Fastest Ways to Get EU Residency Through Investment in 2025

Imagine waking up in Europe with the freedom to travel, study, invest, and live across the continent. EU residency offers more than scenic views and culture. It opens the door to healthcare, education, financial protection, and long-term security for individuals and families.

This guide walks you through the fastest and most reliable investment routes to EU residency in 2025. Each option is clear, efficient, and tailored for those who want a second base without unnecessary delays.

Why Consider EU Residency?

European residency provides:

• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
• Access to healthcare and education
• A stable environment for business or retirement
• A backup plan during uncertain times
• Long-term benefits for families and future generations

These are lifestyle upgrades and can be strategic decisions that protect your global mobility and wealth.

1. Portugal: Quick, Flexible, and Citizenship-Eligible

Minimum investment: €500,000
Investment type: Private equity or venture capital fund
Processing time: 90 to 120 days
Citizenship option: After 5 years
Annual presence requirement: 7 days

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the most attractive options in Europe. The real estate route was phased out in 2023. Today, the preferred path is through regulated fund investments.

Processing is efficient if your documents and source of funds are clear. The residency card requires only seven days of physical presence per year.

After five years, you can apply for citizenship if you meet basic language and integration requirements.

2. Greece: Fast Residency Through Real Estate

Minimum investment: €250,000
Higher threshold in some areas: €500,000 in Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Thessaloniki
Processing time: 60 to 90 days
Citizenship option: After 7 years with physical presence
Annual stay requirement: None

Greece offers one of the quickest ways to get EU residency. The program is real estate-based. In most areas, the minimum investment is €250,000. In high-demand zones, it is €500,000.

Residency can be granted in two to three months. You are not required to live in Greece, though you are free to do so at any time.

3. Malta: Permanent Residency with Minimal Hassle

Total cost: €150,000 to €200,000 including donation, fees, and real estate lease or purchase
Processing time: 4 to 6 months
Residency type: Permanent from day one
Stay requirement: None

Malta offers one of the most direct routes to permanent EU residency. The program is based on a government contribution and property lease or purchase. There is no need to buy real estate if you prefer to rent.

The application process is professional and smooth. Malta is English-speaking, well-connected, and family-friendly. You receive permanent status immediately with no need for renewals.

Key Considerations Before You Choose

Speed is important, but so are structure and sustainability. Keep these in mind:

• Tax exposure in the country of residence
• How foreign income and inheritance are treated
• Whether the residency allows your spouse to work or children to study
• Citizenship timelines and physical presence requirements

Programs may appear fast on paper, but timelines can stretch due to incomplete documents, non-standard fund flows, or delays in background checks. Working with experienced legal and migration advisors can make all the difference.

Which Program Is Right for You?

Before applying, ask yourself:

• Do I want fast access or long-term citizenship?
• Is this for family security, business opportunity, or global mobility?
• Do I prefer managing real estate or investing in regulated funds?
• How much involvement do I want in the destination country?

Speed should align with your broader goals. Choosing the fastest program is only useful if the destination fits your lifestyle, tax profile, and long-term plans.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, EU residency by investment is a practical strategy for those seeking mobility, stability, and access. The programs in Portugal, Greece and Malta offer clear routes to residency and the chance to build a meaningful life in Europe.

Each has its own strengths. Choose the one that fits your goals, timelines, and risk appetite. When the right program meets the right reason, the rest moves quickly.

If you’re considering EU residency as part of your long-term mobility or succession planning, we offer discreet, end-to-end guidance backed by trusted legal partners and investment advisors across Europe.