LEBANON - Lebanon’s Parliamentary Finance and Budget Committee has advanced discussions on a proposed “golden residency” aimed at attracting foreign capital and encouraging investment-linked residency.
The session, chaired by MP Ibrahim Kanaan and attended by Finance Minister Yassin Jaber and Justice Minister Adil Nassar, reviewed a government proposal that would grant long-term residency rights to non-residents, both foreign nationals and Lebanese expatriates, on the condition of qualifying investment in the country.
Following the meeting, the draft scheme sets a minimum investment threshold of $500,000 in designated sectors of the Lebanese economy.
The proposal is designed to allow applicants to obtain what is described as an investment-based or “golden” residency status, with eligibility extended to family members under certain conditions.
Officials said the mechanism is intended to attract foreign currency inflows into Lebanon while also ensuring strict financial oversight.
The draft includes enhanced compliance and anti–money laundering safeguards, requiring funds to be transferred from abroad through regulated banking channels.
In addition to the investment requirement, the proposal introduces an annual fee structure estimated at no less than $50,000 per family member seeking to benefit from the residency-linked status.
Lawmakers said the fee component is intended to generate direct state revenue while reinforcing the program’s positioning as an investment-driven framework rather than a standard residency pathway.
The measure aims to attract capital, support investment and create jobs, but still requires Parliament’s approval before becoming final.
