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European Citizenship by Investment Programs: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Published date:
July 30, 2025
/
Updated on:
July 30, 2025
Dean Fankhauser
Written by:
Dean Fankhauser
Reviewed by:
Radica Maneva
European Citizenship by Investment Programs: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Our Editorial Standards:

We use the highest editorial standards at Movingto by ensuring every article is written by a qualified lawyer or immigration expert and fact-checked by a Portugal licensed lawyer. Learn more about our Editorial Process.

In today’s globally connected world, more families and entrepreneurs are seeking to expand their horizons beyond the borders of their home country. Whether it's for enhanced mobility, security, wealth planning, or future opportunities, the appeal of obtaining European citizenship by investment continues to grow.

The benefits of acquiring a second passport in Europe include access to top-tier healthcare and education, as well as the right to live, work, and study in any EU member state.

While many countries around the world offer citizenship programs, only a select few in Europe grant citizenship through direct investment. Others offer a longer route through residence permit schemes—also known as Golden Visa programs, that may eventually lead to permanent residency or naturalization.

This guide breaks down both approaches. It outlines the citizenship by investment options currently available in Europe and compares them with investment programs that provide a viable path to eventual EU citizenship.

We’ll help you understand the legal landscape, explore each European country's requirements, and identify which route fits your needs, whether you’re a business owner, retiree, or high-net-worth individual.

Most importantly, we’ll help you evaluate the strategic benefits of acquiring European citizenship through financial contribution, highlighting the importance of choosing the right host country, understanding your target country’s legal pathway, and meeting the necessary minimum investment thresholds.

In a time of increased global uncertainty, investing in a European passport could be one of the most empowering decisions for you and your family’s future.

What Is Citizenship by Investment?

senior woman passport eu immigration desk
Smiling senior woman with passport at EU immigration desk.

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) refers to the process by which a European country or other sovereign state grants citizenship to an individual (and often their family) in exchange for a substantial investment. This may involve contributing to a national development fund, purchasing real estate property, or investing in government bonds or a venture capital fund.

Unlike traditional immigration, where naturalization comes only after years of residence, integration, and paperwork, citizenship by investment programs are designed for foreign investors who are willing to make financial commitments in return for fast-tracked access to EU citizenship or other benefits.

However, not all programs are created equal. While a handful of countries (like Austria and Turkey) offer direct citizenship through investment, most EU countries offer Golden Visa programs, also called residence by investment, which can eventually lead to permanent residence and naturalization over time.

Key Differences: Citizenship by Investment vs. Golden Visa Programs

Below is a side-by-side comparison to clarify the distinction between direct citizenship programs and Golden Visa residency programs:

Feature Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Golden Visa / Residence by Investment (RBI)
Grants immediate citizenship? ✅ Yes (in select EU and non-EU countries) ❌ No — residency comes first, then citizenship
Leads to EU passport? ✅ Yes, directly or in short time ✅ Yes, but after 5–10 years and conditions
Residency requirement ❌ Often none ✅ Typically required (may vary by country)
Examples of countries offering Austria, Turkey, North Macedonia Portugal, Greece, Spain, Italy, Hungary
Minimum investment required Often higher (€500,000+ or discretionary) Lower thresholds (€250,000–€500,000 common)

In essence, if you’re looking to obtain European citizenship rapidly and are ready to make a significant financial contribution, direct citizenship by investment may suit your goals.

On the other hand, if you're seeking legal residency first with a path to EU citizenship, a Golden Visa offers flexibility and gradual integration.

Still Have Questions About European Citizenship or Residency?

Our team at Movingto is here to help. We offer personalized guidance, vetted legal support, and end-to-end management to make your investment journey smooth, compliant, and stress-free. From eligibility checks to document prep, we handle the details so you can focus on your future.

Talk to an Expert Today

The EU Legal Landscape: Why Citizenship by Investment Is So Limited

Over the last decade, the European Union has increasingly cracked down on citizenship by investment programs that offer passports without meaningful ties to the host country.

These so-called “Golden Passport” schemes have raised alarms over security risks, corruption, and misuse of EU citizenship, which grants access to the entire Schengen Area, as well as full rights in all EU member states.

