How to Get an EU Residence Permit in 2024

The European Union is known for its strong economies and high living standards. Many member states offer pathways for non-EU citizens to obtain an EU residence permit, such as Golden Visa programs, which require investments or passive income visas for those with stable income sources.

This guide will examine the options for getting an EU residence permit through investment routes like real estate and other alternative methods of obtaining a residency permit in an EU country.

Here is more of what to expect:

• Seven Ways to Obtain an EU Residence Permit in 2024
• Countries Offering EU Residence Permit through Real Estate Investment
• How to Buy Real Estate in the EU
• Applying for an EU Investment Visa
• EU Residence Permit Through Passive Income Visas
• The Benefits of Acquiring an EU Residence Permit

The Benefits of Acquiring an EU Residence Permit

As well as being a sought-after continent to live in, there is no doubt that there are several benefits to obtaining an EU residence permit and making Europe your home. Some EU long-term residence permit advantages include:

Free of movement through the EU

Although not accessible to all EU residents, holding long-term resident status and then applying for a permanent residence permit allows one to live and work in other EU member countries.

Access to excellent and affordable healthcare

Europe has some of the world’s top healthcare systems, and all foreign nationals with EU residence permits have access to high-quality healthcare.

Cultural diversity and experiences

Despite its relatively small size, Europe is a diverse continent with a wealth of cultures, languages, and traditions. Having an EU residence permit allows individuals to embrace new cultures seamlessly.

Education and learning opportunities

Several world-renowned universities and educational institutions in Europe provide the best education in various subjects and industries. Once you receive permanent residence status, you acquire similar rights as EU nationals and can access free higher education in countries like Germany, Denmark, and Sweden.

Employment and other business opportunities

Numerous countries excel in various industries, so you won’t be short of employment opportunities after obtaining an EU residence permit.

Regional safety, political stability, and social security

The top-ranking countries on the Global Peace Index are predominantly European, ensuring high levels of safety and political stability. Additionally, Europe’s comprehensive social security structure ensures that EU nationals and residence permit holders benefit from a strong social system.

Seven Ways to Obtain an EU Residence Permit in 2024

1. Investment

Several European countries in the EU and Schengen Area allow non-EEA/EU nationals to obtain a renewable EU residence permit or infinite residency through Golden Visas, which need a specified minimum sum to be invested in their economy.

The qualifying investment typically comes in the form of one of several investments, including:

• Real estate purchases
• Creating businesses that provide jobs for citizens
• Purchasing government bonds
• Bank deposits
• Purchasing corporate bonds or shares

Real estate is a popular investment option for European residence permit holders, offering profitability and a potential home. Properties in key European locations can also generate income through tourism or rentals. EU residence permits through investment typically last 2–5 years and require maintaining the investment for at least five years. Portugal, for example, offers a path to EU citizenship after five years of residency.

2. Employment

Employment contracts have been a common way for people to move to an EU country for some time, and many European countries have streamlined the process for an employed person to obtain a work permit. The EU Blue Card targets highly skilled non-EU/EEA nationals for occupations with current or anticipated shortages.

A European residence permit acquired through an EU Blue Card is usually valid for one to four years and is extendable if the employer renews the work contract. In some nations, at least five years of continuously living in a country provides eligibility for permanent residency in Europe.

3. Education

Education is a viable option to obtain an EU residence permit. Most study visas provide one year of residency, which is extendable for the duration of the vocational training or academic program. After graduating, an international student resident has a specified period to look for employment and transfer to a work visa. The exact time allowed depends on the EU country. If you secure a job, you can apply for residency based on your employment contract; however, if you do not find one, you will be required to leave the country.

4. Marriage

Marriage to a citizen of a European country is a recognized pathway for non-EU nationals to gain residency. Most EU countries offer residence permits for spouses, often under family reunification policies. For instance, marrying a European citizen often requires proof of a genuine relationship, and permits are renewable and can lead to permanent residency in Europe after a few years.

5. Family

6. Business

Many European countries offer Startup Visas for entrepreneurs establishing innovative businesses. For example, the Italy Startup Visa enables foreign entrepreneurs to develop their ventures in Italy and work towards long-term residency. Applicants must present a globally competitive business idea and secure support from a certified incubator. After five years, holders may apply for EU permanent residence. Alternatively, self-employed visas are another route to EU residency, depending on expertise and the nature of work.

7. Foreign Income

Foreign income is a viable route to obtaining an EU residence permit through programs like the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa and the Portugal D7 Visa. These visas require proof of sufficient income to support yourself without local employment. There are also Digital Nomad Visas, which give you the opportunity to live in the EU while working for non-European companies.

Countries Offering EU Residence Permit through Real Estate Investment

There are various ways to get an EU residence permit. Some residency by investment countries offer the opportunity to become long-term EU residents by investing in real estate in exchange for residency. This can start off with a temporary residence permit and potentially lead to citizenship once specific requirements have been met. Nonetheless, these schemes still come with the benefit of living and working in the European Union.

