Monaco Golden Visa, Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI), Monaco Investor Visa, Monaco Investment Visa, Monaco Economic Residency, Monaco Bank Deposit, Monaco Real Estate Investment, Monaco Real Estate Lease/Rental, Monaco Property Investment, Monaco Property Lease/Rental, Monaco Second Residency, Monaco tax, Monaco Permanent Residency (PR), Monaco Citizenship, Monaco Dual Citizenship

Monaco Golden Visa - Residency by Investment (RBI) Program 2026
A Complete Guide

Minimum: EUR 500,000 +

Processing Time: 9 - 12 months

Return to Golden Visa (Residency by Investment) Countries 2026

Introduction

Monaco, renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, political stability, and attractive tax policies, is a prime destination for High-Net-Worth Individuals seeking residency in an exclusive European enclave. The Monaco Golden Visa provides a well-structured Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI) pathway. This route allows investors to gain residency through substantial financial commitments; a Monaco Bank Deposit and, Monaco Real Estate Investment or a Monaco Property Lease/Rental agreement.

The Monaco Economic Residency program grants access to a prestigious lifestyle, allowing individuals to benefit from Monaco’s zero personal income tax policy and high quality of life. This guide covers all essential aspects, including financial and general requirements, application procedures, family inclusion, and key advantages of becoming a Monaco resident.

Country Profile

Nestled along the French Riviera, Monaco is the second smallest country in the world but boasts one of the highest standards of living. Monaco offers exceptional political stability and a strong economy, driven by key sectors such as finance, tourism, and real estate. Residents benefit from a highly attractive tax system, with no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax. The principality boasts an outstanding quality of life, featuring world-class healthcare, education, and security. Its strategic location near Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport ensures easy access to Europe. With a pleasant Mediterranean climate and over 300 days of sunshine annually, Monaco is an ideal place to live and work. As a prestigious business and investment hub, it attracts entrepreneurs, investors, and financial institutions. Additionally, Monaco is renowned for its unparalleled safety, having one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Residents enjoy an exclusive luxury lifestyle, complete with high-end shopping, fine dining, cultural events, and elite social circles.

Official Name: Principality of Monaco
Capital: Monaco (city-state)
Population: Approximately 39,000 (as of recent estimates)
Area: 2.1 square kilometres (0.81 sq. mi)
Location: A city-state located on the French Riviera in Western Europe, bordered by France and the Mediterranean Sea.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Official Language: French
Spoken Languages: French (predominantly), Italian, English, Monégasque
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1; Daylight Saving Time: UTC +2
Driving Side: Right
Climate: Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in January to 79°F (26°C) in August.
Government: Constitutional monarchy
Major Industries: Tourism, banking, real estate, gambling
Main Exports: None significant (import-dependent economy)
Famous For: Monte Carlo Casino, Formula 1 Grand Prix, luxury lifestyle
Motto: "Deo Juvante" ("With God's Help")

Financial Requirements

To qualify for the Monaco Golden Visa, investors must meet the following financial thresholds:

1. Monaco Bank Deposit: Applicants must deposit a minimum of €500,000 into a Monaco-based bank to prove financial self-sufficiency. Many private banks may require a higher deposit, often starting at €1 million. These funds must remain in the account for the duration of residency.

2. Monaco Real Estate Investment or Monaco Real Estate Lease/Rental: Purchasing property in Monaco is one of the most secure pathways to obtaining residency. The Monaco real estate market is highly competitive, with prices averaging €50,000 to €100,000 per square meter. Due to limited availability, property values continue to appreciate, making this an attractive investment option.

For those preferring not to buy, a long-term Monaco Property Lease/Rental agreement for at least 12 months is required. Rental prices start at approximately €3,000 per month for a small studio, while luxury apartments cost significantly more, often exceeding €10,000 per month for prime locations.

Additional Financial Considerations

a) Proof of Stable Income: Applicants must demonstrate a consistent and legal income stream sufficient to support themselves and their family in Monaco.

b) Business Ownership or Employment: Establishing a business in Monaco or being employed by a Monaco-based company can further strengthen an application.

General Requirements

Besides financial commitments, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years old.
Clean Criminal Record: Police certificates from current and previous countries of residence are required.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage valid in Monaco is mandatory.
Proof of Economic Stability: A letter from a Monaco-based bank confirming sufficient funds for financial independence.
Accommodation Proof: Either Monaco Property Investment or a valid Monaco Property Lease/Rental contract.
Long-Term Residency Intent: Applicants must show a commitment to residing in Monaco for an extended period.

Family Inclusion

Monaco’s Residency by Investment (RBI) program allows immediate family members to be included in the residency application. Eligible dependents include:

Spouse or Registered Partner
Children under 18 or financially dependent adult children
Parents (in certain cases, subject to financial proof of support)

Each family member must individually provide a clean criminal record and other required documents. Residency permits for family members are typically issued under the same conditions as the primary applicant.

Benefits

Securing Monaco Second Residency offers exclusive advantages:

Zero Monaco Tax: No income tax, wealth tax, or capital gains tax for residents.
World-Class Lifestyle: A hub for luxury, elite networking, and fine dining.
Unmatched Security: Monaco has one of the lowest crime rates globally.
Prime European Location: Ideal for international entrepreneurs and investors.
Thriving Business Environment: Opportunities in finance, yachting, real estate, and tech sectors.
Pathway to Monaco Permanent Residency (PR) & Monaco Citizenship: After 10 years of uninterrupted residency. Monaco Dual Citizenship is generally not permitted.
Access to Top-Tier Healthcare & Education: High-quality medical care and international schools.
Elite Social & Business Networking: Home to influential business figures, celebrities, and royals.

