Residence permit

Securing a residence permit in Europe no longer demands years of waiting, rigid job contracts, or family sponsorship. For those ready to invest, Golden Visa programs open a faster, more flexible route to EU residency — without compromising business or lifestyle. Latvia, Greece, and Italy lead the way with some of the fastest investment routes in the EU, granting residence permits in as little as 3—4 months.

Albert Ioffe

Around 27.5 million foreigners live in EU countries with residence permits, according to Eurostat. For non-EU citizens, European residency enables them to live and work legally within the EU, travel visa-free across the Schengen Area, and have access to medical treatments and education. Countries like Italy, Portugal, and others offer residency by investment to non-EU wealthy foreigners, providing them with certain benefits in their host country.

Albert Ioffe

The Greece Golden Visa offers a residence permit in exchange for a minimum investment of €250,000 in the country’s economy. The permit is valid for 5 years, renewable indefinitely, and may lead to Greek citizenship after 7 years of residency. Greece appeals to investors with its resilient property market, the freedom of movement within the Schengen Area, and low cost of living in a region with a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Below are real-life stories of investors who have successfully obtained residence permits through the Golden Visa.

Anna Semenyuk

Over the past decade, EU countries have collectively garnered approximately 25 billion euros in foreign direct investment through residency-by-investment programs. With an EU residence permit, investors are able to travel to the Schengen countries visa-free, establish a business, and, in some cases, receive tax benefits. Let’s discuss how investors can move abroad and the best places to do so.

Albert Ioffe

Portugal attracts senior foreigners from around the globe with a low cost of living, safety, developed infrastructure, sunny weather, and high healthcare quality. The Portugal Retirement Visa offers two routes to move to Portugal, while the D7 Visa requires proof of a passive income outside of Portugal. Also, retirees can invest at least €250,000 to participate in the Portugal Golden Visa Program to get residence permits. Learn why Portugal is considered retirement heaven and how to get residency there.

Eymi Castro

A residence permit in an EU country allows visa-free travel across 29 Schengen states. It also provides access to high-quality education and healthcare. To get EU residency, an applicant must meet the requirements set by the migration policy of the chosen country. Here is an overview of the grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Europe, the required documents, and the costs involved.

Albert Ioffe

Financially independent non-EU citizens looking to live in Europe have a compelling option in the Portugal D7 Visa — also known as the Passive Income Visa. This visa allows individuals with a stable income from abroad to apply for legal residency in Portugal, starting with a visa and leading to a residence permit. To qualify, applicants must show an annual income of at least €11,040, along with proof of accommodation and other supporting documents. Is this the right path for you? In this article, you'll learn how the D7 Visa works, what it takes to qualify, and why it’s become a popular choice for high-net-worth individuals and retirees.

Pedro Barata

With a Digital Nomad Visa, Egyptian citizens can work remotely from over 40 countries, including European Union states like Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta. Each visa program has different requirements for potential applicants who need to prove a certain income amount from a foreign source, as well as buy or rent housing before obtaining the visa. Here’s a complete list of countries offering residence permits for remote workers, income requirements, and a handpicked selection of the best Digital Nomad Visas for Egyptians.

Albert Ioffe

45 countries around the world offer Digital Nomad Visas. They all have different requirements, benefits, costs of living, and climates. Thanks to this diversity, nomads can choose the most appropriate country for their needs. In this article, you will find a complete list of countries that offer Digital Nomad Visas with conditions and requirements that applicants should meet.

Albert Ioffe

State permission is required to live in the country. It is confirmed by the following documents: a residence permit, a permanent residence card or a citizen's passport. We will tell you the opportunities each status brings and how to choose the right one.

Vladlena Baranova

Choosing between residency in Greece, Portugal, or Malta isn’t just about the size of your investment. From tax regimes and citizenship timelines to permit types, lifestyle, and living costs — each Golden Visa programme offers a distinct set of advantages. This article provides a detailed comparison of the three EU residency options, helping you determine which one best matches your investment strategy, family needs, and long-term lifestyle goals.

Albert Ioffe

Portugal is confidently among the European countries most attractive to investors from all over the world. Some of them consider the Pyrenean country as a place to relax or an opportunity to invest in real estate. And many seek to open a business in Portugal. We figure out whether it is profitable and what advantages the presence of your own company in Portugal provides.

