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1. Thursday, November 21, 2019
IMMIGRATION AND
CITIZENSHIP BY
INVESTMENT
Shutterstock
Online: www.gulfnews.com/GN-Focus Facebook.com/GNFocus Twitter.com: @GNFocus Instagram: @GNFocus
Secure your
future●● Insights and tips to get you ready
to move to a new country
TOPCONSULTANTSAND DEVELOPERSIN THE UAE

2. T
he passport you
own is an acci-
dent of birth and
yet for many peo-
ple the limitations of this
pocket-sized document
soon become apparent.
That’s why in this ever
more complicated world
— politically, socially and
economically — obtain-
ing second citizenship is
a soaring trend.
A person with a second
citizenship is a citizen of
two nations at the same
time. Dual citizenship,
as it is also known, is
very intricate, so it’s vi-
tal those applying for it
comprehend the advan-
tages and commitments.
One route is citizen-
ship by investment (CBI).
For nearly 40 years, these
schemes have been the
hot ticket to a new na-
tionality. Indeed, CBI is
now offered by a number
of countries to encourage
foreign investment and
generate revenues.
Have passport, will
travel
Increasingly, in this
globally connected
world, moneyed indi-
viduals are looking at a
new passport as a way
of gaining access to new
markets and greater vi-
sa-free travel and mobil-
ity. They are also looking
to diversify their invest-
ments and businesses
and gain access to better
healthcare and educa-
tional opportunities.
Mimoun A. Assraoui,
CEO of RIF Trust and
Vice-Chairman of Lat-
itude Group, specialists
in this area, has watched
this global trend grow.
“Clients are becoming
more sophisticated and
informed when invest-
ing,” he says. “And they
are increasingly choos-
ing the real estate op-
tion to acquire an asset
as opposed to donating
capital.
“Many of the qualify-
ing real estate projects
have existing properties,
which permit clients to
immediately start earn-
ing rental income.
“A popular selling fea-
ture for the Caribbean
CBI investors, for exam-
ple, is that many of the
properties provide the
ability to access a glob-
al network of hotels and
resorts, which allows cli-
ents worldwide vacation
choices.
“European CBI inves-
tors benefit from war-
ranty and buy-back op-
tions on their real estate
investments.”
According to a YouGov
survey in June, six in ten
UAE residents wish to
relocate from the coun-
try to a destination other
than their home country.
The survey found that
education for their chil-
dren, a better standard
of living, and visa-free
travel from a strong sec-
ond passport were the
key drivers for relocating
to another country.
Major factors
“The three major fac-
tors that UAE residents
look at when they decide
to migrate are opportuni-
ty, security and family,”
says Clint Khan, Director
at one of the leading im-
migration and visa con-
sultants Y-Axis.
“While they are happy
earning a tax-free salary
and enjoying the UAE,
they are sometimes inse-
cure about being depen-
dent on their employers
for their visas,” he says.
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT2
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
Shutterstock
By Emma Procter
Special to GN Focus
Risingdemandfor
internationalimmigration● Need for immigration and second citizenship is growing fast, with many
residents in the UAE keen on expanding their horizons beyond their home countries
once they depart the Gulf state
Clint Khan
Director,
Y-Axis
Sanji A. Caldera
MD and Principal Consultant,
Sanji Caldera Associates
Mimoun A.Assraoui
CEO,
RIF Trust

3. IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT4
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
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“The fact that they will have 30 days to
return to their home country if they lose
their job makes them want to have a back-
up.
“Family can be another big reason for
them to move to countries that offer a
permanent residency as their spouses can
work full-time without any restrictions
and children can get medical and educa-
tion benefits — all of these are part of many
advantages one receives by becoming a
permanent resident in a few countries.”
Canada, Australia and New Zealand
are top destinations that meet the above
points, says Khan, as these countries of-
fer a skill-based permanent resident visa
without a huge investment of buying
a property. But people are also looking
wider.
Opportunities in Europe
“There are a lot of clients who are look-
ing to emigrate to Europe too, especially
Germany where they can get a job-seeker
visa,” he says. “They can get a six-months
visa with which they can go to Germany
and legally apply for jobs and convert the
visa to work permit.
Austria is popular too, adds Khan. “Peo-
ple can apply for the Austrian Red-White-
Red card immigration scheme. It’s also a
point system and if they meet the eligibili-
ty criteria they can apply for the visa.”
Drivers of skill-based
immigration
An important driver of this market is
that countries such as Australia, Canada,
New Zealand, and nations in the EU, have
a huge shortage of skilled professionals.
These economies will fall if they don’t
have a ready skilled workforce to generate
growth and fund public services, and so
they actively compete for skilled profes-
sionals.
A study conducted by the research team
at the recently concluded International
Real Estate and Investment Show in Abu
Dhabi states that the demand for inter-
national migration is rising among UAE
residents, a 20 per cent increase in 2018
compared to the previous year.
“Many Gulf residents look at migrating
after the completion of their working ca-
reers or contracts since they can’t remain
in the Gulf indefinitely,” says Sanji A. Cal-
dera, Managing Director and Principal
Consultant at Sanji Caldera Associates.
“The others look at migrating so that their
children can enjoy lower education and
healthcare fees as permanent residents in
these countries.”
Immigration has always been a driver
of economic and demographic growth for
many countries. The coming new decade
is sure to see that only escalate. n
D
emand for residency and a second passport
through real estate is growing dramatically
from those seeking the ease of visa-free
travel and increased mobility, as well as the security
of a second citizenship – and buying property is
often the first way to fulfil residency requirements
overseas.
In 2017, the Second Citizenship Survey from CS
Global Partners, a London-headquartered legal
advisory to promote citizenship by investment (CBI)
programmes, found that 89 per cent of participants
would like to own a second passport,
while 34 per cent said they had already
looked at investing in second citizenship.
