European Citizenship – Obtain the Strongest European Nationalities Through 3 Main Methods

European Citizenship – Acquire the Strongest Nationalities in Europe Through Investment

The concept of obtaining a European passport through investment has gained immense popularity among many individuals residing outside the European Union. This is due to the strength of European citizenship and other advantages such as safety, education, and healthcare standards in many EU countries.

You can apply for European citizenship through investment for yourself and your family to obtain a passport from an EU country. This will not only grant you the right to travel to more destinations without a visa but also enable you to move freely within EU countries without needing a visa.

For investors, this offers an opportunity to reside in one of the most desirable regions for living and conducting business.

This article will guide you through the countries offering citizenship-by-investment programs in Europe and the key requirements for each. Let’s dive deeper into the details.

European Citizenship and Its Key Benefits

Imagine holding a passport that opens doors to all European countries without the hassle of obtaining visas.

In this section, we invite you to explore 20 unique advantages that European citizenship offers. From limitless adventures to seamless job opportunities and cultural connections, this article is your key to unlocking the full potential of being a European citizen.

Keep reading as we unveil the secrets behind the benefits of holding EU passports and highlight the opportunities they provide.

Can European Citizenship Be Easily Obtained?

What Are the Benefits of European Citizenship?

There are now numerous ways to obtain citizenship in an EU country, offering immense benefits and advantages. Let’s explore the key benefits:

Visa-Free Travel

One of the most immediate and practical advantages of European citizenship is the privilege of visa-free travel. European citizens enjoy unrestricted access to the 27 EU member states, making travel across Europe hassle-free.

In addition to EU countries, most European passports are renowned for their strength, unlocking opportunities to enter even more countries globally without a visa or with a visa on arrival.

Work and Residency Rights

European citizenship offers invaluable opportunities to live, work, and pursue careers in any of the 27 EU member states.

EU employers highly value professionals with multicultural backgrounds and international experience, significantly boosting employment prospects and career growth.

Access to Affordable Higher Education

Europe provides high-quality education, often at significantly reduced costs or even free. Approximately 40% of individuals aged 30 to 34 in the EU hold higher education qualifications, reflecting a strong commitment to education and the availability of scholarships for academic excellence.

Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities

European citizens can easily register companies and establish branches across various EU countries, promoting entrepreneurship.

Streamlined processes often cost less than €100 and take fewer than three days to complete, facilitating business growth and innovation.

Consular Protection Worldwide

European citizens living outside the EU can seek assistance from the diplomatic or consular authorities of any EU country.

This becomes particularly crucial during emergencies, providing peace of mind and a safety network in challenging situations abroad.

Access to High-Quality Healthcare

Under current EU laws, European citizens can access reciprocal healthcare services when in any of the 27 EU member states.

Whether traveling, residing abroad, or seeking medical treatment, healthcare rights are safeguarded, ensuring top-quality medical care and peace of mind for individuals and their families.

Civic Participation and Voting Rights

European citizenship grants the right to vote and run for office in European Parliament and municipal elections, fostering active civic participation. It allows individuals to shape their communities and have a say in EU policies and directions.

Greater Exploration Opportunities

With a European passport, you and your family can explore more countries with greater freedom, traveling to numerous destinations visa-free.

Expedited Customs Clearance

European passport holders benefit from expedited customs clearance, ensuring smoother international travel experiences, shorter waiting times, and greater convenience when crossing borders.

Real Estate Ownership in EU Countries

European citizenship grants the right to invest in real estate across EU member states without additional permits.

Business Support and Funding

EU citizens can access various programs supporting small businesses and startups. These initiatives simplify business growth and innovation by providing financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Robust Consumer Protection

The EU boasts some of the world's strictest food and product safety regulations, ensuring the quality and safety of goods and services. This offers consumers peace of mind and protection from substandard products.

Access to EU Initiatives

European citizenship connects individuals to a network of EU countries that offer support during crises and emergencies, enhancing security and assistance during challenging times.