Vladlena Baranova

Europe is an attractive destination for many foreigners, including Americans, seeking residence permits. The region offers a high quality of life, often at a more affordable cost than the US.  In some countries, wealthy Americans can take advantage of fast and easy pathways to temporary and permanent residency. Entrepreneurs may also enjoy tax optimizations and the opportunity to expand their business into the unified EU market. In this article, we explore 11 European countries with the best residence permits for US nationals.

Albert Ioffe

When considering obtaining residency through investment in funds, Hungary and Portugal stand out as two of the most popular destinations.  Hungary offers a more affordable entry point with a €250,000 investment, while Portugal requires at least €500,000. However, the decision goes beyond just the cost — each country presents unique terms, benefits, and risks.  This article compares the investment options in both countries, analysing the terms and conditions, costs, yields, and potential risks to help you determine the best choice for securing your residency.

Albert Ioffe

European countries offer residence permits by investment that do not require relocation. Investors can maintain their existing lifestyle while securing plan B and access to the Schengen Area. This article explains how zero-days and low-stay Golden Visa options work, and what benefits and risks US applicants should consider before applying.

Mohamed Zakaria

Portugal Golden Visa is often viewed as a residence route, but for wealthy families it can also work as an asset diversification tool. Through a qualifying investment fund, investors can place capital into a regulated Portuguese investment structure while securing residence rights in an EU country. This guide explains how the fund route works, which costs and risks to model, why fund selection matters before committing €500,000, and what benefits the Portugal Golden Visa can offer beyond asset diversification.

Pedro Barata

Latvia introduced its Golden Visa programme in 2010 to attract foreign investment and boost the national economy. Since its launch, the initiative has generated approximately €1.5 billion in revenue for the country and attracted over 20,000 applicants. In the article, we outline the key requirements for obtaining a Latvian residence permit by investment and explain the steps to acquire Latvian citizenship.

Elena Ruda

In 2024, Turkish nationals submitted 1,173,917 Schengen visa applications, one of the highest volumes globally, with a refusal rate of 14.5%\[1\]. Processing timelines and refusals disrupted travel plans, at times resulting in missed business meetings and cancelled procurement trips. Against this backdrop, the Hungary Golden Visa offers a predictable alternative to high-net-worth individuals. It grants a 10-year residence permit in exchange for an investment starting at €250,000. As the permit requires no minimum stay, Turkish nationals may live in their home country while travelling across 29 Schengen states without repeated visa applications.  The Golden Visa also provides the option to relocate to Hungary, access to European healthcare and education, and a potential path to EU citizenship.

Ferenc Tihánszky

Turkish citizens who work remotely can apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa to live in Spain and travel within the Schengen Area. The visa allows them to reside in Spain while maintaining employment or business activity outside the country. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a stable monthly income of about €2,849, or roughly €34,188 per year, for a single applicant. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, Digital Nomad Visa holders may become eligible for permanent residency.

Eymi Castro

Many countries allow foreigners to obtain residence permits; however, some ways are more challenging than others.With a residence permit, you can live in another country for the long haul typically anywhere from 1 to 5 years. You can qualify for one in several ways: by proving your financial stability, owning property, or making an investment. Investment is one of the easiest ways to become a resident of a certain state. Many European countries have special programs designed for wealthy people who would like to become residents. Learn more about the easiest countries for getting a residence permit.

Albert Ioffe

Living in Spain has become an increasingly attractive option for remote professionals. The country combines a favourable climate, reliable digital infrastructure, and internationally connected cities that support both work and everyday life. Spain offers the Digital Nomad Visa, allowing foreigners to reside in the country while working remotely for employers or clients abroad. The permit provides a clear legal pathway to 3-year residency, with the option to renew and later apply for permanent residency and citizenship. This guide explains how the Spain Digital Nomad Visa works, who qualifies, the costs and application process, and what to expect when relocating.

Vladlena Baranova

Italy's economy is the third-largest national economy in the European Union. It welcomes entrepreneurs and investors, providing options to get long-term residency by starting a business or investing in the Italian economy. Learn how much it costs to launch a company and get residency in Italy.

Vladlena Baranova

6.9 million foreign residents live in Spain in 2025. Seniors from all over the world move to Spain to make the most of their golden years. They indulge in the warm sea and culinary delights, spend days in the sun, and enjoy local amenities. Explore the ins and outs of retirement in Spain so your relocation goes as smoothly as possible.

Vladlena Baranova

To get a Golden Visa to Spain, a US citizen needs to invest at least €500,000 in the country’s economy — purchase real estate, securities, or start a business. The Spain residence permit allows its holder to reside in the country, take advantage of universal healthcare, study at local universities, and obtain a work permit. Explore the benefits of Spain residence by investment and the details of obtaining it as a US citizen.

