Non-EU citizens usually need a national long-stay visa or residence permit to live in an EU country for more than 90 days. The right route depends on your evidence: job offer, remote income, passive income, investment, study enrollment, or family relationship. A permit normally lets you live in the issuing country, not the whole EU; broader mobility comes later through EU long-term resident status or national citizenship of an EU member state.
This guide compares the main EU residence permit routes for 2026, the documents each route usually needs, which routes have closed or tightened, and how temporary residence can lead to permanent residence or citizenship later.
At a Glance
- An EU residence permit allows non-EU citizens to live in an EU country for more than 90 days.
- The main routes are work and skills, digital nomad or passive income, investment, education, and family reunification.
- Most permits begin as temporary residence, often valid for one or two years. Under EUR-Lex Directive 2003/109/EC, EU long-term resident status generally requires five years of legal and continuous residence in the member state, plus resources, insurance and any national integration conditions.
- EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not apply for these residence permits; they usually register their residence under free movement rules.
- Holding a residence permit from one EU country does not normally let you live or work in another EU country. It usually allows short Schengen visits only, unless a specific mobility rule applies.
Which EU Residence Route Should You Choose?
Start with the evidence you can prove today. EU residence permits are national permits, so the best route is the one your chosen country can actually issue based on your job, income, investment, studies or family relationship.
| Route | Best For | Evidence Needed | Typical Countries / Programmes | Speed / Cost Band | PR / Citizenship Caveat | Official source checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU Blue Card or national work permit | You have a job offer or highly qualified skills. | Signed work contract, qualifications, salary threshold and health insurance. | Germany EU Blue Card, Spain work permit, France Talent Passport. | Usually 1-3 months; government fees vary by country. | Can lead to national permanent residence or EU long-term resident status; Blue Card holders may count time across member states under specific rules. | European Commission Blue Card |
| Digital nomad or remote-work residence | You earn income from clients or an employer outside the host country. | Remote-work contract, proof of income, tax records and private insurance. | Portugal D8, Spain Digital Nomad Visa, Greece Digital Nomad Visa. | Often 1-4 months; typical income thresholds are about EUR 2,300-EUR 3,700/month. | Good for residence, but local work rights and citizenship clocks differ by country. | Spain Exteriores telework visa + DGERT 2026 minimum wage |
| Passive-income or retirement residence | You can support yourself with pension, rental, dividend or savings income. | Bank statements, pension letters, investment income, accommodation and insurance. | Portugal D7, Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, Greece FIP, France visitor visa. | Often 2-4 months; Portugal's 2026 D7 anchor is EUR 920/month. | Usually restricts local work; residence and citizenship timelines depend on presence. | DGERT 2026 minimum wage |
| Investment residence | You want residence through a qualifying investment, fund, business or donation. | Proof of legal source of funds, qualifying investment records and clean criminal record. | Greece Golden Visa, Portugal ARI fund route, Italy Investor Visa, Malta MPRP. | Usually 4-8+ months; minimums range from EUR 250,000 to EUR 800,000+. | Several property routes have closed or tightened; check the current official route before paying a deposit. | AIMA ARI + BOE Ley Organica 1/2025 |
| Student residence | You have admission to an accredited EU education provider. | Acceptance letter, tuition/payment proof, funds, accommodation and insurance. | Spain student residence, France student visa, Germany student residence permit. | Often 1-2 months after documents are ready. | Student time may count differently toward long-term residence and often needs conversion after graduation. | EU Immigration Portal |
| Family reunification | You are joining a spouse, partner, parent, child or other eligible family member. | Family relationship proof, sponsor residence status, housing, income and insurance. | Family member routes in Spain, Portugal, Germany, France and other member states. | Often 2-6 months, depending on the country and relationship evidence. | Rights depend on whether the sponsor is an EU citizen, national resident or third-country national. | European Commission family reunification |
Use this table as a routing tool, not as legal advice. After you pick a route, check the official portal for your destination country because thresholds, document rules, physical-stay obligations and renewal rules change by member state.
2026 EU Residence Route Matrix
Use this matrix when the question is not “which country is easiest?” but “what evidence can I prove without stretching the facts?”