As a result, most European countries have abandoned or redesigned their citizenship programs in favor of residence permit-based systems that follow stricter compliance, require a clean criminal record, and include physical presence or cultural integration.

EU Pushback on “Golden Passports” The European Commission has cracked down on countries offering citizenship without requiring real residence, citing security and corruption risks.
Malta & Cyprus Shut Down Programs These once-popular CBI schemes were closed following EU infringement procedures, scandals, and pressure for better compliance.
Residency & Integration Now Required EU citizenship typically requires years of physical presence, cultural knowledge, and legal residency — not just investment.
Austria’s Path Is Discretionary Article 10(6) allows citizenship for “extraordinary contributions,” but it's not a public or guaranteed program.
Financial Contribution Alone Isn’t Enough The EU discourages granting citizenship based only on monetary investments without ties to the country or its people.

While countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece continue to offer Golden Visa programs, these are not direct routes to EU passports. They provide legal residency in exchange for a real estate investment, venture capital fund, or similar substantial investment, but require years of residency and integration before one can acquire citizenship.

In contrast, only Austria still offers a rare and discretionary citizenship by investment pathway under Article 10(6) of its citizenship law. However, this is not an ordinary investment program, applicants must demonstrate exceptional services or “extraordinary benefit to the Republic,” such as innovation, job creation, or significant economic contribution. No public pricing, no guarantees, and very few successful applicants.

📣 What Happened to Malta and Cyprus?

Both Malta and Cyprus have shut down their citizenship by investment programs under mounting pressure from the European Union. The EU cited serious concerns over security, money laundering, and lack of proper due diligence.

Malta now requires applicants to establish residency and wait at least one year before applying for citizenship, turning its former fast-track program into a more traditional naturalization route.

Cyprus, meanwhile, permanently closed its program in late 2020 following a formal infringement procedure and damaging reports of political abuse tied to its passport sales.

Top European Citizenship by Investment Programs

Before exploring individual programs, it’s important to understand the two main pathways available to foreign investors: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Golden Visa/Residency by Investment (RBI).

While only a few countries offer direct citizenship routes, most EU countries rely on residence-by-investment programs that can lead to European citizenship over time, typically after meeting long-term residency, language, and integration requirements.

Use the table below to compare key differences between the two models:

Country Route Type Min. Investment Residency Required Time to Citizenship Dual Citizenship Allowed Visa-Free Travel Access Family Inclusion
🇵🇹 Portugal Golden Visa (RBI) €250,000–€500,000 ~7 days/year 5 years ✅ Yes Schengen, EU ✅ Spouse, kids, parents
🇦🇹 Austria Discretionary CBI €2M–€10M+ ❌ No Immediate ❌ Rarely EU, 190+ countries ✅ Case by case
🇹🇷 Turkey CBI $400,000+ ❌ No 3–6 months ✅ Yes 110+ countries ✅ Spouse + minors
🇬🇷 Greece Golden Visa (RBI) €250,000–€500,000 ❌ Not required 7 years ✅ Yes Schengen ✅ Spouse, kids
🇪🇸 Spain Golden Visa (RBI) €500,000+ ❌ Not required 10 years ❌ (limited) Schengen ✅ Full family
🇨🇾 Cyprus Permanent Residence €300,000+ ❌ Not required 5–7 years ✅ Yes Schengen (future EU) ✅ Family included
🇭🇺 Hungary Guest Investor (RBI) €250,000–€1M ✅ Minimal 8 years ✅ Yes Schengen ✅ Spouse, kids
🇮🇹 Italy Investor Visa (RBI) €250,000–€2M ✅ Required 10 years ✅ Yes Schengen, EU ✅ Family included
🇱🇻 Latvia Golden Visa (RBI) €60,000–€280,000 ✅ Required 10 years ✅ Yes Schengen ✅ Spouse, minors
🇱🇺 Luxembourg Residency by Investment €500,000–€3M+ ✅ Required 5 years ✅ Yes Schengen, EU ✅ Spouse, children
🇨🇭 Switzerland Lump-Sum Tax or Business CHF 150K–1M+ ✅ Required 10 years ✅ Yes Schengen ✅ Family included

🇵🇹 Portugal – The Gateway to Europe’s Most Popular Citizenship Path

Portugal Golden Visa Guide

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Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the most strategic investment programs in Europe, especially for those seeking to obtain European citizenship ultimately. Although Portugal no longer offers direct citizenship by investment, it provides a clear, structured path from residence to citizenship with relatively low stay requirements, a rarity among EU member states.