Process & Procedures

The Monaco Investment Visa process typically takes three to six months and involves the following steps:

1. Pre-Application Preparation

Open a Monaco Bank Deposit account and transfer the required funds.
Secure Monaco Real Estate Investment or sign a Monaco Property Lease/Rental contract.
Obtain a criminal record certificate, proof of health insurance, and financial statements.
Engage a legal advisor to assist with the application process.

2. Application Submission

Schedule an appointment with the Monaco Residents Section.
Submit all required documents, including bank statements and accommodation proof.
Pay applicable government and administrative fees.

3. Residency Interview

Attend an in-person interview to verify personal and financial background.
Discuss long-term residency plans and economic contributions to Monaco.

4. Approval & Residency Card Issuance

Once approved, applicants receive a temporary Monaco Residency Card (“Carte de Séjour”), initially valid for 1 year and renewable annually.
After 3 years, residents may apply for a 3-year residence permit.
After 10 years, applicants may pursue Monaco Permanent Residency (PR) or Monaco Citizenship. Monaco Dual Citizenship is generally not permitted.

Conclusion

Monaco remains one of the most prestigious destinations for High-Net-Worth Individuals seeking Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI). Whether through Monaco Real Estate Investment or a Monaco Property Lease/Rental, and Monaco Bank Deposit, investors can gain residency in a tax-friendly, secure, and luxurious environment.

The Monaco Golden Visa pathway provides unparalleled benefits, from a world-class lifestyle to business opportunities and strategic European access. By meeting the financial and legal requirements, individuals and their families can secure long-term residency in one of the world’s most exclusive locations.

For more information on the Monaco Investment Visa, Monaco Second Residency, or the latest updates on Monaco’s residency programs, consult with specialized legal and financial advisors to navigate the application process seamlessly.

FAQs

1. What is the Monaco Golden Visa, and does Monaco offer a Residency by Investment (RBI) program?

The Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI) route through financial self-sufficiency is also known as the Monaco Golden Visa, also often referred to as the Monaco Investor Visa or Monaco Investment Visa.

2. What are the main requirements for obtaining Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI)?

To qualify for Monaco economic residency, applicants must meet the following conditions:

a) Financial Self-Sufficiency: Proof of substantial financial resources. This is commonly demonstrated through:

A Monaco Bank Deposit of at least €500,000 in a Monaco-registered bank.
Owning or managing a business in Monaco.
Securing employment in a Monaco-based company.

b) Monaco Real Estate Investment or Monaco Property Lease/Rental: Buying property in Monaco (Monaco Property Investment) or leasing a residence (Monaco Real Estate Lease/Rental) for a minimum of one year.

c) Clean Criminal Record: A police certificate proving no criminal history.

d) Minimum Stay Requirement: Residents must typically spend at least 183 days per year in Monaco.

3. Is there a minimum investment required for the Monaco Investor Visa?

There is no fixed Monaco Golden Visa investment threshold, but the Monaco Bank Deposit and Monaco Real Estate Investment options generally require:

€500,000 + deposit in a Monaco bank for financial self-sufficiency.
Monaco Property Investment: Real estate prices start at €50,000 to €120,000 per square meter in premium areas.
Monaco Property Lease/Rental: Long-term rental contracts start at €5,000 to €10,000+ per month.

4. How long does it take to obtain Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI)?

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: The process takes 2-3 months.
For non-EU nationals: The process takes 4-6 months, as applicants must first obtain a French Long-Stay Visa before applying for Monaco Economic Residency.

5. What are the benefits of obtaining Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI)?

Monaco tax advantages: No personal income tax, no wealth tax, and no capital gains tax.
Business-friendly environment: Monaco has a thriving economy, attracting high-net-worth individuals.
Real estate growth: The Monaco Property Investment market continues to appreciate.
High quality of life: Safe, luxurious, and politically stable.

6. Can I work or start a business with a Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI)?

Yes. Monaco residents can:

Work in a Monaco-based company.
Establish a business in Monaco (subject to local approval).

7. What are the tax benefits of Monaco Residency?

No Monaco tax on personal income (except for French nationals).
No capital gains tax.
No wealth tax.
No inheritance tax for direct heirs.

8. What is the validity of the Monaco residency card?

a) 1-Year Temporary Residency Card: Renewable annually.

b) 3-Year Ordinary Residency Card: Available after three years.

c) 10-Year Monaco Permanent Residency (PR) Card: Granted after ten years of continuous residence.

9. Can I apply for Monaco Permanent Residency (PR) or Monaco Citizenship after obtaining residency?

Yes, but Monaco does not offer direct Monaco Permanent Residency (PR) or direct Monaco Citizenship by Investment. Applicants must:

Reside in Monaco continuously for 10 years.
For Monaco Citizenship, renounce all other citizenships, as Monaco does not allow dual nationality.
Be approved at the discretion of the Prince of Monaco.

10. How do I start the Monaco Residency by Investment (RBI) process?

Open a Monaco Bank Deposit account with at least €500,000.
Secure Monaco Real Estate Investment or sign a Monaco Property Lease/Rental agreement.
Submit an application for the Monaco Golden Visa-style Residency.

For expert legal guidance, consult a Monaco-based immigration specialist.

Monaco Golden Visa - Residency by Investment (RBI) Program 2026 A Complete Guide