European residence permit for an investor: real estate, capital and own business
03.09.2026
Investments and personal mobility
Choose a European programme for your capital, family and business
An investment residence permit has the greatest value when the investment solves several tasks at the same time: real estate generates income, a company develops a new market, an investment asset diversifies capital, and the owner receives a legal basis for residence and family relocation. In 2026, European programmes differ significantly: some countries accept real estate, while others focus on funds, company capital, entrepreneurship or job creation.
Real estate · investments · business · family · permanent residence
Information for decision-making
Real estate remains a valid basis in some European countries
In Greece, real-estate investment thresholds of ˆ800,000 and ˆ400,000 apply depending on the area, while special categories of individual properties start from ˆ250,000. Cyprus uses an investment threshold from ˆ300,000 for qualifying options, including new real estate and certain company or investment assets. In Latvia, real estate also remains one of the grounds for investment residence. Malta's MPRP is structured as a permanent residence programme with requirements for property, contributions and proof of capital.
Business and capital provide more options for an entrepreneur
Portugal's ARI is focused on economic investments: funds, research, culture, companies and job creation. In Spain, the former investor residence based on property purchase has been closed to new applicants since April 2025, while entrepreneurial grounds for innovative and economically significant projects continue to be used. France offers entrepreneurial and investment residence grounds, while Italy offers an Investor Visa for qualifying investments.
In the United Kingdom, Innovator Founder is used instead of the former Tier 1 Investor route. There is no fixed mandatory investment threshold for the visa itself: the project must receive endorsement and be innovative, viable and scalable. After three years, the business results are assessed; the stated criteria include investment of at least GBP 50,000 in company development, revenue growth and job creation.
Buying real estate and obtaining residence should be considered as different elements of one plan. In some countries, the property gives a direct investment basis; in others it works as an asset after status is obtained through business or capital. A multiple-entry visa solves the travel issue, while a residence permit gives a broader basis for family residence. The possibility of citizenship comes later under the naturalisation rules of the particular country and the required period of actual residence.
Programme comparison
Compare 2-3 countries within one investment budget
We will compare the investment amount, type of asset, presence requirements, family status, business task and further prospects for permanent residence.
Get a personal comparisonDetailed TAXC materials and solutions
Result
Connect a residence permit with an asset that works for the owner
We recommend assessing a residence programme together with the economics of the investment: rental income, an operating business, an investment portfolio or entry into a new market. The cost of the status then becomes part of a wider capital and family mobility plan. We will check compliance with current criteria and arrange the structure for the selected country.