Foreign investors can apply for a residence permit through qualifying investments (such as venture capital funds, scientific research, or job creation). After five years of legal residency, without needing to live in Portugal full time, investors may become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, assuming they meet basic requirements like a clean criminal record, language proficiency, and integration.

Those granted citizenship gain access to an EU passport, which allows visa-free travel across Europe’s Schengen Area and beyond. Portugal also allows dual citizenship, making it a flexible choice for those who don’t want to renounce their current nationality.

Key Benefits

  • Access to a strong EU passport after five years of legal residency
  • Low physical stay requirement (just 7 days/year)
  • Multiple investment options, including real estate investment and fund subscriptions
  • Family reunification (spouses, children, dependent parents)
  • The NHR regime provides strong healthcare, education, and tax benefits.

Investment Routes

  • €500,000 in a regulated Portuguese investment fund
  • €250,000 in cultural/artistic support
  • €500,000 to launch or capitalize a local company that creates five or more jobs.

🇬🇷 Greece – A Flexible Route to EU Citizenship Through Real Estate

Greece Golden Visa Guide

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Greece has rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of Europe’s most appealing residence-by-investment destinations, especially since reforms to its Golden Visa program made it more transparent and accessible. While it doesn’t offer citizenship by investment outright, its pathway to permanent residence and eventual EU citizenship is both attractive and achievable for long-term investors.

To qualify, non-EU citizens must invest in real estate property worth at least €250,000 (in most areas) or €500,000 in premium zones such as Athens and Santorini. Once granted a residence permit, investors and their families can live in Greece, travel visa-free throughout the Schengen Area, and benefit from Greece’s improving economy, lifestyle, and international connectivity.

After 7 years of legal residency, applicants may become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship, provided they meet basic criteria such as sufficient knowledge of the Greek language and cultural heritage, along with a clean criminal record.

Key Benefits

  • Affordable real estate entry point (starting at €250,000)
  • Fast processing (2–3 months in most cases)
  • No physical presence requirement to maintain residency
  • Citizenship eligibility after 7 years
  • Includes family members (spouse, children, sometimes dependent parents)

Investment Routes

  • Residential or commercial real estate investment
  • 10-year lease for hotel or tourism accommodation
  • Purchase of Greek government bonds or shares in local companies (less common)

🇪🇸 Spain – Lifestyle, Location, and a Clear Path to Citizenship

Spain Golden Visa Guide

Click to Read

Spain’s Golden Visa program offers a gateway to life in one of Europe’s most vibrant nations, from the bustling streets of Barcelona to the beaches of Costa del Sol. While Spain does not grant direct citizenship by investment, it does offer an efficient residence by investment pathway that may lead to permanent residency and eventual Spanish citizenship.

To qualify, foreign investors must make a minimum real estate investment of €500,000 or consider other investment options like government bonds, business development, or capital transfer. The initial residence permit grants legal residency for up to 3 years (renewable), with no requirement to live in Spain full time.

After 10 years of legal residency, investors can apply to acquire citizenship, assuming they have maintained legal status, integrated into Spanish society, and passed the necessary exams.

Key Benefits

  • Generous visa-free access within Europe and globally
  • No stay requirement to maintain residency
  • Full family inclusion: spouse, children, and dependent parents
  • Multiple eligible investments: real estate, business, or capital contribution
  • This program offers a long-term pathway to dual citizenship, depending on the laws of the applicant's home country.

