Procedure for Residency Through Investment in Europe

Imagine securing EU residency with just a €250,000 investment — opening doors to visa-free travel across 27 countries and a pathway to citizenship. As high-net-worth non-EU citizens increasingly seek stable European bases for investment returns and lifestyle upgrades, understanding the procedure for obtaining residency through investment in European countries becomes essential. In this article, we'll compare key programs, highlighting requirements, benefits, and recent updates to help you make informed decisions. Drawing from official sources and expert insights, we'll focus on Portugal's Golden Visa — where we at Bravestone specialize — while contrasting it with options in Greece, Malta, Spain, and others.

Key European Residency-by-Investment Programs

European countries have attracted €25 billion in foreign direct investment through these programs over the past decade, according to a report by the European Commission. These schemes typically involve minimum investments in real estate, funds, or bonds, granting residency permits with Schengen Area access. Let's break down the most popular ones.

Portugal's Golden Visa: Our Specialty at Bravestone

At Bravestone, we guide you through Portugal's Golden Visa, one of Europe's most flexible options. The procedure for obtaining residency through investment in European countries like Portugal starts with a €500,000 minimum investment in qualifying funds, as per the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) guidelines.

• Eligibility: Non-EU citizens with clean records and proof of funds.
• Process: Submit application online or via embassy, undergo due diligence (3-8 months), and receive your permit.
• Benefits: Just 7 days per year stay required over five years, leading to citizenship eligibility. Enjoy tax perks under the NHR 2.0 regime.
• Recent Updates: In 2023, real estate options were phased out, shifting focus to funds for stability, as noted in Reuters.

We make this seamless— from yield analysis to full relocation support. Contact us at bravestone.co for personalized guidance.

Greece's Golden Visa: Affordable Mediterranean Access

Greece offers a low-entry point with a €250,000 real estate investment, rising to €800,000 in popular areas per 2023 changes from the Greek Ministry of Interior. The process involves property purchase, application submission, and approval in 3-8 months — no annual stay required.

Expert quote: "Greece's program is ideal for families seeking lifestyle benefits without heavy commitments," says immigration specialist Maria Kostopoulou in a Forbes article.

Malta's Permanent Residence Programme: Fast and Flexible

Updated in July 2024, Malta requires €375,000 for property purchase or €14,000 annual lease, plus a €97,000 government fee, as detailed by Identity Malta. Processing takes weeks, with lifetime residency and no stay minimum. It's perfect for those valuing speed — over 500,000 net worth required.

Other Notable Programs: Spain, Cyprus, and Hungary

Spain's program ends in April 2025, but historically needed €500,000 in real estate. Cyprus demands €250,000+ in property for fast approval. Hungary's 2024 relaunch offers lower thresholds and an 8-year citizenship path, attracting thousands annually per Bloomberg.

Comparing Investment Requirements and Benefits

Here's a quick comparison based on 2024 data from Henley & Partners:

These programs provide visa-free Schengen travel, family inclusion, and business opportunities. Portugal stands out for its citizenship speed, with 90% success rates for qualified applicants.

Strategic Tips for High-Net-Worth Investors

As a non-EU citizen eyeing returns, consider your goals: Portugal for citizenship, Greece for affordability. Risks include policy changes — Spain's closure shows this. Professional advice is key; we at Bravestone offer end-to-end support, ensuring secure journeys.

Unique insight: "Investors often pair EU residency with tax havens for optimization," notes a Deloitte report.

FAQ

What is the minimum investment for European residency? It ranges from €250,000 in Greece to €500,000 in Portugal, depending on the program.

How long does the procedure take? Typically 3-8 months, but Malta processes in weeks.

Can family members join? Yes, most programs include spouses, children, and sometimes parents.

What are the risks? Policy shifts, like Spain's 2025 end, highlight the need for expert guidance — reach out to us at bravestone.co.

Is citizenship guaranteed? No, but paths exist after 5-8 years with residency maintenance.

For tailored advice on Portugal's options, we're here to help make your move simple and rewarding.