However,when it comes to committing
financially in places far away from
one’s home country, people are
understandably often concerned about
investment security. While more than
50 countries grant investment-based
residence permits, it can be tricky to
make the best decision.
The right choice
The key is to get reliable support, as
experienced companies with a proven track record
will take the angst out of any deal.
“Just like anywhere in the world, the developer’s
execution track record is vital and an investment in
a project by an untested and unproven developer
has inherent risks,” says Mohammed Asaria,
Managing Director and Member of the Board, Range
Developments, which specialises in high-end real
estate projects for citizenship-by-investment (CIB)
programmes.
Where to invest
The Caribbean islands is the top choice for
investors for the CBI programmes. For example,
the Commonwealth of Dominica’s CBI real estate
option offers several five-star hotel investments,
including the just opened Cabrits Resort & Spa
Kempinski Dominica.
“The purchase of a share in a hotel can offer an
investor not only a regular return, but this may also
be sold after five years to another individual seeking
second citizenship — while the original investor
maintains his citizenship for perpetuity
— therefore giving the purchaser an exit
strategy on their initial investment,”
explains Asaria.
Since mid 2019, Grenada has rapidly
risen in the league tables of citizenship-
by-investment programmes given its
competitive price point, broad definition
of dependents, recently introduced
processing efficiencies, wide visa-free
travel, including the UK, Schengen and
China. “Grenadian citizens may apply
to live and reside in the US through the
US E2 visa programme. This is based
on making a further investment of more than
$150,000 (Dh550,800) in the US,” he says.
Other appealing location that is enabling
dual citizenship, hassle-free travel to other
countries and lenient residency requirements, is
Cyprus.
Ireland, which has one of the fastest growing
economies in Europe, a great geographical location
and low tax rate, is also drawing investors.
– By Emma Procter
PASSPORTSTHROUGH
PROPERTYOWNERSHIP● Make informed investment decisions with support from industry experts
and in-depth market research
● Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is a government-approved real estate project in Dominica under
the country’s Citizenship by Investment Programme
Mohammed Asaria
MD and and Member
of the Board,
Range Developments

4. S
tudying abroad offers a bar-
rage of benefits and is the
perfect way to learn about
new cultures while gain-
ing a qualification. Students could
even get a residency in the country
too. Therefore, it’s not surprising
that many students from the UAE
are heading to different continents
to pursue a variety of programmes.
Global
opportunities
Some of the popular
courses for UAE stu-
dents are medicine, engineering,
artificial intelligence, robotics,
media and design and psycholo-
gy, while Canada, Australia and
the UK top their list for overseas
study destinations. Demand for
higher studies in European nations
such as Germany, Czech Republic,
France and Sweden are also gain-
ing traction.
“We are seeing increased in-
terest in traditional courses along
with interests in creative fields
such as digital media, product
design and visual arts,” says Van-
dana Mahajan, Director, Futures
Abroad.
Where students choose to study
mainly depends upon their in-
tention, whether they wish to
settle down in the country or re-
turn home, points out Midhun
Chayanani, Senior Lawyer and
Consultant, The Migration Firm.
“If the students are looking for
the option to settle down abroad,
then Canada has the highest de-
mand as it awards high points for
Canadian education and experi-
ence while applying for the per-
manent residence. Australia and
New Zealand have been attracting
international students for many
years and this has become one of
the main revenues for the govern-
ments. Many students from China,
India, Pakistan and the UAE have
moved to these countries on stu-
dent visas and some of them were
able to settle down permanently
by completing their studies and
accepting relevant job offers,” ex-
plains Chayanani.
Cost of overseas
degrees
Certainly, the goal of
studying abroad are the
future prospects and it’s never too
early to start earning, especially
when studying in a foreign coun-
try doesn’t come cheap.
“In general, tuition fees in uni-
versities abroad range between
$15,000 (Dh55,000) and $30,000
and students have to provision for
another $15,000 per year for the
accommodation and other ex-
penses,” suggests Nirbhay Kataria,
Branch Manager, DM Consultants.
Therefore,manystudentschoose
to work while they study and, de-
pending on where a student is lo-
cated, it might be possible to work
while on a student visa. “In most of
the favourite destinations like the
UK, the US, and Canada, students
are allowed to work part-time.
They are usually allowed to work
20 hours per week,” says Jorawar
Singh, Managing Director, Stratix
Consultants.
Work and
residency permit
Once the studies are
over, work is the end
goal, and depending on the coun-
try of study, students can get a
work permit for a relatively short
period.
“Some countries grant you a
work permit after completing
the programme,” says Mahajan.
“Canada, for example, grants you
a three-year work permit, the UK
has now introduced a two-year
work permit, and some countries
in Europe offer a 1.5 years permit.
“Furthermore, upon success-
fully getting a job in the country,
the student is eligible to apply for
permanent residency first and
then citizenship after completing
certain number of days, which
varies in each country. Canada,
at the moment, is offering the
quickest and most flexible option
of getting citizenship.” ■
6
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
●● Things to know before preparing for your overseas education
By Helga Jensen-Forde
Special to GN Focus
For those who are tempted by the
lucrative prospects of studying
abroad,it’s important to be
well prepared and the road to
success normally begins with the
International English Language
Testing System (IELTS) proficiency
test.“IELTS is an integral step
for any student pursuing higher
education in most institutions
abroad,” says Deep Adhikari,
Director,Exams,the British Council,
Gulf South (pictured).
“IELTS could be required for a
visa by the government,even if it
is not a requisite by the institution.
Hence,taking an IELTS test is
highly recommended for studying
overseas.”
ForanyonepartakingintheIELTS,
preparationisthekeytosuccess.
“The student should plan for
enough time to prepare for IELTS
even if they have engaged with the
English language throughout their
schooling,” explains Adhikari.