Investment Routes

  • €500,000 in Spanish real estate property
  • €1 million in government bonds
  • €1 million in Spanish company shares or bank deposits

🇨🇾 Cyprus – From Fast Citizenship to Strategic Residency

love bridge near ayia napa cyprus
Love bridge near Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Cyprus was once one of the most popular European citizenship investment destinations, but its original citizenship program was officially terminated in 2020 following EU scrutiny and allegations of abuse.

Today, Cyprus focuses on residence by investment, offering a compelling route to permanent residency and, eventually, EU citizenship, especially attractive for third-country nationals.

The current Cyprus Permanent Residence Program requires a minimum investment of €300,000 in new real estate, company shares, or a venture capital fund. The process is relatively fast, with approvals issued in as little as 2 months, and provides access to Cyprus’s strong legal, educational, and tax infrastructure.

Citizenship through naturalization is possible after 5–7 years of legal residency, depending on continuous presence and integration (including knowledge of the local language, cultural heritage, and a clean record). While direct citizenship is no longer an option, Cyprus remains a strategic foothold in the European Union.

Key Benefits

  • Strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East
  • Attractive tax regime for foreign investors and businesses
  • Quick residency permit process (2–3 months)
  • No physical presence required to maintain status
  • Citizenship eligibility is available after 5–7 years of residency.cy
  • includes spouses, children, and dependent parents.s

Investment Routes

  • €300,000 in new residential or commercial real estate property
  • Investment in local companies with five Cypriot employees
  • Participation in a venture capital fund or collective investment scheme

🇭🇺 Hungary – A Newcomer Reimagining Investor Residency

danube river budapest hungary
Budapest Parliament glowing by the Danube River

Hungary recently launched its revamped Guest Investor Program (GIP) in 2024, introducing a modern pathway for non-EU citizens to obtain legal residency and eventually Hungarian citizenship through strategic investment.

While it’s not a direct citizenship by investment program, it positions Hungary as one of the most accessible and cost-effective European Union entry points today.

To qualify, investors must make a minimum investment of €250,000 into a Hungarian real estate fund, a €500,000 real estate purchase, or a €1 million donation to a national development fund supporting cultural heritage projects.

The initial residence permit is valid for 10 years, which is longer than the duration of most Golden Visa programs.

Citizenship may be available after 8 years of continuous residency, assuming sufficient knowledge of the Hungarian language, a clean criminal record, and integration.

Key Benefits

  • Low entry investment threshold: from €250,000
  • 10-year renewable residence permit, one of the longest in Europe
  • Fast-track processing for eligible investors
  • Option to bring spouse and minor children
  • Citizenship can be obtained 8 years later through the naturalization process.

Investment Routes

  • €250,000 in a government-approved real estate fund
  • €500,000 in direct Hungarian real estate investment
  • €1 million contribution to a government fund for heritage development

🇱🇻 Latvia – Quietly Strategic, Efficient, and Affordable

riga capital latvia
Riga, capital of Latvia, skyline overlooking the Daugava River

Latvia may not top the headlines, but its residence by investment program stands out for its low minimum investment, fast processing, and straightforward structure.

While Latvia does not offer direct citizenship by investment, its Golden Visa framework is among the most cost-effective in Europe, and it can lead to EU citizenship over time through naturalization.

Investors can gain a residence permit by:

  • Investing €250,000 in Latvian real estate property,
  • Depositing €280,000 in a Latvian bank, or
  • Investing €50,000 into a local business (plus taxes).

The program includes visa-free access to the Schengen Area, and citizenship eligibility arises after 10 years of residency, including 5 years as a permanent resident.

The process also requires a clean criminal record and basic Latvian language proficiency for citizenship.

Key Benefits

  • One of the lowest minimum real estate investment thresholds in the EU
  • Fast approval timeline (as little as 30–60 days)
  • Option to invest in business or banking
  • Path to EU citizenship via long-term residency
  • Includes spouse and minor children

Investment Routes

  • €250,000 in qualifying real estate property
  • €280,000 deposit in a Latvian bank for 5 years
  • €50,000 capital in a local business + €10,000 government fee

🇱🇺 Luxembourg – Business-Friendly Path to EU Residency (and Eventually Citizenship)

luxembourg old bridge
The small country of Luxembourg with big investment perks

Luxembourg doesn’t offer direct citizenship by investment, but it provides a highly attractive residence by investment (RBI) framework for third-country nationals seeking long-term access to the European Union.

