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How to Move to Europe: Your Options for Gaining EU Residency

Published on
Jul 29, 2024

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Moving to Europe is a dream for many, offering a high quality of life, rich cultural experiences, and limitless opportunities. This article explores various pathways to gain EU residency, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision.

Europe is known for its diverse cultures, historical landmarks, excellent healthcare systems, and high living standards. Whether you're seeking better job opportunities, high-quality education, or simply a change in lifestyle, moving to Europe offers a wealth of benefits. The continent's robust infrastructure and public services ensure a comfortable living environment, and the freedom to travel across EU member states is a significant perk.

Your Options for Gaining EU Residency

Citizenship by Descent

If you have European ancestry, you might be eligible for Citizenship by Descent. Many countries in Europe including Italy, Ireland, and Poland offer citizenship to individuals with ancestors who were nationals of these countries. This process typically involves providing documentation proving your lineage and connection to the country.

Residency by Descent

Similar to Citizenship by Descent, Residency by Descent allows individuals to gain residency rights based on their ancestry. This option is available in countries like Poland and Lithuania, where having a grandparent or parent who was a resident can provide you with residency rights.

Digital Nomad Visa

Several EU countries have introduced Digital Nomad Visas to attract remote workers. Nations such as Estonia, Portugal, and Spain offer these visas, allowing you to live in the country while working for a company based elsewhere. Requirements often include proof of remote employment and a minimum income threshold.

e-Residencies

Estonia pioneered the concept of e-Residency, allowing entrepreneurs to establish and manage an EU-based company entirely online. While e-Residency does not grant physical residency, it provides access to the EU business environment, banking, and payment processing.

Highly Skilled Work Visa

The EU offers visas to Highly Skilled Workers, such as the EU Blue Card. This visa is available to non-EU citizens with a job offer in an EU country that meets certain salary and education criteria. It's an excellent option for professionals in fields like IT, engineering, and healthcare.

Independent Means Visa

An Independent Means Visa is for individuals who can financially support themselves without working. Countries like France, Spain, and Italy offer this visa to retirees or those with substantial savings or passive income. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and, in some cases, comprehensive health insurance.

Active Investor Visa

Active Investor Visas are designed for entrepreneurs and investors willing to start a business or invest in an existing one within an EU country. Countries like Ireland and Spain offer these visas, requiring a significant financial commitment to qualify.

Residency by Investment (Golden Visas)

Residency by Investment programs, also known as Golden Visas, allow individuals to obtain residency in exchange for a substantial financial investment. Countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Malta offer these programs, typically requiring investments in real estate, government bonds, or local businesses.

Citizenship by Investment

Some EU countries offer Citizenship by Investment, granting citizenship in exchange for a significant investment. Malta and Cyprus have notable programs, often involving substantial financial contributions to the country’s economy.

How to Proceed with GlobalPassport™

The GlobalPassport™ app Explore Kit provides guidance on Mobility Assets worldwide, ensuring you choose the best pathway for your situation. Once you’ve received your assessment results and decided on the Mobility Assets you want to add to your portfolio, the GlobalPassport™ app walks you through the process of preparing your application, all the way until the moment you’re ready to click “send”.

Sign up to the waitlist now!

FAQs

What is the easiest EU country to gain residency?

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Can I work anywhere in the EU with an EU residency?

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How long does it take to get EU residency?

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Do I need to speak the local language?

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Can my family move with me?

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Conclusion

There are many options for gaining Residency and Citizenship in the EU, suited to almost every lifestyle and passport. Be one of the first to access the GlobalPassport™ app and explore the best options tailored to your needs by signing up to the waitlist.