Easiest countries to get European residency

Several countries in Europe that are easiest to get residency now offer residence permits quickly in return for investment. This article highlights the easiest European countries to move to and answers the question: “Which country has the easiest residency?”.

1. Permanent Residency in Cyprus
   

   The Permanent Residency Program in Cyprus is aimed at anyone wishing to move and live in the country through real estate investment in one of the following pathways:

   • Fast Track Pathway

   Investment in this pathway starts from 300,000 EUR, with processing times ranging between 3-5 months. It is a requirement to maintain property ownership throughout life for the permanent residency to remain valid.

   • Regular Pathway

   Investment in this pathway is less than 300,000 EUR, but processing times are longer compared to the Fast Track Pathway, extending to a minimum of two years (conditions apply).

   Some of the advantages provided by the Permanent Residency Program in Cyprus include:

   • Permanent European residency for all eligible family members.
   • Ease of obtaining Schengen visas after obtaining Cypriot permanent residency.
   • Enjoying tax exemptions and privileges.
   • The possibility of obtaining citizenship after fulfilling certain residency conditions.
   • Achieving good financial returns from real estate investment.

   Permanent residency in Cyprus may qualify you for citizenship and a Cypriot passport after seven years of actual residency, subject to specific conditions. Holders of Cypriot passports have visa-free access to 178 destinations worldwide, ranking 15th according to the Reach Immigration Passport Index.

   Cyprus, strategically located between Europe, Asia, and Africa, has become an attractive investment option due to its rapid real estate market growth, and low-tax benefits, with a corporate tax rate of 12.5%.

   Speaking of the real estate market in Cyprus, it is considered one of the best markets globally, particularly in Europe. The country has facilitated the buying and selling of properties, making it easy for investors from outside Cyprus.

   Real estate sales in Cyprus reached 1.7 billion euros in the first quarter of 2023, with a total of 6,188 properties sold, according to official reports. This figure reflects the flexibility of the real estate market in Cyprus and the high level of confidence in the sector among property owners and foreign investors.

2. Residency in Greece

   The Golden Visa program in Greece is gaining popularity day by day among those seeking residency in Europe. The Greek government launched the Golden Visa program in 2013 to boost the country’s economy. The program offers the opportunity for investors and their eligible family members to obtain permanent residency.

   According to the law, the minimum investment amount is 500,000 EUR, but there are exceptional areas where investment can start from 250,000 EUR. Investors are required to maintain ownership of the purchased property throughout their lives.

   Some of the features provided by this program include:

   • Freedom to travel within all Schengen Area countries without the need for a visa.
   • The option to add a spouse, children under 21, and parents.
   • Access to social benefits and educational rights.
   • Achieving a good financial return from real estate investment.

   This program qualifies individuals for Greek citizenship and a passport after seven years of residency. The Greek passport ranks 7th according to the Reach Immigration Passport Index, allowing visa-free entry to 187 destinations worldwide.

3. Permanent Residency in Malta

   Malta offers numerous investment opportunities through what is known as the Permanent Residency Program in Malta. This program is tailored for foreign investors seeking to invest and reside in Malta, allowing them to obtain permanent residency through real estate investment starting from 110,000 EUR (conditions apply).

   This program provides a wide range of benefits, including:

   • Enjoying permanent residency rights in Malta for all family members.
   • Freedom to travel within all Schengen Area countries without the need for a visa.
   • Processing time ranges from 4 to 6 months.
   • Access to special tax incentives for individuals and companies.

4. Residency in Portugal

   The Golden Visa program in Portugal is one of the most attractive programs for investors. It offers an opportunity for those desiring Portuguese residency and the enjoyment of numerous benefits. Participants can invest in investment funds with a minimum amount of 500,000 EUR, with the obligation to maintain the investment for a minimum of 5 years for clients to obtain permanent residency or citizenship if they meet the minimum residency requirements.

   The Residency Program in Portugal – Golden Visa through investment in investment funds provides several advantages, including:

   • The option to add a spouse and all dependents, regardless of age (conditions apply).
   • Freedom of movement and visa-free entry to all Schengen countries after obtaining residency.
   • The possibility of obtaining permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years of legal residence, with a requirement of 7 days per year.
   • Enjoying full benefits within Portugal, such as health insurance and free education.
   • The right to work and reside anywhere in Portugal.
   • Guaranteed return on investment with exemption from income tax.

If you are interested in European residency through investment, you can contact us to book a free consultation by clicking on the link here.