The government of Eswatini is set to introduce a new Immigration Bill that will create a permanent residence-by-investment visa, providing foreign investors with an alternative to citizenship. The bill was discussed during a meeting between Acting Minister for Home Affairs Senator Pholile Shakantu and members of the Citizenship Board at the Ministry of Home Affairs headquarters in Mbabane. The meeting focused on strengthening the country's immigration framework and ensuring that citizenship applications are handled with integrity, transparency, and consistency.
Senator Shakantu emphasized the need to expedite the Immigration Bill, which will introduce several important changes, including provisions for permanent residence visas and permanent residence-by-investment visas. The proposed framework will require applicants seeking permanent residence to demonstrate that they have met and exceeded a specified investment threshold in the country. This move is expected to attract foreign investors who wish to contribute to the country's economic development.
The permanent residence-by-investment option, also known as an Investor Visa, will provide a separate route for qualifying individuals who wish to invest and establish permanent residence in Eswatini. This program is similar to those adopted by several other countries, which allow foreign investors to contribute to economic development while securing long-term residence without necessarily becoming citizens. The Acting Minister noted that this program will provide an alternative to citizenship.
During the meeting, the Citizenship Board highlighted the importance of considering applicants' investment footprints and meaningful economic contributions to the country when assessing citizenship applications. The Board also emphasized the value of professional presence, particularly individuals with scarce and specialized skills needed by Eswatini. This will ensure that investors and individuals with critical skills have appropriate opportunities to contribute to the country's development.
The Citizenship Board, chaired by Fikile Dlamini, also observed that some individuals currently applying for citizenship could be better accommodated through a dedicated permanent residence framework. This would help maintain a clear distinction between citizenship and permanent residence. The proposed legislation is expected to address existing gaps in the immigration system by establishing clearer pathways from temporary residence to permanent residence and, where applicable, citizenship.
The Senator assured the Board that its concerns would be considered during the development of the proposed legislation. She urged members to continue executing their responsibilities fairly and transparently, stressing the importance of acting in the best interests of the country when considering citizenship applications. The Board members include HRH Princess Msindvose, Chief Ngangaza Dlamini, Vusi Tfwala, Pastor Griffiths Dlamini, Muzi Dlamini, and Lungile Numalo, with Mthokozisi Dlamini serving as an ex-officio member.
The introduction of the permanent residence-by-investment visa is expected to contribute to Eswatini's economic development by attracting foreign investors with the necessary skills and resources. The program will also provide a clear and transparent pathway for investors to establish permanent residence in the country. Key officials are working to finalize the proposed legislation, which will be presented to the relevant authorities for approval.
Key points
- The proposed Immigration Bill will introduce a permanent residence-by-investment visa, providing foreign investors with a new pathway to permanent residence in Eswatini without citizenship.
- The program aims to attract foreign investors who wish to contribute to Eswatini's economic development while securing long-term residence.
- The proposed legislation will establish clearer pathways from temporary residence to permanent residence and, where applicable, citizenship.
