Which EU Country is Easiest to Get Residency? 4 Best Options Revealed

In an increasingly globalized world, many people are seeking to establish residency in the European Union (EU), drawn by the promise of better opportunities, quality of life, and access to the Schengen Area. But with 27 EU countries to choose from, the question on many people’s minds is: Which EU country is easiest to get residency? This article explores the best options for obtaining residency in the EU, providing insight into the benefits and processes of each. Whether you’re looking to invest, start a business, or retire, these countries offer some of the easiest paths to EU residency.

Why Choose EU Residency?

Before diving into which EU country is easiest to get residency, it’s essential to understand why EU residency is so desirable. Holding residency in an EU country grants several benefits, including:

• Free Movement: EU residents can travel, live, and work in any Schengen country without needing additional visas.
• High Quality of Life: Europe boasts world-class healthcare, education, and overall quality of life.
• Stable Economies: Many EU countries have robust economies with strong social safety nets and political stability.
• Business and Investment Opportunities: Being an EU resident can open doors to business opportunities in one of the world’s largest single markets.

Now, let’s explore the four best options for obtaining EU residency with relatively easy pathways.

1. Portugal

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the easiest EU countries to gain residency, especially through its popular Golden Visa program.

Golden Visa Program

Portugal’s Golden Visa allows non-EU nationals to gain residency through investment. The most common routes include:

• Real Estate Investment: Invest at least €280,000 to €500,000 in real estate, depending on the property’s location.
• Job Creation: Invest €350,000 in a business that creates at least 10 jobs.
• Capital Transfer: Transfer at least €1 million into a Portuguese bank account or approved investment.

The application process is relatively straightforward, and you’ll need to spend only seven days per year in Portugal to maintain residency. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Why Portugal?

• Low minimum stay requirement
• Affordable cost of living
• Warm climate and beautiful landscapes
• Access to top-tier healthcare and education

If you’re asking which EU country is easiest to get residency, Portugal should be at the top of your list, especially for investors and retirees.

2. Spain

Spain offers several routes to residency, making it another great option for those looking for an easy way to gain EU residency.

Non-Lucrative Visa

For non-EU nationals who want to live in Spain without working, the Non-Lucrative Visa is an attractive option. Applicants must prove they have sufficient financial resources (around €25,560 per year for an individual) and private health insurance. This visa is renewable, and after five years, it can lead to permanent residency.

Golden Visa Program

Like Portugal, Spain also has a Golden Visa program. The most common route is to invest at least €500,000 in real estate. This visa doesn’t require you to live in Spain full-time, making it flexible for those who travel frequently.

Why Spain?

• Relatively easy residency pathways
• Excellent healthcare and education system
• Large expat communities, particularly in cities like Madrid and Barcelona
• Rich cultural heritage and lifestyle
• Good connectivity to the rest of Europe

For those still pondering which EU country is easiest to get residency, Spain’s flexibility and multiple visa options make it a strong contender.

3. Greece

Greece is not only known for its rich history and stunning landscapes but also for offering one of the easiest paths to EU residency through its affordable Golden Visa program.

Golden Visa Program

Greece’s Golden Visa program requires a minimum €250,000 investment in real estate, making it one of the cheapest investment-based residency options in the EU. In return, you get a renewable five-year residency permit, which allows you to live in Greece and travel throughout the Schengen Zone.

The process is straightforward, and there are no minimum stay requirements, meaning you can live elsewhere and still retain your Greek residency status.

Why Greece?

• Lowest real estate investment threshold for a Golden Visa in the EU
• Fast processing times (often within two months)
• Access to beautiful islands, historic cities, and a Mediterranean lifestyle
• Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa

If you’re searching for which EU country is easiest to get residency, Greece offers one of the simplest and most cost-effective residency programs in Europe.

4. Malta

Malta is another EU country offering relatively easy residency options, especially for those interested in investment-based schemes.

Malta Residency and Visa Program (MRVP)

The Malta Residency and Visa Program is a residency-by-investment program that requires a combination of property investment and a government contribution. To qualify:

• Invest at least €270,000 in real estate (or €320,000 in certain regions).
• Make a government contribution of €30,000.
• Maintain health insurance and prove sufficient financial resources.

The MRVP allows you to live in Malta and enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone. Malta also offers a favorable tax regime, making it attractive to high-net-worth individuals.

Why Malta?

• English is an official language, making it easy for English speakers to settle
• Favorable tax benefits
• Access to a high standard of healthcare
• Well-connected to major European cities

When considering which EU country is easiest to get residency, Malta’s program offers flexibility and ease, particularly for investors looking for a stable EU base.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an EU Country for Residency

While these four countries—Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta—offer some of the easiest paths to EU residency, there are several factors to keep in mind when deciding which country is right for you.

1. Financial Requirements

Each country has different financial requirements, from property investments to demonstrating sufficient income. Assess your budget and compare it with the residency options available.

2. Lifestyle Preferences

Think about the kind of lifestyle you want. Do you prefer the sunny beaches of Spain, the historical richness of Greece, or the island life in Malta? Each country has a unique culture and lifestyle, so choose one that aligns with your personal preferences.

3. Long-Term Goals

Are you looking to eventually obtain EU citizenship, or is residency enough? Some countries, like Portugal, offer a clear pathway to citizenship after a certain period, while others may have more complex rules.

4. Ease of Application Process

Some countries have quicker, more streamlined application processes, while others might involve more bureaucracy. Research each country’s visa and residency application processes to avoid unexpected delays.

Conclusion: Which EU Country is Easiest to Get Residency?

So, which EU country is easiest to get residency? Based on the factors we’ve covered, the four best options—Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Malta—stand out as offering the easiest and most straightforward paths to EU residency. Each has unique advantages, depending on your goals and financial situation.

Whether you’re an investor, a retiree, or someone looking for a fresh start in a new country, these countries provide various options to make your dream of EU residency a reality. Whichever country you choose, you’ll be opening the door to countless opportunities in one of the most attractive regions in the world.

If you’re still wondering which EU country is easiest to get residency, consider starting your journey with Portugal or Greece, as both offer excellent investment programs and lifestyle benefits. Good luck with your residency journey