18 Easiest Countries to Get Residency in 2025

Gaining a second passport comes with life-changing benefits, from greater visa-free travel and access to better healthcare to increased financial mobility and political security. Fortunately, many countries offer simplified or accelerated paths to citizenship, whether through ancestry, investment programs, naturalization, or marriage.

This guide explores the easiest countries to get citizenship in 2025, outlining various legal pathways, including citizenship by investment, residency by investment, and descent. If you’re ready to secure a Plan B, let’s explore your fastest and most realistic options.

What is residency?
18 Easiest Countries to Get Residency in 2025
Types of Citizenship and Common Routes
Frequently Asked Questions

What is residency?

Residency is a legal status that allows foreign nationals to live in another country, often through a residence permit tied to an investment program or business initiative. While it doesn’t grant full citizenship rights like voting or holding a passport, it does provide access to local services, education, and work opportunities.

In contrast, citizenship is a permanent status that includes full legal rights, and in many countries, the option to hold dual citizenship.

For global investors, residency offers clear tax advantages, portfolio diversification, and easier entry into new markets. It’s also a stepping stone to citizenship by investment or naturalization in countries that reward long-term economic contribution.

18 Easiest Countries to Get Residency in 2025

1. Portugal

Portugal offers two of the most accessible residence permit options in Europe: the Portugal D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa. The D7 Visa is ideal for retirees and individuals with stable passive income, requiring only proof of financial mean with no minimum investment in property or business.

Physical presence: Six months per year.
Minimum financial requirement: Stable passive income of at least €870.00.
Processing time: Around 60 days.
Permanent residence: After 5 years.

Portugal’s Golden Visa program allows foreign investors to obtain residency through investing in venture capital funds, establishing a business which creates at least 5 t0 10 jobs for locals or making a donation to public or private institutions involved in the arts, culture, or heritage. Both visas offer a path to dual citizenship and EU mobility.

Why it’s easy: Multiple visa options and low financial thresholds make Portugal one of the most accessible residency by investment destinations in Europe.

⚠️ Portugal Nationality Law Changes 2025

A draft law published in June 2025 proposes major changes to Portugal’s nationality rules. The main change is increasing the residency requirement for citizenship from 5 to 10 years (7 years for CPLP nationals).

On June 7th, the Portuguese Parliament held an initial debate on the proposal. However, the government decided not to hold an immediate vote.

For the latest information regarding these changes, read Portugal Nationality and Citizenship Changes 2025

Discover how Portugal’s Golden Visa offers a fast-track to residency, citizenship eligibility, and visa-free travel.

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2. Spain

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa is perfect for non-EU nationals who can support themselves through pensions or other passive income sources. It allows you to reside in Spain without working or investing in a business.

Physical presence: 6 months per year.
Minimum financial requirement: €2,400/month
Processing time: Around 60 days.
Permanent residence: After 5 years.

Though this route does not permit employment, it is ideal for retirees or remote-income earners looking to live in Spain while enjoying its culture, healthcare, and climate.

Why it’s easy: Low-entry financial requirements and straightforward documentation make Spain a top choice for long-stay residence permits.

3. Greece

Greece’s Golden Visa offers residency by investment through real estate purchases starting at just €250,000—one of the lowest thresholds in Europe. The program is open to family members and offers Schengen travel access.

Physical presence: None required.
Minimum investment: €250,000.
Processing time: 2 to 3 months.
Permanent residence: Granted immediately.

This visa does not have minimum stay requirements and offers a quick path to permanent status, ideal for investors seeking flexibility.

Why it’s easy: Greece has one of the fastest processing times and lowest investment minimums for a European residence permit.

4. Panama

Panama offers multiple routes to residency, including the Qualified Investor Visa. This is the Panama residency by investment program which allows you to contribute financially in real estate, securities, or bank deposits in exchange for becoming a permanent resident. The minimum investment is $300,000.

Physical presence: None required.
Minimum investment: $300,000.
Processing time: 30 business days.
Permanent residence: Granted immediately.

The Pensionado Program is another accessible option for retirees, requiring just $1,000/month in pension income and offering lifetime residency.

Physical presence: None required.
Minimum income: At least $1,000 per month.
Processing time: 3 to 6 months.

Why it’s easy: Panama offers fast-track residency programs with low-income thresholds and no physical stay requirements.

5. Mexico

Mexico’s Permanent Resident Visas are among the most flexible in Latin America. Applicants can qualify through income or savings, without needing to make a business or property investment.

Physical presence: None required.
Minimum income: About $3,100 per month or €47,500 in savings.
Processing time: Around 4 weeks.
Permanent residence: After 4 years.

With affordable living, strong expat communities, and no strict presence rules, Mexico is a popular base for investors and retirees alike.

Why it’s easy: Low financial barriers and quick processing make Mexico a go-to destination for affordable long-term residency.

6. Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers simple, income-based residency options like the Rentista and Pensionado programs. These visas don’t require large investments, just proof of stable monthly income.

Physical presence: 1 day per year.
Minimum income: Around $920/month.
Processing time: 3 to 6 months.
Permanent residence: After 3 years.