Known for its financial stability, business-friendliness, and high standard of living, Luxembourg’s program is ideal for high-net-worth individuals with entrepreneurial interests.

To qualify, applicants must make a substantial investment in the country through one of the following routes:

  • Invest €500,000 in an existing Luxembourg company
  • Start a new business with a capital contribution of €500,000 and 5+ job commitments
  • Deposit €20 million in a Luxembourg financial institution for 5 years
  • Invest €3 million in a venture capital fund or similar structure

After 5 years of continuous legal residency, applicants may apply for Luxembourgish citizenship if they demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the language, integration into Luxembourgish society, and a clean criminal record.

Key Benefits

  • Excellent for entrepreneurs, business owners, and startup investors
  • Access to one of the EU’s strongest economies and banking sectors
  • Includes spouse and dependent children
  • Potential for dual citizenship after naturalization
  • Short path to permanent residency

Investment Routes

  • Business creation or expansion
  • Bank deposit in a regulated Luxembourg institution
  • Investment in approved funds or venture capital fund vehicles
  • Strategic economic development contributions

🇨🇭 Switzerland – Prestigious Residency, Exclusive Access, and Elite Living

aare river bern city switzerland
The Swiss capital of Bern wrapped in autumn charm

Switzerland doesn’t offer citizenship by investment directly, but it does provide an elite residence program designed for financially independent individuals.

While not an EU country, Switzerland is part of Europe’s Schengen Area, offering visa-free access across the continent and one of the highest standards of living worldwide.

Program Options

  • Lump-Sum Taxation Program (Swiss Forfait Fiscal):
    Available to non-EU citizens who agree to pay a minimum annual tax based on their living expenses (not income or assets), usually starting at CHF 150,000–CHF 1,000,000+ depending on canton.
  • Business Investor Route:
    Alternatively, applicants can establish a company that provides economic benefit to a Swiss canton and employ local staff.

After 10 years of continuous residency, applicants can apply for Swiss citizenship through naturalization, provided they demonstrate integration, language proficiency, and a clean legal record.

Key Benefits

  • Reside in one of Europe’s most stable and secure nations
  • Low taxation on global income for qualified residents
  • High prestige, privacy, and economic opportunity
  • Path to dual citizenship (allowed in most cases)
  • Access to excellent healthcare, banking, and education systems
  • Includes family (spouse and children under 18)

Requirements Summary

  • No employment in Switzerland (for lump-sum route)
  • Substantial wealth and ability to self-fund lifestyle
  • Clean criminal record and compliance with tax laws
  • Health insurance and proof of accommodation
  • Long-term residence needed before citizenship eligibility

🇦🇹 Austria – Rare Citizenship by Exceptional Contribution

fortress hohensalzburg austria
Salzburg, Austria, blending alpine beauty with timeless elegance

Austria remains the only EU country that legally offers direct citizenship by investment, although the route is highly selective, discretionary, and not published as a formal “program.”

Under Article 10(6) of the Austrian Citizenship Act, citizenship may be granted without prior residence if the applicant provides exceptional services or substantial economic benefit to the Republic. This often involves a direct investment of €2–10 million+ into critical sectors like innovation, science, business, or the arts.

The process is complex, confidential, and typically requires expert guidance and high-level governmental approval. Dual citizenship is not typically allowed unless specifically exempted by the Austrian authorities.

Key Benefits

  • One of the most powerful European passports globally
  • Immediate EU citizenship without prior residency
  • Full access to visa-free travel in over 190+ countries
  • Elite prestige, privacy, and discretion
  • Pathway is legal and constitutional under Austrian law

Requirements Summary

  • €2–10M+ direct investment or significant economic contribution
  • Approval by the Austrian government (not automatic or guaranteed)
  • Must show a clean criminal record and high ethical standing
  • No published residency requirement
  • This requirement often excludes individuals with dual nationality unless a special exemption is granted.

Austria’s route is best suited to ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking a second passport from a top-tier EU country through a legal but discretionary process.

