Several options exist for those interested in becoming a permanent resident of Europe. These include marriage to a European citizen, employment opportunities and entrepreneurship. Educational pursuits also present a pathway to residency, with specific study durations and time requirements varying by country.
For those exploring alternatives beyond Europe, Antigua and Barbuda’s second passport program presents an attractive option, offering citizenship through investment without the need for long-term residency.
Alternatively, citizenship can be acquired through naturalization. This option requires a significant commitment of time and investment to the nation, but it offers many benefits.
1. Portugal
As one of the easiest European countries to get residence in, Portugal has many benefits for those who wish to relocate there. The country is known for its warm Mediterranean climate, but it also has a top-notch education system that offers both free and affordable international schools with global, American, or British curriculums.
Another benefit of relocating to Portugal is its advantageous tax system. Those who become residents are eligible for a flat tax rate on their income, which is significantly lower than the national average. In addition, the country is a member of the Schengen zone, which allows for visa-free travel throughout much of Europe.
Those who are interested in becoming citizens of the country can do so through various routes, including residency by investment or marriage. The citizenship by investment scheme in Portugal is popular among investors, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals.
The process is relatively quick and straightforward, but eligibility depends on several factors, including legal residency in the country for a certain amount of time, a stable source of income, a clean criminal record, proof of pre-paid comprehensive EU-wide health insurance, and passing a language and integration test. The country also offers a path to citizenship through descent for those with significant family ties in the region.
2. Malta
Malta’s MPRP program is ideal for those seeking a solid second residency, providing a visa-free travel option within the Schengen zone and a personal tax-friendly environment. Moreover, this route offers access to the island’s healthy property market and gives residents the chance to build their future in a country that is renowned for its world-class education and healthcare.
The requirements for obtaining residence in Malta vary, but the most common are investment of a certain amount of money and legal residency for a set period of time. Typically, investors can include family members in their applications, such as spouses and children up to the age of 26.
The process is relatively quick and straightforward, making it one of the easiest European countries to get residency in for high-net worth individuals who are interested in a stable and safe place to live and invest. With an enviable Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches and a unique blend of ancient fortifications and modern architecture, Malta has much to offer to both short- and long-term visitors alike. Crime rates are surprisingly low and mostly limited to petty thefts. However, residents should take all usual precautions when travelling and storing valuables.
3. Belgium
Located in the heart of Europe, Belgium offers a unique blend of cultures with France, Germany and the Netherlands. Its multilingual culture has created a welcoming attitude toward immigrants, making it one of the easiest European countries to get residence in. Belgium also provides a safe and stable society, a high standard of living, low tax rates, excellent healthcare, and a great education system.
To become a Belgian resident, you must first register at the local municipal office/town hall within eight working days of arrival, with passports and documents proving identity. Once registered, you’ll receive an eID card. You must also obtain a health insurance certificate and a work permit (if applicable). EU citizens can apply for permanent residency after five years of uninterrupted stay. Non-EU citizens may need a visa depending on their circumstances and should consult an immigration lawyer.
To acquire citizenship, you must demonstrate that you’re financially independent from the Belgian state. You can do this by providing bank statements, investment portfolios or property deeds. You must also pass a language test and show that you’re familiar with Belgium’s history and culture. This is a common requirement in all European countries. However, if you can prove a special previous link to Belgium, you may be able to apply for citizenship on a faster basis.
4. Germany
With its thriving economy, renowned healthcare system, and enviable quality of life, Germany attracts global citizens with promising career opportunities and family-friendly environment. With a number of work visa options and a simplified immigration process, Germany is one of the easiest European countries to get residency in.
As a European Union member, those who obtain residency in the country gain access to the entire continent’s borderless Schengen zone, and enjoy all benefits that come with EU citizenship. In general, obtaining an EU residence permit is a stepping stone towards eventual citizenship, though specific requirements vary from nation to nation.
The most common route to EU citizenship is through naturalization, which requires a minimum residency period of five years in the country where you intend to apply for citizenship. The period can be reduced to two years if you’re a citizen of a former Spanish territory or colony, or if you meet other eligibility criteria, such as language proficiency and contribution to the society. Alternatively, you can also choose to acquire the citizenship of a specific country through investment. While the minimum investment amounts vary from nation to nation, Malta and Portugal offer the most competitive packages in Europe.
5. Greece
With picturesque beaches, rich history, and world-class cuisine, Greece is a desirable destination for many. But what’s perhaps less well known is that it offers one of the easiest European countries to get residence in by investing in real estate.
The country’s Golden Visa programme grants qualifying foreigners with permanent residency within 60 days of making a minimum financial investment in the country. The requirement is a relatively low EUR250,000, which makes it among the most affordable in Europe. In addition, the programme allows investors to retain the rights of their property investments, rather than making a donation to the government.
Another option for obtaining Greek residency is to purchase property, such as a villa or apartment in popular cities such as Athens or Crete. This is an especially attractive option for those who want to gain access to the European Union without committing to full-time residency, as it allows them to travel freely across all Schengen countries.
Other options include establishing a business or buying shares in a company, which can also provide a pathway to citizenship. Alternatively, Germany’s residence by investment program is a good choice for those who want to take advantage of the strong German economy and its central location in Europe.
6. Cyprus
The beautiful island of Cyprus is a popular tourist destination for Europeans due to its warm climate and crystal clear beaches. However, it is also an attractive place for foreign investors thanks to its EU membership and its favourable tax regime.
The country’s golden visa program offers investors permanent residency and passport in return for a minimum investment of 300,000 euros. It is a quick and easy process, with processing times between 3-5 months. Investors can invest in residential and commercial real estate. They can even mix and match properties to fulfill the minimum investment amount. There are also no donation requirements, which is a big plus in our opinion.
Investors will also need to prove that they have a minimum annual income of EUR30,000. This can be from salaries, pensions, deposits, rent, shares, or other investments. The good news is that the investment threshold is lower than in other countries on this list.
Another benefit is that the country’s strategic location makes it a great place for doing business. With ties to Europe, Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa, it’s a perfect spot to expand an international business. Another plus is that investors with Cypriot residence will have visa-free access to all 27 EU member states.
7. Slovenia
Located in Central Europe, Slovenia is renowned for its snow-capped mountains, emerald green lakes and intricate cave systems. The country’s name is derived from the word slove (love), and it’s easy to see why this European destination is loved worldwide. It offers world-class hiking and skiing, unique European fare and exceptional wine, and a warm and welcoming local population.
The country occupies portions of four major European geographic landscapes-the Alpine peaks, the karstic Dinaric Alps, the Pannonian plain and hills, and the Mediterranean coastline. Its mountains loom over the capital, Ljubljana, whose karst topography is riddled with rivers, gorges, and caves. Tectonic fault lines cross the region, causing frequent seismic disturbances.
The country has a highly export-oriented economy, with more than half of its GDP coming from foreign trade. Its key exports are machinery, transport equipment, and manufactured goods. Between the 1880s and World War I, a large wave of Slovenes migrated to the United States, where they established themselves primarily in Cleveland, Ohio, and Chicago. The period following the war saw additional emigration, with many Slovenes moving to southwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia for jobs in the coal mines and steel industry. Many still live in these areas today.