ASTONS
Residency by Investment
Residency in Europe Through Investment

Residency in Europe Through Investment

Residency in Europe through investment offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain legal residence by making a qualifying financial commitment in a European country. This pathway is designed to attract investors by providing a streamlined process to secure residence permits, enabling them to establish themselves and their families within Europe while adhering to national immigration requirements.

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€169,000

Minimum investment

From 3 months

Processing time

Freedom of movement

Access to education

Quality medicine

Business Opportunities

Residency in Europe: Available Programs

Cyprus Cyprus

Residency

from €300,000

Minimum investment

~8 months

Processing time

Purchase of new property
Eligibility for citizenship after 8 years
Non-Dom tax regime

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Greece Greece

Residency

from €250,000

Minimum investment

~4 months

Processing time

Real estate purchase
Eligibility for citizenship after 7 years
Most accessible and fastest program in the EU
Visa-free access to Schengen countries

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Hungary Hungary

Residency

from €250,000

Minimum investment

~4 months

Processing time

Investment in a fund / non-refundable donation
Visa-free access to Schengen countries
Eligibility for citizenship after 8 years

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Italy Italy

Residency

from €500,000

Minimum investment

~3 months

Processing time

Investment in shares or bonds / non-refundable contribution
Eligibility for citizenship after 10 years
Visa-free access to Schengen countries

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Malta Malta

Residency

from €169,000

Minimum investment

~9 months

Processing time

Non-refundable contribution and property rental or purchase
Rental or property purchase
No residency requirements
Visa-free access to Schengen countries

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Portugal

Residency

from €250,000

Minimum investment

~18 months

Processing time

Investment in a fund
Eligibility for citizenship after 7-10 years
Visa-free access to Schengen countries

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It’s time to take control of your future. Start your citizenship or residency journey today with a personalised consultation.

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Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Benefits of a Residence Permit in Europe

A European residence permit allows you to live, work, and study in your chosen country, with access to public services like healthcare and education. It also enables visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, offering greater freedom and mobility within Europe.

Freedom of Movement

A Schengen residence permit allows visa-free travel to 29 European countries

Prestigious Education

Children of residents can study at prestigious schools and universities at discounted rates.

High-Quality Healthcare

Residents gain access to European healthcare services.

Business Opportunities

A residence permit simplifies opening accounts in European banks and registering companies.

Ability to Include Your Family

EU resident status can be granted to your spouse and children, and in some countries, to parents as well.

Flexible Residency

Residency requirements are minimal or sometimes not required at all.

Pathway to A European Passport

A residence permit opens the possibility of obtaining an EU passport for the whole family in 5–10 years.

Favourable Tax Regime

Access to preferential tax schemes, including the Non-Dom regime.

Reliable Plan B

Resident status provides an alternative for safe living, asset management, and running a business.

Exclusive Astons Opportunity

Secure Greek Residency Within 4+ Months from €250,000

Invest in Greek real estate and gain the right to live in the EU and travel freely across the Schengen area. Include your spouse, children and parents.

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Types of Residencies Issued in Europe

Investment Residence Permit (Golden Visa)

Issued for major financial investments, such as purchasing real estate, investing in government funds or a business.

Work Residence permit

For those who have received a job offer in an EU country. A contract with the employer is required.

Study Residence Permit

Designed for students studying at accredited educational institutions

Family Residence Permit

Issued to spouses, children, or parents of EU residents/citizens.

Residence Permit for Financially Independent Persons

Suitable for people with passive income (e.g. pension, rent) who do not plan to work in the country

Residence Permit for Startup Owners and Entrepreneurs

Issued to those who open an innovative or high-tech business on preferential terms

Digital Nomad Visa

Allows those to work remotely and can prove they have a high income to live in Europe

Property Management

Assistance with asset registration, obtaining a tax number, conclusion of property transactions.

Documentation

Support with acquiring all necessary legal documents for your application.

