In today’s global landscape, Europe is one of the most attractive destinations for investors who are looking for lifestyle benefits and family security. For high-net-worth individuals and their families, European Residence by Investment (RBI) programmes offer a unique blend of beautiful cities and new frontiers for stability, mobility, and legacy planning.
The true appeal lies in the combination of personal and financial benefits. Investors get benefits like the opportunity to summer in beautiful destinations like Lisbon in Portugal, or perhaps Saint-Tropez in France through their visa-free travel in the Schengen zone, and then access to top healthcare institutions and tax benefits through their residence in a new region.
Below are some of the key benefits of European permanent residence:
• Residency rights for the entire family
• Schengen-wide travel access*
• The freedom to reside or simply hold status (without mandatory relocation)
• Access to reputable schools and healthcare systems
• A safe and stable environment for wealth and lifestyle planning
• Opportunities for capital growth through property investment
• Path to full EU citizenship (in some cases)
• The ability to retain your existing nationality
• Access to European banking and financial infrastructure
Increasingly, we are seeing from our clients that they aren’t just investing in a second residence for higher levels of mobility (although this continues to be an extremely attractive perk), they are also doing it to safeguard their future – and not just for themselves, but for their families too. Below are five of my most notable permanent residence and Golden Visa routes available in Europe today.
Cyprus Permanent Residence Program
Why Cyprus?
Cyprus is well known for it’s gentle pace of life, sunny coastlines and true Mediterranean charm. However, in reality it offers much more than that; with a competitive tax regime, strong private education options, and widespread English fluency, it is an extremely attractive option for families, investors and retirees alike.
Key Features of the Cyprus Residence by Investment Programme:
- Permanent residence granted in as little as 3 months
- Application can includes spouse, children (up to the age of 25), and parents
- No requirement for physical presence in Cyprus to keep permanent residence
- No language requirement
- High quality of life and private schooling options
Investment Requirements:
- €300,000 (minimum) in residential property
- Proof of stable annual income above €30,000
Greece Golden Visa Program
Why Greece?
Greece has one of the most affordable real estate thresholds for residency in Europe. With a market that is steadily increasing in value, and full Schengen zone access, it is one of the most popular and enduring options for investors looking to get a foothold in one of Europe’s most historic countries.
Highlights:
- Real estate investment from just €250,000 (one of the most affordable real estate options for residency in the world)
- Full family inclusion, including parents and in-laws
- No requirement to live in Greece
- One of Europe’s fastest-growing real estate markets
Investment Requirements:
- €250,000 property purchase (varies by region and type)
- New routes from €400,000+ in financial assets
Portugal Golden Visa Program
Why Portugal?
Portugal is regarded as one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, revered for it’s high safety ratings, warm weather, delicious cuisine and welcoming culture. The Portugal Golden Visa programme also carries a structured path to citizenship, making it one of the most sought-after and respected Golden Visa destinations.
Highlights:
- Citizenship eligibility after 5 years without permanent relocation
- Large expat communities and strong English proficiency
- Broad investment routes, including funds and R&D
- Top-tier education and healthcare
Investment Requirements:
- From €500,000 in qualifying funds
- From €250,000 in alternative options in research, culture, and job creation
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
Why Malta?
As an EU country with a strong legal system, Malta offers a structured and transparent path to lifelong PR status – with no renewal needed.
Highlights:
- Lifetime PR for the full family
- English widely spoken
- No residency obligation
- Well-regulated financial sector and favourable tax planning options
Investment Requirements:
- Government contribution starting at €68,000
- Property lease or purchase (€10,000–€300,000 depending on location)
- €2,000 donation to a local NGO
Latvia Golden Visa Programme
Why Latvia?
Situated in Northern Europe, Latvia is a country where classic & rustic charm meets modern infrastructure and lifestyle. From the cobbled streets of Riga to its unspoiled countryside, Latvia offers a quieter, more balanced way of life – with the benefits of EU access.
Highlights:
- Lowest priced Residence by Investment Program in the European Union
- Reduced visit requirements: one visit per year
- Possibility of applying for Permanent Residency after five years of physical residency, and for Citizenship after ten years of physical residency
- No direct tax implications: you will only be taxed on the income generated in Latvia
Investment Requirements:
- €50,000 equity investment
- Or €250,000 investment in real estate
- Or €250,000 investment in special purpose, interest-free bonds
- Or €280,000 deposit in a Latvian bank for a period of five years (along with a onetime Government fee of €25,000
Final Thoughts
As the landscape of global mobility continues to evolve, so do the requirements and benefits tied to residence-by-investment programs. With regulatory shifts on the horizon, my advice to all investors is to take a proactive approach to securing new access, stability, and flexibility for your family.
If you are exploring long-term residence in Europe, the right programme will depend on your own preference for the combination of lifestyle considerations, investment goals, and future planning.
If you’d like to explore your options for residence in Europe, or would just like a general conversation around anything I’ve discussed in this blog, please reach out to me directly at selma.brahimi@passportlegacy.com
*Cyprus residency does not currently allow Schengen Area acess – they are scheduled to join the Schengen zone in 2025.
