For discerning investors or those seeking a reliable backup plan, the allure of a “golden visa” is hard to ignore. Various East Asian nations are rolling out long-term residency programs designed to offer a second home for expatriates. These initiatives are often accessible through substantial investments or specialized skill sets, aiming to draw in capital, talent, and innovation. The landscape is evolving rapidly, making it essential to stay informed about each country's offerings.

Rising Competition for Global Talent

As countries vie for international investors, the competition intensifies. Vietnam, for instance, has introduced a five-year “talent visa” with a streamlined renewal process, while Malaysia boasts a golden visa that can last up to 20 years for qualified applicants. Below, we delve into the specific programs offered by each country, based on insights from consultancy firms like Henley & Partners and Harvey Law Group.

1. Hong Kong: Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

Hong Kong's CIES has been revitalized to attract high-net-worth individuals, reflecting the city’s continued appeal as a financial hub.

• Investment Requirement: A minimum of HK$30 million (approximately $3.86 million) in approved assets, which can include real estate, stocks, or business investments.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a clean immigration record, and demonstrate full ownership of the invested assets. Proof of financial stability and a viable business plan may also be required.
• Residency Pathway: Successful applicants receive temporary residency, with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after seven years. Benefits include access to Hong Kong's robust healthcare system and educational institutions.

2. Malaysia: Two Residency Programs

Malaysia offers two primary pathways for residency through investment, each catering to different demographics and investment capacities.

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)

• Financial Requirements: Applicants under 50 must deposit MYR 300,000 (about $68,000) in a fixed deposit account, while those over 50 must deposit MYR 150,000 (approximately $34,000).
• Eligibility Age: Minimum age of 35.
• Residency Duration: A 10-year multiple-entry visa, requiring at least 90 days of stay each year. This program also allows for family members to join, making it an attractive option for families.
• Additional Benefits: The program offers tax incentives, such as exemption from income tax on overseas income.

Premium Visa Programme (PVIP)

• Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of RM 1 million (around $240,000) in approved sectors.
• Age Restrictions: None, making it accessible to younger investors.
• Residency Duration: A 20-year multiple-entry visa issued in five-year increments, with no minimum stay requirement, offering flexibility for frequent travelers.
• Benefits: Investors can also enjoy Malaysia's rich culture, diverse cuisine, and beautiful landscapes.

3. Singapore: Global Investor Programme (GIP)

Singapore’s GIP provides a pathway to permanent residency for qualified global investors, reinforcing its position as a global business center.

• Investment Options:
  • Option A: Invest S$10 million (about $7.78 million) in a new or existing business in Singapore, contributing to the local economy.
  • Option B: Invest S$25 million in a fund approved by the Singapore Economic Development Board, supporting innovative startups.
• Eligibility: Applicants must possess a robust business track record, with prior entrepreneurial experience being highly advantageous.
• Residency Pathway: Permanent residency is granted upon approval, with eligibility for citizenship after two years. Note that Singapore prohibits dual citizenship, which may be a consideration for potential applicants.

4. Thailand: Elite Visa Program

Thailand’s Elite Visa offers attractive long-term residency options, appealing not only to investors but also to retirees and expatriates.

• Membership Fee: Starting from THB 650,000 ($19,300) for a five-year visa, with options for longer durations available.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must hold a foreign passport, have no criminal record, and meet standard immigration requirements.
• Benefits: Membership includes VIP airport services, government concierge assistance, and exclusive access to events, making it a premium choice for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle in Thailand. The program also promotes cultural integration and networking opportunities.

5. Vietnam: New Visa Schemes

Vietnam is enhancing its appeal to investors and skilled professionals with new visa offerings aimed at driving economic growth.

• Investor Visa: Valid for 10 years, offering a pathway to permanent residency after five years. This visa is designed for individuals willing to invest in sectors prioritized by the Vietnamese government.
• Talent Visa: Targeting high-skilled professionals in technology, finance, and healthcare, valid for five years, with an easy renewal process to encourage talent retention.
• Application Process: Expected to be entirely online, streamlining the experience and eliminating the need for embassy appointments. This modernization reflects Vietnam's commitment to attracting global talent.

6. Philippines: Diverse Golden Visa Options

The Philippines offers several residency options catering to foreign investors and retirees, making it an attractive destination in Southeast Asia.

Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV)

• Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of $75,000 in Philippine corporations, ideally in sectors that support national development.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be 21 or older, healthy, and free of criminal records. Family members can also be included in the application.
• Residency Benefits: Offers indefinite residency for the investor and their family, with no minimum stay required. Investors benefit from tax incentives on Philippine income only and enjoy duty-free import of goods.

Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)

• Eligibility: Available for retirees aged 50 and above, with entry starting from a deposit of $10,000, which may vary based on pension income.
• Benefits: Lifetime stay, work and study rights, access to health insurance, and the ability to live anywhere in the Philippines. This visa provides a straightforward pathway for retirees seeking a serene lifestyle.