Tax Incentive Guidance

Expert advice on tax incentives available for new residents.

Education and Health Services

Help with school selection and arrangement of health insurance.

Vehicle Support

Assistance with vehicle and yacht registration.

Airport Welcome Services

Meet-and-greet services at the airport for your initial visit

How to Easily Get a Residence Permit in the EU and the Schengen Zone

One of the fastest and most reliable ways to obtain a European residence permit is through investment programs, with approval often granted within just a few months.

Selecting a program

Many European countries offer investment programs, including Italy, Greece, Malta, Hungary, Italy, Portugal and Cyprus. Our immigration specialists will conduct a preliminary check of the investor for compliance with the program requirements and select the best option for participation based on their goals.

Preparation of documents

Our consultants will prepare a full package of documents, carefully checking their compliance with the program requirements in order to eliminate possible delays in considering the application. The standard package of documents includes a passport, a certificate of no criminal record, documents confirming family ties with other applicants, the legality of the origin of investment funds, and medical insurance.

Making the required investment

This step involves investing in real estate, bonds, a fund, or other qualifying assets, depending on the program.

Submitting an application

Our staff will submit your application for a residence permit and also arrange for the submission of biometric data to the country’s migration service.

Waiting for a decision

Application review times vary by country.

Obtaining a residence permit

Once your application is approved, you will receive a residence card, which gives you the right to reside in the country and, in most cases, the ability to travel within the Schengen area without the need for a visa. Other applicants included in the application also receive their residence cards.

Rights and Obligations of European Residents

Along with the European residence permit, the applicant can also make the most of specific benefits, including:

Permanent residence in the country that issued the residence permit

Visa-free travel within the Schengen area (up to 90 days within a six-month period)

Access to banking and investment services

Access to the local health care system

Opportunity to educate children in local schools

However, to maintain resident status, certain obligations must be met:

Timely extension of residence permit (in accordance with the program terms)

Maintaining program conditions (e.g., owning real estate)

Compliance with the laws of the country

Rights and Obligations of European Residents

Refusal or Cancellation of Residency in Europe

An applicant may be denied a European residence permit for investment in several cases:

Incomplete set of documents or false information

Insufficient investment amount or illegal source of funds

Having a criminal record or being on sanctions lists

Violation of immigration rules

If the residency rules are not obeyed, the residence permit received may be cancelled under the following conditions:

Selling an investment asset (such as real estate) before the permitted time

Violation of the program conditions (for example, if the investor does not comply with the requirements for visiting the country. As a rule, under the Golden visa programs these rules are very minimal

Committing offenses

Refusal or Cancellation of Residency in Europe

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Expert Guidance for Your Decision

It’s time to take control of your future. Start your European residency journey today with a personalised consultation.

Programs

Assistance in Obtaining European Residency

Residency

Greece: from €250,000

Residency

Cyprus: from €300,000

Residency

Hungary: from €250,000

Portugal: from €250,000

Frequently Asked Questions about European Residency by Investment

Where in Europe is it easy to obtain a residence permit?

Greece offers the most affordable and quickest program in the EU, with the minimum investment threshold of €250,000 and processing time of 4+ months.

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Which country is easiest to obtain permanent residence?

In Cyprus, you can obtain permanent residence in as little as 8 months for an investment of €300,000 + VAT.

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Which European countries provide residence permits when purchasing real estate?

Residence permits for real estate purchases can be obtained in Malta (from €474,000), Greece (from €250,000), and Cyprus (from €300,000). Family members of the investor can also be included in the application for a residence permit.

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Is it possible to have several residence permits in Europe?

There are no legal restrictions on holding multiple Golden Visas — you can be a resident of different countries at the same time, provided you meet the minimum residency requirements and maintain your investments.

At the same time, it is not possible to hold two work permits simultaneously, as they are tied to a specific job contract and employer.

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Is it possible to travel around Europe with a residence permit?