“A lot of IELTS test takers
have to re-take their tests not
because of their lack of language
proficiency but because of their
lack of preparation.The IELTS test
assesses a student on two creative
aspects,writing and speaking,and
two receptive areas,listening and
reading.Most test takers make
the mistake of not giving enough
attention to understanding the
formats of the test and pacing
themselves through adequate
practice.”
ACE THE IELTS
Shutterstock
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT
A guide to studying abr ad

5. IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT8
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
Macro-environmental
factors influencing
Australian immigration
●● GN Focus looks at how the country’s revised skilled immigration point system works
B
ecoming a practitioner
of Australian
immigration law is
certainly not for the faint-
hearted. The industry of
Australian immigration is by
nature extremely volatile.
This is primarily due to the
extensive political influence
and policy changes that
link migration closely to
the needs of the Australian
labour market.
Most Australian
immigration consultancy
firms focus primarily on the
micro-environment, market
factors that directly influence
Australian immigration.
Good examples are updates
on legislation, immigration
through state sponsorship,
and the number of invitations
issued in the most recent
round.
This leaves an enormous
lack of focus on the vital
macro-environmental
forces — market factors
that indirectly influence
immigration — including
social, cultural, economic and
political structures shaping
the immigration landscape.
As a result, prospective
migrants are unclear,
uneducated and somewhat
sheltered from the holistic
picture and realities of
immigration.
The team at Sanji
Caldera Associates (SCA)
is extensively focused
on analysing the macro-
environment. We are
amongst the first in
private-practice to utilise
prescriptive and predictive
data analytics to obtain
insights. The analytics are
used to identify market
trends; gain perspective on
the socioeconomic drivers
that impact migration; and,
most importantly, to forecast
strategies on how best we
can adjust for any probable
political or governmental
sway.
The unique top-down
perspective that we
employ enables us to make
connections between
seemingly unrelatable events.
For example, we successfully
predicted the new changes
in the skilled migration
programme — introduced
just last week — a year and a
half ago.
After reading a publication,
Australia 2030: Prosperity
through innovation, by the
Australian Government –
Department of Industry,
Innovation and Science, I
pointed out in an article
last year that since the new
Australian economy will be
driven by innovation, it may
lead to a massive demand for
skills pertaining to Science,
Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics (STEM).
I explained how this would
eventually shape Australian
immigration and the type
of skills that would be in
demand in Australia to fulfil
this initiative.
As of November 16, the
whole skilled-migration
points system has been
revised and the new criteria
allocates higher points to
any candidates who holds a
qualification within the STEM
category (conditions apply).
In a panel discussion held
in Colombo, Sri Lanka, earlier
this month, my colleague,
Sanji A. Caldera, Managing
Director of SCA and a
senior consultant with over
20 years experience, also
provided a well-articulated
analytical overview of macro-
environmental insights on
Australian immigration.
He explained in detail why
there has never been a
better time, than right
now, for businessmen and
successful entrepreneurs in
South Asia to start exploring
opportunities into expanding
their business interests
into Australia leading to
permanent residency and
citizenship.
Considering that
approximately 58 per cent,
according to 2019 statistics,
of the UAE population are
from Southern Asia, the
underlying factor of Caldera’s
insights suggests that there
is an imminent paradigm shift
in the way that Australian
migration will be conducted.
For more information on
Australian immigration, visit
Sanji.ae and subscribe to our
newsletter.
— The writer is Director
of Business Development
at Sanji Caldera Associates
(SCA)
By Keith Hepponstall
Special to GN Focus
Shutterstock

6. IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT10 11
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News Gulf News | Thursday, November 21, 2019
All you need to know about
IELTS for immigration
● IELTS is the only English language test that is accepted by all of the key immigration authorities
in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK, for visa applications and migration purposes
Shutterstock
With an easy booking process for the test
and effective preparation support, taking
IELTS at the British Council is hassle-free
7 Road to IELTS’ last-minute course
Access the British Council’s online preparation course
which includes nine videos offering advice and tutorials, 100
interactive activities and two practice tests for each of the
four skills — and it’s free when you register for IELTS with the
British Council
7 IELTS Ready workshop
Attend a free three-hour face-to-face IELTS Ready workshop,
conducted by the British Council’s expert teachers at its
centres in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah
7 Free practice tests
Access free practice tests online or obtain a free copy of
the IELTS Essential Guide, containing sample tests for IELTS
Academic and General Training tests, when you register for a
test with the British Council
7 Prepare on the go
The British Council has a range of free innovative apps to
help you improve your English skills even when you are on the
move
7 Expert support
From videos and books to online interactive courses, you
have access to the best preparation materials to help you do
well in your test
7 Easy booking
You can either book online, at the British Council offices or at
one of the British Council IELTS registration centres
7 Convenient dates and locations
The British council has several IELTS test venues across the
UAE in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman,
Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. This means that you
have a wide range of options for where and when you want to
take your test.
reasons to take IELTS
with the British Council7
To find out more about the format of the test as
well as about IELTS at the British Council, visit
Britishcouncil.ae/en/exam/ielts/prepare
YOUR IELTS TEST-DAY JOURNEY
Britishcouncil.org/takeielts
Candidates arrive at the
test venue at 8am
Candidates must leave
personal belongings at
designated area
Candidates check in with
passport/ID card and
authorised items
Candidates enter the
examination room
Written test starts at
9am and finishes at
approximately 12pmCandidates must
attempt all components
of the test. If they do not,
they will not receive a
Test Report Form
Candidates check desk
label for the time of
Speaking test
Results arrive within
five to seven days for
computer delivered test
and in 13 days for the
paper-based test
Candidates arrive at
the speaking test venue
with passport or ID card
20 minutes before the
interview
Photo taken and
second ID check will be
completed
At a glance
Australia
IELTS is accepted for many visa categories, as well
as for permanent residency in Australia. It is also a
requirement for some Australian professional organisations
and accrediting bodies.
Canada
If you are applying for a work visa, professional
recognition or for permanent residency in Canada,
it is likely that you will be required to present evidence of
English language proficiency. IELTS General Training is the only
internationally available English proficiency test accepted
by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for
immigration to Canada.
