Top European Countries for Permanent Residency in 2025

Europe’s residency options are more appealing than ever. With access to one country, you gain the freedom to move, travel, and, in many cases, enjoy seamless entry into others.

And which permanent residency, you also get the peace of mind that comes with long-term stability, the ability to think ahead, plan your future, and live a more secure, well-connected life, with a clear pathway to citizenship.

If you're not from the EU, the idea of living, working, and exploring across borders without the constant visa hassle feels like a dream. And the EU isn’t small, there are multiple ways to get that desired access, through different residency programs across various countries.

But where to go? Which option to choose? How to apply and what to expect?

This guide is to answer exactly those questions, and help you take a broader look at the most promising residency opportunities in Europe.

What is Permanent Residency?

Permanent residency grants individuals the right to reside indefinitely in a host country without obtaining full citizenship. PR holders enjoy many of the same privileges as citizens, such as access to employment, education, and healthcare.

However, they typically do not have voting rights or the ability to hold public office.

Fast-Track Permanent Residency Programs in Europe: Key Requirements

The table below summarizes some of the prominent fast-track residency-by-investment programs we will discuss in the article:

What is a Residence Permit and How Do You Obtain One

A residence permit is an official authorization that allows a foreign national to stay in a country for a specified period, usually up to five years. To retain residency status, individuals must renew their permits periodically and may need to meet specific stay requirements, such as spending a minimum number of days in the country each year.

Holders of a residence permit often benefit from unrestricted entry into the host country, even during border closures for foreigners. Additionally, they may access healthcare services, purchase property, and, in some cases, enjoy visa-free travel to other nations.

This is particularly relevant within the EU, where a residence permit from one member state allows for travel across the Schengen Zone without requiring additional visas.

Factors That Simplify the Process of Obtaining Second Residency

Securing a residence permit typically requires fulfilling specific conditions, such as starting a business, enrolling in a university, or marrying a citizen. However, some countries also offer residency through investment, making the process more accessible.

Here are key factors that can make obtaining residency in a foreign country easier:

No Need for Employment or University Enrollment

While work and study are the most common pathways to residency, they don’t suit everyone. Alternative options, such as passive income visas, allow individuals to gain residency without needing a job or university admission.

No Mandatory Relocation

While residency often implies moving to a new country, not everyone seeks to relocate permanently. Some residency-by-investment programs offer flexibility, such as Italy’s Golden Visa, which does not require physical presence in the country.

Affordable Options Available

Residency-by-investment programs can be expensive, but there are cost-effective alternatives. Many countries provide affordable residency options for digital nomads and financially independent individuals, making it more accessible for a broader range of applicants.

Minimal Bureaucratic Hassle

The residency application process can be complex and time-consuming. However, those applying through investment programs or digital nomad schemes can benefit from expert guidance, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process.

PR vs. Citizenship: Key Differences

Top 5 European Countries with Simple PR Pathways

Portugal: D7 Visa, Startup Visa, and Golden Visa Options

Portugal offers several visa programs that provide foreign nationals with the opportunity to reside in the country, each catering to different financial situations and lifestyle preferences.

D7 Visa for Financially Independent Individuals

The D7 Visa is designed for those who have a stable passive income that exceeds the Portuguese minimum wage, which is set at €870 per month in 2025. This visa is particularly suited for retirees, freelancers, and remote workers with income from sources such as pensions, rental properties, or dividends.

To qualify, applicants must either buy or rent a property in Portugal, though there is no minimum investment requirement. Additionally, they must reside in the country for at least 183 days per year to maintain their residency status.

Startup Visa for Entrepreneurs

Individuals looking to establish a business in Portugal can apply for the Startup Visa. Unlike traditional investment visas, this program does not require a minimum capital investment. However, applicants must demonstrate financial means of at least €10,440 per year and secure a residential rental agreement in Portugal.