🇹🇷 Turkey – Fast-Track Citizenship via Property or Capital

istanbul turkey waterfront
Istanbul’s vibrant waterfront meets centuries of skyline charm

Turkey is not an EU member state, but it plays a significant role in the European investment migration space. Its Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the most affordable and efficient in the world.

Applicants can acquire Turkish citizenship by:

  • Purchasing real estate worth $400,000+,
  • Making a $500,000 bank deposit, or
  • Investing in government bonds or a venture capital fund.

The process takes just 3 to 6 months, and successful applicants receive a Turkish passport, which grants visa-free access to over 110 countries, including Japan, Singapore, and most of the Caribbean.

While Turkey is not in the EU, it has strategic visa arrangements and may be used as a bridge country in broader global mobility strategies.

Key Benefits

  • Fastest European-region passport (in 3–6 months)
  • Affordable entry point compared to EU Golden Visa programs
  • No residency or language requirement
  • Allows dual citizenship
  • Family members who are included are the spouse and children under 18 years of age.

Investment Routes

  • $400,000+ real estate property (residential or commercial)
  • $500,000 deposit into a Turkish bank for 3 years
  • $500,000 investment in government bonds or fund shares
  • Establishing a business that creates local jobs

Turkey’s program is ideal for investors seeking speed, family inclusion, and flexibility, with the option to later pursue EU citizenship through other pathways.

Benefits of Obtaining European Citizenship by Investment

For high-net-worth individuals and globally minded families, securing European citizenship or residency through investment isn’t just a luxury; it’s a strategic move. From expanded mobility to legacy planning, the advantages are vast and far-reaching.

Here’s why more foreign investors are looking toward EU countries as their second home:

Visa-Free Travel Across Europe and Beyond EU citizenship or residency allows access to Europe's Schengen Area and over 190+ countries — eliminating visa hassle for business, leisure, and emergencies.
Live, Work, and Study Anywhere in the European Union With an EU passport or residence permit, you’re free to build a life, career, or education anywhere across all 27 EU member states.
Family Reunification and Generational Security Most programs include your spouse, children, and dependent parents — with citizenship often passed to future generations automatically.
Access to Elite Healthcare and Education Enjoy top-tier medical services and world-class education systems — often at reduced or no cost for citizens and legal residents.
Investment Flexibility and Wealth Planning From real estate and government bonds to funds and business creation — most countries offer multiple routes aligned with your goals.
A Safe Plan B in an Unpredictable World Holding EU citizenship or residency gives you and your family freedom, protection, and global access — no matter what’s happening at home.

With the right strategy and expert guidance, investing in Europe can unlock opportunities that last for generations.

How to Choose the Right Path Based on Your Goals

When exploring European citizenship or residency by investment, the most suitable option depends on individual circumstances, priorities, and future objectives.

Below are the key factors investors should evaluate when selecting the right program:

1️⃣ Speed to Citizenship

Programs differ in how quickly they lead to citizenship. Some offer direct citizenship through discretionary routes, while others require several years of legal residency before naturalization.

2️⃣ Family Inclusion

Many programs allow the inclusion of spouses, children, and sometimes dependent parents. It's important to check eligibility criteria and additional investment requirements for dependents.

3️⃣ Preferred Investment Type

Applicants can choose between real estate investment, venture capital funds, government bonds, or direct contributions. Selecting a route that aligns with financial strategy and risk appetite is essential.

4️⃣ Lifestyle & Relocation Flexibility

Some countries require full-time relocation, while others impose minimal or no physical presence requirements.

This makes certain programs more suitable for investors who intend to reside elsewhere.

5️⃣ Access to Education & Healthcare

Residency or citizenship in the EU can provide access to quality public services, including healthcare and education.

Some countries offer better infrastructure and subsidies than others.

6️⃣ Business & Tax environments

Tax frameworks and business-friendly policies vary across Europe. Programs with non-habitual tax regimes or simplified business routes may appeal to entrepreneurs or wealth planners.

7️⃣ Global Mobility

Passport and visa privileges differ by country. Some provide broader visa-free travel or more favorable mobility within Europe and beyond.