New Zealand
The New Zealand government asks for IELTS as
evidence of English language proficiency for many visas,
including those within the Skilled Migrant, Investor and
Entrepreneur, Residence from Work and Parent categories.
UK
Evidence of English language ability is a
requirement for those applying to settle permanently
in the UK (also known as applying for leave to remain or long
residence).
T
he International English
Language Testing System
(IELTS) is one of the world’s
most popular high-stakes English
language tests, with 3.5 million
tests taken in the past year. It is the
English test of choice for educational
organisations, professional
associations, and employers across
the globe.
In most countries where English is
the main language of communication,
evidence of acceptable English
language skills is a prerequisite
for applicants and international
graduates seeking professional
registration. IELTS being the only
English language test that is
accepted by all of the key immigration
authorities in Australia, Canada,
New Zealand and the UK, for visa
applications and migration purpose.
IELTS for work
Organisations around the world
rely on IELTS to help them select the
right people. Many of the registration
bodies that accept IELTS represent
the healthcare professions, such as
nursing, medicine and pharmacy,
where English language competence
is of critical importance. Other
professional bodies in particular
countries requiring an IELTS result
include accounting, engineering, law
and veterinary practice. A wide range
of other employers from sectors such
as finance, government, construction,
energy, aviation and tourism also
require IELTS.
Preparing for IELTS
The first step in making sure you
are ready to take IELTS is to prepare
for it so you know what to expect on
the test day.
IELTS learning materials from the
British Council will get you acquainted
with the test format and also improve
your confidence when writing,
speaking,reading and listening in
English.Even ifyou believe you are
a proficient user of English,it is still
recommended that you prepare
thoroughly foryour test with the British
Council’s IELTS training resources.
Test takers who understand the
format of IELTS are at an advantage.
Make sure you’re familiar with how
IELTS testing works.
The General Training version of
IELTS measures English language
proficiency in a practical, everyday
context and the tasks and texts
reflect both workplace and social
situations.
Ensuring quality and
fairness
The IELTS approach is recognised
as being fair to all test takers,
whatever their nationality, cultural
background, gender or special needs.
IELTS assesses language skills, not
specialist knowledge; the topics
covered are general enough for all
test takers to answer questions on
them and ensures test questions are
extensively trialled with people from
different cultures to confirm they are
appropriate and fair. n
IELTS for UKVI
IELTS for UKVI
Academic and General
Training and IELTS Life
Skills are approved Secure English
language tests (SELT) by the UK
Home Office for visa applications
to the UK.
There are two versions of the
IELTS test. Most test takers are
familiar with the paper-based test.
However, the computer delivered
test was introduced last year in
the country. The UAE is one of the
fastest adopters of the computer
delivered IELTS.
IELTS is an English
language proficiency test
for higher education and
global migration. More
than 10,000 organisations
globally trust IELTS, so
when you take the test
you can be confident
that it is recognised by
educational institutions,
employers, governments and
professional bodies around
the world. As one of the
pioneers of four skills English
language testing 30 years ago, IELTS
continues to set the standard for
English language testing today.
Governments in Australia, Canada,
New Zealand and the UK use IELTS to
process immigration applications.
Benefits of the
computer delivered
IELTS
1. It is convenient for
those not used to
writing or whose
handwriting may
not be very legible
2.More choice of
locations
3.More choice of test dates
4.Convenient and simple booking
process
5.You can get your results in just
5 to 7 days as opposed to 13 days
for the paper-based test
What is IELTS?

7. IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT12
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
THE
RIGHT
MOVE●● Former UAE residents
share their experience
of finding a permanent
home elsewhere
Shutterstock
NASREEN
I decided to move to another country to
provide my family with more stability,
security and benefits like free education,
permanent residency and a second
nationality. After I decided on the country I wanted to
emigrate to, I started to look for an experienced and
registered immigration adviser.
I applied to move to the UK under the Innovator
visa programme, which is a new visa category. Owing
to Devisers Immigration Advisers, my application was
processed in six months and I was one of the first few
applicants to get the approval for this type of visa.
JOLY MOL
Many of our family members are based in the
UK, so we wanted our children to be close to
our extended family. Also, I understood that by
moving to the UK, I could save money on
healthcare, education as well as on accommodation.
One of my family members obtained the UK business visa
from Val Morgan Immigration Advisers sometimes back, so I
met with them several times while processing my application
to understand the process for the UK immigration. They gave
me the best solutions and professional services, completing
the process in 90 days.
Think of your children’s long-term future while deciding on
where to emigrate, taking advice from the market experts.
Make a good plan, research, and talk to your family and
friends.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
FARHAT KHAN
I immigrated to Australia from Dubai earlier
this year because of the economic slowdown
in the Middle East. I was worried that if I was
being laid off, I would have to go back home,
starting everything all over again. Children’s education, our
future security as well the retirement benefits were my other
concerns.
The immigration process was handled by the team at
Y-Axis, while my agent Krishna Murthy G. guided me at every
step of the journey, answering all my questions about the
process. We were able to complete the process in about
16 months.
CANDIDA REGO
I decided to move to Australia from the UAE
to build a more permanent, stable and
secure future. Y-Axis was my immigration
consultant and they did a fantastic job with
my application, completing the process in little over a year. I
would highly recommend Y-Axis to anyone looking to
emigrate.
It’s a big decision to emigrate to a new country so spend
a lot of time researching about the destination so that
you are not in for any major surprises. Also ensure you
have enough savings before migrating to be ready for all
challenges ahead. It’s also critical to be open and ready to
learn new skills, upgrade your existing skills and take any job
that comes your way.
