Top Tax-Free Countries in 2025: Move Here to Pay No Income Tax

Explore the world's top tax-free countries where you can live, work, and invest without paying personal income tax. These destinations fund their governments through other revenue sources, making them ideal for high-net-worth individuals, digital nomads, and retirees.

Taxfree CountriesPersonal Income TaxResidency ProgramsCitizenship By InvestmentGlobal MobilityReal EstateJul 17, 2025

Top Tax-Free Countries in 2025: Move Here to Pay No Income Tax

Real Estate:In a world where income tax can significantly reduce take-home pay, some countries stand out by offering zero personal income tax. These tax-free destinations attract high-net-worth individuals, digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs who seek to retain more of their earnings while enjoying the benefits of global mobility.

Many of these countries fund their governments through other revenue sources such as oil exports, tourism, customs duties, financial services, and value-added taxes. Some also offer citizenship or residency through investment, creating opportunities for individuals to legally establish tax residency in a low-tax jurisdiction.

Here is a list of countries with no personal income tax and what it takes to live, work, or invest in them:

1. Antigua and Barbuda
This Caribbean nation offers zero personal income tax and no capital gains or inheritance taxes. While corporate tax is also absent for international business companies (IBCs) for up to 50 years, there is a value-added tax. Citizenship is available through a government donation or real estate investment starting at $230,000.

2. Bahamas
The Bahamas imposes no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Businesses may pay a small license fee, and there are real property taxes and stamp duties. Permanent residency can be obtained by purchasing real estate worth at least $750,000.

3. Bahrain
Bahrain has no personal income tax and does not tax capital gains or dividends. Although oil companies pay corporate tax, individuals are exempt. Residents can apply through investment, including a real estate purchase of $270,000 or proof of income for retirees.

4. Bermuda
Bermuda does not levy income or corporate tax on individuals. Instead, it raises revenue through payroll tax on employers, import duties, and property taxes. Residency is possible through high-value real estate investment or significant business activity, typically requiring investments over $2.5 million.

5. Brunei
Brunei does not impose income tax, relying instead on revenue from oil and gas. While there is no formal citizenship-by-investment program, residency may be granted through business investments or employment.

6. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands offer one of the purest tax havens in the world, with no income, corporate, or capital gains taxes. The government collects revenue from customs duties and licensing fees. Permanent residency requires a minimum investment of $2.4 million, while temporary permits may be available from $500,000.

7. Dominica
Dominica charges no personal income tax or inheritance tax. Citizenship can be obtained through a donation of at least $100,000 to the country’s development fund. The island also benefits from a relatively low cost of living compared to other tax-free jurisdictions.

8. Grenada
Grenada follows a similar model to Dominica with no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. Citizenship-by-investment is available starting at $150,000. The country is particularly popular for its investor-friendly visa programs and access to international banking services.

9. Kuwait
Kuwait does not levy personal income tax on residents or expatriates. Corporate tax only applies to foreign-owned entities. The economy relies heavily on oil exports. Residency is possible through business activity, but citizenship is not easily obtainable.

10. Monaco
This luxurious European microstate does not tax personal income. Businesses with substantial income outside Monaco pay corporate tax. Residents must deposit €500,000 in a Monaco bank and secure long-term accommodation. Though costly, Monaco offers excellent infrastructure and financial privacy.

11. Qatar
Qatar imposes no income tax on individuals and has no capital gains tax. Its economy is driven by natural gas and oil revenues. Residency is available through real estate investment or business incorporation, with a recommended investment of at least $270,000.

12. Saudi Arabia
There is no personal income tax in Saudi Arabia, although there is a 15 percent value-added tax on goods and services. Foreign-owned businesses may be subject to corporate tax. Residency can be acquired through employment or investment.

13. St. Kitts and Nevis
This Caribbean nation offers no personal income tax, and its citizenship-by-investment program is one of the oldest in the world. Individuals can qualify with a $250,000 donation or purchase qualifying real estate.

14. St. Lucia
St. Lucia also offers tax-free personal income and provides citizenship through a donation of at least $100,000. There are no capital gains or inheritance taxes, and the program is among the most accessible in the Caribbean.

15. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE does not impose income tax on individuals. It has a 5 percent VAT and recently introduced a 9 percent corporate tax on certain businesses. Residency can be obtained through real estate investment, company formation, or employment. Residents who stay more than 180 days can obtain a Tax Residency Certificate.

16. Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers zero personal income tax and charges a flat fee for businesses instead of corporate tax. Its citizenship-by-investment program starts at $130,000. Customs duties and VAT provide most of the government’s revenue.

Key Considerations Before You Move
These countries offer attractive tax benefits, but several factors must be considered:
- Many still charge VAT, customs duties, or property taxes, which can affect your overall cost of living.
- Residency and citizenship programs often require large financial commitments and extensive documentation.
- Tax laws can change, as seen in the Maldives which introduced income tax in 2019.
It is essential to consult with legal and tax professionals to evaluate the long-term viability of relocating to a no-tax jurisdiction, especially in light of evolving international tax standards and increased transparency requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries offer no personal income tax?

Several countries offer no personal income tax, including Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bermuda, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Kuwait, Monaco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Vanuatu.

How do these countries fund their governments without income tax?

These countries fund their governments through other revenue sources such as oil exports, tourism, customs duties, financial services, and value-added taxes (VAT).

What are the requirements for obtaining residency or citizenship in these countries?

Residency and citizenship programs vary by country but often require significant financial investments, such as real estate purchases, government donations, or business incorporations. Some countries also have specific documentation requirements.

Are there any other taxes to consider in these tax-free countries?

Yes, many of these countries still charge other taxes such as VAT, customs duties, and property taxes. These can affect your overall cost of living.

Why should I consult with legal and tax professionals before moving to a tax-free jurisdiction?

Consulting with legal and tax professionals is essential to evaluate the long-term viability of relocating to a no-tax jurisdiction. They can provide insights into potential changes in tax laws, international tax standards, and transparency requirements.