Hong Kong protests getting you down? Thailand and Greece offer cheap way to become residents

Daydreaming about moving away from Hong Kong’s political tensions? Thailand and Greece might be worth considering – they offer cheap options for residency.

For a one-time fee of about US$16,000, successful applicants can get into Thailand’s Elite Residence Programme, the cheapest in Asia. Greece, meanwhile, is cheapest in Europe to offer a golden visa, with a minimum property investment of US$277,000.

Although vastly different, the two programmes give investors options, should they want to move overseas in a hurry.

“When you compare Thailand’s programme versus that of Greece, the one you choose depends on your priorities,” said Georg Chmiel, executive chairman at property portal Juwai.com.

“In Thailand, you are simply paying a fee for the privilege of residency and you will never see that money again. In Greece, you are investing in real estate and presumably can get that money back when you sell the property and maybe earn a return on that investment,” he said.

More Hongkongers are thinking about leaving, according to city data showing a recent surge in the number of locals seeking police checks showing they do not have a criminal record. These documents are critical to applying for a foreign visa.