ERROL DE
ALMEIDA
I arrived in the
UAE in 1987
to start my
career with
Emirates Airlines. I lived in
Dubai for over 32 years with
my family. Owing to the
political situation in Sri Lanka,
I wanted to emigrate, giving
my family a better future. So
I moved to Australia. Sanji
Caldera, Managing Director
Principal Consultant, at
Sanji Caldera Associates
(SCA), was my immigration
consultant for the Resident
Return Visa. He took care of
the whole process and made
it all seamless and easy. I
highly recommend SCA to
anyone looking to emigrate to
Australia or Canada.
The process was quick and
easy with Caldera and his
team, who sorted everything
out within a few months.
If you have the opportunity
to migrate, do not hesitate.
Just go for it. Chances like this
don’t come around often.

8. Country ANTIGUA BARBUDA CYPRUS DOMINICA GRENADA MALTA (MIIP) MONTENEGRO ST. KITTS NEVIS VANUATU
Advantages
l Minimal presence is required for at
least five days within the first five years
of obtaining citizenship
l Grants visa-free travel to the EU,
the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and
South Africa
l Fast track applications within 90 days
l An exceptionally beautiful place to live
year round or to regularly visit as your
second home. With over 365 beaches
and a temperate climate, the country is
a true jewel in the Caribbean
l No personal income, capital gains,
inheritance tax, or tax on foreign
income
l Citizenship is for life, giving the right to
live and work in Cyprus or any other EU
country including Switzerland
l No residence requirements
l Fastest EU Citizenship-by-Investment
programme with processing in 6-9
months
l High standard of living
l No physical presence required
l Grants visa-free travel to high-profile
countries like the UK, Singapore and
Schengen area
l Efficient application processing,
usually completed within 90 days of
application submission
l Dual citizenship permitted
l No physical presence required
l Grants visa-free travel to high-
profile countries like the UK,
Singapore, China and Schengen
area
l Only Caribbean programme with
access to the US through the E2
Investor Visa treaty, giving citizens
the ability to apply for non-
immigrant visa and start a business
in the US
l Efficient application review usually
completed in 3 months
l Offers citizenship by descent to
future generations
l EU Citizenship of a well-respected and
neutral country that is a member of the
Commonwealth
l Offers visa-free travel including the US and
Canada
l Highest number of English speakers outside
of the UK in the EU
l The lowest entry point of any EU Citizenship-
by-Investment programme
l Advantageous for families as citizenship is
transferable to all future generations
l Malta has one of the fastest growing
economies in the EU and is a favourable place
for business
l Access to the US through E2 Investor Visa
treaty, giving citizens the ability to apply for
the non-immigrant visa
l Active tourism industry and investment
opportunities
l Breathtaking scenery and locale
l Expected to join EU by 2025
l One of the fastest growing real estate
markets in Europe
l No physcial presence required
l Grants visa-free travel to the EU, the UK,
Singapore and Hong Kong
l Efficient application review usually completed
in 90 days
l Booming tourism attracting more than
600,000 visitors each year
l World's oldest Citizenship-by-Investment
Programme
l Travel to and from the islands is made easy
via the convenient air links to Europe and
America
l No physcial presence required
l Most efficient citizenship programme
available with enitre process completed in
8-12 weeks
l Full citizenship with passport granted to
main applicant, spouse and children
l A vast and beautiful landscape brimming
with opportunity
l Competitively priced programme with
Caribbean options
Minimum
investment
Required investment from $200,000
(Dh734,500) or donation from $100,000
Required investment of €2 million and
donation of €150,000
Required investment of $200,000 or
donation of $100,000
Required investment of $220,000 or
donation of $150,000
Required investment of €150,000 and donation
of €650,000
Required investment of €250,000 and a
donation of €100,000
Required investment of $200,000 or donation
of $150,000
Required donation of $130,000
Quotas none 700 applicants per year none none 1,800 applicants 2,000 applicants none none
Dependents visa
Extendable to spouse and children aged
28 and under and family members aged
58 and older
Extendable to spouse and children aged
18 and under and financially dependent
adult children under 28
Extendable to spouse and children aged
30 and under and family aged 55 and
older
Extendable to spouse and children
aged 30 and under and parents aged
55 and older
Extendable to spouse and children aged 26 and
younger and parents aged 55 and older
Extendable to spouse and children under 18 and
dependent adult children
Extendable to spouse and children aged 30 and
younger and parents aged 55 and older
Extendable to spouse and children aged 25
and younger and parents aged 50 and older
Visa-free countries 149 countries 173 countries 137 countries 142 countries 183 countries 122 countries 154 countries 129 countries
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT14
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
Country PORTUGAL GERMANY GREECE MALTA (MRVP) UNITED KINGDOM
Advantages
l Residency can be granted
within 8-12 months
l Visa-free Schengen access
and opportunity to live
and do business in this EU
member state
l Low physical presence
requirement (minimum of
seven days per year)
l High quality of life, fantastic
local cuisine, rich culture, mild
climate and a high level of
security
l Citizenship possible after five
years of legal residence
l Free education
l Free healthcare after
becoming a permanent
resident
l Temporary residence
leading to permanent
residency status in a top
tier EU nation
l Visa-free Schengen
access and opportunity
to live and do business in
this EU member state
l No language requirement
l Germany has the world's
fourth largest economy
by GDP
l An excellent and safe
place to raise a family
l Free education
l Permanent residency
from day one
l Visa-free Schengen
access and
opportunity to live in
the EU member state
l No minimum
residency stay
requirements
l Fast application
process with
residence permit
issued in 90 days
l Extremely pleasant
climate coupled with
a relaxed lifestyle
l No minimum number of days
required in order to maintain
residence status
l Visa-free Schengen access
and opportunity to live
and do business in the EU
member state
l A simplified application
process with the residence
permit issued within 60 days
of approval
l Low capital outlay compared
to other EU residence
programmes
l Malta has one of the fastest
growing economies in the EU
and is a favourable place for
business
l Visa free travel throughout the UK
and CTA
l Application is processed within as
little as five working days via the
priority service
l London is one of the world’s
most prominent commercial and
cultural hubs
l Direct international connections
to nearly all major cities across
the world
l Very high standard of education
provided by world-renowned
boarding schools and universities
l Free education and healthcare
Minimum
investment
Required investment from
€280,000
Required investment of
€350,000
Required Investment of
€250,000
Required investment of
€250,000 and donation of
€30,000
Required investment of £2 million
Quotas none none none none none
Dependents visa
l Extendable to children under
18 and unmarried dependent
children under 26 who are
enrolled as full-time students.
l Parents of either spouse if
over the age of 66 (or 55 and
dependent); and/or
siblings under the age of 18
years from either spouse or
partner if legally responsible.