Elena Kozyreva

Following the closure of Spain’s Golden Visa route, demand for alternative residence options has grown steadily. As a result, the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa has become the primary legal pathway for non-EU nationals who wish to live in the country without working or making a local investment. This Visa is available to applicants who can demonstrate passive income of at least €28,880 per year. This guide outlines how the visa operates under current legislation, who it is best suited to, and the key practical considerations prospective applicants should bear in mind.

Eymi Castro

In 2024, Italy registered 5.3 million foreigners. To join them and move to the country, an individual needs to obtain a residency permit.  There are two types of permits in Italy: temporary and permanent. A temporary residence permit is granted to foreigners for work, study, family reunification, or an investment of over €250,000 in the country’s economy. After spending 5 years in Italy, a foreigner can obtain permanent residency. This status allows for indefinite stay and work in the country. Let’s dive deep into all the Italian residency requirements and conditions for moving to Italy as a foreigner.

Lyle Julien

Remote workers can apply for a Hungary White Card, which is equivalent to a residence permit\[1\]. It is issued to individuals earning at least €3,000 per month, less than the requirement for Digital Nomad Visas to Portugal or Malta. The residence permit is issued for 12 months and can be extended once for an additional similar period. It grants the right to live in one of the most affordable European Union countries and travel to Schengen countries without a visa.

Zlata Erlach

A Malta residence permit may be granted on various grounds, the most common being employment, studies, family reunification, and investment of €30,000. The requirements and procedures depend on the type of permit. A residence permit holder has the right to relocate to Malta and travel visa-free within the Schengen Area. Investors may also obtain Maltese permanent residence. This is a lifelong status, although the residence card must be renewed every five years.

Julia Loko

The Hungary Golden Visa allows foreign nationals to obtain a Hungarian residence permit by contributing to the country’s economy. Two investment options are available to potential investors: participating in a local real estate fund and a charitable donation to a higher education institution. The minimum investment for a 10-year residence permit is €250,000.

Zlata Erlach

The number of operating companies and entrepreneurs in Hungary keeps rising. As of early 2026, Hungary has 1.8 million enterprises in total\[1\], including 15,888 foreign-controlled affiliates\[2\]. Foreign entrepreneurs can obtain a Hungarian residence permit by registering a company and becoming a founder. This guide covers eligibility, company types, taxes, and the key practical steps and risks.

Ferenc Tihánszky

A 401(k) is often the biggest nest egg a US worker ever builds and for many, it becomes the backbone of life after work. When the plan includes relocating to the EU with a Golden Visa or a retirement residence permit, that same 401(k) may need to do more: cover daily expenses and meet complex visa and tax rules abroad.

Albert Ioffe

Qatar issues a title deed and a residency visa within days to foreign buyers of approved property starting at $200,000. Investors also have the option to obtain permanent residency by purchasing approved property, provided they meet all other eligibility conditions.

Elena Ruda

Around 90,000 people currently hold temporary residency in Latvia, most of whom have obtained their permits by employment, study, or family reunification. Wealthy individuals often choose the Golden Visa, which requires a minimum investment of €50,000. Latvia appeals to foreigners with its lower cost of living compared to much of Western and Northern Europe, high quality of life, modern healthcare system, and one of the EU’s most business-friendly tax regimes.

Albert Ioffe

In 2024, EU countries issued 3.5 million first residence permits to non-EU nationals — a clear signal of Europe’s global pull. For Saudi citizens, the EU’s Golden Visa programs offer a unique entry point. A qualifying investment secures residence, visa-free Schengen access, and the long-term prospect of EU citizenship. Explore which EU countries offer these visas — and how they differ in cost, benefits, and family coverage.

Mohamed Zakaria

Foreign nationals can obtain two main types of visas for Malta. Those staying for fewer than 90 days apply for a Schengen C visa, while stays exceeding 90 days require a National D visa. The D visa usually allows the holder to apply for a residence permit and is often issued for purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification. Wealthy individuals may obtain residency directly, without a D visa, by investing at least €30,000 for a temporary residence permit or €169,000 for permanent residency.

Julia Loko

A temporary residence permit grants the right to live abroad for a set number of years. It is often tied to employment, university enrolment, family reunification, or investment. Over time, one may become eligible for a permanent residence permit. This status allows indefinite stay and typically comes with fewer restrictions. This article explains the key differences between temporary and permanent residence permits, covering how they work, who qualifies, and why they matter for those looking to settle abroad.

