In an increasingly unstable world, having a “Plan B” that includes an alternative residence or citizenship can provide peace of mind. Holding an EU passport offers a safety net, presenting flexible options for living, working, the freedom to travel within Europe as well as free access to a world-class education, healthcare and business opportunities.It provides the flexibility to live, work, and retire in politically stable countries with strong economies and legal systems.
Beyond personal benefits, an EU passport extends privileges to family members, making it a good solution for those seeking a stable and better lifestyle for their loved ones. It also acts as a shield during global crises, enabling seamless relocation to safer environments. With access to diverse cultures, visa-free travel to numerous destinations, and the ability to pass these advantages to future generations, an EU passport becomes a lasting legacy of security, opportunity, and freedom.
In this article, we will explore the easiest European countries to move to and insights into the fastest citizenship options and the easiest EU passport to get. We will also examine various pathways to acquiring European nationalities and discuss why opting for one might be a wise decision.
- Malta, Portugal, Greece, and Germany stand out as the easiest European countries to move to, with Malta offering the fastest citizenship in Europe.
- The main ways to acquire an EU passport are through citizenship by descent, naturalization, marriage or partnership, investment, and special contributions.
- Obtaining EU citizenship provides global mobility, a high quality of life, access to comprehensive healthcare and education systems, and a robust social safety net.
- While Malta offers one of the fastest routes to citizenship in Europe through its investment program, Portugal and Greece provide relatively accessible residency options with potential pathways to citizenship over time. Germany, while offering robust residency options, has a longer and more stringent process for citizenship acquisition.
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Why Move to Europe?
Before diving into the easiest European countries to move to, let’s first explore why Europe is such an attractive destination and the key reasons people choose to relocate there.
Europe is a diverse and appealing destination for relocation, offering:
- Quality of Life: European countries like Germany, Greece, Malta, and Portugal rank highly for healthcare, education, and public safety.
- Cultural Richness: A mix of history, art, and traditions makes Europe a hub of cultural exploration, from ancient ruins in Greece to the iconic festivals in Malta.
- Economic Opportunities: Germany boasts a strong economy with plenty of job opportunities, while countries like Portugal and Greece offer thriving tourism and real estate markets.
- Residency and Citizenship Pathways: Attractive programs like Malta’s fast-track citizenship, Greece's affordable Golden Visa, and Portugal’s residency options make Europe accessible.
- Travel Freedom: Residency in Europe often provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, opening doors to explore the continent with ease.
Europe has something for everyone. You want to go skiing, you have Austria and Italy close by. You want to go to the seaside, you have Croatia and Italy close by. In Europe, you can find work-life balance everyone dreams of. So, whether you're after nature, culture, or vibrant cities, Europe has it all for leisure and career.
4 Easiest European Countries to Move to
1. Malta
Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment
Malta's constitution lays the foundation for its citizenship laws, which include the well-structured Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program and MPRP (Malta Permanent Residency Programme).
Citizenship Time: 12-36 months
Minimal investment amount: €600,000 for a 36-month or €750,000 for a 12-month fast-track option
Investment Type:
- The investment can be in the form of an Exceptional Service Direct Investment, Property Procurement or Lease, and charitable contributions to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
The Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services program requires applicants to make significant economic contributions, including:
- Government Contribution: €600,000 for a 36-month residency period or €750,000 for a 12-month fast-track option.
- Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth at least €700,000 or rent for €16,000 annually, held for five years.
- Philanthropic Donation: €10,000 to an approved Maltese NGO.
Applicants must pass rigorous due diligence checks. After fulfillingthe requirements, citizenship is granted. For full details, refer to the official handbook.
The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) is a residency-by-investment initiative offering individuals and families the opportunity to live in Malta. Applicants can benefit from the right to settle permanently in Malta, enjoy visa-free travel across Schengen, and include up to four generations in their application.
Eligibility for applications until December 31, 2024 were different, however started from From January 1, 2025, eligibility criteria were increased to:
- Minimum capital assets of €500,000, with €150,000 in financial assets, or €650,000 with €75,000 in financial assets.
- The administrative fee will increase to €50,000.
- Property rental must be at least €14,000 annually or purchase for a minimum value of €375,000.
- Government contributions will increase to €30,000 for purchasing or €60,000 for leasing.
- Additional payments of €10,000 for each dependant.
Malta presents a compelling option for those looking for the easiest European countries to move to. Also, Malta is widely regarded as the easiest EU country to get citizenship for those seeking the fastest citizenship in Europe. It's important to mention that it is one of the few countries in Europe that still offers citizenship through investment. This program also provides the fastest path to citizenship in Europe, unlike traditional immigration processes, which often involve lengthy and complex residency requirements.
Nonetheless, Malta's appeal is not limited to being the easiest EU country to gain citizenship. As a member of the European Union, Maltese citizens enjoy the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere within the EU and the European Economic Area. They also benefit from high-quality healthcare and education systems.The country boasts a dynamic and growing economy and offers a favorable environment for entrepreneurs and investors, complete with business-friendly regulations and a wealth of opportunities.
