 85% of the applicants under the Maltese CBI and RBI programmes as clients of the group. A position we are proud to maintain 10 years on.

In 2024, the group was proud to launch a state-of-the-art telemedicine platform called Digimed along with two prominent local partners. The group also announced the upcoming launch of Laferla Money, in Q1 of 2025.

What measures is Laferla taking to ensure compliance and maintain the trust of its clients?

We strive to maintain ease of doing business and invest heavily in technological tools to streamline internal processes and keep our turnaround times quick and our processes simple.

In this way, we keep our clients and partners happy while ensuring full compliance with the rules regulating our industry. We have worked hard for the past four decades to build a strong reputation of reliability, and we make sure that we maintain this trust in everything we do.

How does Laferla leverage its family-run business model to foster a unique corporate culture and ensure exceptional service standards?

We are truly a family business. My brothers and I run the business, and our father, who founded the company, remains Chairman of the board.

We are proud to say that our entire team shares our vision and corporate values – Family, Loyalty, Credibility, Stability and Quality. This is what allows us to maintain the highest level of service in all areas of operation within the group and what ensures that every person in the team is doing things the Laferla way.

What are Laferla’s strategic priorities for the next decade?

Apart from our launch of Laferla Money and Digimed, internationalisation is another key priority for the group, and we are actively working on developing our proprietary technologies to position ourselves as a leading European Insurtech brand.

An article written by Mary Tsigkanou, CEO of Synergia SA for the IM Yearbook 2025.

Greece continues to stand out with innovative immigration policies, particularly in its Golden Visa programme. Golden Visa Greece by Energopiisi SA has observed a steady increase in interest from global investors, making it a prime gateway to European residency.

Established in 2013, the Greek Golden Visa programme is designed to stimulate economic growth by offering residency to non-EU investors who make qualifying investments in Greece. This visa grants the right to reside in Greece, along with visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Zone.

While real estate remains a primary pathway, Greece has expanded its Golden Visa programme to include additional investment routes.

These are some of the new pathways available: Greek government bonds and corporate shares, fixed bank deposits in Greek financial institutions and investment in Greek enterprises and startups.

The Greek government has also made significant strides in digitising and streamlining the Golden Visa application process.

Recognising the rise of remote work, Greece has introduced a Digital Nomad Visa. Although this visa does not grant residency directly, it is a practical option for those interested in experiencing Greek life before committing to residency through investment.

Investors can now extend residency benefits to spouses, children, and dependent parents.

One of the standout features of Greece’s Golden Visa programme is the low investment threshold. At €250,000, this option provides a highly accessible route to European residency compared to other residency by-investment programmes.

The majority of Golden Visa applications come through the real estate investment route. Investors must purchase property worth at least €250,000, and with Greece’s dynamic property market, this investment often appreciates, providing an additional financial advantage.

While the Greek Golden Visa itself does not offer direct citizenship, it provides a clear path toward long-term residency and eventual citizenship.

After seven years of continuous residency, Golden Visa holders are eligible to apply for Greek citizenship, gaining access to the full rights and privileges of an EU citizen. This includes the right to live and work in any EU country.

For many, Greece’s appeal lies not only in the financial benefits of the Golden Visa but also in the quality of life it offers. Furthermore, with access to the Schengen Zone, Golden Visa holders can travel seamlessly across 26 European countries, which adds immense value for business travelers and families alike.

At Golden Visa Greece by Energopiisi SA, we are committed to helping investors navigate these new opportunities with personalised, professional support.

The €250,000 Golden Visa remains one of the most accessible and advantageous residency programmes in Europe.

“One of the standout features of Greece’s Golden Visa programme is the low investment threshold. At €250,000, this option provides a highly accessible route to European residency compared to other residency-by investment programmes.”

For investors seeking a competitive entry point into Europe, Greece’s Golden Visa offers unparalleled value and long-term potential.