Getting an EU residence permit in 2026 can be achieved through investment, passive income, remote work, starting a business, and more. Many nations within the EU have pathways to residency and even citizenship by naturalization including Portugal and Spain.
Our guide expands on the pathways to secure EU residency, including the requirements for visa programs in the European Union, and a breakdown of the options and rights that each country offers.
EU Residence Permit: Key Takeaways
10 Ways to Obtain an EU Residence Permit in 2026
Investment
Several EU and Schengen countries offer Golden Visa programs, allowing non-EU/EEA nationals to gain residency by investment. These programs typically require maintaining the investment for a holding period of 2 to 5 years. Some countries, like Portugal, offer the opportunity to apply for citizenship after five years of residency.
Employment contract
These are common ways to move to an EU country, with many nations simplifying the work permit process. The EU Blue Card helps skilled non-EU/EEA workers fill job shortages. It is valid for one to four years and can be extended with a renewed contract.
Study visa
Studying in the EU can lead to a residence permit, usually valid for one year and extendable for the program’s duration. After graduation, students can find a job and switch to a work visa or must leave if unsuccessful.
Marriage to an EU Citizen
Marriage to an EU citizen allows non-EU nationals to legally reside in Europe through family reunification. Most countries grant renewable residence permits, which can lead to permanent residency and citizenship.
Family reunification
Family members of EU long-term residents can often apply for a residence card. Sponsors must prove financial stability and housing to support their dependents.
Start a Business
Starting a business can help secure an EU residence permit. Italy offers a Golden Visa for investing in a startup, while Greece provides a similar option for investing in tech startups. Both offer pathways to permanent residency after 5 years.
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.
Permit for medical treatment
Individuals needing long-term medical care can secure a residence permit for the duration of their care. This is valid for one to two years. Patients must be treated at an EU hospital and present a formal agreement issued by the healthcare institution.
Remote work
There are Digital Nomad Visas, which give you the opportunity to live in the EU while working for companies based outside of the country in which you reside.
Asylum
Asylum is an option to secure an EU residence permit for individuals who cannot return to their home country safely. The grounds for an unsafe return include threats of conflict or persecution, as well as serious human rights violations by state authorities. When an asylum application is submitted in an EU member state, authorities assess whether the claim deserves protection under international and EU law.
Benefits of an EU Residence Permit
- Right to live in the EU: An EU residence permit allows individuals to legally reside in the EU. This can be the start of a pathway to permanent residence and/or citizenship.
- Visa-free travel in the EU: Individuals can access the 29 countries in the Schengen Area without needing a Schengen Visa. This is the case with both temporary and permanent residence permits.
- Access to excellent healthcare: Europe has some of the world’s top healthcare systems, and all foreign nationals with EU residence permits have access to high-quality, universal healthcare.
- Cultural diversity: 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 engage with new cultures seamlessly.
- Educational opportunities: Many world-renowned universities in Europe provide the best education in the world, including ETH Zurich, Université PSL, and EPFL. Once you receive permanent residence status, you acquire rights similar to those of EU nationals and can access free higher education in countries such as Germany, Denmark, and Sweden. Additionally, the nations Germany, France, and the Netherlands rank highly in our Global Education Report.
- Employment opportunities: EU residence not only provides employment opportunities in the host country but also in other countries in the Union, based on the right to free movement.
- Business opportunities and single-market access: EU countries excel in various industries, such as tech, sustainability, and manufacturing. In addition, starting a business in the EU provides access to the world’s largest single market.
- Political stability and personal security: Europe is considered the safest continent for travelers and residents because it holds 8 of the top 10 positions in the 2025 Global Peace Index. Iceland, Ireland, Austria, and Denmark are among the most peaceful nations in the world, with low crime and high political stability.
- Tax incentives: The EU offers tax incentives for businesses, such as the Clean Industrial Deal and Research and Development Incentives. These allow businesses to deduct R&D expenses and clean energy expenses from their taxes.
Common Requirements to Get EU Residence
The following is a general overview of the requirements to get temporary EU residence.
- Visa or entry permit: You must enter the country with the appropriate visa, such as a work, student, or investment visa.
- Proof of purpose: Authorities require documentation proving why you are applying for residency, such as an employment contract, university enrollment, investment records, or proof of family ties.
- Financial stability: You need to show bank statements, income proof, or other financial documents to confirm you can support yourself without relying on government assistance.
- Health insurance: Most EU countries require full health coverage for the duration of your stay, either through private insurance or a national health system.
- No criminal record: A police clearance certificate from your home country or country of residence is required to ensure you have no criminal history.
- Proof of accommodation: You must provide proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract, property ownership, or an official letter from a host.