Special Residency for Wealthy Retirees

Portugal also offers a special residence permit for financially comfortable retirees who meet specific conditions, including:

• Purchasing property at a value above the regional average;

• Having a stable monthly income of at least €500 from outside Portugal;

• Spending a minimum of 183 days per year in Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa for Investors

Affluent individuals often opt for the Golden Visa, which provides a residency permit in exchange for investment in Portugal’s economy. The program offers multiple investment routes, including:

• Investment in approved funds – Minimum €500,000;

• Cultural and heritage contributions – Minimum €250,000;

• Funding research and development – Minimum €500,000;

• Business investment with job creation – Minimum €500,000, generating at least five jobs;

• Establishing a company with at least 10 employees.

Golden Visa holders enjoy minimal stay requirements, needing to spend only 7 days per year in Portugal while maintaining their residency. The visa is renewable every two years, providing a flexible pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.

For more details on the Portugal Golden Visa, including investment options, residency requirements, and the latest updates, read more here: Portugal Golden Visa Program.

Greece: Golden Visa and Residency Options

Greece provides one of the most attractive residency-by-investment programs in Europe, offering investors a straightforward path to residency through various financial contributions.

Golden Visa Program

The most popular route for obtaining Greek residency is through real estate investment. Currently, the minimum property investment required is €250,000.

However, as of August 31, 2024, the threshold will increase to €400,000 for new properties, while the €250,000 minimum will remain for properties requiring renovation or conversion into residential use.

Other eligible investment options include:

• Long-term hotel or tourist residence rental – Minimum €250,000 (for a 10-year lease);

• Investment in mutual or alternative investment funds – Minimum €350,000;

• Purchase of securities or bank deposit – Minimum €500,000.

The Golden Visa is granted for an initial period of five years, with the possibility of renewal as long as the investment is maintained.

Residency for Financially Independent Individuals

In addition to investment-based residency, Greece offers a residence permit for financially self-sufficient individuals. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial stability by maintaining a minimum bank balance of €24,000.

Residency for Retirees

Retirees seeking to relocate to Greece can apply for residency if they receive a monthly pension of at least €2,000. This option allows retirees to enjoy Greece’s relaxed lifestyle, affordable living costs, and high-quality healthcare system while securing long-term residency.

Spain: Non-Lucrative Visa for Financially Independent Individuals

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa is a popular choice for individuals who have sufficient financial means to support themselves without relying on local employment. It is particularly suitable for retirees, remote workers with foreign income, and those seeking a lifestyle change in Spain.

Key Financial Requirements

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial capacity to sustain themselves while living in Spain. This is typically verified through:

• Bank statements showing stable savings or passive income;

• Proof of pension or other steady foreign-based earnings.

Employment Restrictions

Holders of the Non-Lucrative Visa cannot work for a Spanish employer or engage in any local business activities.

Remote work for foreign clients is generally permitted, provided it does not violate local regulations.

Visa Duration and Renewals

• The visa is initially granted for one year.

• It can be renewed for two additional two-year periods, provided the applicant continues to meet financial eligibility requirements.

This residency option appeals to many due to its flexibility and access to Spain’s high quality of life, including its healthcare, culture, and Mediterranean climate. However, applicants must ensure they continue to meet financial requirements at each renewal stage to maintain their residency status.

Learn about Spanish residency options, including the Non-Lucrative Visa, as well as insights on living in Spain, here: Living in Spain Guide – Spanish Residency.

Malta: Permanent Residence Program (MPRP)

Malta offers a comprehensive permanent residency program that grants long-term residence through investment. The Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) is one of the most attractive options in Europe, offering residency within a few months with no mandatory stay requirements.

Investment Options for Permanent Residency

Malta provides two housing options for investors applying for permanent residency:

Rental Option:

• Lease property with a minimum annual rent of €14,000.

• Pay an administrative fee of €50,000.

• Make a government contribution of €60,000.

• Donate €2,000 to a registered Maltese charity.

Real Estate Purchase Option:

• Buy property valued at €375,000 or more.

• Pay an administrative fee of €50,000.