Extendable to spouse and
children under 18
Extendable to spouse
and children up to the
age of 21
Extendable to spouse, children
aged 18 and under as well
as unmarried and financially
dependent children over 18
Extendable to spouse and children
under 18
Visa-free countries 26 countries 26 countries 26 countries 26 countries none
CITIZENSHIPRESIDENCY
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT 15
Gulf News | Thursday, November 21, 2019
INVEST IN A SECOND PASSPORT FROM $100,000●● Mimoun A. Assraoui, CEO of RIF Trust and Vice-Chairman of Latitude Group, highlights some of the top countries to get residency and a second passport
F.A.
I didn’t want to
move to another
country as I
wanted to stay
in the UAE. However, with a
Syrian passport, I faced visa
and travel restrictions. Through
some online research, I came
to know about RIF Trust, a
local agent based in Dubai. I
met with Mimoun Assraoui,
CEO, RIF Trust, and discussed
all my options for getting a
second passport. We decided
together that a Caribbean
second passport was the best
option for me based on my
requirements. I felt extremely
comfortable with Assraoui as
he was very knowledgeable
and addressed all of my
concerns and questions. We
started the process in 2015,
getting my passport in three
and a half months. From the
initial consultation to the day
I received my passport, RIF
Trust ensured the process was
smooth and stress-free. I feel,
this is the best investment
I have ever made in life. You
cannot put a price on freedom.
HOW I GOT
MY SECOND
PASSPORT
SABA NADIA
My priority as a parent
has always been to
secure my children’s
future by giving them
the best education possible. Since I
have a business in the UAE, I planned
to open a branch of my business in
the UK, running both the branches by
travelling back and forth. I wanted my
children to benefit from the UK’s free
education facility. The UK is also a strong
economy for entrepreneurs, offering the
ease of setting up new business. While
I considered applying for the UK visa
on my own, after doing some research,
I figured out that the process needed
some expertise. After my first meeting
with Devisers Immigration Advisers, I was
convinced of its abilities, assessing its
outstanding success ratio.
For those looking to move to the
UK, my advice is to ensure that the
consultant has Immigration Services
mentioned on their UAE trade licence
and that they are a registered company
in the UK with a physical presence.
Also make sure that the company
is registered with the Office of the
Immigration Services Commissioner
(OISC) or the Bar Council.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
The right move
DIAB EMAD MOHD
I decided to
move to another
country for my
family’s long-term
security, healthcare needs and
education. While I explored the
options in the UK as well as in
Canada, I found the UK more
appealing in terms of expenses
and documentation processes for
setting up a business. Although
I had researched extensively, I
was not confident to represent
my case, so I went to Val Morgan
Immigration for its support. And
I have no regret since I was the
first person in the Middle East and
the fifth globally to receive the UK
Innovator visa approval.
The innovator visa programme
is the most appropriate route
to move to the UK and set up a
venture. While I was aware of Val
Morgan, after meeting with their
lawyers, I got the confidence to
proceed. While some consultants
in Dubai were just offering me the
initial services, Val Morgan gave me
a five-year service package, which i
found very appealing.
CHRIS
FERNANDOPULLE
I was newly married
and wanted an
independent, fresh
start in an exciting and
challenging environment, which drove
us towards moving to another
country. My wife and I were
considering many options, but
Australia, especially Melbourne, ticked
many boxes for us.
Initially, we tried to handle the
application process on our own.
However, we soon understood that
we needed a professional to guide
us through the process. I believe the
research we put in and the guidance
we received from Caldera from SCA,
who was well informed, thorough and
paid attention to detail, helped speed
up the process.
My advice to immigrants is to pick a
reliable agent who you can trust. Make
sure you are 100 per cent transparent
with your immigration agent and build
your case together.

9. V
al Morgan Immigration
Advisers specialises is
securing your families
future.
Val Morgan has been an
integral part of the UK and
Dubai’s immigration services
sector for the past decade.
It is recognised as a pre-
mier legal consultant deliv-
ering clients visionary life
goals to emigrate to some of
the worlds most desired lo-
cations including the UK,
New Zealand, Australia, Eu-
rope and Canada.
Val Morgan Immigration
Advisers specialises in UK
immigration under the Over-
seas Business Representative
Programme and the newly
announced UK Startup and
Innovator visa, which re-
quires minimal investments.
As one of the most re-
nowned international immi-
gration advisers in the re-
gion, this year the company
became the first law firm in
the Middle East and South
Asia to receive the Innovator
visa approval.
From a global perspec-
tive, Val Morgan was the fifth
law firm to receive approval
for the Innovator visa pro-
gramme.
Val Morgan Immigration
has an office in Dubai and its
head office is based in Lon-
don. It is authorised to pro-
vide Immigration services
under the UK and the UAE
law. Val Morgan Immigration
has UK-qualified lawyers and
barristers based at its offices
in Dubai to provide clients
with expert advice.
In addition to this, it
has in-house fully dedi-
cated teams for business
planning, documentation
and processing.