- Continuous residence (for long-term resident status): To apply for permanent residency or citizenship, you must live legally in the country for a set period, usually five years, without extended absences.
5 Countries Offering an EU Residence Permit through Real Estate Investment
There are various ways to get an EU residence permit, including residency by investment. Some countries offer the opportunity to become long-term residents in the EU by investing in real estate. This can start off with a temporary residence permit and potentially lead to citizenship once specific requirements have been met. These programs come with the benefit of living and working in the European Union.
01/ Greece
The Greece Golden Visa is a popular EU residence permit for US citizens, allowing investors to gain residency through real estate investment. The minimum investment requirement is €250,000, making it one of Europe’s most affordable options. Investors can choose residential or commercial properties. Once the investment is made, applicants and their families receive a five-year residence permit, which can be renewed indefinitely. After seven years of residence, individuals can apply for Greek citizenship.
02/ Cyprus
The Cyprus Golden Visa program has a starting cost of €300,000. The property can be residential, commercial, or a mix of both. Investors receive a permanent residency permit, which allows for visa-free travel within the EU. After seven years of continuous residence, individuals are eligible to apply for Cypriot citizenship.
03/ Hungary
The Hungary Golden Visa, officially known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP), allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency by investing in a real estate fund. The minimum investment amount is €250,000, and successful applicants receive a residence permit valid for an initial ten years, providing access to Hungary and the EU/Schengen Area.
04/ Latvia
The Latvia Golden Visa program allows investors to obtain residency by purchasing real estate worth at least €250,000. The property can be residential, commercial, or agricultural. After purchasing property, investors receive a temporary residence permit, which is valid for five years and is renewable. After five years of residence, individuals can apply for permanent residency and/or citizenship, though there are language and residency requirements.
05/ Malta
The Malta Permanent Residency by Investment program allows non-EU nationals to obtain life-long residency by investing in real estate. To qualify, investors must purchase property worth at least €375,000 or get a €14,000 yearly lease. Additionally, they must contribute to the government’s National Development, Consolidated Fund, and Social Fund. The program is a fast-track to permanent residency, granting it in as quickly as 12 months.
As part of our commitment to providing transparent and reliable services, we are proud to be a licensed agent in Malta, holding the official license number AKM-AGEN. This certification demonstrates our dedication to the highest standards in the investment migration industry and further enhances our ability to offer expert guidance and support to our clients.
EU Residence Permits For Investors
Many Golden Visas or Residency by Investment (RBI) programs offer the attractive option of real estate investment; other routes, such as business investment, government bonds, and job creation, can also lead to a residence permit, which results in the same mobility rights.
Greece
Greece’s Golden Visa offers multiple investment paths, making it a highly flexible program. Apart from real estate, investors can choose from capital investments, government bonds, or even mutual funds. The country places 1st in the Global Intelligence Unit’s RBI Index, which ranks RBI nations based on their accessibility and benefits.
Investment Options:
- €400,000 capital investment in a Greek company
- €400,000 in government bonds (3-year maturity)
- €400,000 Greek bank deposit (1-year lock-in)
- €800,000 in securities or shares
- €350,000 in mutual funds
Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa provides a variety of investment avenues, with the option to invest in funds, Research and Development, or even art projects. Portugal has a universal healthcare system that is considered one of the best in the world, making it an appealing option for expats. Additionally, it offers the shortest timeline to EU citizenship with a requirement of 5 years. The Portuguese passport ranks 28th on our Global Passport Index and 12th on the Enhanced Mobility Index, placing it among the top passports in the world for visa-free and visa-on-arrival access.
Investment Options:
- €500,000 investment in funds
- €500,000 in Research & Development
- €250,000 in arts or cultural projects
- €500,000 in a Portuguese business (creating 5+ jobs)
Italy
Italy’s Golden Visa program offers a mix of investment choices, including funding a startup, investing in established companies, or making a philanthropic donation. Italy’s flexibility allows investors to select an investment option that best suits their financial goals.
Investment Options:
- €250,000 in an Italian startup
- €500,000 in an established company
- €1 million philanthropic donation
- €2 million in government bonds
EU Residence Permit for Business Owners
Several EU countries offer residence permits for business owners, allowing entrepreneurs to legally reside in Europe while running their own businesses or getting an opportunity to invest in a start-up.
Portugal
The D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs who want to start or invest in a business in Portugal. Applicants must demonstrate a viable business plan and financial stability, with the goal of contributing to the economy and creating jobs.
Latvia
The Latvia Golden Visa offers a business investment option of €50,000 in a Latvian company. This comes with the added benefit of operating a business in a country with a growing economy.
