TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Taxes are, more often than not, recognized as the primary mechanism through which nations generate revenue. Yet in some parts of the world, there are countries with no income tax, where their citizens are free from the burden of the government taking a cut of their earnings.
This reality sounds unthinkably appealing, especially considering that these nations open their doors to citizenship or residence permits. But do their residents truly enjoy the most financially liberating lifestyle in the world?
Here is a closer look at countries with no income tax where you can move in 2026, based on data from Greenback Tax Services and Immigrant Invest.
List of Countries with No Income Tax 2026
1. Antigua and Barbuda
Individuals in Antigua and Barbuda enjoy even broader benefits beyond its status as a country with no income tax, as wealth, capital gains, and inheritance are also free from taxation. Citizenship can be obtained through an investment of $230,000 or more, unlocking a relaxed island lifestyle alongside visa-free access to the UK and Schengen countries. Still, expatriates relocating here may remain burdened with tax obligations in their home country.
2. Bahrain
One of the best places to retire with tax-free benefits, Bahrain boasts nearly half of its population being expats. Societies here enjoy no taxes on income and a 46% corporate tax levied only on oil and gas sector companies. While there’s no direct pathway to citizenship, Bahrain offers residence permits through a minimum $270,000 investment, property ownership, or retirement with sufficient income.
3. UAE
Similar to Bahrain, the UAE does not offer a pathway to citizenship by investment. Instead, foreigners can obtain a renewable residence visa by investing at least $205,000 or AED 750,000. Once granted, individuals can benefit from zero taxes on income, capital gains, inheritance, gifts, or properties.
Those earning income outside the UAE can further optimize these advantages by obtaining a Tax Residency Certificate. To qualify, one must reside within the country for 180+ days per year to become eligible for double tax treaties.
4. Bahamas
Offering more than just postcard-worthy beaches, the Bahamas is also one of the few countries with no income tax. However, a VAT ranging from 0% to 12% and a property tax between 0.75% to 2% apply. To obtain a residence permit, the Bahamas requires a minimum property investment of $750,000. In this case, citizenship-by-investment is not available.
5. Bermuda
This thriving Caribbean gem blends a zero-income tax benefit with no VAT. While there is no option of citizenship by investment, foreigners are welcome to apply for a residence permit through an investment of $2.5 million or more. Bermuda is widely celebrated for its outstanding seascapes, though its notoriously high cost of living remains a major consideration.
6. Cayman Islands
In the Cayman Islands, there is no income tax, corporate tax, or VAT. Residents of this island enjoy a lifestyle defined by a warm tropical climate, low crime rates, and top-notch healthcare, albeit at a premium cost. Foreigners can obtain residence permits through an investment of at least $2.4 million.
7. Vanuatu
Despite having very limited tax treaties with other nations, Vanuatu remains one of the most compelling countries with no income tax. What truly sets it apart is its citizenship by investment program, which approves grants in two to four months for a contribution starting at $130,000. In addition to income, the Pacific island nation also imposes no capital gains, capital export, or inheritance taxes.
8. Monaco
Monaco is perhaps the most glamorous entry on the list of countries with no income tax. Located on the French Riviera, this luxurious tax haven opens a pathway to a residence permit with an investment starting €1 million. Similar to several other destinations on the list, however, Monaco does not offer citizenship by investment.
9. Saudi Arabia
Residents in Saudi Arabia are not obligated to pay personal income tax. However, businesses are subject to a 20% corporate tax on the net profits, with oil and hydrocarbon companies taxed at a significantly steeper rate of 50% to 85%. For those looking to plant deeper roots, a permanent residency permit is available through an investment of at least $1.1 million.
10. British Virgin Islands
Rounding out the list is the British Virgin Islands, where individuals are exempt from income, capital gains, inheritance, and sales taxes. Famously celebrated for its picture-perfect natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, the destination does come with zero offerings on residency or citizenship by investment.
Living in any of these countries with no income tax can be a genuinely life-changing financial decision. However, as this list makes clear, the process is rarely as simple as packing up and moving, further emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and thorough research. In that sense, if you are curious about where the process comes at the most ease, check out the easiest countries to move and work in.
Read: Which Countries Will Pay You to Move There in 2026?
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