On top of that, Malta's official language is English, making it accessible to English speakers. The island boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for water sports. Do you want to know how beautiful Malta is? Go watch Game of Thrones.
For those searching for the easiest European country to immigrate to, Malta offers unmatched opportunities
2. Portugal Golden Visa
As of January 2025, the Portugal Golden Visa program continues to offer real estate investment as a qualifying option. However, there are specific restrictions on the locations where these investments are eligible. Real estate investments must be made in the Autonomous Regions of the Azores and Madeira or in the interior territories of Portugal. Major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and coastal towns in the Algarve are excluded from eligibility for the Golden Visa program.
Minimal investment amount:
- Acquisition of real estate, amounting to €500,000 or more
- Acquisition and renovation of real estate, amounting to €350,000 or more.
Investment type: Real Estate
Golden visa requirements:
- Non-EU investors must start with a valid entry visa for Portugal.
- Applicants must visit and purchase a qualifying property of interest in Portugal.
- The Portuguese government processes and approves the application, after which the applicant and their family may travel to Portugal to finalize the process and receive the residence card.
- To maintain the Portuguese residence permit, the applicant must visit Portugal for at least seven days a year and retain the qualifying property investment.
Eligibility criteria for citizenship:
- After five years of legal residency by investment.
- The applicant must submit a form and supporting documentation to the Portuguese consulate in their home country.
- The applicant must have a clean criminal record and be able to support themselves financially.
Besides real estate investment options, other investment types allow investors to obtain a Portuguese residency permit. The ARI (Autorização de Residência para Atividade de Investimento) program allows investors to obtain a Portuguese residency permit through various investment options. Here are the main pathways and requirements:
Capital Transfer:
- €1 million or more in general capital transfer.
- €350,000 or more for public/private scientific research.
- €350,000 or more for acquiring investment or venture capital funds.
- €250,000 or more for supporting artistic production or cultural heritage rehabilitation.
Job Creation:
- Create at least 10 new jobs.
- Alternatively, €350,000 or more capital transfer into starting or strengthening a company, creating at least 5 new jobs.
Applicants must provide both general and specific documentation depending on the investment type and adhere to the relevant legislation.
Portugal stands out as one of the easiest European countries to gain residency, particularly for those who prefer a lower investment threshold and a straightforward residency process that may lead to citizenship in the long term. Also, Portugal is a top choice for Americans looking for the easiest European countries for Americans to move to, thanks to its accessible residency options.
With an investment of EUR 350,000 in real estate, you’re presented with the incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a country celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle in front of the Atlantic Ocean. This investment opens the door to life in Portugal and makes traveling to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations easier.
Enjoy the wonderfully creamy pastel de natas and sip on the unique green wine right from its origin. From sunny beaches to historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, Portugal packs a treasure trove of sights waiting to be discovered.
For those eyeing the easiest visa to get in Europe, without the immediate pressure of securing EU citizenship, Portugal stands as an unparalleled choice. Portugal is More Than a Destination—It’s a Lifestyle Investment. It’s easy to see why so many choose it as their second home through the Golden Visa program. Beyond the investment benefits, Portugal promises a lifestyle steeped in history, culture, and a sense of belonging.
FAQ
If you're looking for the cheapest and easiest EU country to get residency, you should familiarize yourself with the Golden Visa programs offered by Portugal, Greece, and Germany.
The Maltese passport is the easiest EU passport to get, available in only 12 months with an investment of €750,000.
Portugal, Greece, and Germany are the easiest European countries to move to from the USA thanks to their golden visa programs that can potentially lead to citizenship. Meanwhile, Malta offers the fastest citizenship in Europe for those seeking to quickly acquire European nationality.
So we've provided you with essential insights on the easiest European countries to move to. For more personalized advice and in-depth information, consider booking a free consultation with our experts in the field.
Portugal’s Golden Visa program is known for its flexibility, offering various investment options, including real estate, investment funds, and job creation, with a relatively low minimum stay requirement for residency.
Malta offers citizenship by investment without a residency requirement through its Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program.
Tax benefits vary, but some countries like Portugal offer favorable tax regimes, including exemptions on foreign income for a period, which can be appealing for retirees and investors.
Yes, most Golden Visa programs allow applicants to include immediate family members like spouses, children, and sometimes even extended family members.
The time frame for permanent residency is usually 5 years, but citizenship can be achieved after a longer period, such as 6-10 years, depending on the country.
Some countries, like Portugal and Spain, may require basic language skills or integration tests to qualify for citizenship.
Yes, Golden Visa holders generally have the right to work, start a business, or engage in self-employment in most European countries.
Malta offers the fastest citizenship pathway in Europe, making it the easiest European country to immigrate to.
Portugal, Greece, and Malta are among the easiest European countries for Americans to move to, with clear residency or citizenship pathways.