Greece
The Greece Golden Visa offers a business investment option where entrepreneurs can invest €400,000 in a Greek company, particularly in sectors such as tech. This allows for a fast-track path to residency, providing business the chance to establish a long-term presence in Greece.
Italy
The Italy Golden Visa offers a €250,000 investment option for a startup business. This program is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking to develop innovative ideas. It provides a pathway to residency in Italy, with an option for permanent residency after five years.
EU Residence Permits for Financially Independent Individuals
You can also apply for residency through passive income visas, which are ideal for retirees who want to live in Europe and enjoy mobility within the EU.
Portugal
The Portugal D7 Visa is popular among retirees and those with passive income, such as pensions, rentals, or investments. You must prove sufficient income of €920 per month and have health insurance.
Spain
The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who can prove they have sufficient income of €28,800 per year for a single applicant. This visa does not permit work in Spain, and it is ideal for retirees or those with passive income.
Greece
The FIP Visa Greece allows financially independent people to live in Greece if they can prove a net income of €3,500 per month. The visa is ideal for retirees who wish to enjoy the nation without needing to work.
Italy
The Italy Elective Residency Visa allows financially independent individuals over 18 to live in Italy if they can prove a net income of €32,000 per year. A retired couple with a combined income of €38,000 can enjoy EU residence in Italy.
EU Residence Permits for Digital Nomads
You can also apply for residency through digital nomad visas, which grant you temporary residency while earning income from another country.
Portugal
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa), created for non-EU citizens working remotely. Applicants must prove they have a stable remote income of at least €3,680 per month from freelance or contract work. Documents required include proof of employment, bank statements, and health insurance.
Italy
The Italy Digital Nomad Visa offers expats the opportunity to live and work remotely in Italy. Applicants must show a minimum income of €28,000 per year and have health insurance. The visa is attractive due to Italy’s culture, lifestyle, and ease of access to the Schengen Area.
Croatia
The Croatia Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live in the country for up to one year. You must provide proof of a stable income of €3,295 per month and have health insurance. The application process is straightforward, and you can live and work while exploring Croatia.
Malta
The Malta Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU citizens earning at least €42,000 per year 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 having English as an official language, its excellent healthcare system, and a central Mediterranean location.
Spain
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa allows workers to live and work remotely in Spain. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum income of €2,850 per month and provide proof of health insurance. This visa is appealing due to Spain’s ranking 1st in the Global Intelligence Unit’s Digital Nomad Index. The index ranks digital nomad countries and lists the best destinations in the world for remote professionals.
What rights do EU residence permit holders have?
- EU residency: EU residence permit holders can legally reside in the state that issued their permit, which allows them to build a life there and access public services.
- Subsidized services: Many EU countries offer subsidized public services and pricing structures to EU residents living there. Public transport passes, like the Wiener Linien Annual Pass, are only available to buy for citizens and foreigners with a valid residence permit.
- Free education: The children of EU residents have free access to education and subsidized higher education. EU countries like Denmark and Sweden even offer free university education to EU residents.
- Employment rights: The EU offers one of the fairest environments for employees, with strong labor protections, paid leave, and social benefits built into the system.
- Healthcare access: EU countries operate free healthcare systems, and legal residents who make social security contributions have access to them.
- Residency for family members: Foreign nationals holding a regular residence permit can obtain residency for immediate family members, including a spouse and children. Some countries extend the right to parents and grandparents, depending on the visa.
- Permanent residency: Specific EU residence permits provide a path to permanent residency, provided the permit holder fulfills the residency requirements to become a permanent resident. Permanent residency in the EU allows individuals to apply for residency in other EU countries.
- EU citizenship: Holders of a valid residence permit who transition to permanent residency may be eligible to apply for EU citizenship by naturalization in as little as five years. This provides the opportunity to obtain an EU passport that offers substantial visa-free access.
Steps to Apply for an EU Residence Permit
1. Choose the right visa: Decide which type of EU residence permit you want to apply for.
2. Meet the requirements: Ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements for the visa or residence permit you’re applying for. These may include financial stability, health insurance, a valid reason for residence, or investment criteria.
3. Prepare documentation: Gather all necessary documents, such as proof of financial resources, a valid passport, health insurance, and any specific documentation related to your visa type. For example, a job offer for work permits, an acceptance letter for students, and investment proof for Golden Visas.
4. Submit an application: Submit your application online or at the respective consulate or embassy in your home country. Some countries may require you to apply in person.
5. Wait for approval: After submission, the application will be processed. Processing times vary depending on the country and type of residence permit. You may be asked for an interview or additional documentation.
6. Receive your EU residence permit: If approved, you’ll receive your residence permit, which is usually valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the type of visa and the country. In most cases, you can extend your permit or apply for permanent residence after a certain number of years.
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.