| Your strongest evidence | Best route to shortlist | Avoid if | Countries to compare first | Main proof risk | Official source checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Job offer or signed work contract | EU Blue Card or national work permit | The employer cannot sponsor, the salary is below threshold, or qualifications are not accepted. | Germany, France and Spain. | Salary threshold, recognised qualifications and employer paperwork. | European Commission Blue Card |
| Remote income from outside the host country | Digital nomad or remote-work residence, including Portugal D8, Spain Digital Nomad Visa and Greece Digital Nomad Visa. | You need local employment rights immediately or cannot prove stable foreign income. | Portugal, Spain and Greece. | Foreign-source income, tax records, contracts and health insurance. | Spain Exteriores telework visa + DGERT 2026 minimum wage |
| Pension, rental, dividend or savings income | Passive-income or retirement residence, including Portugal D7, Spain Non-Lucrative Visa and Italy Elective Residency Visa. | Your income is too volatile, undocumented or mostly held as unexplained cash. | Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece and France. | Recurring income, accepted savings treatment, accommodation and insurance. | DGERT 2026 minimum wage |
| Investment funds and clear source-of-funds trail | Investment residence, including Portugal ARI fund route, Greece Golden Visa and Italy Investor Visa. | The route is closed to new applicants, the asset is not eligible, or source-of-funds documents are incomplete. | Portugal, Greece, Italy and Malta. | Route eligibility, source of funds, investment records and property-route restrictions. | AIMA ARI + BOE Ley Organica 1/2025 |
| University or school enrolment | Student residence permit. | Your main goal is settlement and you do not have a post-study conversion plan. | Germany, France, Spain and Portugal. | Recognised institution, tuition proof, funds, accommodation and insurance. | EU Immigration Portal |
| Spouse, partner, parent, child or dependent relationship | Family reunification, including Portugal D6 Family Reunion Visa. | The relationship, sponsor status, housing or income cannot be documented. | Portugal, Spain, Germany and France. | Civil-status documents, sponsor residence status, income and housing evidence. | European Commission family reunification |
Requirements for an EU Residence Permit
Most EU residence applications use the same evidence spine, with route-specific documents layered on top. Treat the list below as a document checklist before you check the exact national portal.
| Requirement | What to Prepare |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Passport valid for the intended stay, often with blank visa pages and extra validity beyond arrival. |
| Proof of purpose | Work contract, university acceptance letter, investment evidence, remote-work contract, passive-income proof or family relationship documents. |
| Financial means | Bank statements, payslips, pension letters, tax returns or investment income showing you can support yourself and dependants. |
| Accommodation | Rental contract, property deed, registered invitation or other country-approved housing proof. |
| Health insurance | Private or public cover accepted by the host country, often covering emergency care, hospitalisation and repatriation before public registration. |
| Clean criminal record | Police certificates from your home country and sometimes from countries where you recently lived. |
| Translations and legalisation | Certified translations, apostilles or consular legalisation where the destination country requires them. |
| Route-specific evidence | Employer sponsorship, source-of-funds documents, school enrolment, family civil-status documents or business plans depending on the permit. |
| Integration evidence | Language or civic knowledge is usually later-stage, but some countries require basic language proof even for initial or renewal applications. |
Most applicants underestimate how long translations, apostilles, police certificates and appointment booking take. Build a document timeline before you pay for flights or sign a long lease.
Costs & Budgeting: What You’ll Really Spend
Applying for residence involves more than just the government’s visa fee. Here’s what to factor into your budget so there are no nasty surprises later:
Government and official fees
- Visa or residence permit application fees: typically €50–€400 depending on country and route.
- Residence card issuance fees and renewals.
- Consular appointment or courier charges in some locations.
Hidden or “soft” costs people forget
- Translations and apostille/legalisation: Certified translations into the local language and official stamps. Doing them in bulk can save money.
- Health insurance: Full coverage plans often cost €50–€250 per month depending on your age and family size.
- Banking costs: Opening a local account or meeting minimum deposit thresholds; some banks charge account maintenance or international transfer fees.
- Legal or adviser fees (optional): If you use a lawyer or agency, expect €1,000+ depending on the complexity of your case.
- Travel: Trips to the consulate and later to your new country; factor in flights and accommodation.
- Courier services: Many consulates require document return via secure courier.
Savings tips that help
- Group translations together and use sworn translators in the destination country; it's often cheaper.
- Get multiple apostilles/legalisations done at once to reduce per-document costs.
- Shop around for insurance; EU-compliant travel health plans can be far cheaper than private full coverage for the first few months.
- Book consular appointments and flights early to avoid paying premium last-minute fares.
Plan for 10–20% extra over your estimated budget. Currency swings, unexpected document requests and extra trips happen.
If you manage to stay within your budget, it's a positive outcome; if not, it won't surprise you.
Plan your EU move with total clarity.
We’ll help you estimate government fees, legal costs, document costs and renewal obligations before applying for residence or long-term status.
Get My EU Budget PlanCountry & Program Comparisons
Already know which route fits you? Compare the programmes by current evidence, timing and long-term caveats. Figures are directional; verify each country’s official portal before applying.
