Obtaining Indian citizenship by investment is possible through a special scheme that allows the applicant to gain permanent residency status and, later on, apply for Indian citizenship. Our lawyer in India can help you apply for citizenship via the investment route in 2026.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Nationalities accepted (EU/Non-EU) | EU and non-EU |
Business investment option (YES/NO) | Yes |
Real estate investment option (YES/NO) | No |
|
Other investment options (if available) | No |
| Living requirement in India | No |
| Residence or direct citizenship option | Permanent residency |
| Direct immigration with family members (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Family members allowed to join the program | Yes |
| Residence visa/citizenship processing time (approx.) | Minimum 3 working days for the visa |
| Additional financial requirements for family members (YES/NO) | No |
| Timeframe for obtaining citizenship/residency by investment |
Permanent residency is provided following the confirmation of the investment Citizenship can be acquired through naturalization after 11-14 years of lawful stay |
| Dual citizenship permitted (YES/NO) | No |
| Reasons to choose India |
Low living costs A growing economy English is largely spoken Enriching cultural experience |
| Personal income tax rate | Progressive rates between 0% and 30% according to the taxable income |
| Visa free travel to other countries (approx. number of countries) | > 20 |
Table of Contents
Who can obtain permanent residency status as a foreigner in India?
Under the Scheme for the granting of Permanent Residence Status, foreign investors who commit to making a mandatory minimum investment in India can be granted permanent residency directly, without having to go through temporary residency.
The experts at our law firm in India would like to inform investors that, while there is no scheme to obtain Indian citizenship by investment directly, this is the first step towards obtaining the status of Indian national for a foreigner.
What is the minimum investment amount?
Our lawyers highlight the fact that the permanent resident status is granted to those who make an investment of at least:
- 10 crore Indian Rupees (INR) within 18 months (approximately 1,050,000 US Dollars);
- 25 crore Indian Rupees (INR) within 30 months (the approximate equivalent of 2,625,000 US Dollars).
What effects must the investment produce?
In addition to the minimum investment amount mentioned above, those who ultimately want to obtain Indian citizenship by investment are also asked to ensure that their chosen investment route will create employment for at least 20 resident Indians in each financial year.
Can the spouse join the foreign investor?
Yes. Under the Permanent Residency Status Scheme, the spouse and/or dependents of the residence permit holder can join him or her in India.
Obtaining Indian citizenship as a result of this permanent residency status will be subject to additional requirements for each applicant.
How long is the permanent residence permit for investors valid for?
The permanent resident card granted under the investment scheme is valid for 10 years and allows for multiple entries into the country.
Can I renew my permanent residence permit as an investor in India?
Yes. The permanent residence status can be renewed for another 10 years. In fact, this is mandatory for those who are ultimately interested in obtaining Indian citizenship by investment.
How can I apply for citizenship in 2026 following my permanent residence in India as an investor?
Indian citizenship by acquisition is granted to foreign investors who have resided in the country for at least 12 years before submitting their application.
The application for obtaining citizenship by acquisition includes the following documents:
- Valid foreign passport;
- Valid residence permit (renewed accordingly after the 10-year initial period for foreign investors);
- Bank statement;
- Affidavits from Indian citizens attesting to the applicant’s good character;
- Two language certificates attesting to satisfactory Indian language knowledge.
Please keep in mind that the list of documents may differ on a case-by-case basis, as the authorities may request additional information.
The application file is submitted to the specialized department of the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs.
Are there any limitations on the permanent residency scheme for investors?
Pakistani citizens or third-country nationals of Pakistani origin cannot apply for permanent resident status under the minimum investment scheme.
Does India allow dual nationality?
No, India does not allow dual citizenship. Foreign investors who naturalize after having resided in the country for the minimum period under the investment scheme are asked to renounce their former nationality.
Contact our lawyers in India for more information about the route to obtain Indian citizenship by investment in 2026.