8️⃣ Legal & Language Requirements

Naturalization in most EU countries includes requirements such as language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and a clean criminal record. Understanding the long-term obligations is critical.

9️⃣ Budget & Financial Thresholds

Minimum investment levels vary widely. Applicants should consider total financial commitment, including government fees, legal costs, and required contributions.


Evaluating the right program begins with understanding personal priorities, whether it's timeline, mobility, tax optimization, or family security.

With dozens of variations across Europe, aligning the investment route with long-term objectives ensures a smoother application process and greater value from the citizenship or residency acquired.

Application Process: What to Expect

While the exact process may vary slightly between countries, most European citizenship or residency by investment programs follow a structured multi-step timeline.

Applicants should prepare thoroughly and work with qualified professionals to ensure compliance and success.

🔢 Step-by-Step Overview

  1. Document Preparation
    Gather essential documents, including valid passports, birth certificates, proof of legal income, a clean criminal record, marriage/family certificates (if applicable), and verified proof of funds.
  2. Appoint a legal representative
    Work with licensed legal or immigration professionals who specialize in citizenship -related investment programs. They will assist in document review, compliance, translation, and submission.
  3. Source of Funds Validation
    Most programs require clear documentation of how the funds were earned. This includes bank statements, business earnings, investment portfolios, or inheritance records. Transparency is crucial.
  4. Due Diligence Checks
    Governments conduct extensive background checks to verify the applicant’s integrity, financial history, and absence of legal issues. This step determines overall application eligibility.
  5. Investment Transfer
    Once approved in principle, applicants must proceed with the agreed investment. This may include real estate investment, contributions to a government fund, or transfers to a venture capital fund.
  6. Residency or Citizenship Approval
    After successful due diligence and investment confirmation, the applicant is granted either a residence permit or direct citizenship, depending on the program.
  7. Passport Issuance (If Applicable)
    In the case of citizenship, the final step involves formal naturalization and receiving a European passport. For residency, applicants receive renewable permits valid for several years.

How to Avoid Delays or Rejection

✅ Ensure all documents are current, translated, and properly apostilled
✅ Submit police clearance certificates issued within the last 90 days
✅ Choose fully compliant and government-approved investment funds
✅ Clarify the origin of funds with documented, traceable proof
✅ Use authorized legal representatives familiar with the specific program
✅ Maintain consistency in application data across all platforms

⚠️ Risks, Challenges, and Common Mistakes

While citizenship by investment and residency programs offer powerful advantages, they also come with legal, financial, and procedural complexities.

Careful planning is essential to avoid delays, rejections, or long-term setbacks.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Overestimating Speed to Passport Most programs require years of legal residency before you can apply for citizenship, even if investment is approved quickly.
Choosing Countries That Don’t Allow Dual Citizenship Not all European countries permit dual nationality — this can lead to unexpected tax and legal consequences.
Ignoring Residency Compliance Rules Missing physical presence requirements or document renewals can result in loss of residency status.
Relying on Outdated Info or Unregulated Agents Legal thresholds and approved investments change often. Always use licensed providers and verify with official sources.
Incomplete Documentation or Non-Compliant Funds Incorrect translations, expired certificates, or unapproved funds can delay or invalidate your application.
Underestimating Language and Integration Requirements For citizenship via naturalization, many countries require language proficiency exams and cultural integration.

Proper planning and up-to-date guidance are essential when pursuing European citizenship or residency through investment.

By understanding the challenges early, working with qualified professionals, and selecting a program that matches your financial and personal goals, investors can avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose Movingto for Your European Relocation

Having expert support is crucial when navigating something as complex as European residency or citizenship through investment. At Movingto, we combine legal excellence, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care to deliver results every time.

With over 2,500 successful approvals, a 100% success rate for visa applications, and glowing reviews from satisfied families and professionals, we’ve built a reputation as Europe’s trusted immigration partner.