| Country / Program | Minimum Income or Investment | Typical Timing | Permit / Renewal | Best Use Case | PR / Citizenship Caveat | Official source checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal - Digital Nomad Visa | EUR 3,680/month in 2026 | 2-4 months | Temporary residence; renewals required | Remote workers with non-Portuguese income | Portugal citizenship law changed in May 2026: 7 years for EU/CPLP nationals and 10 years for most others; pending cases on 18 May 2026 keep prior law. | DR 4/2022 remote-work rule + DGERT 2026 minimum wage + Diario da Republica Lei Organica 1/2026 |
| Spain - Digital Nomad Visa | Check current SMI-based threshold before applying | 1-3 months | Initial visa/residence, renewable | Remote workers wanting Spain | Citizenship is usually 10 years for most applicants; shorter routes are nationality-specific. | Spain Exteriores telework visa |
| Portugal - D7 Passive Income | EUR 920/month main applicant in 2026 | 2-4 months | 2 years, then renewal | Retirees and passive-income applicants | Residence may support long-term status; citizenship timing follows current nationality law. | DGERT 2026 minimum wage + Diario da Republica Lei Organica 1/2026 |
| Germany - EU Blue Card | Country salary threshold; EU rules cap threshold at no more than 1.6x average gross salary | Decision no later than 90 days after complete application | At least 24 months or contract term plus 3 months | Highly qualified employees | Blue Card rules can ease EU long-term residence by allowing time in different member states to be counted under conditions. | European Commission Blue Card |
| Greece - Golden Visa | EUR 250,000-EUR 800,000+ depending on route | 4-8+ months | 5-year renewable permit | Investors wanting low stay obligations | Citizenship requires real residence and integration; passive permit-holding alone is not enough. | Greek Ministry Golden Visa |
| Malta Permanent Residence Programme | Contribution, property and administration-cost package | 6+ months | Permanent residence after approval | Families wanting immediate PR status | Naturalisation is separate and discretionary; do not treat MPRP as guaranteed citizenship. | Residency Malta MPRP legal framework |
Programmes look similar at first glance, but the fine print matters. Stay requirements, family inclusion rules, tax residence, renewal evidence and citizenship clocks can change the real value of a permit.
How to Choose Your EU Residence Route
Not sure which route fits you best? Use these prompts to narrow it down quickly.
Match your situation to the pathway that fits your income, documents and long-term plans:
- Have a high-skill job offer in an EU country?
→ Explore the EU Blue Card or a national work permit. Both require a binding contract; the Blue Card offers faster permanent residence in some states. - Already employed or self-employed abroad with stable remote income?
→ Look at digital nomad visas (Portugal, Spain, Hungary) or passive income routes. They suit freelancers and remote workers earning from outside the EU. - Earning enough from pensions or investments, but no job offer?
→ Check residency for financially independent people like Portugal’s D7 or Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa. Great for retirees and those with passive income. - Want to make an investment instead of working?
→ Compare investor residence programmes: property, approved funds, or job-creation schemes in countries like Greece, Italy, and Luxembourg. - Thinking of starting a company in the EU?
→ Review business founder routes such as France’s Talent Passport or the Netherlands’ Start-up Visa. - Got an offer to study at an EU university?
→ Apply for a student residence permit; many countries allow part-time work and post-study permits. - Joining family or marrying an EU citizen?
→ Look at family reunification or marriage routes; they typically have softer income rules if the sponsor can show stable housing and insurance.
If two options seem to fit, pick the one that gets you registered locally fastest, that’s what starts the clock towards long-term EU residence and, eventually, citizenship.
EU Residence Basics Before You Apply
Before choosing a pathway, it helps to clear up the concepts that confuse most applicants. Many people mix up short-stay visas, residence permits, and permanent status. This section keeps it simple so you know exactly what applies to your case.
Schengen Visa (Type C) vs Residence Permit (Type D)
A Schengen visa (Type C) allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It is perfect for tourism, business meetings, or short visits. What it does not allow is living, working, or studying.
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you need a long-stay visa (Type D), which leads to a residence permit. Only a residence permit grants the right to live, work, or study legally in the host country.
France-Visas explains this distinction well.
Temporary vs. Permanent Residence
Most people begin with a temporary permit, typically valid for 1–2 years. This can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements.
After around five years of continuous residence, you may qualify for permanent residence. Here you need to distinguish between two statuses:
- You can live in that country indefinitely if you have national permanent residence status.
- The EU long-term resident status, established by EUR-Lex Directive 2003/109/EC, grants enhanced mobility rights across EU member states.
The second option is more flexible because it facilitates easier movement between EU countries, although it may involve additional integration or language requirements.
EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens and Free Movement
If you are from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you do not apply for residence permits. Instead, you rely on the right of free movement.
After staying in another EU country for more than three months, you are required to register your residence rather than apply for a permit.
This distinction is crucial. Many EU citizens mistakenly look up “residence permit” when all they need is a straightforward registration.
Country-by-Country Differences
While the foundations are the same across Europe, each country has its own rules. Expect variations in:
- Minimum income thresholds (for work, digital nomad, or passive income visas)
- Health insurance obligations
- Physical stay requirements vary by country; some demand strict presence while others are more flexible.
- Processing times
- There are language or integration conditions that must be met for long-term residence or citizenship.
While the European Commission's immigration portal serves as a valuable tool for comparing requirements, its details remain dispersed. That is why this guide consolidates them.
Route Details: Six Main EU Residence Pathways
Your route to an EU residence permit depends on why you’re moving: work, self-sufficiency, investment, education, or family ties.
Each pathway has its own logic, requirements, and timelines, but the end goal is similar: temporary residence that can grow into permanent residence and, eventually, citizenship.
1. Work and Skills
Working in the EU remains one of the most straightforward ways to secure residence. Depending on your profile, there are three main routes:
- EU Blue Card (high-skilled): Degree/experience plus a salary threshold; grants mobility within the EU and faster PR in some countries.