How to Buy Real Estate in the EU

Here’s a step-by-step process for acquiring an EU residence permit through real estate. As highlighted, choosing the investment route is beneficial because it allows investors to get residency while gaining a valuable asset.

1. Research and identify the country

Choose an EU country or residency program that aligns with your goals, such as residency options, rental income potential, or lifestyle preferences. Make sure to research specific requirements for non-EU citizens regarding property ownership and residency.

2. Understand local regulations

Investigate property laws, taxes, and fees for foreign buyers in your chosen country. Some countries may restrict foreign ownership in certain areas.

3. Secure financing

Determine if you’ll buy the property outright or need financing. A few EU countries offer mortgages to foreign buyers so ensure you meet income and credit score requirements.

4. Find a property

Use real estate platforms, agencies, or local brokers to identify properties that meet your needs. Consider the location’s rental demand, appreciation potential, and connectivity.

5. Hire professionals

Find a real estate agent for property searches and negotiations. Employ a legal advisor familiar with local property laws to review contracts and ensure compliance.

6. Gather the necessary documents

These are the general documents that could be required:

• Valid passport and identification.
• Proof of funds or income.
• Tax identification number in the country (if required).
• Property inspection reports and legal documents.

7. Conduct due diligence

Verify property ownership and ensure no outstanding debts or legal disputes. Conduct inspections to assess the condition of the property.

8. Sign a preliminary agreement

You must sign a reservation agreement or preliminary sales contract and pay a deposit to secure the property. The deposit is often 5–10% of the property’s value.

9. Open a Local Bank Account

If required, open a local bank account to handle payments, taxes, and ongoing costs associated with the property.

10. Complete the Purchase

Sign the final sales agreement before a public notary. The full payment, taxes, and fees (e.g., registration fees, notary fees, and stamp duty) are settled at this stage.

11. Register Ownership

File the property with the local land registry to transfer ownership officially into your name.

12. Apply for Residency (if applicable)

If the property qualifies for a residency-by-investment program (e.g., a Golden Visa), submit the necessary documentation to apply for your residence permit.

Applying for an EU Investment Visa

Getting an EU Investment Visa can be a complicated process. Sometimes, you might need to redo steps or gather specific documents, which can make things tricky. This is why it is important to get migration experts such as those at Global Citizen Solutions to help guide you through every step of the EU Investment Visa application process, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

EU Residence Permit Options for Income Earners

You can also apply for residency through passive income visas, ideal for retirees, or digital nomad visas, designed for remote workers earning income from outside the EU. Both options offer the chance to live in Europe and enjoy mobility within the EU.

Portugal

Spain

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who can prove they have sufficient income of around €2,400/month for a single applicant. This visa does not permit work in Spain, but you can switch to a work visa after the first year. It is ideal for retirees or those with passive income.

Italy

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa offers expats the opportunity allowing you to live and work remotely in Italy. Applicants must show a minimum income of €2,066/month and have health insurance. The visa is attractive due to Italy’s culture, lifestyle, and ease of access to the Schengen Area.​ Italy also has the Italy Golden visa, which provides investment options starting at €500,000. Choices include investing in Italian businesses or launching a new one, purchasing government bonds, or donating to public interest projects.

Croatia

Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live in the country for up to one year. You must provide proof of stable income of about €2,000/month and health insurance. The application process is straightforward, and you can live and work while exploring Croatia’s scenic landscapes.

Malta

Malta Digital Nomad Visa provides non-EU citizens earning at least €2,700/month the option to live and work in the country. Applicants must have health insurance and show that they work remotely for companies outside Malta. The country is known for its strong English-speaking environment, excellent healthcare system, and central Mediterranean location.

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 EU Residence Permits

What is the easiest EU country for permanent residency?

The easiest country to get permanent residency in Europe is Malta. The Malta Permanent Residence Program allows non-EU/EEA to invest in real estate through a purchase or long-term lease and receive a permanent residence permit in return.

Who is considered an EU resident?

An EU resident is an individual who resides legally within one of the member states of the European Union. This status is typically granted to citizens of EU countries or to non-EU/EEA nationals who have been issued a residence permit by an EU member state.

What is the fastest EU golden visa?

Spain is considered to have the fasted Golden Visa program, with a long-term EU residence permit granted within two to three months, provided there are no additional requirements.

Which EU country has the highest success rate?

Lithuania boasts the highest Schengen Visa approval rate, with only 1.3 percent of applicants receiving a negative decision or having to go through an appeal process.

How do I get a EU residence permit?

Generally, there are seven ways to get a EU residence permit, and some of these include through investment, marriage, foreign income and business. Each category has its own set of criteria that must to met to successfully apply.

How long is an EU residence permit?

The national immigration laws are different between EU nations, and each application category has different criteria in terms of stay or how long it takes to complete the process. However, generally speaking, it takes about five years to get a permanent residence permit, which allows you to live in the EU indefinitely.