How to Obtain European Citizenship

Obtaining European citizenship has become easier now, with multiple ways to achieve it. The primary methods for non-EU citizens to acquire European citizenship include:

• Citizenship by descent, which requires proof that you are of European ancestry through a parent or grandparent.
• Citizenship by investment.
• Citizenship through residency.

Since obtaining European citizenship through investment is the easiest option, this article will focus on this method. Acquiring citizenship by descent is not possible for everyone, and obtaining citizenship through residency often requires many years.

Obtaining European Citizenship through Investment

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend within the EU toward offering citizenship by investment programs. These programs aim to attract investments by granting citizenship or residency rights to investors.

However, due to concerns among some EU member states about the misuse of such programs for purposes like money laundering, tax evasion, or other security issues, many European countries have discontinued these programs.

Currently, citizenship by investment is only available in four countries:

1. Cyprus.
2. Bulgaria.
3. Montenegro.
4. Malta.

The following sections will discuss the key benefits and requirements of each country for obtaining European citizenship.

Obtaining Cypriot Citizenship through Investment

Cyprus has always been, and continues to be, the fastest and most affordable way to acquire European citizenship. It is often described as one of the tax havens within the EU.

Although Cyprus has lost some of its luster in banking services, the primary benefit of obtaining a Cypriot passport is the ability to settle anywhere in the EU.

• The required investment is €2,200,000, which may not seem like a lot for high-net-worth individuals when considering that most of this investment can be recovered eventually, along with the added benefits of stability, security, and peace of mind.
• A significant advantage of the Cypriot investment program is that you can invest rather than donate, and you can also earn returns on your investment, meaning you get financial benefits in addition to acquiring citizenship.

Benefits of Cypriot Citizenship

Cyprus' citizenship-by-investment program is one of the most popular for several good reasons, including:

1. High standard of living:
   Cyprus offers a pleasant climate, advanced infrastructure, and high-quality education and healthcare systems.
2. Access to the entire EU:
   A Cypriot passport allows you to travel, live, work, or study in any of the 28 EU countries. The EU is highly developed, politically stable, and secure.
3. Fastest pathway to European citizenship:
   The process takes about 6 months, making it faster than Malta’s program, which requires approximately a year.
4. Visa-free travel:
   Cypriot passport holders can travel visa-free to more than 174 countries, and this number is likely to increase as talks are underway to add Cyprus to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program for leisure and business travelers.
5. Tax haven:
   Cyprus offers an exceptional tax environment with no taxes on dividends, royalties, or interest earned from abroad. There are also no inheritance or immovable property taxes, and income earned from foreign sources is tax-exempt. The corporate tax rate is only 12.5%, applicable to all local companies.

Drawbacks of Cypriot Citizenship

Despite its advantages, there are some downsides to Cyprus’ citizenship-by-investment program:

1. High investment cost:
   The €2,200,000 investment requirement is significant.
2. Dependence on the program:
   Cyprus is a small country, and the citizenship-by-investment program constitutes a significant part of its economy. If the EU discontinues this program, investments, especially in real estate, may be adversely affected.

However, for high-net-worth individuals who can invest €2,200,000 without substantial financial strain, the program is worth considering.

Requirements for Cypriot Citizenship through Investment

While real estate investments are often highlighted as the easiest and most suitable option, there are other ways for those who may not want to purchase multiple properties. Below are the general options and requirements:

Option 1: Total investment of €2,200,000

• Purchase a primary residence worth at least €500,000 (excluding VAT) and retain it for life.
• Invest €1.5 million in residential real estate or €2 million in commercial real estate. The properties must be held for at least 5 years.
• Make a donation of €200,000 for research, innovation, and land development.

Option 2: Total investment of €2,700,000

• Purchase a primary residence worth at least €500,000 (excluding VAT) and retain it for life.
• Invest €2 million in businesses or financial assets in Cyprus, or a combination of investments mentioned above, with a minimum contract duration of 5 years.
• Make a donation of €200,000 for research, innovation, and land development.