- National work permits: Employer-led approvals with labour market tests; longer processing and stricter renewal rules.
- ICT (intra-corporate transfers): For managers, specialists, or trainees moved within multinational companies; a niche but useful option.
2. Self-Sufficiency
For those without a job offer but with stable income, self-sufficiency visas provide a path to residence in several EU countries:
- Digital Nomad Visas: Based on recurring remote income, sometimes with tax perks and varying policies for dependants.
- Passive income / financial independence visas: proof of sufficient funds or regular income plus minimum stay requirements; popular with retirees and long-term investors.
3. Investment
Several EU and Schengen states offer residence through investment, usually in real estate, funds, or job creation:
- Real estate routes: Buy property at set thresholds, often with low stay requirements.
- Funds & business investment: Channel money into regulated funds or companies, sometimes with job creation obligations.
- Donations & government bonds: Less common today, but still exist in certain programmes.
4. Education
Studying in the EU can provide a clear path to residence, usually tied to the length of the course:
- Residence for study: Permits granted for the duration of enrolment, with proof of funds and insurance required.
- Work options: Limited work rights during study, with post-study permits in many countries for job searches or transitions.
- Next steps: Graduates may switch to work permits, opening a longer-term route to settlement.
5. Family Reunification
Non-EU residents can bring close relatives through family reunification, as long as they meet certain conditions:
- Eligible relatives: Spouse/partner, minor children, and in some cases dependent parents.
- Sponsor duties: The resident must prove sufficient income, stable housing, and health insurance to support dependents.
- Different regimes: Rules differ for relatives of EU citizens compared to those of third-country nationals, with EU law generally offering broader rights.
6. Marriage to an EU Citizen
Marriage to an EU national opens a distinct pathway, often smoother than standard family reunification:
- Eligibility: Recognised legal marriage to an EU citizen, with proof of a genuine relationship.
- Residence rights usually grant the non-EU spouse the right to live and work in the EU country, along with easier mobility across the Union.
EU Residency For Remote Workers and Nomads
Digital-nomad-style routes let you live in an EU or EEA country while earning from employers or clients outside that country. Most programs require proof of remote income, health insurance, suitable accommodation, and a clean record.
Rights are national, not EU-wide: a permit from Country A rarely lets you live or work in Country B until you later qualify for EU long-term resident status. Always check tax and physical-stay rules before you move.
Where it exists and how it works
- Spain – “Telework” visa under the Start-up Law. Clear 2026 income thresholds tied to the minimum wage, with higher amounts if you bring family. Long-stay path that can convert to a residence card after arrival.
- Portugal – D8 “remote work” route via a national long-stay visa that leads to a residence permit after arrival. Process and grounds are listed on the Portuguese visa portal; income must come from outside Portugal.
- Malta – Nomad Residence Permit is a residence scheme rather than a visa. Requires remote work for a non-Maltese employer or freelancing for foreign clients and a minimum gross salary threshold, with in-country residence card issuance.
- Greece – The Digital Nomad national visa exists in law and practice. Official guidance highlights a monthly income test and an initial visa of up to 12 months, with a residence permit route on arrival.
- Hungary – The White Card is built specifically for digital nomads. You must show recent remote income paid from abroad and meet the stated monthly minimum; family rules and renewals are set out in the government factsheet.
- Croatia – The "temporary stay for digital nomads" lets you live for up to 18 months, extendable for an additional 6 months.
- Estonia – Digital Nomad Visa, short-stay (C) or long-stay (D) up to 12 months. You must earn at or above the official income threshold and work mostly for non-Estonian employers or clients.
- Czechia – The Government Digital Nomad Programme is aimed at highly qualified IT and marketing professionals from selected countries, using a long-term visa or employee-card pathway.
- Cyprus – The Digital Nomad Scheme reopened in 2026 with a capped quota. Requires remote income from outside Cyprus and a minimum monthly net income to qualify.
What this means for your plan
- Most “nomad” routes are temporary. Long-term residence usually needs years of continuous stay and, in many states, a later switch to a standard work, family, study or self-sufficiency permit.
- Your tax position depends on time spent and centre-of-life tests. Some countries offer incentives; others tax after 183 days.
- If you want a faster route to permanence, compare these visas with the Blue Card, standard work permits, passive-income routes, or investment options in the country you actually want to settle in.
EU Residency for Financially Independent or Retired Applicants
If you live off passive income, like pensions, investments, or remote work, you may not need a job offer or significant investment to call Europe home.
Several EU countries welcome financially independent applicants.
Quick Comparison Summary
| Country | Monthly Income Required | Work Allowed | Stay Requirement | Path to PR/Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal (D7) | From €920 | Yes, limited | ~16 months in 2 years | Yes (5-year track) |
| Spain (NLV) | ~€2,400 + dependants | No | Resident needed for renewal | Yes (5 years + renewal) |
| Greece (FIP) | ~€2,000 | Yes, remote only | None specified | Possible via renewals |
| Italy | ~€31,000 annually | No | Country requirements vary | Yes (standard timelines) |
| Austria | ~€1,309 + savings + German A1 | No | Typically 183 days/year | Yes, after quota period |
| France | ~€1,800 | No | Initial registration | Yes (standard track) |
Here’s a current breakdown of the most accessible, long‑stay routes for retirees and people living off passive income:
- Portugal D7 (Passive Income) Visa: One of the most popular routes, the D7 visa requires a reasonably modest income, around €920 per month (based on national minimum wage), as proof of self-sufficiency. Once granted, the permit is initially valid for two years, renewable for three more, and can lead to permanent residence and citizenship.
- Spain Non-Lucrative Visa: Spain’s Non-Lucrative route is a good match for retirees with stable passive income: about €2,400 per month for the main applicant plus extra for dependants. Work is not permitted, but it provides residency and can pave the way to permanent status after five years.
- Greece Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa: Known locally as the FIP, this visa is tailored for applicants who can show a minimum passive income of around €2,000 per month. Greece does not generally require physical presence each year, and remote work for non-Greek clients is allowed. It’s a flexible path to mid-term residency.
- Italy Elective Residence Visa: Retirees with substantial pensions or investment income find it ideal. The threshold is high, around €31,000 annually.
- Permit holders cannot work locally, but long-term residence and eventual citizenship are possible through standard pathways.
- Austria Independent Means Permit: Austria requires a monthly income of approximately €1,309, plus additional minimum savings and A1-level German language.
- Subject to a limited annual quota, this route is well-suited for financially independent individuals seeking continuity.
- France VLS-TS “Visitor” Visa: France offers this long-stay visa for those who can prove passive or foreign-source income, typically €1,800 per month, along with a deposit or proof of funds. You must register once in France after arrival.
EU Property Residence Routes Still Open in 2026
Golden Visa-style schemes used to be common, but many countries have tightened or ended their real estate options. Here's the up-to-date breakdown:
Greece: Tiered Real Estate Investment Thresholds
Greece still offers residency in exchange for property, but with tiered thresholds depending on the area:
- €800,000 in popular zones like Attica (Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini.
- €400,000 in other regions.
- €250,000 if you're buying or renovating a commercial property to residential (minimum 120 sq m).
Once granted, the five-year renewable permit counts toward permanent residence and includes family dependants.
Cyprus: Permanent Residency via Real Estate (Regulation 6(2))
Cyprus grants residency to investors buying new residential property (or other qualifying real estate) for at least €300,000 plus VAT.
You’ll also need to show stable foreign income (typically around €50,000 annually). It leads directly to permanent residency, and family can be included.
Malta: Property as Part of the Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
Malta’s MPRP requires property (purchase or lease), but only as one component in a larger financial obligation:
- Purchase threshold: €375,000 (or €300,000 in Gozo/South Malta).
- Or leasing from €14,000 per year.
Plus contribution fees (€37,000), donation (€2,000), and administration fees (~€60,000).
This grants permanent residence and Schengen access and includes family members.
Latvia: Traditional Property Route
Latvia continues to issue temporary residence permits to property buyers meeting thresholds—generally around €250,000 plus a 5% state fee.
These permits remain renewable, but note the path to permanent residence follows the standard residency clock.
EU Residency Options for Investors Beyond Real Estate
Not every investor route in Europe is tied to bricks and mortar. Several countries offer residence permits for capital that supports businesses, funds, research or culture, or for job creation.
Below are the main non-property options that are currently active, plus a quick note on programmes that have closed.
Portugal: ARI after the 2023 reform (no property)
Good for: investors who prefer regulated funds, innovation, or building a business rather than buying property.
Portugal’s residence-by-investment route survived the 2023 housing reform, but strictly without real estate for new applications. See AIMA’s ARI page and Law 56/2023 for the official basis.
Eligible routes now include investment in approved venture or private equity funds that capitalise Portuguese companies, funding scientific research, support for artistic production or cultural heritage, incorporation or capitalisation of a company that creates or maintains jobs, and direct job creation.
The 2023 law explicitly ended new real-estate-based filings and the passive capital-transfer route.
Greece: financial assets, funds and bank deposits
Good for: portfolio investors who want a non-property route with clearly defined instruments.
Greece offers an investment in financial assets residence track alongside its property route. Qualifying options include, for example, government bonds, time deposits with Greek banks, capital contributions to listed Greek companies, and units in Greek or EU funds that invest exclusively in Greece.
Minimums vary by instrument and currently range roughly from €350k to €800k, with five-year permits that renew as long as the investment is maintained. See the Ministry’s Golden Visa page and a legal summary of the permitted investments under Law 5038 for the precise categories and thresholds.
Italy: Investor Visa (government bonds, companies, start-ups, donation)
Good for: direct participation in the Italian economy, with options from conservative bonds to high-growth start-ups.
Italy grants a two-year Investor Visa (renewable) for investors who commit either €2m in Italian government bonds, €500k in shares of an Italian company, €250k in an innovative start-up, or a €1m philanthropic donation in areas of public interest.
The official Investor Visa portal and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy set out the thresholds and process.