Vladlena Baranova

UAE Golden Visa, sometimes called Dubai Golden Visa, allows holders to reside in the UAE for 5 or 10 years. The minimum expense to obtain a Golden Visa to the UAE is $136,000 if owning a project. Foreigners pay $545,000 if they make a public investment or buy real estate. Property prices in the UAE are 70% lower than in the US. Americans can enjoy the benefits this country provides. Tax optimization, low crime rate, stable economy, professional opportunities, and high healthcare attract expats worldwide. With all of this, the cost of living is 50% lower than in the US. This article explains what is required to obtain a UAE Golden Visa.

Zlata Erlach

Ireland's residency by investment programme allows non-EEA citizens to obtain residency in the state. Investors who receive a residence permit this way get the right to work, study and start a business in a country with the second-highest GDP per capita in the world. Learn if you’re eligible for the programme and find the best investment option for you.

Elena Ruda

In 2022, the country of Van Gogh, windmills, and tulips — the Netherlands — welcomed about 400,000 immigrants. People moving to this country are attracted by a high quality of life, security, and rich cultural heritage. Wealthy foreigners can move to the Netherlands under the Residence Permit for Foreign Investors program. The program implies investing at least €1,250,000 in the country's economy. Read on to learn more about the conditions and requirements of the program.

Elena Ruda

Spain is an attractive destination for American digital nomads, owing to the lower cost of living compared to the US. The Spain Digital Nomad Visa permits US remote workers to live in the country while being employed by non-Spanish companies. The Spain Digital Nomad Visa does not require its holder to obtain a residence permit once in Spain. The visa itself provides sufficient grounds for legal residency for up to a year. However, if obtained, the residence permit is valid for 3 years and is extendable for an additional 2 years. Discover the benefits of living in Spain as a digital nomad with our guide to Spain Digital Nomad Visa.

Igor Buglo

France has been one of the most popular EU countries among expats seeking a better life for decades. As of 2024, France is second in Europe regarding the number of non-EU immigrants after Germany. In this article, we explore the ways to live in France with a long-stay visa or a residence permit and the eligibility requirements for each.

Elena Ruda

According to the Annual Global Retirement Index 2024, Greece ranks 7th among the best places to retire, thanks to its natural beauty, warm climate, and peaceful way of life. It is also popular among retirees thanks to a special tax regime. Foreigners may retire to Greece through the Golden Visa and the Retirement Visa, obtaining residence permits. In 7 years, they may apply for citizenship. Learn about the residency requirements in Greece and which places are most appealing for retiring.

Julia Loko

Australia Business Innovation and Investment Visa is a government program designed to attract investors and business people who contribute to the national economy. Applicants can obtain an Australian Golden Visa for an investment of AUD 1.25 million or more or by starting a business in the country. Holders of business and investment visas have the right to reside in the country for 5 years and the possibility to obtain permanent residency in Australia.

Elena Ruda

The path to Hungary permanent residency lies only through a temporary residence permit. A foreigner must live in the country for at least 3 years to qualify for permanent residency. Starting in July 2024, a Hungary  Golden Visa is available for wealthy foreigners. For a minimum investment of €250,000, they can become temporary residents for 10 years. In this article, we talk about all the ways to obtain a residence permit in Hungary and the advantages of living in one of the world's safest and most affordable countries.

Zlata Erlach

One way to move to Austria is to obtain a residence permit for financially independent people. It is suitable for those who do not plan to work in the country. This path assumes that the applicant has personal savings or income received outside the country. How to get a residence permit card for financially independent people, how long it will take and what conditions must be met will be explained in the article.

Zlata Erlach

A Thai passport cannot be obtained by investment. Wealthy people can get a non-immigrant visa in the investment, business, and pensioner categories, or participate in the Elite Residence Program for a residence permit by investment. In this article, you can find out how to apply for a Thai residence permit by investment and a Thai passport.

Elena Ruda

An Ireland residence permit can be obtained for an investment of €400,000. The Investor Visa allows the holder to work, do business, and study in the country, and after five years of residence, they can apply for citizenship. We discuss who is eligible to apply for an Irish residence permit by investment, how to participate in the investment program and the grounds on which an Irish passport can be granted.

Elena Ruda

The Hungary residence permit is a way to enjoy the perks of living in the EU, like getting a prestigious education and high-quality healthcare. The most common reasons for foreigners to move to Hungary are employment, university enrollment, marriage, and investment. Each option has its benefits and limitations.

Zlata Erlach