Residence permit

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

The Italy Golden Visa program allows US citizens to live in Italy by contributing to the country’s economy. It is the fastest way for wealthy American families to become legal residents of Italy. The program allows Americans to obtain an Italian residency by investment, guaranteeing the right to live, work, study, and receive medical care there. US citizens and their families can get residence permit cards by investing at least €250,000.

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

The Spain Golden Visa program, or the Spain residence permit by investment, is a unique opportunity for non-EU nationals. By making investments of at least €500,000, individuals can secure residency rights with potential pathways to citizenship. The most popular route to getting the Spain Golden Visa is real estate investment. Discover the benefits and disadvantages of the program to understand why it has become globally attractive for investors.

Elena Kozyreva

Investors obtain residence permits known as the Spain Golden Visa by investing in the country’s economy at least €500,000. The most popular investment option is purchasing real estate. The Spain Golden Visa allows its holders to visit all Schengen countries visa-free and live, study, and run a business in Spain.

Albert Ioffe

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

Mediterranean living and an English-speaking setting make Malta a natural base for remote work. The Nomad Residence Permit lets third-country nationals live there while working for foreign employers or clients. This residency route is designed more as a change of scenery than a long-term settlement option. Issued for 1 year, renewable up to 3 times, and not leading to permanent residence, it suits remote professionals seeking flexibility.  Learn how the Malta Nomad Residence Permit works in practice, who it suits, and what to consider before applying.

Julia Loko

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

A residence permit by investment in Europe opens up opportunities for visa-free travel, a comfortable life, and business development.  Buying real estate is the fastest way to get a residence permit in several EU countries. Greece, Cyprus, and Malta provide unique opportunities for investors willing to spend at least €250,000 in exchange for the status. Let's compare the current conditions for obtaining a residence permit in Europe by investment.

Elena Ruda

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

The Portugal D7 Visa appeals to foreigners with its accessible requirements. A monthly income of at least €920 is enough to obtain the visa, followed by a residence permit. However, an important detail is often overlooked: only passive income qualifies, meaning salaries and freelance payments do not count. As an alternative, Portugal offers the Digital Nomad Visa, which does not require passive income. Instead, applicants qualify based on remote work earnings if they can demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,680. In 2023, Digital Nomad Visas were issued to 2,460 foreigners.

Vladlena Baranova

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

Hungary offers more than 20 ways to obtain a residence permit. Investors, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, students, and researchers may become residents. The residence permit is issued for one to ten years. Hungarian residents can live in the European Union, travel across the Schengen Area visa-free, and obtain permanent residency and citizenship. However, residency has peculiarities you want to be aware of before moving to Hungary.

Zlata Erlach

The UAE’s expatriate population is over 88%, and Indians represent its largest part — nearly 30%. This figure is expected to go even higher. Since 2022, the conditions for getting a 10-year residence visa have been eased. The government reduced the minimum investment to AED 2 million instead of AED 5 million and allowed more categories of people to apply. Let’s look into who can now obtain a Golden Visa in the UAE — and how to do it.

Lyle Julien

Uruguay is the perfect blend of Latino and European cultures. Since the country welcomes expats from around the world, they are heavily influenced by them. There is no need to adapt to a different culture or traditions. Wealthy foreigners can obtain legal or tax residency in Uruguay. To do so, they invest at least $100,000 in the country’s economy. Investors can also obtain a rentier visa or move to Uruguay as financially independent persons with a stable income of at least $1,500. Let’s take a closer look at a residence permit in Uruguay.

Elena Ruda

Thinking about living in Greece? You’ve got two main options for residency: temporary and permanent.  There’s a path for almost everyone to get a temporary residency permit in Greece — whether you want to work, launch a business, study, or simply enjoy your retirement under the Mediterranean sun. You can usually get a temporary permit within just 2 months of applying. After 5 years of living in Greece, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. Another option is to support Greece’s economy and secure a 5-year residence permit, without the need to move there full-time.

Julia Loko

To obtain a residence permit in Andorra, one must invest €600,000 and spend at least three months a year in the country.  Andorra offers one of the most favourable tax regimes in Europe. There are no taxes on wealth or inheritance for tax residents, while dividends, capital gains, and corporate profits are taxed at a flat rate of just 10% This article explains who can apply for Andorra’s investment residency and its conditions.

Vladlena Baranova

Foreigners planning to visit or move to Portugal can choose from four visa types, depending on the duration of their stay. Short-term visas include the Schengen, temporary stay, and Job Seeker visas. Residence visas, such as the Startup and D7 Visa, allow for longer stays. Learn if you need a visa for Portugal and which type suits your situation.

Eymi Castro

The Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and freelancers to obtain residency in Italy for 1 year. To apply for the visa and move to the land of endless gelato, foreigners demonstrate a monthly income of €2,700 and confirm the right to work remotely. After five years of living in Italy, digital nomads can obtain permanent residency, and another five years later, they can apply for citizenship by naturalisation.

Igor Buglo

Third-country nationals can move to the EU after getting residency. A residence permit allows one to move to the country that granted the status, study there, get treatment, use reliable banking services, and in most cases — travel across the Schengen Area visa-free. Participating in state residency-by-investment programs is the most convenient way to become an EU resident. One can obtain not only status but also acquire profitable assets.

Vladlena Baranova