If you would like to secure
your family’s future today,
learn more about the company
by visiting Vmorgan.co.uk
16
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
A D V E R T I S E R S ’ C O N T E N T
VAL MORGAN IMMIGRATION ADVISERS
RANGE DEVELOPMENTS
Secureyourfamily’sfuturewiththeright
immigrationsupport
“Peoplefromallovertheworldinvestwithus”
I
n conversation with
Mohammed Asaria,
Managing Director and
Member of the Board of
Range Developments.
How can you help UAE
residents acquire a second
citizenship through prop-
erty investments?
We encourage UAE res-
idents to work with us
and we will provide them
investment opportunities
that allow them to apply
for second citizenship of
Grenada, Dominica or
St Kitts. Individuals are
drawn towards second
citizenship for worldwide
mobility, as well as, other
benefits such as tax and
estate planning or the se-
curity it provides. To pro-
ceed, an individual has to
complete the application
process, invest $220,000
in one of our projects, over
and above, government
fees are payable; subject to
satisfactory completion of
the due diligence process,
the individual is awarded
with citizenship.
The individual needs
to maintain his invest-
ment in the project for five
years, following which
time he/she is able to sell
it to another investor who
also wishes to apply for
citizenship. Dependent
on the performance of the
hotel, the investor will
earn a yield (about two to
five per cent per annum)
while the investment is
maintained.
What kind of properties
are you developing now
for investments in the Ca-
ribbean?
We only develop hotels
at the highest end of the
spectrum. The Park Hyatt
St Kitts project was con-
ceptualised in 2012, we
commenced construction
in 2014 and opened its
doors in 2017. In Dom-
inica, we entered into
an agreement with the
government to build the
Kempinski Hotel in 2015
and a few weeks back
the Kempinski Dominica
opened its doors. Almost
12 months ago, we were
invited to develop a sim-
ilar project in the island
of Grenada and the con-
struction of the Six Senses
will start imminently.
Give us an idea on the key
drivers of growth in Ca-
ribbean real estate?
The Caribbean islands
are strategically located
and benefit from tour-
ism inflows from both the
US and Europe. Two of the
key growth drivers in the
local real estate market
are tourism and citizen-
ship by investment. In the
case of the latter, if this is
channeled into high-end
tourism product, there
will be a growth in real
estate prices as it brings
the discerning travelers to
the islands.
What demand have you
noticed for this pro-
gramme in the UAE?
We have people from all
over the world (for exam-
ple Africa, South East Asia,
China, Russia, the Arab
world and India) investing
with us and many of them
have links to the UAE.
Each island has its own
advantage, but Grenada
has risen to prominence
over the past six to nine
months in the citizenship
by investment rankings
given its very broad vi-
sa-free travel arrange-
ments, its processing effi-
ciency and its competitive
price realignment. Grena-
da is particular well-suit-
ed to individuals from this
part of the world given the
definition of dependents,
who may be included
in a citizenship applica-
tion is broad and includes
one’s siblings. Grenada is
also the beneficiary of a
E2 treaty with the United
States, which entitles citi-
zens of Grenada (and their
eligible dependents) upon
making a further invest-
ment, to work and reside●● Mohammed Asaria
●● Park Hyatt St Kitts

10. 19
Gulf News | Thursday, November 21, 2019
A D V E R T I S E R S ’ C O N T E N T
I
n conversation with
Clint Mark Khan, Direc-
tor, Y-Axis
Could you tell us about
Y-Axis?
Y-Axis is one of the larg-
est immigration compa-
nies in the world with over
1,100 staff and 40 offices.
We are a regulated immi-
gration firm, registered
with the Office of the Mi-
gration Agents Registra-
tion Authority (MARA)
in Australia and the Im-
migration Consultants of
Canada Regulatory Council
(ICCRC). We represent ap-
plications to the author-
ities and are bound by a
code of conduct.
How many people have
you helped to migrate to
Canada from the UAE?
Canada is a great choice
for residents in the UAE,
with most applicants look-
ing for new career op-
portunities, security and
family benefits. Getting a
permanent residency ful-
fils all these requirements.
We offer free counselling
and have counselled more
than 20,000 applicants. At
any given time, we assist
more than 3,000 appli-
cants applying for a per-
manent residency to Can-
ada from the UAE.
What are some of the most
in-demand professions for
Canadian immigration?
IT professionals, engi-
neers, teachers and ac-
countants are always in
demand. In the recent
past, we have got a lot of
success for profession-
als in hospitality, retail,
finance and the medical
sectors.
What are the other top
countries for immigra-
tion?
Some of the top coun-
tries for immigration are
Canada, Australia and New
Zealand as these countries
offer skilled-based perma-
nent resident visas with-
out a huge investment in
properties. Europe is also
a good choice with Ger-
many, Austria and Ireland
topping the list.
Finally, what are your tips
for people looking for an
immigration consultant?
Use an immigration con-
sultant who is registered
by the Office of the MARA
and ICCRC. You must
verify their names on the
official websites to en-
sure that they are bound
by a code of conduct.
Many consultants in
the UAE work in part-
nership with external
consultants, who are
not directly liable to and
responsible for a client
who pays them.
An experienced immi-
gration consultant offers
you free counselling and
an opportunity to verify
the information you pro-
vide. You must also read
the retainer agreement
carefully before you pay an
agent.
18
Thursday, November 21, 2019 | Gulf News
A D V E R T I S E R S ’ C O N T E N T
Providinghassle-freeimmigrationservicesintheUAE
Y-AXIS
●● Clint Mark Khan
●● Staff of Y-Axis
Offeringtailoredandcustomisedimmigrationsolutions
D
evisers Immigration
Advisers has been at
the forefront of pro-
viding UK immigration
solutions across the Middle
East and South East Asia
for a decade. It is renowned
for its pioneering work in
immigration services.
Devisers is a truly global
organisation. The compa-
ny was initiated in the UK
in 2007, then proceeding
with its global expansion
plan and opening its first
office outside the UK in
Pakistan and then in the
UAE. Devisers Immigration
Advisers expanded further
into the GCC by opening a
branch in Qatar. As part of
its global growth strategy,
the company aims to ex-
pand further in due course.