Option 3: Donations

Cyprus recently introduced a donation requirement for its citizenship-by-investment program, similar to Malta and Montenegro.

• Regardless of the chosen investment type, applicants must donate €200,000:
  • €100,000 goes to a research and innovation institution.
  • €100,000 goes to the Cypriot Land Development Corporation.

Benefits of Maltese Citizenship through Investment

Updated Program

Malta’s citizenship-by-investment program, also known as Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, was updated in February 2023.

Malta is a charming Mediterranean island offering its citizens the ability to travel globally and conduct business under financially liberal laws. Below are the main benefits of acquiring Maltese citizenship through investment.

Advantages

1. EU Membership:
   As an EU member, Maltese citizenship allows investors to live and work anywhere in the EU. Additionally, as part of the Schengen Zone, there are no visa or passport checks when traveling across Schengen countries.
2. Strong passport:
   The Maltese passport allows visa-free access to 171 destinations, including visa-on-arrival and e-visa options.
3. Quick process:
   Citizenship is granted within 12 to 36 months, although residence in Malta is required beforehand.
4. Family inclusion:
   Family members, including children and dependents, can acquire citizenship for an additional fee of €50,000 per dependent, ensuring the benefits of Maltese citizenship are passed down through generations.
5. Tax advantages:
   Malta’s tax system is based on residence and domicile:
   • Non-residents only pay taxes on income earned within Malta.
   • Malta offers numerous exemptions for personal income types, such as foreign-earned income.

Requirements for Maltese Citizenship through Investment

The program is governed by the Community Malta Agency, which specifies that the principal applicant must meet the following criteria:

1. Age:
   Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
2. Residency:
   • Proof of residency in Malta for 36 months requires a donation of €600,000.
   • Proof of residency for 12 months requires a donation of €750,000.
3. Real estate:
   • Purchase a property worth €700,000 and retain it for 5 years, or rent a property with an annual rent of at least €16,000 for 5 years.
4. Additional contributions:
   • Donate €10,000 to an organization approved by the Community Malta Agency.
5. Dependents:
   • All adult dependents must obtain residency permits for the required duration.
   • Applicants must have health insurance and a clean criminal record.

Citizenship by Investment in Montenegro

Montenegro is a small Southeast European country offering a highly appealing investment opportunity.

While small in size, Montenegro boasts stunning Adriatic coastline access, some of Europe’s best mountain landscapes, ski resorts, historical cities, and luxurious tourism amenities like Porto Montenegro.

More information to follow.

How to Obtain European Citizenship in Montenegro through Investment

Advantages of Obtaining Montenegrin Citizenship through Investment

Here are the main benefits of obtaining and retaining Montenegrin citizenship through investment:

• E-2 Visa Treaty with the USA: Montenegro has signed the E-2 Investor Visa Treaty with the United States, allowing Montenegrin citizens to live and work in the US.
• Visa-Free Travel: Montenegrin citizenship provides visa-free access to over 120 countries, including all Schengen Area countries in Europe, the UAE, North Macedonia, and Turkey. Once Montenegro joins the EU, its passport ranking will improve significantly.
• EU Membership by 2025: Montenegro is expected to join the EU by 2025. Upon joining, Montenegrin citizens will be able to live, study, and work freely across EU member states.
• Euro Currency Stability: Montenegro has unilaterally adopted the euro as its currency, providing economic stability. While this makes it slightly more expensive than neighboring Serbia, it also ensures a stable economic environment.
• Dual Citizenship Allowed: Montenegro permits dual citizenship, so obtaining a second, third, or subsequent passport is not an issue. You won’t need to renounce your current citizenship(s).
• Confidentiality: If your application for Montenegrin citizenship is approved, the government does not share personal information with your country of origin.
• Favorable Tax Environment: Corporate and personal tax rates range between 9-15%, while VAT is 21%. Montenegro also offers various tax optimization methods. Starting a business is straightforward and remarkably affordable.
• Attractive Investment Environment: With its favorable tax regime, Montenegro is a popular destination for travelers and investors alike, offering an efficient and productive environment.
• No Language or History Tests: Unlike other programs, Montenegro’s citizenship by investment program does not require language or history tests. Simply apply, invest, and obtain your passport.
• No Residency Requirement: The program does not require applicants to reside in Montenegro to acquire citizenship.
• Strategic Location and Connectivity: Montenegro has strong ties to Europe, with direct flights and low-cost airlines connecting it to major hubs, facilitating both business and tourism.