With no minimum investment, this is one of the best options for retirees or remote earners seeking a relaxed lifestyle in a politically stable, eco-friendly country with friendly locals and a high quality of life.

Why it’s easy: Minimal income proof and a low barrier to entry make Costa Rica’s residency programs among the most accessible in Central America.

7. Malta

Malta’s Residency by Investment Program (also known as Malta Permanent Residence Program or MPRP) grants long-term residency to non-EU nationals and their families in exchange for a qualifying property purchase or rental. This pathway provides access to Malta’s high-quality healthcare, education, high-performing economy as well as the wider Schengen Area.

Physical presence: No minimum stay required.
Minimum investment: €350,000 property purchase or €12,000 annual rental.
Processing time: 11 to 12 months.
Time to permanent residence: Immediately upon approval.

Why it’s easy: Clear investment guidelines and no physical stay requirements make Malta a straightforward option for investors seeking EU residency.

8. Estonia

Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa and e-Residency programs cater to remote workers and entrepreneurs. While e-Residency doesn’t offer legal residency, the Digital Nomad Visa lets you live in Estonia while working for a foreign employer.

Physical presence: No minimum stay required.
Minimum financial requirement: €4,500 monthly gross income.
Processing time: 15 to 30 days
Time to permanent residence: 5 years for Digital Nomad Visa holders.

Why it’s easy: Fast digital-first processing and a progressive immigration framework make Estonia ideal for tech-driven investors.

9. Canada

Canada offers several residency routes, including the Start-Up Visa, Express Entry, and Provincial Nominee Programs. Canada’s high quality of life, diverse culture, and strong economy are significant attractions. The country’s welcoming environment and excellent healthcare system further enhance its appeal.

The Canada Start-Up Visa supports entrepreneurs backed by Canadian investors who create innovative businesses.

Physical presence: No minimum initially.
Minimum investment: CAD 200,000 (venture capital) or CAD 75,000 (angel investor)
Processing time: 12 to 18 months.
Time to permanent residence: 3 to 5 years.

Why it’s easy: Transparent processes and a range of residency streams make Canada accessible for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.

10. Belize

Belize’s official language is English, which simplifies integration for many citizens worldwide. The country’s beautiful natural environment, relaxed lifestyle, and friendly local culture make it an attractive destination for retirement.

Belize’s Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) offers an easy residency route for retirees from the United States, Commonwealth countries, and the European Union.

The application is simple and tailored for passive income earners.

Physical presence: No minimum stay.
Minimum financial requirement: $2,000 monthly or $24,000 annually in foreign currency.
Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
Time to permanent residence: 5 years.

Why it’s easy: Quick processing and low income thresholds make Belize a low-barrier option for retirees.

12. New Zealand

New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Program allows high-net-worth individuals to obtain residency through investment. The program supports long-term residence and potential citizenship in a stable economy.

Physical presence: 117 days over 4 years.
Minimum investment: NZD 5 to 15 million over 4 years.
Processing time: 5 to 6 months.
Time to permanent residence: 4 years.

Although this investor program requires significant investment, it is worth considering. New Zealand offers a high quality of life, a strong economy, and a friendly culture, making it a popular choice for English-speaking immigrants.

Why it’s easy: Clear investor routes with defined financial criteria simplify the application for wealthy individuals.

13. Australia

Australia offers permanent residency through its Investor Stream (Subclass 188/888) and a points-based immigration system. The investor stream is designed for residents investing in designated assets.

Physical presence: 40 days per year.
Minimum investment: AUD 1.5 million.
Processing time: 22 to 30 months.
Time to permanent residence: Automatically granted through the investor stream.

Why it’s easy: Predictable processing and automatic permanent residency make Australia attractive for long-term investors.

14. Serbia

Residency in Serbia allows visa-free access to multiple European countries, which benefits investors with business interests in other countries.

Serbia’s proximity to the EU and its growing economy enhances its appeal, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking for flexibility and opportunities in the continent.

Serbia’s Residency by Investment program allows foreign nationals to gain residency by purchasing real estate. Applicants can buy residential properties, apartments, or business premises without restrictions on price or location.

There’s no minimum investment threshold, and the process is simple.

Physical presence: 183 days per year.
Minimum investment: None specified.
Processing time: Around 60 days.
Time to permanent residence: 3 years.

Why it’s easy: No minimum investment requirement and straightforward property acquisition make Serbia one of the most flexible European options.

15. Latvia

Latvia’s Golden Visa offers residency through real estate purchase or capital investment, granting visa-free Schengen access and eventual EU citizenship eligibility. It also offers a guest investor visa for a trial residency period.

While residency cannot be inherited, citizenship, once acquired, is transferable to future generations, ensuring long-term advantages in other countries.

Physical presence: Visit once per year.
Minimum investment: €250,000 in real estate or €50,000 in capital company.
Processing time: 2 to 3 months.
Time to permanent residence: 5 years.

Why it’s easy: Multiple low-entry options and minimal presence requirements make Latvia a practical route to EU residency.

