NON-EU EURASIA INVESTMENT FOR RESIDENCE: THE LATVIAN WAY

Investment attraction programs constitute a new phenomenon in international business. This research extends theory and practice of attraction of foreign capital. It investigates the determinants of innovative program by Latvia providing non-EU foreigners, mainly Eurasians, with residence permits in exchange for investments. The aim of this empirical research is to test hypothesis that Residence Permits for Investment program in Latvia can be viable and successfully implemented in attraction of Eurasian investors. Qualitative and quantitative methods, including macro-and micro-economic analysis and questioning of stakeholders are to be used. No unit of analysis has been published in Latvia or globally. This article is an attempt to start scientific discussion. Methods of analysis are to be tested. As result of empirical research, trend in capital attraction is quantitatively measured, motives of non-EU Eurasian investors generalized for perfection of the program. It is concluded that readiness to invest in Latvian economy is raising but should be supported by creative actions of the governments both nationally and internationally. Research paves the way for Recipient States Attractiveness Index for Foreign Investors. There is room for improvement in teaching International Business at institutions of higher education.