• Make a reduced government contribution of €30,000.

• Donate €2,000 to a registered Maltese charity.

Cyprus: Permanent Residency by Investment Program

Cyprus offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for non-EU nationals through its Permanent Residency by Investment Program. This initiative is designed to attract foreign investors by providing them and their families with the right to reside indefinitely in Cyprus.

Investment Options

To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must invest a minimum of €300,000 (plus VAT) in one of the following categories:

• Residential Real Estate: Purchase up to two new residential properties (apartments or houses) from a development company, with a total investment of at least €300,000. The properties must be new builds and not resales.

• Commercial Real Estate: Invest in commercial properties such as offices, shops, or hotels.

• Cypriot Company Shares: Acquire shares in a Cyprus-registered company that employs at least five individuals.

• Units in Investment Funds: Invest in units of Cyprus-based investment funds licensed by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

Property Specifications

When investing in residential real estate:

• Combination of Properties: Applicants may purchase up to two residential units, which can be two apartments, two houses, or a combination of one residential unit and one commercial property (shop up to 100m² or office up to 250m²).

• Developer Requirement: Both properties must be purchased from the same development company.

• New Properties Only: The properties must be newly constructed; resale properties are not eligible under this program.

Latvia: Permanent Residency by Investment

Another attractive option for obtaining European residency is Latvia’s Residency-by-Investment Program. This program allows non-EU nationals to secure permanent residency in Latvia by making a qualifying financial investment.

The program provides three main investment routes, giving applicants flexibility based on their financial preferences and long-term goals.

Investment Options

Company Share Capital Investment

• Investors can obtain Latvian permanent residency by investing a minimum of €50,000 into the share capital of a Latvian company.

• The company must actively operate in Latvia and contribute to the national economy.

• An additional state fee of €10,000 is required for this investment route.

Real Estate Investment

• Investors can qualify by purchasing residential or commercial property in Latvia with a minimum value of €250,000.

• The property must be fully paid and free of any liens or mortgages.

• Applicants must also pay a 5% government fee based on the real estate purchase price.

Bank Deposit Investment

• This option requires applicants to deposit a minimum of €280,000 in a Latvian bank.

• The deposit must be held for at least five years without withdrawals.

• Additionally, a €25,000 state fee must be paid as part of the application process.

Advantages of Obtaining Permanent Residency in Europe

Long-Term Stability and Legal Security

Holding permanent residency in a European country ensures long-term stability, allowing individuals to live, work, and enjoy various benefits indefinitely.

Unlike temporary visas, PR status eliminates the need for constant renewals and provides strong legal protections, ensuring that residents can build a future without the uncertainty of expiring permits or changing immigration policies.

Unrestricted Employment and Business Opportunities

One of the key advantages of European PR is the ability to work freely without requiring additional work permits or sponsorship from an employer.

Permanent residents can access local job markets, change careers, or even start their own businesses without bureaucratic restrictions. In many cases, PR holders also have access to social security benefits and labour rights similar to those of citizens, ensuring fair treatment in the workforce.

World-Class Education and Healthcare Access

European permanent residents can enrol in public education institutions, often at significantly reduced tuition rates compared to international students.

This is particularly beneficial for families seeking high-quality schooling for their children.

Additionally, PR holders gain access to national healthcare systems, which in many European countries offer top-tier medical services at little to no cost, ensuring comprehensive medical coverage and peace of mind.

Greater Freedom of Movement Across Europe

Many European countries with PR programs are part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel across 29 countries.

This means that PR holders can move freely for business, leisure, or personal reasons without the hassle of applying for additional visas. Some residency programs even offer pathways to eventual citizenship, further enhancing mobility rights and global travel freedom.

Pathway to Citizenship and Full Integration

Permanent residency is often the first step toward full naturalization. In many European countries, PR holders can apply for citizenship after meeting certain residency and integration requirements.

This opens up opportunities for obtaining a European passport, granting full citizen rights, including the ability to vote, run for public office, and access even broader travel privileges.

