Easiest Country to Get Permanent Residency in Europe in 2024

Obtaining permanent residency in a European country is a major achievement for many expatriates. It offers stability and security, granting the right to live and work indefinitely in the chosen country.

However, it’s important to distinguish between permanent residency and European citizenship. Permanent residency allows individuals to live in a country indefinitely, but it does not provide the right to vote or hold a passport of that country.

On the other hand, citizenship in an EU country includes these rights and often requires a longer period of residency, along with additional criteria such as language proficiency and cultural integration. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the countries where it’s the easiest to obtain permanent residency.

What is a Residency Permit or Visa?

Residency permits or visas are official documents that allow a foreign national to live in a country for a specific period. In the European Union, there are several types of residency permits, including temporary and permanent.

Temporary residency is typically issued for a limited period and can often be renewed. It allows the holder to live and sometimes work in the country for the duration of the permit.

This is usually the first step towards obtaining permanent residency and, eventually citizenship.

On the other hand, permanent residency grants the right to live indefinitely in the country. To obtain it, one must typically meet long-term residence, employment, or substantial financial investment criteria.

Permanent residency offers more stability than temporary residency and eliminates the need for frequent renewals.

It often requires proof of a stable income, property ownership, or a significant investment in the local economy. In many European countries, having a residence permit doesn’t mean you automatically gain citizenship.

Citizenship is a step further, granting full legal rights within the country, including the right to vote and obtain a passport. Achieving citizenship usually demands a longer residency period, demonstrating integration into society, and sometimes passing a language or citizenship test.

While citizenship provides full participation in a country’s civic life, the process to obtain it is more stringent and time-consuming than obtaining permanent residency.

European countries with the easiest permanent residency rules

Obtaining permanent residency in Europe can be a complex process, but several countries offer relatively accessible paths. Here is a summary of the ten easiest European countries to obtain permanent residency, focusing on those with investment programs.

Portugal

Portugal is considered one of the most appealing destinations for non-EU citizens seeking permanent residency in Europe, especially through its Golden Visa program, which was established in 2012.

This program provides a direct route for non-EU citizens to obtain residency by making qualified investments in the country. The most popular investment option used to be a minimum real estate investment of €500,000, but that requirement was removed in 2023.

Alternatively, other investment routes include creating at least ten jobs or investing €350,000 in research activities or cultural heritage projects.

One of the main advantages of Portugal’s Golden Visa program is its flexibility. The initial residency permit is granted for one year and can be renewed every two years provided the investment is maintained.

After five years of continuous residence, applicants are eligible to apply for permanent residency. Additionally, Portugal offers the opportunity to apply for citizenship after five years of residency, provided language and integration requirements are met.

Residency in Portugal comes with various benefits, including the right to live and work in the country, access to public healthcare and education, and the ability to travel visa-free within the Schengen Area.

Portugal’s high quality of life, favorable climate, and rich cultural heritage make it an appealing destination for expatriates. The Golden Visa program has played a significant role in attracting foreign investment, which has greatly boosted the local economy and real estate market.

Malta

Malta offers an appealing path to permanent residency through its Malta Residency and Visa Program (MRVP). This program aims to attract global investors and involves investing in government bonds, real estate, and making a contribution to the national development fund.

Applicants must invest a minimum of €300,000 in government bonds and maintain the investment for five years.

Additionally, they must either buy a property valued at €350,000 (or €300,000 in the south of Malta or Gozo) or rent a property with a minimum annual rent of €12,000 (€10,000 in the south of Malta or Gozo). Furthermore, a non-refundable government contribution of €40,000 is required.

The MRVP is known for its efficiency and typically grants permanent residency within six months of application. This program offers several benefits, including the right to reside indefinitely in Malta, access to education and healthcare, and the ability to travel visa-free within the Schengen Area.

Malta also offers a separate Citizenship by Investment program, allowing applicants to obtain citizenship within 12 months through a significant financial contribution, further enhancing the appeal of its residency options.

Malta’s strategic location, robust economy, and high standard of living make it a desirable destination for expatriates. The blend of historical charm, Mediterranean climate, and modern amenities contributes to Malta’s reputation as an excellent place for long-term settlement.

Cyprus

Cyprus offers a fast and attractive route to permanent residency through its Residency by Investment program. This program is particularly appealing to non-EU citizens or third country nationals seeking a quick and simple process.