Luxembourg: invest in a company and create jobs
Good for: entrepreneurs and corporate investors looking for an EU base with strong finance and tech ecosystems.
Luxembourg issues a residence permit to third-country investors who either invest at least €500k in an existing Luxembourg company and keep or create five jobs, invest €500k in a new business plan that creates at least five jobs within three years, or invest €3m in a management and investment structure that has a physical presence in Luxembourg. The government’s guichet explains the options in detail.
Hungary: Guest Investor Permit (fund units or donation)
Good for: investors who prefer a fund route or a philanthropic donation tied to a residence right.
Hungary’s Guest Investor Program grants a residence permit to those who either purchase at least €250k of approved real estate fund units or make a €1m donation to a designated public-interest foundation.
The National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing provides the official factsheets and process. Note that earlier proposals for a direct €500k property purchase were dropped.
Programmes that have closed or changed
- Netherlands: the admission scheme for foreign investors has been discontinued by IND.
- Ireland: the Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) closed to new applications in February 2023.
Closed or Restricted EU Residence Routes
Do not rely on old Golden Visa articles or sales material without checking whether the route is still open.
- Spain: Organic Law 1/2025, in force from 3 April 2025, left Articles 63-67 of Law 14/2013 without content, closing the investor residence route for new applications. Pending applications filed before the effective date were covered by transitional rules.
- Portugal: the current ARI/Golden Visa routes no longer include real-estate acquisition or passive capital transfer. Current routes include qualifying non-real-estate funds, research, cultural support, company capitalisation and job creation.
- Greece: property routes remain open, but thresholds now vary by location and asset type, including higher thresholds in popular areas and special rules for certain conversions.
- Malta, Cyprus and Latvia: property can still be part of a residence route, but it is usually only one component of a broader package of fees, income, due diligence and stay rules.
This shift matters commercially: in 2026, an investor choosing EU residence should compare current legal routes rather than assuming every country still sells a simple property-for-residence permit.
EU Residency Options for Business Founders and Entrepreneurs
Are you considering building a company in Europe instead of accepting a job offer? Several member states issue residence permits when you found or run a business that has real economic value.
Below are the clearest, founder-friendly routes, with plain-English notes on who they suit, the baseline rules, and how they typically lead to permanent residence.
France: Talent Passport (Business creator or investor)
Who it suits: Founders bringing a “real and serious” plan to form a viable French company, or investors making a qualifying direct investment.
Baseline rules: Pre-assessment of your business plan, proof of funding, and registration steps. The multi-year residence card is valid for up to 4 years once you are in France. Family members may be eligible for the "Talent – Family" program.
PR outlook: Multi-year status is renewable; long-term residence or naturalisation follows standard timelines if integration and stay conditions are met.
Germany: Self-employment residence (§21 AufenthG)
Who it suits: Founders and freelancers whose activity serves an economic interest in Germany and is properly financed.
Baseline rules: Show economic benefit, positive market impact and secured financing; freelancers apply under §21(5). Decisions weigh your plan, your experience, and local demand.
PR outlook: Once your business reaches stability and meets other requirements, you can advance to a settlement permit, followed by a long-term status.
Netherlands: Start-up visa, then Self-employed permit
Who it suits: Early-stage founders who can work with a recognised Dutch “facilitator” and scale-ups ready for the points-tested self-employed route.
Baseline rules: Start-up permit is 1 year with mandatory mentoring, then switch to the self-employed residence if your business adds “essential interest” to the economy.
PR outlook: After moving to the self-employed title and meeting residence requirements, you can work toward permanent residence. General income sufficiency rules apply.
Spain: Entrepreneur residence (Ley 14/2013)
Who it suits: Founders with an innovative, high-impact project assessed by Spain’s UGE-CE unit.
Baseline rules: Apply for an entrepreneur visa or in-country permit; the project is evaluated based on innovation, market potential, and investment. Processing is centralised and relatively quick compared with traditional work permits.
PR outlook: Residence is renewable while the project runs. Long-term residence and, later, citizenship follow standard national timelines.
Portugal: D2 Entrepreneur / Independent Professional
Who it suits: Small-to-mid-sized founders, independent professionals and company owners establishing genuine activity in Portugal.
Baseline rules: Prove business viability and means, register activity, and secure accommodation and insurance; consulates process D-visa applications before AIMA issues a residence card.
PR outlook: D2 is renewable; continuous residence typically builds toward permanent residence and, later, nationality under standard rules.
Estonia: Founder-friendly: Start-up visa and TRP for entrepreneurship
Who it suits: This visa is suitable for tech and innovative founders who have been approved by Startup Estonia, as well as for entrepreneurs who are establishing a company that demonstrates real business activity.
Baseline rules: Start-up founders can obtain a visa or temporary residence after an eligibility assessment; a separate TRP exists for broader entrepreneurship with documentation of business activity and funds.
The outlook for permanent residence (PR) indicates that it can be extended as long as the company is operational; after that, standard long-term residence rules will apply.
Ireland: Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
Who it suits: Non-EEA founders of high-potential, innovative start-ups with funding and export potential.