Each of these golden visa programs is designed with distinct features to appeal to various profiles, from investors to retirees. They provide flexible paths to residency, allowing individuals to experience the rich cultures, economic opportunities, and stunning landscapes of East Asia. However, applicants should be prepared to spend a certain amount of time in the host country to maintain their status. With the right investment and commitment, your dream of global living in East Asia could become a reality, offering not just a home, but a vibrant new lifestyle.

Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ largest low-cost airline, has announced a special seat sale in honor of the country’s 127th Independence Day, offering one-way base fares from Dubai to Manila for just Dh3. The promotion, part of the airline’s annual Super Seat Fest, is available for bookings made between June 11 and June 15, 2025. The travel period for these discounted tickets spans from December 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, making it ideal for those planning year-end holidays or summer visits to the Philippines.

The Dh3 fare covers only the base ticket price, with additional charges for taxes and surcharges. Cebu Pacific’s extensive network allows travelers to connect from Manila to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations, including popular tourist spots like Boracay, the Banaue Rice Terraces, Vigan, and Davao’s Seven Falls. The airline encourages passengers to explore the Philippines’ rich historical and cultural sites, such as Intramuros and the National Museum complex in Manila.

Booking is available through Cebu Pacific’s official website, with multiple payment options including credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets. The airline also offers special guidelines for families traveling with infants or minors: infants under two years old may travel on an adult’s lap for an infant fee, and strollers or car seats can be brought free of charge. Children aged 12 and above are considered adult guests, and minors traveling with parents only need to present documents proving their relationship, such as a birth certificate or valid IDs.

Seats at the promotional rate are limited and subject to availability, so travelers are encouraged to book early. Cebu Pacific’s Super Seat Fest is a recurring event, celebrated alongside major milestones and holidays, and continues to be popular among Filipinos abroad looking for affordable ways to reunite with family or explore the country’s diverse attractions.

Etihad Airways has officially unveiled an exciting new competition aimed at both new and existing Etihad Guest members. Dubbed "The Extraordinary Challenge," this initiative invites participants to embark on a journey to visit 15 new year-round destinations added to Etihad's route network in 2025.

The first member to complete this challenge will be awarded an astounding five million Etihad Guest miles, marking the largest prize in the loyalty program's history.

Mark Potter, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign, stating, “This challenge embodies Etihad’s purpose to give flight to ambition. We’re inviting our adventurous members and travelers to explore 15 incredible destinations while competing for our largest-ever miles prize.”

The Challenge Overview

Participants in The Extraordinary Challenge will compete to be among the first three members to visit all 15 destinations, which include:

• Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)
• Algiers (Algeria)
• Atlanta (USA)
• Chiang Mai (Thailand)
• Hanoi (Vietnam)
• Hong Kong (China)
• Krabi (Thailand)
• Medan (Indonesia)
• Peshawar (Pakistan)
• Phnom Penh (Cambodia)
• Prague (Czech Republic)
• Sochi (Russia)
• Taipei (Taiwan)
• Tunis (Tunisia)
• Warsaw (Poland)

Prize Breakdown

The competition's top three finishers will be rewarded as follows:

• 1st Place: 5 million Etihad Guest miles
• 2nd Place: 3 million miles
• 3rd Place: 1 million miles

These miles can be redeemed for flights, holidays, and a wide array of items from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop. For context, five million miles could equate to over 500 Economy flights, more than 70 Business class trips, or around 40 First class journeys.

Engaging Features

To enhance the experience, participants will have access to a dedicated race dashboard, complete with a digital passport that gets stamped with each destination visited. This feature encourages continued travel and rewards every milestone. A live leaderboard will track each member's progress, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition among passionate travelers.

How to Participate

The challenge is open to both new and existing Etihad Guest members, making it an inclusive opportunity for anyone eager to explore. To enter, members must register through the official competition link and track their progress throughout the challenge. Terms and conditions apply.

Participants are required to fly on an Etihad-operated flight to or from all specified destinations by 25 May 2026.

Join the Adventure

Those interested in joining The Extraordinary Challenge can register at click here. Members are encouraged to share their journey on social media using the hashtag #EYextraordinarymiles as they race toward this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

With this innovative initiative, Etihad Airways is not only enhancing the travel experience but also inspiring its members to explore the world in a competitive and rewarding way.

Travelers looking to save on their next journey have reason to celebrate: KU Airways has unveiled a limited-time promotion offering discounts on both Economy and Business Class fares. The special offer, available with the promo code MAY15, is valid for bookings made between May 15 and June 7, 2025, for travel through December 2025.

How to Avail the Offer

Customers can access the promotion in several convenient ways:

• Online: Enter the promo code MAY15 when booking via the KU Airways website or mobile app.

• Phone: Book through the KU Airways call center by dialing 171.

• In Person: Visit any KU Airways office or authorized travel agent.

Promotion Highlights

• Cabins: Valid on both Economy and Business Class.

• Travel Period: Book now, fly anytime until December 2025.

• Flights: Offer applies exclusively to flights operated by KU Airways. Codeshare, interline, and partner airline flights are not included.

• Discount: The promotion provides a discount on the base fare only. All applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges remain payable by the passenger.

• Availability: Seats are limited and subject to availability at the time of booking. Fares are not guaranteed until ticketed.

