The 5 Easiest European Countries to Get Residency in 2026
In 2026, obtaining European residency is no longer limited to work or study pathways. Residency-by-investment programs have become one of the fastest and most straightforward legal routes for investors seeking to settle within the European Union.
But the key question remains:
What are the easiest European countries to obtain residency? And what is the minimum investment required for each program?
In this guide, we explore the 5 easiest European countries offering residency through investment, including program types and approximate minimum investment requirements.
What is European Residency by Investment?
Residency by investment is a legal program that grants investors and their families the right to reside in a country in exchange for a qualifying investment, such as:
- Real estate purchase
- Investment in approved funds
- Government contribution
- Establishing a business
Requirements vary from one country to another in terms of:
- Investment amount
- Residency duration
- Physical presence requirements
- Eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship
🇬🇷 Greece – Lowest Real Estate Investment in Europe
Program Type: Golden Visa through real estate purchase
Minimum Investment: Starting from €250,000 (in selected areas)
Key Benefits:
- 5-year residency, renewable
- No requirement for permanent residence
- Ability to include family members
- Free movement within the Schengen Area
Greece is considered one of the easiest European programs in terms of procedures and flexibility.
🇭🇺 Hungary – Direct Investment Program
Program Type: Investment in government-approved funds
Minimum Investment: Starting from €250,000
Benefits:
- Long-term residency
- Clear and structured requirements
- Strategic location in Europe
Hungary has made a strong comeback in 2026 with a relatively simplified investment residency program.
🇵🇹 Portugal – Clear Path to Citizenship
Program Type: Investment in approved funds
Minimum Investment: €500,000
Benefits:
- Low physical stay requirements
- Eligibility for citizenship after 5 years
- Stable legal environment
Despite recent changes, Portugal remains a strong option for investors seeking a long-term pathway.
🇲🇹 Malta – Direct Permanent Residency
Program Type: Permanent residency via government contribution + property rental or purchase
Minimum Total Investment: Starting from approximately €150,000 – €200,000 (depending on structure)
Benefits:
- Permanent residency
- EU member state
- Flexible tax environment
Malta is an excellent option for those seeking permanent residency without long waiting periods.
🇪🇸 Spain – Strong Real Estate Market Stability
Program Type: Residency through real estate investment
Minimum Investment: €500,000
Benefits:
- Stable property market
- Pathway to permanent residency
- High quality of life
Quick Comparison of the 5 Easiest Programs
| Country | Investment Type | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Greece | Real Estate | €250,000 |
| Hungary | Investment Fund | €250,000 |
| Malta | Contribution + Property | €150,000+ |
| Portugal | Fund | €500,000 |
| Spain | Real Estate | €500,000 |
Which European Country is Actually the Easiest?
- Lowest initial cost → Malta
- Simplest real estate option → Greece
- Best path to citizenship → Portugal
- Flexible non-real estate investment → Hungary
Ease is not just about cost — it also includes processing speed, clarity of requirements, and legal stability.
How to Choose the Right Program for You in 2026?
- Your investment goals
- Your plan for future citizenship
- Available capital
- Your ability to meet physical presence requirements
- Tax considerations
European residency is a long-term strategic decision, not just an administrative process.
Looking for the Best European Residency Program for Your Investment Profile?
Choosing the right country is not only about the lowest investment amount — it depends on your long-term goals, your plan for permanent residency or future citizenship, and your global asset structure.
At Brief Gates, we help you:
- Analyze your legal and investment profile
- Compare the most suitable European residency programs
- Build a secure plan to obtain residency through investment
- Guide you through all official procedures until your residency card is issued