16. Hungary

Hungary’s Golden Visa enables foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency by investing in state-approved real estate funds. The program is fast and flexible.

Hungary provides visa-free access to the Schengen Area, enabling seamless travel to other countries. Additionally, applicants benefit from pre-approval to reduce risks, and permits are processed in as little as 21 days.

Hungary’s affordability and strategic location within the EU make it ideal for international investors seeking convenience and opportunity.

Physical presence: None required.
Minimum investment: €250,000.
Processing time: 1 month.
Time to permanent residence: 3 years.

Why it’s easy: One of the fastest programs in Europe with no physical presence and a low investment threshold.

17. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda offers a long-term residency permit that allows individuals to reside in the country without needing to make an investment. Applicants must show that they can support themselves financially and maintain a place of residence in the country.

Although the country is better known for the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program, its standard residency process is accessible for those who prefer a non-investment path. The residency permit is renewable and can lead to a more permanent legal status over time. The islands’ strong expat community, tax advantages (no capital gains or inheritance taxes), and tropical setting are major draws.

Physical presence: 30 days per year.
Minimum investment: None (must show proof of income or self-sufficiency).
Processing time: Around 1 to 2 months.
Time to permanent residence: Varies and is renewable annually.

Why it’s easy: Minimal documentation, no investment required, and a light physical presence rule (only 30 days per year).

18. St. Lucia

St. Lucia offers a straightforward and low-barrier path to residency through its Annual Resident Permit, designed for individuals with ties to the island or proof of stable income. The program is open to retirees, remote workers, and individuals who wish to reside long-term in a Caribbean country without committing to full-time work or a significant investment.

Applicants must show that they can financially support themselves and provide a clean criminal record. The permit is renewable annually and can serve as a stepping stone to permanent residency. St. Lucia’s favorable climate, laid-back lifestyle, and English-speaking environment make it particularly attractive to North American and European expats.

Physical presence: Occasional presence (visits required to maintain residency).
Minimum investment: None (only proof of sufficient income or local ties required).
Processing time: Approximately 1 to 3 months.
Time to permanent residence: Not fixed and depends on continuous legal stay.

Why it’s easy: The application requirements are minimal, there’s no fixed investment threshold, and permits are renewable with low bureaucracy.

Whether you need a lifestyle upgrade, tax advantages, or path to citizenship, there's a residency by investment program for your goals.

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Types of Citizenship and Common Routes

According to the Global Intelligence Unit’s The Transformation of Citizenship report, more people are acquiring citizenship through ancestry, citizenship by investment, and naturalization than ever before. This shift reflects how nationality is evolving into a strategic tool for personal freedom and financial planning.

Citizenship Route	Definition	Language & Culture Test?
Citizenship by Birth	Based on place of birth regardless of parental origin.	No
Citizenship by Descent	Based on ancestry (parents or grandparents).	Country-dependent
Citizenship by Naturalization	Requires legal residency, often including a clean criminal record, language tests, and integration.	Yes
Citizenship by Marriage	Gained through marrying a citizen, with residency requirements.	Country-dependent
Citizenship by Investment	Granted via citizenship by investment programs with financial contributions.	Country-dependent

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.

We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance.
Our team has never had a case rejected. Our 100 percent approval rate sets us apart from our competitors and guarantees that you can expect a successful application.
Our transparent pricing covers all the processes from opening your bank account, document certification, and legal due diligence to investment and submission. As there is one fee for the entire process, you can be confident that you will not face any hidden costs later.
All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server. You can be safe knowing that your personal data is treated with the utmost security.
Global Citizen Solutions provides an all-encompassing solution. Our support can continue even after you receive your passport. We offer additional services such as company incorporation, Trusts, and Foundations formation.
The BeGlobal Onboarding System® allows you to access the status of your application every step of the way, something that sets us apart from our competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Easiest Countries to Get Residency

What is the fastest citizenship by investment program in 2025?

Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment offers one of the fastest timelines estimated at just 30 to 60 days.

Dominica and St. Kitts are also popular instant citizenship countries for investors.

What is the easiest country for retirees to get residency?

Costa Rica is one of the easiest countries for retirees to get residency through its Pensionado Program. It requires proof of a steady monthly pension (around $1,000), has minimal stay requirements, and offers a relaxed lifestyle with high-quality healthcare.

How long does it typically take to get citizenship in easy countries?

From as little as 2 months in Vanuatu to 5 to 7 years in countries like Portugal and Greece, depending on the route.

How can I get residency in Portugal?

Portugal offers two main residency routes: the D7 Visa for those with passive income and the Golden Visa for investors. Both provide access to the country’s lifestyle benefits and long-term residency.

How can U.S. citizens get residency in Mexico?

U.S. citizens can get residency in Mexico through a Temporary or Permanent Resident Visa. The process is fast, requires proof of income or savings, and doesn’t mandate a minimum stay.

Can I get residency in Canada easily?

U.S. citizens can easily get permanent residency in Canada through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which prioritize skilled workers. The process is points-based, relatively quick, and accessible for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors.