Lebanese Citizens Are Looking For Alternative Citizenship and Residencies
Lebanese individuals have expressed the highest levels of pessimism regarding their country's economic future, according to the Arab Barometer's sixth wave survey conducted between 2020 and spring 2021. Among various economic concerns, the escalating cost of living is perceived as the most significant challenge. Consequently, nearly half of the respondents (48%) are looking to leave Lebanon in search of better opportunities abroad.
Interestingly, while economic conditions account for only 7% of emigration motivations, a far greater percentage attribute their desire to leave to corruption (44%), security issues (29%) and political instability (22%). This suggests that citizens are deeply frustrated with the political system, which they believe has contributed to the ongoing financial crisis.
In contrast to many other countries surveyed, there is no significant gender disparity when it comes to the desire to emigrate; 49% of men and 46% of women wish to leave. Notably, a staggering 63% of youth aged 18-29 express a desire to emigrate, likely stemming from a lack of hope for their future prospects. Lebanon is also facing the risk of a brain drain, with 61% of college-educated individuals wanting to leave compared to 37% of those with only a secondary education or less.
As Lebanon's economic crisis intensifies, approximately 80% of the population has fallen into poverty, prompting an increase in migration, including dangerous undocumented sea routes. In the fall of 2018, 26% of Lebanese citizens indicated a desire to leave the country. When asked about the willingness to migrate without the necessary documentation, 12 percent of potential migrants in Lebanon affirmed their readiness to depart despite lacking the proper papers, with men showing slightly higher tendencies than women (14% vs. 9%, respectively).
For those considering relocation, Portugal has emerged as a popular option for its residency program, which offers a relatively short path to citizenship. The program allows individuals to gain residency through investments, job creation or capital transfers. Benefits of obtaining residency in Portugal include access to the Schengen Area for travel, a high quality of life and an excellent healthcare system. Additionally, residency can lead to citizenship after five years, making it an attractive long-term option for Lebanese nationals seeking stability.
Another appealing choice for Lebanese nationals looking to expand their business ventures is Saint Kitts and Nevis. This Caribbean nation offers a citizenship by investment program that is particularly attractive due to its fast processing times and the ability to travel visa-free to numerous countries, including the UK and the Schengen Area. Investors can obtain citizenship by making a qualifying investment in real estate or contributing to the country’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) fund. The ease of doing business and the favorable tax environment further enhance its attractiveness for entrepreneurs.
For Lebanese nationals looking for a viable pathway to gain citizenship and residency, I invite you to reach out to me at my email at info@residencyadvanced.com for guidance and assistance. Together, we can explore the best options tailored to your individual circumstances and help you achieve your goals for a brighter future.
