We're living in a Global Village, where high-tech communications, Internet banking and international companies mean you are only ever a click away from your hard-earned cash.  It's now easier than ever to put your money into foreign companies, and the chance of making a profit in the burgeoning overseas markets has lured many British investors away from the saturated domestic economy. But what if you want more than just the chance to invest your money? Governments in most countries are extremely eager to attracted foreign investors to their shores, offering lucrative benefits and financial assistance. Indeed, the top five overseas destinations for British migrants all offer an investment visa, and with a tightening of the work and family visa categories, it could be a sensible option for those with a lump sum ready for investment.

UNITED STATES
Each year 10,000 Immigrant Investor Visas (EB-5 Visas) are made available to those looking emigrate to America. The minimum amount of capital investment is US$1,000,000 (approx. £570,000), but this is reduced to US$500,000 (approx. £285,000) for some 'targeted employment areas' where unemployment is  150 per cent over the national average. An investment in the US is about more than just injecting cash into the economy, though. The American government want immigrants with the ability to create employment for US citizens. This means the investment you provide must lead to the employment of at least ten people, and ideally create a business. There is also a less committed option: a non-immigrant Visa (E-2) requires a 'substantial' investment in a new or existing business, and given a promising venture an investment of just $100,000 (£57,000) could suffice. Should profitability requirements be met, the E-2 can be renewed every three to five years.

CANADA
Canada also offers an Entrepreneur and Self-Employed persons visa. You have to prove you have a net worth of CDN$800,000 (approx. £401,000), the relevant business experience and the ability to invest CDN$400,000 (approx. £200,500). If so, you may be granted a Business Class Investor Visa under the Immigrant Investor Program (IIP). Unlike the United States, there is no obligation to start a business, and your money is returned, without interest, after five years.
Note that Canada also offers an Entrepreneur and a Self-Employed Persons visa.

SOUTH AFRICA
Currently, owning property and investing in South Africa is a fairly easy process, but this may change as some politicians push for absent investors to be prevented from owning land in SA. To live in South Africa as an investor, however a temporary Business Permit (B11783) can be granted every two years for a minimum investment of ZAR 2.5 million (£232,000) and a business proposal that creates jobs for at least five South Africans.

AUSTRALIA
The Business Investor Visa in Australia operates in two stages. After meeting the initial requirement of a net asset of AUS$1.12 million (approx £475,000) and proving a successful business track record, you are eligible for a Provisional Investor Visa. Your money is placed in an Australian Government Bond for four years. To get a Permanent Visa an investment of at least AUS$750,000 (approx. £318,000) in Australia for at least four years is necessary. State sponsorship is a real bonus when applying under the Investor Category, as well as having owned a business worth the equivalent of AUS$750,000 prior to emigrating.

NEW ZEALAND
The Investor Category Visa is open to anyone with NZ$2,000,000 (approx. £820,000) to invest. Again, there is emphasis not just on investment, but job creation and starting a business. Applicants will have to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) form similar to those trying to enter through the Skilled Migrant Category. If your EoI is selected from the pool, the money will be transferred to a New Zealand bank account in the investor's name, then into a Government account to invest for five years. If a business opportunity arises in New Zealand the funds can be withdrawn, otherwise the money is returned with reasonable interest.
 
A visit to the official immigration websites of the countries covered on this page is a good place to start gathering further investment info.

United States
Canada
South Africa
Australia
New Zealand

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