Baseline rules: Minimum funding from €50,000; innovation and job-creation potential assessed by an expert committee; initial permission typically two years, renewable.
PR outlook: Renewals can lead to long-term residence under standard Irish rules; there is no special fast-track to citizenship.
Malta: Start-up Residence Programme
Who it suits: Founders and core team members establishing innovative ventures with a tangible presence in Malta.
Baseline rules: Three-year residence, extendable to five more, with founder and core-team eligibility, share-capital thresholds and presence requirements published by the government.
PR outlook: Long-term status is possible via standard residence continuity; the program guidance details dependents and extensions.
Hungary: Guest self-employment residence
Who it suits: Owners or independent professionals carrying out remunerated activity on their own account in Hungary.
Baseline rules: New “guest self-employment” residence category allows non-EU founders to operate a business with prescribed documentation and presence; separate permits cover pure employment and guest workers.
PR outlook: Residence is renewable while the business remains active; longer-term cards follow national rules introduced under the new immigration framework.
Timeline to Long-Term Residence & National Citizenship
One of the most common questions is, “How long before I can stay permanently or become a citizen?”
Permanent residence, EU long-term resident status and citizenship are different legal steps. EU citizenship is not a standalone application; it comes from becoming a national citizen of an EU member state.
The Typical Residence Arc
Enter Europe on a long-stay visa or D-type permit. Register your local address, give biometrics, and receive your first residence card.
Renew your permit on time. Maintain valid insurance, income, and stay-day compliance. Keep records of every renewal and local registration.
Build continuous residence and integration. Attend language or civic classes if required and gather proof of stable employment or funds.
Apply for national permanent residence or EU long-term resident status if you meet the five-year residence, resources, insurance and integration conditions.
Maintain residence and demonstrate deeper ties — tax registration, local community involvement, and ongoing compliance with national laws.
Apply for national citizenship if you meet that country’s residence, language, integration and absence rules. If approved by an EU member state, national citizenship confers EU citizenship.
What Counts Towards the Clock
Not all time counts equally. For example:
- Short stays on a Schengen visa do not count.
- Student residence often counts at 50% in some countries; determine if you’ll need extra years.
- Interruptions (long trips abroad) can break your continuity if you exceed the maximum absence days.
What to Expect Later
- Integration steps: Language tests (A2–B1 level typically) and civic knowledge requirements are common before citizenship.
- Stay obligations: Even after PR, many states require a minimum presence to keep the status active.
- Family: Dependants usually track your timeline; if you qualify for PR or citizenship, they may follow similar or slightly offset timelines.
How to Apply for an EU Residence Permit
Applying for an EU residence permit can seem daunting, but the journey is fairly similar across most member states.
Once you know your purpose and gather the right documents, the process follows a predictable path. Here’s how it usually works:
Every step has its own nuances depending on the country, but the sequence is remarkably similar everywhere.
A simple way to avoid stress: start early, double-check document requirements, and allow buffer time for translations or appointments.
Why People Choose an EU Residence Permit
People consider EU residence for a variety of reasons, including practical considerations, personal preferences, and a combination of both.
The table below sketches the most common starting points and how an EU permit helps translate into real routes.
Use it to spot yourself quickly, then follow the thread that fits your plans for the next few years.
| Reason | What it gives you | Who benefits most | Typical pathways |
|---|---|---|---|
| Career growth | Access to large labour markets, better salaries, regulated work conditions | Skilled professionals, mid-career switchers | EU Blue Card, National Work Permit, ICT |
| Education | Study at recognised institutions, part-time work in many countries, post-study options | Students, early-career professionals | Student Visa, post-study work permits, then work routes |
| Healthcare and protections | Access to public systems once registered, stronger worker and tenant rights | Families, long-term planners | Any long-stay route that registers you locally |
| Quality of life | Walkable cities, public transport, safety, culture and nature within easy reach | Families, remote workers, retirees | Digital Nomad, Passive Income, Work routes |
| Travel freedom | Short-stay movement across Schengen once resident, simple business and leisure trips | Consultants, frequent travellers | Any residence route in a Schengen state |
| Stability and rule of law | Predictable institutions, consumer protection, clearer long-term planning | Families, investors, entrepreneurs | Any route that leads to permanent residence |
| Family life | Reunite with partner, children or dependent parents, clearer rights once in system | Sponsors with dependants | Family Reunification, Marriage to an EU citizen |
| Entrepreneurship and investment | Company formation, access to EU customers, potential incentives | Founders, investors | Investment routes, Entrepreneur visas, later work permits |
| Remote work lifestyle | Live in the EU while earning from abroad, keep client base, stable base for travel | Digital professionals, contractors | Digital Nomad visas |
| Retirement or passive income | Live from pensions or investments, slower pace, lower daily stress | Retirees, financially independent | Passive Income visas |
Motivation is only half the story; eligibility is the other half. Use the reasons above to narrow your aim, then match that aim to a pathway that fits your income, documents and timeline.
If two routes look similar, choose the one that gets you registered locally fastest, since that is what starts the clock towards permanent residence.
