Easiest Country to Get Residency in 2025

Colourful Globe

Did you know that more than 280 million people worldwide now live outside their country of birth? As global mobility continues to evolve, an increasing number of nations are offering inviting pathways to residency. From Portugal’s Golden Visa Program to Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa, many destinations make relocating simpler than ever, often with minimal stay requirements and appealing benefits. Whether you’re looking for a European base, a tropical retreat, or a dynamic business hub, here are some of the most accessible residency options for 2025.

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program, officially called the Autorização de Residência para Atividade de Investimento (ARI), is one of Europe’s best-known residency-by-investment options. Applicants must:

  • Obtain a Portuguese NIF (Tax Identification Number).
  • Present a clean criminal record from their current country of residence and from Portugal.
  • Make an approved investment in Portugal (real estate purchase, capital transfer, or research investment).
  • Spend about seven days per year in Portugal to maintain residency.

This program extends to family members—spouses, children, and dependent parents—who receive their own residency permits, granting access to healthcare and education in Portugal and the wider Schengen Area. After five years, investors may qualify for citizenship, opening up the possibility of an EU passport and greater mobility across Europe.

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU nationals who want to live in Spain without working. It’s popular among retirees, individuals with passive income, or anyone seeking the country’s relaxed lifestyle. Instead of a property purchase, applicants must show an annual income of at least USD 30,250 plus USD 7,560 per dependent.

The visa is valid for one year initially and can be renewed every two years. After five years of continuous residency, holders can apply for permanent residency and Spanish citizenship. Visa holders also have the freedom to travel across the 26 countries in the Schengen Area.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program

Greece’s Golden Visa Program is a favoured choice for those seeking residency in Europe through real estate investment. You can qualify by investing at least USD 260,000 in Greek property, one of the lowest thresholds among similar programs. The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.

There is no minimum stay requirement, and the permit covers family members, including spouses and children under 21. After seven years of continuous residence, applying for permanent residency is possible. Meanwhile, you can travel freely throughout the Schengen Area and enjoy life in a country with a recovering and promising real estate market.

Permanent Residency Form

Malta’s Global Residence Program

Malta’s Global Residence Program offers another route to European residency. It typically involves a mix of property investment and financial contributions, and it’s often chosen by those drawn to Malta’s favorable tax policies and advantageous location in the Mediterranean. Although specific details may vary, the program generally extends benefits to non-EU nationals looking for a stable residency option with Schengen Area access.

Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa

Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa is open to nationals of countries that have close ties with Panama. It begins with a two-year temporary residency permit, which can lead to permanent residency. Applicants need to:

  • Show proof of economic solvency (employment contract, property ownership, or a certificate of deposit).
  • Provide a clean criminal background check and a health certificate.

The initial application process usually takes around six months to gain provisional residency, valid for two years. After that, candidates may apply for permanent residency, which often takes another six months. Successful applicants can become eligible for Panamanian citizenship after five years of permanent residency and apply for a work permit.

Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa

Mexico grants a Temporary Resident Visa for those planning to stay beyond six months but fewer than four years. A notable feature is Mexico’s “regularization” procedure (Registro Nacional de Extranjeros, or RNE), which lets people already in Mexico on expired visitor permits apply for residency without leaving. Applicants must prove eligibility and pay the applicable fees. This option is well-suited to anyone wanting to explore life in Mexico, with its fascinating culture and lifestyle, before deciding on a longer-term commitment.

Costa Rica’s Rentista Program

Costa Rica’s Rentista Program is aimed at individuals who can verify a stable monthly income of at least $2,500 over two years or deposit $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank. It’s part of a broader set of flexible residency options that also includes:

  • An Investor Visa requires a minimum investment of $150,000.
  • A Pensionado Visa requires a lifetime monthly pension of at least $1,000.

Costa Rica has also introduced a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to spend up to a year in the country (renewable for another year). This range of choices has made Costa Rica a popular destination for a variety of newcomers.

Ecuador’s Professional Visa

Ecuador’s Professional Visa welcomes qualified professionals to contribute their skills to the local economy. To apply, you must prove recognized credentials and the intention to work in your field within Ecuador. This straightforward approach aligns with the country’s interest in boosting growth and tapping into international expertise.