We go beyond standard service:

  • Licensed Immigration Lawyers In-House: Your application is handled by Portugal-licensed lawyers, no outsourcing, no surprises.
  • Proprietary Golden Visa Funds Platform: Our curated platform offers access to the top 60 Portugal Golden Visa funds, carefully vetted based on performance, compliance, and cost.
  • Real-Time Case Management: Stay informed with seamless online tracking, multi-channel support, and personal move coordination from start to finish.
  • International Tax & Relocation Advisory: We advise not just on visas but also on NHR tax regimes, banking, insurancand property, ensuring that your move is fully optimized.ically optimized.
  • Boutique, Family-Run Approach: Founded by global nomads ourselves, we treat every client like family, meaning proactive communication, thorough follow-up, and attention to detail at every step.

Need Expert Guidance on European Citizenship or Residency by Investment?

Whether you're looking for the fastest EU passport, a tax-friendly residency option, or a long-term relocation strategy — our licensed immigration team will guide you through every step with clarity and care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I include adopted or stepchildren in my application?

Yes, most programs allow adopted or stepchildren to be included if they are financially dependent and under a certain age (often under 18 or 21). Some countries also allow adult children if they’re still studying or unmarried.

What happens to my residency or citizenship if the property I invested in is sold later?

In many Golden Visa programs, you must retain ownership of the qualifying asset (e.g., real estate) for a minimum period—usually 5 years. Selling early could invalidate your residence permit or even revoke naturalization eligibility if citizenship hasn’t yet been granted.

Are there any blacklisted industries or countries that affect approval chances?

Yes. If your source of funds comes from sanctioned jurisdictions, high-risk sectors (like gambling or crypto in some cases), or if you're connected to politically exposed persons (PEPs), it may trigger extra scrutiny or lead to denial during due diligence.

Do these programs help with tax residency, or is that separate?

Residency by investment does not automatically grant tax residency. You must meet each country’s specific tax rules—often based on physical presence or domicile status—to benefit from tax incentives like Portugal’s NHR or Italy’s flat tax regime.

How do investment funds used in Golden Visa programs actually work?

Investment funds (like in Portugal or Italy) are typically regulated private equity or venture capital funds. They pool investor money into assets like startups, real estate, or infrastructure. Each fund has a specific strategy, timeline, and risk profile.

Are there any language requirements during the residency phase?

Generally, no. Language proficiency is usually only required at the citizenship/naturalization stage—not during the residency or initial visa approval phase. However, it’s wise to start learning early, especially in countries like Spain, Greece, or Hungary.

Is citizenship granted to children born in the country during the residency period?

Not automatically. Most EU countries follow jus sanguinis (citizenship by blood, not birth). Children born during your legal residency usually receive residency, but not citizenship—unless one parent naturalizes while the child is still a minor.

What’s the difference between “permanent residence” and “citizenship”?

Permanent residence grants indefinite stay and many rights (like healthcare and education), but not full political rights like voting or an EU passport. Citizenship provides full EU privileges and mobility but usually comes only after permanent residence.

Can I still travel freely while my application is under review?

Yes, but your movement may be limited to visa-free zones of your current passport. Once approved for residency, you can travel within the Schengen Area, but citizenship-related travel benefits only begin after passport issuance.

How do political changes or elections impact these programs?

Governments can change investment thresholds, pause new applications, or tighten naturalization rules—especially after elections. It's important to apply under current law and work with advisors who stay updated on local politics and policy risks.

What if I change my mind after getting residency? Can I reverse the process?

You can generally withdraw from a program by ceasing renewals or selling your qualifying asset after the required hold period. However, funds or donations are typically non-refundable. Some administrative processes must be followed to formally exit.

Are there restrictions on holding multiple residencies across Europe?

You can hold multiple residency permits in different countries, but managing obligations like physical presence, taxation, and renewals can be complex. Overlapping programs should be coordinated carefully to avoid legal or financial friction.

Can I invest through a company or trust instead of personal funds?

Some programs allow corporate investment, especially in business-focused schemes like Luxembourg or Switzerland. However, ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO) must still be disclosed, and personal due diligence checks will apply to the real investor.

How we reviewed this article

All Movingto articles go through a rigorous review process before publication. Learn more about the Movingto Editorial Process.

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