Making Your EU Move Simple with Movingto
Securing the right to live in Europe is a big step, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By now, you know the key pathways, the common requirements, and what the long-term journey looks like. The challenge is tailoring all that information to your situation: your income, your family, your timeline, and your future plans.
That’s where Movingto comes in. We’ve built our platform around transparent, legally accurate guidance, no guesswork, and no one-size-fits-all templates. Whether you need help comparing routes, understanding stay obligations, or working with licensed lawyers and trusted partners, we provide step-by-step support so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
From D7 and digital nomad visas to Golden Visa investments and family reunification, our resources and vetted experts help you turn plans into approvals.
Need Help Planning Your EU Move?
From work and study routes to investment and family reunification, our vetted partners can guide you through every step — tailored to your profile and goals.
Get Free Personalised GuidanceFrequently Asked Questions
What happens if my residence permit application gets a negative decision?
Most EU nations offer an appeal process if your application is refused. You usually receive written reasons for rejection and a time limit to submit new evidence or challenge the decision in court. Getting legal advice quickly improves your chances of success.
Do residence permit holders get visa-free travel across the EU?
A valid residence permit from a Schengen state typically allows visa free travel for up to 90 days in other Schengen countries. It does not grant the right to live or work in another country unless you later obtain EU long-term resident status.
Can my local employment or rental income count toward financial requirements?
Yes, many EU countries accept income from an employment contract or rental income as part of the “sufficient financial resources” test. You must document the source clearly (e.g., payslips, lease agreements) and meet the minimum threshold set by that country.
Does refugee status lead to a residence permit and later citizenship?
Recognised refugees and people with subsidiary protection usually receive a temporary residency card with social security access. After a continuous period of legal stay (often 5 years), they can apply for permanent residence; some EU countries allow earlier citizenship.
Which is the easiest EU country to obtain residency in?
It depends on your profile. For investors, some golden visa programs like Greece remain popular. For retirees, Portugal’s D7 has a low income threshold. For students, university enrollment routes are often straightforward. There is no universal “easiest” country.
Can a valid residence permit be revoked for national security reasons?
Yes. Even a valid residence permit can be withdrawn if the holder poses a threat to national security or has serious criminal history. Each country has its own due process, and you usually have a right to appeal or present evidence.
What if my residence permit card expires while I’m abroad?
Many European countries allow renewals abroad, but rules differ. If you overstay your card’s validity, you risk breaking the residency requirement. Always check renewal windows and maintain a travel document and insurance coverage when outside your host country.
Compare EU residency by investment vs naturalisation routes
Residency by investment offers quicker, predictable entry because eligibility is based on a qualifying financial contribution rather than years of physical presence. It suits investors and families who want European mobility without relocating immediately. Naturalisation routes require sustained residence, language ability and integration. They are typically the only pathways that lead directly to citizenship without investment. The core difference is commitment: investment routes prioritise flexibility, while naturalisation requires long-term ties to the country.
Which EU countries have the shortest residency to citizenship timeline?
A few EU countries offer comparatively shorter paths:
• Portugal, where applications pending on 18 May 2026 follow the prior law, while new cases from 19 May 2026 generally use 7 years for EU/CPLP nationals and 10 years for most others
• Ireland, with efficient processing but strict physical presence rules
• Belgium, offering flexible residence conditions
• Sweden, allowing applications after five years for well-integrated residents
Spain and Italy have longer timelines unless applying through ancestry. The fastest route depends on meeting residence, language and integration requirements, though Portugal is often viewed as the most balanced for speed and flexibility.
Documents and proof needed for EU residence applications
Requirements vary by country, but most applications include a valid passport, proof of income and financial stability, and documentation supporting the chosen route. Investors provide investment records; employees and remote workers provide employment contracts and income statements. Health insurance covering the host country is typically required, along with proof of accommodation such as a rental agreement or property deed. Many countries also request criminal record certificates. Documents must be recent, translated when needed and properly certified.
Cost breakdown for popular Golden Visa programmes in Europe
Costs differ by country and investment type. Common expenses include:
• The qualifying investment, usually €250,000–€500,000
• Legal fees for preparing the application
• Government fees for residence cards and processing
• Translation and notary costs
• Property-related taxes when applicable
Greece, Malta and Portugal remain important investor-residence markets, but Spain's investor residence route is closed for new applications and Portugal no longer accepts real-estate or passive capital-transfer ARI applications. Applicants should also budget for ongoing maintenance, renewal charges and local taxes to avoid surprises later.
How to qualify for EU residency through employment or remote work
Employment routes require a job offer from an EU employer and meeting salary or skills thresholds. Some countries have dedicated schemes for highly skilled workers, offering faster processing. Remote work visas allow individuals to live in an EU country while working for a non-EU employer, generally requiring proof of stable income, health insurance and local accommodation. Both provide residency rights, but differ in work permissions, renewal terms and eligibility for long-term residence. The right option depends on your profession and lifestyle.
Portugal
Spain
Italy
Greece
Grenada Citizenship by Investment