As a UK-licensed and
DEVISERS IMMIGRATION ADVISERS
the Office of the Immigra-
tion Services Commission-
er (OISC) regulated im-
migration advisory firm,
Devisers understands the
complexities faced by peo-
ple who require UK im-
migration advice and visa
services.
With over 10 years of ex-
pertise, and hundreds of
cases won, Devisers has
established itself as the re-
gion’s top UK immigration
advisers.
The company provides
fully tailored and custom-
ised immigration solutions
for the UK, Canada, Aus-
tralia and New Zealand
visa categories. Its objec-
tive is to help its clients
achieve their aspirations,
while improving their own
as well as their families
lives through investor im-
migration programmes.
It prides itself in being
one of the very first law
firms to receive the ap-
proval for the UK Inno-
vator visa programme in
2019.
Devisers offers com-
plete transparency to
clients continually shar-
ing video testimonials
of clients as they receive
their UK visa approvals.
The company believes that
the best form of adver-
tising for its new clients
is to hear from its clients
who have successfully re-
ceived their visa approvals
through it.
To learn more about the
company, follow it on so-
cial media or visit Devis-
ers.org.uk
S
anji Caldera Associ-
ates (SCA), in part-
nership with Haran
Group FZE, is a multina-
tional immigration con-
sultancy firm specialising
in Australian and Canadian
migration.
“We develop innovative
visa solutions for individu-
als, families and business-
es,” says Sanji A Caldera,
Managing Director and
Principal Consultant, SCA.
Headquartered in Mel-
bourne, Australia, SCA has
branch offices in Sri Lanka,
the UAE and the UK.
The SCA team are ex-
perts in producing robust
solutions to complex visa
problems. Its services in-
clude:
Australia
l Skilled Migration Visas
l Family Migration Visas
l Employer Sponsorship
Visas
l Business Visas
l Visitor Visas
l Student Visas
l AAT reviews
Canada
l Skilled Migration Visas
l Family Sponsorship
Visas
l Employer Sponsorship
Visas
l Tourist Visas
l Temporary Resident
Visas
“At SCA, we are passion-
ate about helping people
reach their maximum po-
tential in both their per-
sonal and professional
lives. We are highly com-
mitted to providing a ser-
vice that not only achieves
successful outcomes, but
also helps position our cli-
ents on the greatest path to
success, in their new home
country,” says Caldera.
SCA has forged a solid
reputation as a firm that
is well-known for having
the unprecedented ability
to strategically adapt to the
needs of each individual
client.
“Our ability to deliver re-
markable services has been
carefully curated with ex-
traordinary precision over
many years, driven entire-
ly by our relentless pursuit
for perfection,” he says.
“SCA’s leadership is la-
ser-focused on the con-
tinuous advancement and
innovation of its services.
We push towards breaking
down boundaries of pos-
sibility leading the way
into the next revolution of
remarkable client experi-
ences. The adoption and
implementation of ad-
vanced cutting-edge Cli-
ent Relationship Manage-
ment (CRM) technology,
alongside SCA’s strategic
mission, has enabled us to
create powerful person-
alised experiences for each
and every one of our cli-
ents — we call this the SCA
Experience.”
You are just moments
away from making the
greatest decision you have
ever made in your life.
Contact: Andriea Perera,
Regional Manager (UAE),
gulf@sanji.ae, (+971) 55
770 2044, Sanji.ae
I
n conversation with
Mimoun A. Assraoui,
CEO of RIF Trust and
Vice-Chairman of Latitude
Group:
How could you help UAE
residents who are looking
for a second passport by
investments?
Since 2013, RIF Trust has
helped over 1,000 clients
and their families obtain a
second passport through
the Citizenship by Invest-
ment Programme (CIP).
We handhold clients
throughout the application
process, which ensures a
stress-free journey. Each
client is assigned a dedi-
cated CIP advisor and they
usually meet at our Dubai
office in Business Bay.
We listen carefully to un-
derstand their needs and
motivations, reviewing
available options and their
respective pros and cons.
With their CIP selected,
we start on the application
and assist with the docu-
mentation requirements.
If the client wishes to visit
the country, we make trav-
el arrangements and orga-
nise property viewings. We
also offer post-application
services. We’re truly a one-
stop shop.
While the amount varies
from country to country,
what kind of investments
are usually needed to be-
come eligible for this pro-
gramme?
Most CIPs offer a num-
ber of options to qualify for
citizenship including a do-
nation to the government,
and purchasing real estate
or government bonds.
What, according to
you, are the most pre-
ferred countries for UAE
residents for economic
citizenship?
For UAE residents, we
are seeing the most de-
mand for the Caribbean
CIPs, namely Dominica, St
Kitts Nevis and Grena-
da, as they offer the most
cost-effective options and
don’t require a visit to ap-
ply.
However, some are seek-
ing greater access to Eu-
rope as they want to enjoy
the benefits of being able
to live and work anywhere
in the EU. These clients are
choosing CIPs offered by
Malta and Cyprus which,
though expensive, come
with many benefits.
How many clients did you
help in the first 10 months
of this year to immigrate
through the citizenship by
investment programme?
RIF Trust has helped
hundreds of families this
year to obtain a second
passport.
SANJI CALDERA ASSOCIATES (SCA)
RIF TRUST
ABOUT THE
COMPANY
Voted Burj CEO Award’s
Best Citizenship and
Residency Advisory in
2019, RIF Trust is the top
Citizenship Residency
by Investment firm in the
Middle East and Africa. With
a network of over 20 offices
globally, the firm is also
an approved and licensed
agent to promote the
various programmes.
One-stop service for
citizenship by investment
programmes
●● Staff of SCA
●● Sanji A Caldera, MD and
Principal Consultant, SCA
●● Mimoun A. Assraoui
FocusingonAustralianandCanadianimmigration