Important Terms and Conditions

• The promotion cannot be combined with other offers or discounts.

• KU Airways reserves the right to discontinue the promotion at any time.

• All other fare rules and conditions apply as per the ticket at the time of booking.

Why Book Now?

With flexible travel dates extending through the end of the year and savings available in both Economy and Business cabins, this promotion is ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Whether planning a family holiday, a business trip, or a spontaneous getaway, passengers can enjoy significant savings on KU Airways’ renowned service.

Travelers are encouraged to act quickly to secure the best fares, as availability is limited and the offer ends June 7, 2025.

For more information or to book, visit the KU Airways website, app, call 171, or contact your nearest KU office or travel agent today.

Travellers eyeing affordable summer getaways are in for a treat as Wizz Air Abu Dhabi announces a 15% discount on select flights to and from the UAE capital. The offer is valid for bookings made for travel between May 1 and June 30, 2025.

The ultra-low-cost carrier, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ) and Hungary-based Wizz Air, is rolling out the promotion to fuel summer travel demand. Bookings can be made exclusively via the airline’s official website and mobile app.

While Wizz Air hasn’t released a complete list of discounted routes, the offer includes several popular regional and European destinations, targeting budget-savvy flyers looking to explore more for less during the peak travel season.

The promotion aligns with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its commitment to growing a cost-effective network out of the UAE capital. Since its launch in 2021, the airline has focused on short- and medium-haul destinations, aiming to make travel accessible for all.

Travellers are encouraged to act fast—discounted seats are limited and only available within the promotional booking window.

Qatar Airways Holidays, the leisure division of the award-winning Qatar Airways, has unveiled meticulously curated travel packages for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the largest-ever edition of the tournament spanning 16 host cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The historic event, featuring 48 teams and over 104 matches, will unite football fans globally, with Qatar Airways Holidays providing end-to-end solutions that include international and domestic flights, luxury accommodations, intercity transfers, stadium transport, and guaranteed match tickets.

These packages, available in phases leading up to the tournament, prioritize convenience for fans, offering four- and five-star hotel stays in prime locations, seamless airport-to-stadium logistics, and flexible booking options through a dedicated digital platform.

As FIFA’s Official Global Airline Partner through 2030, Qatar Airways will leverage its vast network of over 150 destinations and its Privilege Club loyalty program, allowing members to earn Avios points on every package component—from flights to hotel stays—redeemable for future travel or upgrades.

Steven Reynolds, Senior Vice President of Qatar Airways Holidays and Discover Qatar, highlighted the company’s fan-first approach: “Our packages are designed to eliminate travel complexities, ensuring supporters can focus entirely on the tournament. From curated city-hopping itineraries to exclusive hospitality experiences, we’re delivering unmatched access to this global celebration of football.”

The phased release strategy aims to accommodate diverse fan needs, with early registrants gaining priority access to premium match tickets and hotel inventory. Qatar Airways’ partnership with FIFA, active since 2017, underscores its commitment to global sports development, complementing its portfolio of high-profile collaborations with entities like UEFA, Formula 1®, and the Brooklyn Nets.

The airline’s role extends beyond logistics, offering cultural immersion opportunities, such as curated stopovers in Doha, where travelers can explore Qatar’s heritage ahead of their World Cup journey.

Exclusive Member Benefits and Global Reach:

Privilege Club members enjoy double-dip rewards, earning Avios on flights and Qpoints on total package value, alongside exclusive Cash + Avios redemption rates for significant savings. Qatar Airways Holidays’ partnerships with over 300,000 hotels and 40+ cruise lines ensure tailored experiences, whether fans seek urban hubs near stadiums or tranquil retreats between matches.

The division’s 170+ destination network and multi-city flight options simplify cross-border travel across the three host nations, with dedicated customer support teams assisting in customizing itineraries.

Registration and Competitive Edge:

With demand expected to surge, early registration via qatarairways.com/fifa26 is encouraged. The first-come, first-served model prioritizes accessibility, while the platform’s real-time availability tracking and flexible payment plans cater to diverse budgets. Qatar Airways Holidays also guarantees price-match competitiveness, ensuring bundled flights and accommodations remain cost-effective compared to piecemeal bookings.

Legacy of Sports Excellence:

Building on its success as the official carrier for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar Airways continues to champion global sports through partnerships with rugby’s British and Irish Lions, tennis icon Novak Djokovic, and motorsport events like MotoGP. Its 2026 travel packages reinforce this ethos, blending operational precision with fan-centric innovation, setting a new standard for mega-event hospitality.

About Qatar Airways Holidays:

Operating in 84 countries, the division specializes in seamless travel experiences, from curated stopovers in Doha’s cultural landmarks to event-centric bundles for Formula 1® and UEFA tournaments. Its integration with Privilege Club elevates loyalty rewards, while its focus on accessibility—including multilingual support and 24/7 assistance—ensures a stress-free journey for fans worldwide.

As the authorized provider for FIFA’s marquee event, Qatar Airways Holidays reaffirms its position as a leader in global sports tourism, transforming how fans engage with the world’s most beloved tournaments.