Requirements for Obtaining Montenegrin Citizenship through Investment

Most European citizenship-by-investment programs require a single contribution to the country, such as a donation, real estate investment, or the creation of a local business.

Montenegro offers a hybrid program requiring two contributions:

1. Donation: Contribute €200,000 to the development fund.
2. Real Estate Investment:
   • Purchase government-approved real estate worth €250,000 in northern or central Montenegro, or
   • Invest €450,000 in southern Montenegro and hold it for 5 years.

If you meet these criteria and an international due diligence agent finds no concerns about you or your family, you will be granted Montenegrin citizenship and can obtain a passport.

Additionally, government processing fees apply, depending on your family setup:

• €15,000 for a single applicant.
• €25,000 for a couple.
• €45,000 for a family of four.

If the main applicant wishes to include dependent parents or grandparents, there is an additional fee of €50,000 per person.

Obtaining Bulgarian Citizenship through Investment

When considering a second passport, you might think of places like Cyprus or Dominica, where citizenship can be acquired within months. Alternatively, you might think of countries like Canada, offering benefits like universal healthcare.

So why consider Bulgarian citizenship? This is a valid question. Unlike many Caribbean countries, obtaining citizenship by investment in Bulgaria is neither fast nor cheap.

You will need to spend over €500,000 to qualify for citizenship. If you wish to expedite the process, you’ll spend twice as much.

Even with expedited processing, it takes two years to obtain a Bulgarian passport. Bulgaria might not initially seem special, so is obtaining European citizenship from Bulgaria worth the effort?

Advantages of Obtaining Bulgarian Citizenship through Investment

In addition to its cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes, a Bulgarian passport offers several practical benefits:

• EU Citizenship:
  • EU citizenship is the biggest advantage of obtaining Bulgarian citizenship through investment. As a Bulgarian citizen, you gain the rights and privileges of an EU citizen, including relative freedom of movement. However, note that Bulgaria is not yet part of the Schengen Area.
• Passport Quality:
  • Bulgaria’s passport is relatively high-quality, offering visa-free access to 157 countries and ranking as the eighth-strongest passport in the world.
• Low Taxes:
  • Unlike most European countries, Bulgaria has relatively low tax rates, with only 10% corporate tax and 10% personal income tax—the lowest in the EU.
• Citizenship by Descent:
  • Another benefit of Bulgarian citizenship is that it can be passed on to your descendants, including adult children, without any additional requirements.

Requirements for Bulgarian Citizenship by Investment

Before heading to the nearest Bulgarian consulate, ensure you qualify for citizenship by investment. Basic requirements include:

• Not being an EU citizen.
• Holding a valid passport.
• Having a clean criminal record.
• Not being subject to EU sanctions.

If eligible, you can proceed with the investment process. The sole investment option involves investing €512,000 in government bonds.

Although the return on investment is modest compared to investing in a local business or real estate, you are assured of recovering your funds after a 5-year holding period.

To fund your investment, you have three options: direct investment, government-backed financing, or external financing.

1. Direct Investment

The simplest option is paying the full bond amount with your own capital. This eliminates concerns about interest rates or external financing, with funds held in a secure account for five years.