To be eligible, applicants must invest a minimum of €300,000 in real estate, which can be residential, commercial, or a mix of both. The application process for permanent residency in Cyprus is notably efficient, usually taking just two months to complete.

The initial residency permit is indefinite, provided the investment is maintained. Residency status grants the right to live and work in Cyprus, as well as access to public services such as healthcare and education.

In addition, Cyprus has a Citizenship by Investment program, allowing investors to apply for citizenship after keeping their investment for five years. This program requires a larger investment of at least €2 million in real estate or other Cypriot assets.

Cyprus is known for its high quality of life, favorable climate, and strategic location at the crossroads of many other countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The country has a strong economy, a diverse expatriate community, and a favorable tax system, making it an attractive destination for long-term residency and investment.

The combination of historical heritage, stunning landscapes, and modern infrastructure further enhances Cyprus’s appeal as a permanent residence.

Greece

One of the easiest countries to get permanent residence is Greece. Similar to most European countries, Greece offers permanent residency through its Golden Visa program, making it one of the most accessible options in Europe for non-EU citizens.

The program requires a minimum real estate purchase of €500,000, which is one of the lowest thresholds among similar programs in Europe. Applicants can purchase property either for personal use or as an investment, such as rental properties.

The process for obtaining a residency permit in Greece is relatively straightforward and efficient. Once the investment is made, residency permits are typically issued within a few months.

These residence permits are valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.

After five years of continuous residence, individuals can apply for permanent residency, with the possibility of applying for citizenship after seven years.

Greece’s Golden Visa program offers several significant benefits. Residents gain the right to live and work in Greece and enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

The program also includes family reunification, allowing investors to bring their family members and even dependent parents and have the same rights as others with European residency.

Greece’s appeal extends beyond the favorable investment terms. The country is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

With a Mediterranean climate, beautiful islands, and a lower cost of living compared to many other European countries, Greece provides a high quality of life.

The Golden Visa program has successfully attracted substantial foreign investment, boosting the local economy and revitalizing the real estate market.

Greece is an excellent choice for permanent residency for those seeking a blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty, and favorable residency conditions.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Residency

Which EU country gives the fastest permanent residence permits?

Cyprus provides the fastest route to permanent residency through its investment program.

By investing a minimum of €300,000 in real estate, individuals can secure residency within approximately two months, making it one of the quickest and most accessible options in Europe.

What is the easiest European country for non-EU citizens to get permanent residency in?

Thanks to their straightforward Golden Visa programs, Portugal and Greece are often cited as the easiest countries for non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residency.

These programs offer a clear and efficient pathway for non-EU citizens to obtain permanent residency by making it easier to invest and live in these countries.

The Golden Visa programs in both Portugal and Greece have gained popularity due to their simplicity and accessibility, making them attractive options for individuals seeking long-term residency in the EU.

How can I obtain permanent residency in Portugal as a non-EU citizen?

Citizens of a foreign country outside the EU can obtain residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa program by investing in real estate, business, or other qualified investments.

After five years of maintaining the investment and residency, they can apply for permanent residency. It is also a requirement to have a clean criminal record.

What are the benefits of getting permanent residency in Spain compared to other EU countries?

Spain’s permanent residency provides several benefits, including the right to live and work in Spain, access to public healthcare and education, and the ability to travel visa-free within the Schengen Area.

How long does it take for a non-EU citizen to get a European residence permit in Greece?

Non-EU citizens can apply for permanent residency in Greece after five years of continuous residence under the Golden Visa program, which requires an investment in real estate.

How can retirees get permanent residence permits easily in Spain or Portugal?

Retirees can obtain permanent residency in Spain or Portugal through their Golden Visa programs.

By investing in real estate or other qualified investments, retirees gain residency. After five years of continuous residence, they can apply for permanent residency, enjoying a high quality of life and a favorable climate.

Do most countries have a residence permit?

Yes, most countries have some form of residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live within their borders for an extended period.

Residence permits can vary widely in terms of eligibility requirements, duration, and the rights they confer. They are generally categorized into temporary and permanent permits.

Countries outside Europe, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others, also have their own systems of residence permits, catering to various needs including skilled migration, business investment, and family reunification.