Yes, a European residence permit in a Schengen member country allows visa-free visits and short-term stays (up to 90 days within a six-month period) in all other Schengen countries. A separate permit is required for work or long-term residence outside the issuing country.

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Where can I get a residence permit in Europe fast?

The fastest Golden visa is issued in Greece (4+ months).

Susanna Uzakova

Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor

Still have questions?

Get a personalised consultation with one of Astons’ experts.

Case Studies

Stories of Global Mobility

Greek Golden Visa

Indian Investor and Family Obtain Greek Golden Visa via Piraeus Property Investment

The Greek Golden Visa program allows non-EU nationals to secure EU residency through real estate investment. Investors can include their spouse, children under 2, and parents, obtaining a renewable 5-year residence permit without the need for physical presence or tax residency in Greece.

Rahul M.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Greece Golden Visa

Astons Case Study: How the Greece Golden Visa Became a Gateway to Europe for an Egyptian Property Developer

Ahmed has spent more than two decades in Egypt’s construction industry, successfully delivering large-scale residential projects across Cairo and Alexandria. As his company prepared to enter the European market, he required consistent, secure access to the EU and the ability to attend high-level negotiations without delays or visa constraints.

Ahmed A.

Developer

Learn How We Did It

Dominica Citizenship

Family's Fast-Track to Dominica Citizenship: $264K Investment Secures Global Backup Plan in Just 5 Months

Over the past five years, the global atmosphere has become increasingly tense. Political situations in many countries have worsened, prompting a growing number of people to create a “Plan B” for themselves and their families. Today, having an alternative citizenship has become a valuable form of security and freedom.

Tom S.

Software Engineer

Learn How We Did It

Saint Lucia Citizenship

How Astons Helped a Bahraini Couple Obtain Saint Lucia Citizenship in Just 6 Months

Faisal and Amira are a couple from Bahrain. Faisal co-owns a family logistics holding with branches in the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, while Amira runs a boutique perfume store in Manama. Because their business involves international shipments and frequent visits to Europe, they travel there regularly.

Faisal and Amira H

Entrepreneurs

Learn How We Did It

Greece Golden Visa

How Astons Secured Greece Residence for Three Generations of a Turkish Family

High-quality European education is one of the key priorities for many parents outside the EU. A diploma from an EU country provides strong career prospects worldwide. However, not every family is ready to send their child alone to a foreign country.

Osman K.

Furniture Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Greek Golden Visa

Iranian Family Secures Greek Residency to Safeguard Mobility and Prepare Their Children for European Education

In 2024, a successful entrepreneurial family from Iran partnered with Astons to access one of Europe’s most prestigious residency by investment programs.

Ali R.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Cyprus Permanent Residency

How Astons Secured Cyprus Permanent Residence and Tax Optimization for a London IT Entrepreneur

James is a British entrepreneur in the IT sector and owner of an international company. Like many UK-based businesspeople, he was affected by rising taxes in the UK: by 2024, the combined corporate and personal tax rate reached nearly 50%.

James S.

IT Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Greek Golden Visa

How Astons Revived EU Business Post-Brexit with Greece Residence

After the UK left the EU, many British companies encountered unexpected obstacles: European clients began requesting VAT numbers, contracts in euros, and EU-based banking details. Business was on the verge of losing market share, and re-establishing relationships proved harder than expected.

Peter H.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Greek Golden Visa

How an Astons Client Secured Greece Residence and Non-Dom Tax Status

In 2024, the UK announced the upcoming abolition of the non-dom tax regime. This meant that, in the near future, foreign income of residents in the country would be taxed on a progressive scale – from 20% to 45%.

Rajiv M.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Turkish Citizenship

Success Story: Turkish Passport and Istanbul Property with Astons

I watched Istanbul grow before my eyes, and at some point I thought: I want to have a home here. Later I found out that by purchasing property, I could obtain a passport too — so I decided to hit two birds with one stone.