While straightforward, this approach may not appeal to those unwilling to tie up nearly €1 million for five years, especially if you have high-return investments or operating businesses in your home country.

2. Government-Backed Financing

For those unwilling to commit €512,000 in bonds for five years, consider financing the bond through a Bulgarian government-backed loan. This requires an upfront deposit of approximately €195,000, excluding interest, which may total around €320,000.

This loan is relatively secure as it is government-backed, allowing you to invest your capital elsewhere while recovering your eventual investment.

However, fluctuating interest rates and currency values may lead you to prepay interest to avoid unexpected increases in payments.

3. External Financing

You may also finance the bond in your home country or outside Bulgaria. According to EU advisors, Bulgaria is generally unconcerned about the source of your funds, provided they are legitimate.

Thus, unless you plan to use illicit wealth, you can employ any lawful means to finance your bond investment.

External financing may offer advantages such as lower interest rates or the ability to retain the loan in your local currency, mitigating currency fluctuation risks.

If pursuing external financing, maintain a clear record of transactions in case Bulgarian authorities request proof.

Obtaining European Citizenship Through Residency

Another way to obtain European citizenship is through residency. Some European countries allow citizens residing outside the European Union to gain residency through various means, and after residing for a specific period, they become eligible to acquire European citizenship.

One of the most well-known programs for obtaining European citizenship through residency is the residency-by-property investment program, also known as the Golden Visa.

The Golden Visa program is implemented in several European countries, including:

• The Golden Visa in Portugal, which allows applicants to obtain renewable residency. It requires a residency period of 10 years to become eligible for Portuguese citizenship.
• The Golden Visa in Greece, which enables investors in Greek real estate to obtain renewable residency. It also requires a residency period of 10 years to qualify for Greek citizenship.
• The Real Estate Investment Visa in Turkey, a straightforward visa for those who invest in Turkish real estate. It requires staying in Turkey for no less than 3 years under this visa to secure permanent residency and Turkish citizenship.

What Are the Easiest Ways to Obtain European Citizenship?

After exploring the three main methods for obtaining European citizenship—through ancestry, investment, or residency—the easiest route is usually through investment.

Obtaining European citizenship through investment typically takes less time and effort compared to other methods, such as ancestry.

To acquire citizenship through ancestry, it's necessary to hire a representative authorized by the country whose citizenship you wish to obtain. This service can be facilitated through Zajl.

At Zajl, we offer a wide range of services to help you acquire EU citizenship. You can access our top services and pricing via our mobile application, Zajl App, available for download on the Play Store.

You can also get legal advice from our specialists and reach us via WhatsApp by clicking this link.

FAQ

What Are the Requirements for Obtaining European Citizenship?

The requirements for obtaining European citizenship vary depending on the country you are applying to and the program under which you are applying.
There are three main ways to acquire European citizenship:

1. Through ancestry.
2. Through investment.
3. Through residency.

What Are the Benefits of Having a European Passport?

Obtaining European citizenship offers numerous benefits, including:

• Visa-free travel to a large number of countries worldwide.
• The ability to explore and enjoy visiting numerous places and countries.
• The right to move freely between EU countries.
• Freedom to work and reside in any EU country.
• Access to high-quality education and healthcare.
• A higher level of protection and care from governments and consulates for EU citizens.
• Wider entrepreneurship and job opportunities across Europe.
• The right to vote and exercise civil rights in Europe.

Which European Countries Allow Foreigners to Obtain Citizenship Through Investment?

If you wish to acquire European citizenship through investment, four countries currently offer this option:

1. Cyprus.
2. Bulgaria.
3. Montenegro.
4. Malta.

What Is the Fastest Way to Obtain European Citizenship?

There are several ways to obtain European citizenship, including proving ancestry to a parent or grandparent from the desired country, investment, or residency.
The fastest and easiest route is citizenship by investment. While it requires additional expenses, most European citizenship-by-investment programs guarantee the return of investment funds within approximately five years.