Requirements for European Permanent Residency

Financial Requirements

• Minimum passive income or investment amount

• Proof of financial stability and ability to support oneself

Documentation Needed

• Valid passport

• Proof of funds (bank statements, income sources)

• Health insurance coverage

• Background check and police clearance

• Residency application form

Language Proficiency

• Some countries, such as Spain and Portugal, require basic language proficiency for PR applications.

• Malta and Greece have no mandatory language requirements for residency permits.

Physical Presence Requirements

• Portugal: 7 days per year for Golden Visa holders

• Greece: No minimum stay requirement

• Spain: Must reside for at least six months per year

• Malta: No minimum presence requirement

• Cyprus: No minimum stay requirement

• Latvia: No minimum stay requirement

The Path to Permanent Residency

Gaining permanent residency in Europe is an exciting and rewarding journey, offering access to high-level healthcare, stable economies, and vast travel opportunities.

From investment-based programs to traditional naturalization routes, Europe presents a variety of options for those seeking long-term residence. While each program comes with its own requirements and challenges, the benefits make it a worthwhile pursuit.

At the end of the day, the best residency program is the one that aligns with your personal and financial goals. Be it Portugal’s flexible residency options, Malta’s investor-friendly programs, or Latvia’s cost-effective approach, the opportunity to build a future in Europe is within reach.

If permanent residency is your goal, reach out to Savory & Partners for a seamless, time-efficient, and cost-effective process. Their expertise ensures the best possible outcome, guiding you through every step, no matter which residency program you choose.

FAQs About European Permanent Residency

1. Can I work with a European PR permit?

Yes, most European PR holders can work without needing additional permits. However, certain visa categories, like Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa, do not grant automatic work rights. If your goal is employment, choose a residency pathway that allows unrestricted work access, such as Portugal’s Golden Visa or Greece’s investment residency program.

2. Does permanent residency lead to citizenship?

Yes, PR is often the first step toward citizenship. Most European countries allow PR holders to apply for naturalization after maintaining residency for a set period, typically 5–10 years. Countries like Portugal (5 years) and Greece (7 years) offer relatively shorter routes, while Spain (10 years) and Latvia (10 years) require longer commitments.

3. Is real estate investment mandatory for PR?

No, while real estate is a popular route (e.g., Greece, Spain, Cyprus), many countries offer alternative options. Portugal, for example, allows investment in venture capital funds or research and development. Malta offers a government contribution route, while Latvia has a business investment pathway.

4. Can I lose my permanent residency status?

Yes, PR can be revoked if you fail to meet residency obligations. Common reasons include:

• Not meeting the minimum stay requirement (varies by country)

• Selling off required investments too early (e.g., Greece and Portugal)

• Violating legal or financial obligations

Some countries, like Portugal and Malta, have low physical presence requirements, making it easier to maintain PR while living elsewhere.

5. What is the fastest way to get permanent residency in Europe?

Residency-by-investment programs typically offer the fastest route. Countries like Malta and Cyprus provide some of the quickest approvals. Latvia is also one of the fastest options, especially for business investors. If speed is your priority, choosing a country with a fast-track PR option is key.

References

European Commission. (2023, December 6). Guide to EU citizenship. Retrieved from https://commission.europa.eu/publications/guide-eu-citizenship_en

European Commission. (2023, December 6). Citizenship Package. Retrieved from https://commission.europa.eu/publications/citizenship-package_en

European Commission. (2020, July 15). Pathways to citizenship for third-country nationals in the EU Member States. Retrieved from https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/whats-new/publications/pathways-citizenship-third-country-nationals-eu-member-states_en

European Commission. (2023, November 23). Third-country nationals: EU updates rules for long-term resident status. Retrieved from https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2023/11/23/third-country-nationals-eu-updates-rules-for-long-term-resident-status/

European Commission. (2023, December 6). EU citizenship. Retrieved from https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/democracy-eu-citizenship-anti-corruption/eu-citizenship_en