Ryan M.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Greek Golden Visa

UK Investor Gains Greek Golden Visa with Final €250,000 Property in Piraeus

In summer 2024, a UK-based entrepreneur approached Astons with a time-sensitive mission: secure EU residency under Greece’s Golden Visa program before the minimum investment threshold rose to €800,000. At that time, Piraeus still qualified under the €250,000 threshold for new builds — a regulation that changed in August 2024.

David R.

Entrepreneur

Learn How We Did It

Grenada Citizenship

How Astons Secured Grenada Citizenship for Linda’s Visa-Free China Visits

Even holders of the world’s strongest passports sometimes face entry restrictions to certain countries. For US citizens, China’s visa service can be a barrier: recently, obtaining a visa has become more difficult, with delays becoming more common.

Linda M

Private practice doctor

Learn How We Did It

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Bespoke Residency Consultation

It’s time to take control of your future. Start your residency journey today with a personalised consultation.

I decided to move as soon as I retired, I wanted to live in a warm European country, in my own apartment with a good view, and close to the sea. I chose Astons because a partner had received citizenship through them and recommended them highly. On consultation, I chose Greece, I was pleased I could buy directly in Athens with residency included, and surprisingly, it was affordable. Everything was arranged quickly, including a property viewing trip. Now I enjoy the view of the Acropolis from my window, and the sea is just 20 minutes away. I am extremely satisfied.

Katyt

Financial Expert

I planned to obtain European residency and sought advice from Astons. They outlined all the options, and I decided to invest in a fund rather than real estate. Portugal was the best fit for me. Everything was handled as promised, and there were no hidden fees. Now I have a residence permit and a cozy apartment near the ocean, with the added bonus of a Portuguese passport in 5 years - if I master the language)

Annwolk

Data Engineer

I wanted to buy an apartment in Turkey for rental income and turned to Astons for help. I liked their approach, clear, professional, and to the point. They selected several options in Istanbul and handled all the paperwork. Now I not only earn rental income but also have Turkish residency, allowing me to visit anytime!

Matimatida

Business Consultant

Official Provider of Investment Immigration Programs

Our Licenses

Licensed Legal Services in Greece

Astons attorneys are licensed members of the Athens Bar Association authorised to provide legal services in Greece. These include assisting clients with real estate acquisitions and obtaining residence permits.

Authorised Marketing Agent for Sao Tome and Principe CBI Program

We are permitted to promote, market, and assist our clients in obtaining Sao Tome and Principe citizenship. We are licensed to submit applications to the government under the program.

Official Partner of Vanuatu CBI Program

Astons is a trusted partner of Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program, dealing directly with official representatives.

Agent for Saint Lucia CBI Program

We provide end-to-end support for the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program, from investment selection to document preparation and coordination with authorised local representatives.

Agent for Grenada CBI Program

Astons advises applicants pursuing Grenada citizenship, providing tailored investment guidance, comprehensive file preparation, and coordination with government-recognized agents throughout the process.

Agent for Dominica CBI Program

Our team assists investors in obtaining citizenship through the Dominica program, ensuring accurate documentation, strategic guidance, and smooth communication with approved representatives.

Agent for Antigua and Barbuda CBI Program

Astons supports clients under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program by structuring the optimal investment route, preparing the full application package, and working closely with authorized local partners.

Authorised Agent for Nauru CBI Program

Astons is officially licensed to promote the program and assist with applications for Nauru citizenship.

Authorised Agent for El Salvador CBI Program

Astons is officially licensed to provide agency services and assist with applications for El Salvador citizenship.

View All Licenses

about the company

Secure Your Future with Astons’ Expertise

Astons is a leading investment immigration company with over 35 years of experience. We provide tailored solutions for obtaining residence permits and citizenship in the EU, the Caribbean, Oceania, the Middle East, Latin America, and the United States. Astons has facilitated over $2.6 billion in investments across immigration and real estate and has assisted more than 9,000 clients from 50+ countries.

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