Malaysia’s MM2H Program

The “Malaysia My Second Home” (MM2H) program offers a long-term residency option for retirees, expatriates, and investors. It provides a renewable visa valid from five to 20 years, depending on the selected category. There are four main categories—Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Special Economic/Financial Zones (SEZ/SFZ)—each with its own financial requirements. For example:

  • Platinum: Fixed deposit of USD 1 million and property purchase of USD 455,377.
  • Silver: Fixed deposit of USD 150,000 and property purchase of USD 136,600.

Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and meet health requirements. Once approved, participants get a Social Visit Pass, enabling them to experience Malaysia’s lively cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and relatively low cost of living.

Australia’s Points-Based Immigration System

Australia uses a points-based system to attract skilled migrants and address labor shortages. For the 2024–25 cycle, the government has set 185,000 permanent migration places, with around 71% allocated to the skill stream. This includes categories such as employer-sponsored and State/territory-nominated visas, which help match skilled migrants with regional economic needs. The remaining portion goes to family streams, strengthening social ties, and community development within the country.

New Zealand’s Points-Based Immigration System

New Zealand reopened its Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa in October 2023 with a revised points system. Applicants need at least 6 points earned from factors like occupational registration, qualifications, or job offers. A maximum of 3 points can come from skilled work already taking place in New Zealand. This framework ensures that new arrivals can contribute effectively to local industries and communities.

Canada’s Start-Up Visa

Canada’s Start-Up Visa invites entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to secure permanent residency. To qualify, you must gain support from a recognized Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. The goal is to nurture new ventures that add to Canada’s economic growth and create jobs for residents. This program is especially attractive for entrepreneurs seeking a supportive environment to build and scale their businesses.

Hand Holding Residency Card

Factors to Consider When Choosing Residency

When considering a move to a new country, various factors influencing residency options can significantly impact your experience and long-term satisfaction in your new home.

Processing Times and Requirements

The duration for processing residency applications can vary widely between countries, which can be crucial if you’re eager to relocate. For example, Panama is recognized for its efficient processing, with some visas approved in as little as 30 business days. Mexico also offers a Temporary Resident Visa with a processing time of about four weeks, making it appealing for those looking to move quickly. Conversely, Malta’s Permanent Residence Program may take up to 11-12 months, which could be a consideration for those seeking a more immediate transition.

Residency requirements differ based on the type of visa. Some countries, like Portugal, provide options such as the D7 Visa, which necessitates proof of stable passive income without a significant investment. In contrast, Greece’s Golden Visa requires a real estate investment of USD 262,000, which, while relatively low compared to other European nations, still represents a considerable commitment.

Cost of Living and Tax Implications

The financial aspects of living in a new country, including the cost of living and tax obligations, can greatly affect your overall well-being. Countries like Portugal and Spain offer residency options catering to retirees and individuals with passive income, but living costs vary significantly. For instance, Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa requires a monthly income of USD 2,520, reflecting the higher living expenses in certain regions.

Tax incentives can also influence your residency choice. Malta, for example, offers substantial tax benefits through its Permanent Residence Program, which can be attractive for those looking to optimize their financial situation. Understanding the tax implications of your residency choice is essential to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Healthcare and Education Systems

Access to quality healthcare and education is often a priority for families or individuals planning for the long term. Legal residency typically grants access to these systems, but the quality and cost can differ. Countries like Canada, known for its robust healthcare and education systems, provide various pathways to residency, including the Express Entry system for skilled workers. This can be a significant draw for families seeking comprehensive public services.

Conversely, some countries may require private health insurance or have less developed public education systems, which could influence your decision based on your personal needs and priorities.

Long-Term Residency and Citizenship Pathways

Another critical factor is the transition from temporary residency to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. Countries with shorter residency requirements before eligibility for permanent residency can be more appealing. For example, Portugal offers accessible pathways with its D7 Visa, allowing for permanent residency after a relatively short period.

In contrast, some countries may have longer or more complex pathways to citizenship, which could deter those looking for a quicker transition to full citizenship. Understanding these pathways and the associated timeframes is important for planning your long-term future in a new country.

Get Your Residency In 2025

Wherever your next move may be—whether Europe, Latin America, Oceania, or beyond—2025 promises a variety of streamlined pathways to residency. By meeting the requirements of one of these programs, you can broaden your horizons, enjoy new cultures, and access fresh professional or personal opportunities in your chosen destination.

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Author:
Rihab Saad

Managing Director
Next Generation Equity

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