For many high-net-worth individuals, securing a EU second passport is a strategic move to enhance global mobility, access better business opportunities, and provide long-term stability for their families.
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, outlines the key benefits of EU citizenship and explores the investment routes available in countries such as Portugal or Cyprus, including the option to obtain Maltese citizenship.
9 European Citizenship Benefits
1. Visa-free travel to over 170 countries. One of the most attractive benefits of an EU passport is the ability to travel freely across most of the world without the need for visas. This is invaluable for investors who need to travel frequently for business or personal reasons. Countries like the US, Canada, and Australia are among those that allow visa-free entry for EU passport holders.
2. Freedom to live and work across the EU. As an EU citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study in any of the 27 member states. This freedom gives you access to a variety of opportunities, from establishing businesses to enrolling your children in prestigious universities across Europe.
3. Stable and secure environment. European countries are known for their political stability and strong legal systems. As a citizen, you benefit from the protection of EU laws, ensuring your rights and investments are safeguarded over the long term.
4. High-quality healthcare. EU citizens have access to some of the world’s best healthcare systems, offering comprehensive medical care at significantly lower costs than in many other regions. This is especially important for families looking for long-term security in terms of health.
5. Education for all family members. Your family will also benefit from top-tier education systems. European universities are globally recognised, and EU citizens often enjoy lower tuition fees than foreign students, offering their children valuable academic opportunities.
6. Tax advantages. Some EU countries provide favourable tax conditions for new citizens. For example, Malta and Cyprus offer tax regimes that allow for efficient wealth management, ensuring you can protect your assets and plan your finances effectively.
7. Investment opportunities. The EU’s single market is one of the largest in the world, providing countless opportunities for business expansion, real estate investment, and access to international markets. As a citizen, you will have full access to these economic benefits.
8. Generational wealth planning. Passing on assets to future generations becomes easier with EU citizenship. Many countries within the EU have advantageous inheritance laws, allowing you to structure your wealth in a way that benefits your family for years to come.
9. Family inclusion. Most EU citizenship programs extend to your spouse and children, ensuring that your entire family can benefit from the privileges of living and working within the European Union.
Investment Routes to EU Citizenship
European citizenship requirements depend on the country and applicant’s background. Here are the several pathways offering opportunities to permanently get to the EU with an investor visa.
Hungary Golden Visa leading to citizenship. Hungary does not offer a direct citizenship-by-investment program but provides a residency option. Hungary’s Golden Visa program provides residency by investment of at least €250,000, allowing for investment in fund units, real estate and donation to an institution of higher learning.
After eight years of living in Hungary with a permanent residence permit, applicants can apply for citizenship. This pathway is best for those who wish to base their business in Central Europe, taking advantage of Hungary’s growing economy and favourable business environment.
Portugal Golden Visa and easiest way to get EU citizenship. Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most sought-after in Europe, offering a relatively straightforward route to citizenship. By investing a minimum of €250,000 in culture, investors can obtain residency.
After five years of holding a residency permit and maintaining their investment, applicants can apply for citizenship. The program requires 7 days of physical presence per year, making it ideal for those with busy schedules who may not be able to reside in Portugal full-time.
Cyprus permanent residency leading to citizenship. Cyprus offers a permanent residency program that can eventually lead to citizenship after eight years. While the direct citizenship-by-investment program has been discontinued, investors can still secure residency by investing at least €300,000 in real estate.
Cyprus is an attractive option for investors looking for a more affordable gateway to EU citizenship, with the added benefit of a favourable tax regime.
Malta citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Applicants can gain citizenship by contributing to the national development fund, investing in property, and maintaining residence for 12 or 36 months.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Contribute to Malta’s National Development and Social Fund — €600,000+.
- Invest in real estate — purchase for €700,000+ or rent for €80,000+.
- Make a donation to a Maltese non-governmental organisation — €10,000.
Greece Golden Visa leading to citizenship. Greece’s Golden Visa program allows investors to obtain residency by investing at least €250,000 in real estate.
After seven years of continuous residency, investors can apply for citizenship. Greece offers a strong combination of lifestyle benefits and a relatively low cost of entry compared to other EU countries, making it a popular choice for property investors.
Italy Golden Visa leading to citizenship. Italy’s investor visa is designed for individuals who are interested in investing in government bonds, company shares, or real estate. The minimum investment starts at €250,000.
While Italy requires a longer residency period of 10 years before applying for citizenship, it still provides excellent business opportunities and access to the EU’s largest economy. This option suits investors looking to integrate into the Italian market and society over time.
Conclusion
Investing in European citizenship is a long-term commitment with substantial benefits. From visa-free travel to access to the EU market, the opportunities are vast. By understanding the various investment routes available, whether in Portugal, Cyprus, Malta, Greece, Italy, or Hungary, you can tailor your approach based on your financial situation and personal goals.
