Investment Immigration to Ukraine: How to Get Permanent Residency

In an era where investors seek new opportunities for residence and citizenship, Ukraine emerges as a strategic, dynamic destination. While Ukraine does not have a formal "Golden Visa" program like Spain or Portugal, it offers a practical and accessible pathway for investment immigration.

Foreigners can obtain permanent residence through investment in Ukraine by investing as little as $100,000 USD. This legal mechanism allows individuals to establish a foothold in one of Europe’s most promising emerging markets, securing both business opportunities and long-term residence rights.

In this article, we explain the full process, legal framework, and practical strategies for obtaining a Ukraine investment residence permit through real investment — while avoiding common pitfalls.

Understanding Investment Immigration in Ukraine

Investment immigration Ukraine is based on the idea that foreign nationals who make significant contributions to the economy by investing capital can qualify for fast-track immigration Ukraine benefits, including permanent residency.

Unlike in some countries where real estate purchases alone qualify, Ukraine’s system is focused on business investment — contributing directly to the country's economic development.

Ukraine offers one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe and provides a fast and relatively straightforward route for those looking to relocate through economic contribution.

Legal Basis for Obtaining Permanent Residence Through Investment

Ukrainian Law on Investment-Based Immigration

The primary legal basis for Ukraine investment immigration is established under the Law of Ukraine "On Immigration" and supporting regulations from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Specifically, foreign investors are eligible for permanent residence if they invest at least $100,000 USD into the Ukrainian economy.

Investment Thresholds: $100,000 and Real Estate Options

The minimum investment amount is $100,000 USD, which must be:

• Contributed to the authorized capital of a Ukrainian company;
• Registered in compliance with the National Bank of Ukraine regulations;
• Properly documented through official channels.

While direct real estate investment alone is not sufficient, you can channel your investment through a company that purchases and manages real estate assets. This approach combines the benefits of property ownership with the immigration process.

We have detailed this approach further in our guide: Legal Pathway to Permanent Residency in Ukraine Through Investment

Difference Between Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence in Ukraine

• Temporary Residence Permit is usually valid for 1 year and renewable; it is tied to specific activities like work or study.
• Permanent Residence Permit grants unlimited stay, visa-free entry, and greater rights in business and property ownership.

Investment immigration provides a direct route to permanent residency — avoiding the constant need for visa renewals.

Requirements for Ukraine Investment Residence Permit

Who Qualifies for Investment-Based Permanent Residency?

Eligible applicants include:

• Non-residents making qualifying investments in Ukraine;
• Entrepreneurs seeking to develop new businesses;
• Investors aiming to manage assets, including real estate, technology, or manufacturing;
• Family members (spouse and minor children) of the principal investor.

Eligible Types of Investments

Acceptable investment types include:

• Contribution to an existing Ukrainian company's charter capital;
• Creation of a wholly owned subsidiary or branch;
• Financing business activities that create jobs or stimulate economic sectors such as IT, real estate, agriculture, or construction.

Note: Investment must be legally registered and pass Ukrainian banking compliance (e.g., currency control regulations).

Legal Documents and Proof of Funds Needed

Applicants must prepare:

• Bank transfer confirmations;
• Proof of company registration or ownership;
• Tax identification number (TIN) registration;
• Immigration permit application;
• Documents proving the legal origin of funds.

Proper documentation is critical for the success of the application — mistakes here can result in rejections.

How to Invest and Obtain Residency in Ukraine

Choosing the Right Investment Asset

Choosing the right sector is crucial for success. Options include:

• Real estate development projects;
• IT startups and technology companies;
• Agricultural production;
• Commercial properties in Kyiv and major regional centers.

Each sector carries different regulatory nuances, requiring careful legal assessment.

Legal Support and Due Diligence

Given the complexity of Ukrainian investment regulations, professional legal support is essential. Our firm conducts due diligence on target investments to verify:

• Legal ownership;
• Regulatory compliance;
• Absence of hidden liabilities.

This process protects investors and ensures the immigration application is supported by compliant documents.

Application Process for Permanent Residence Permit

The standard application process involves:

1. Obtaining an immigration permit from the Ministry of Economy.
2. Submitting an investment confirmation package.
3. Applying for a permanent residence permit with the State Migration Service.
4. Receiving an ID card confirming permanent resident status.

The overall timeline varies but generally takes 6 to 9 months.

Key Challenges and How to Avoid Risks

Common Legal Pitfalls in Investment Immigration

Typical mistakes investors make:

• Using improper investment structures;
• Failing to register funds correctly under NBU (National Bank of Ukraine) rules;
• Investing in non-compliant projects;
• Inadequate proof of investment source.

These errors can lead to delayed or rejected applications.

How Intermarium Minimizes Legal Risks for Investors

At Intermarium Law Firm, we offer:

• Full assistance in company formation and registration;
• Bank compliance coordination for investment registration;
• Investment due diligence;
• Document preparation for immigration authorities;
• End-to-end project management to ensure a smooth process.

Our experienced team ensures that all formalities are fulfilled to maximize approval chances.

Real Case Study: How Intermarium Helped a Taiwanese Investor Obtain Residency

Recently, Intermarium Law Firm assisted a Taiwanese entrepreneur in securing permanent residency in Ukraine by investing $120,000 into a Kyiv-based logistics company.

We handled:

• Company incorporation;
• Investment transfer compliance;
• Immigration permit processing;
• Permanent residence application submission.

From the initial consultation to obtaining the Ukraine investment residence permit, the process took only 7 months — allowing the investor to relocate to Ukraine and start operating legally without visa restrictions.

Why Choose Intermarium for Ukraine Investment Immigration?

• 100% investment compliance ensured;
• End-to-end immigration support;
• Tailored investment structuring for maximum legal security;
• Experience with non-standard cases (e.g., family relocation, real estate-backed investments).

Our track record and detailed knowledge of the immigration system make us the best choice for anyone serious about investment immigration to Ukraine.

FAQ

Is there a Ukraine Golden Visa program like in other countries?

Ukraine does not offer a formal Ukraine Golden Visa program. However, the investment immigration program effectively serves a similar purpose — offering permanent residence through investment without the need for continuous reapplication.

Can I get permanent residency in Ukraine by investing in real estate?

Yes, but indirectly. By creating or investing in a Ukrainian company that operates in real estate, you can qualify under the Ukraine investment residence permit rules. Direct purchase of personal residential property does not itself qualify.

What documents are required for Ukraine investment immigration?

Documents typically required include:

• Proof of investment transfer;
• Business registration documents;
• Tax ID in Ukraine;
• Passport copies;
• Immigration permit application forms;
• Proof of lawful source of funds;
• Police clearance certificate (non-criminal record);
• Proof of residence address abroad.

Proper preparation of these documents is crucial for a successful application.

Ready to start your investment immigration journey to Ukraine?
Contact Intermarium Law Firm today for a personalized consultation and expert legal guidance.