Which EU Country Is Easiest to Get Residency? Find Out Here!

Why You Should Consider Residency in the EU

So, you’re thinking about moving to the EU, huh? Maybe you’re seeking better opportunities, a change of pace, or simply a fresh start in a beautiful part of the world. But let’s face it – the process of obtaining residency can seem pretty intimidating, right? Visas, paperwork, endless bureaucracy… Yikes! But not to worry, not all EU countries have the same requirements. Some make it easier for you to establish residency than others.

I remember chatting with my friend Sarah, who recently moved to Portugal. She was blown away by how simple the process was compared to her expectations. After hearing her story, I decided to dig deeper into which EU countries have the least complicated paths to residency.

The Easy Ones: EU Countries With Simplified Residency Processes

Portugal: The Golden Gate to the EU

If there’s one country that seems to pop up over and over again when talking about easy residency in the EU, it’s Portugal. Why? Because Portugal offers one of the most attractive residency options in the EU, especially through its Golden Visa Program.

For example, Sarah told me that the Golden Visa program in Portugal is popular with non-EU nationals because it allows you to get residency by investing in property, making it one of the easiest ways to establish a legal presence in the country. With a relatively low investment threshold compared to other European countries, Portugal has become a hotspot for people seeking a new start. And it doesn’t end there! The program offers permanent residency after five years, and citizenship eligibility after six years. How cool is that?

But you don’t have to break the bank. Even if you're not interested in the Golden Visa, Portugal has a simple process for self-employed individuals or retirees who can prove they have sufficient income to support themselves. It’s all about demonstrating your financial stability.

Spain: Residency Made Easy With a Few Key Steps

If you’ve got your eyes set on Spain, you’ll be pleased to know that Spain has a relatively straightforward residency process as well. Whether you’re seeking a permanent residency or just a long-term stay, Spain offers several options for you to choose from.

Spain has non-lucrative visas, which allow you to live in the country as a retiree or someone with enough income to support yourself without working. You don’t even have to speak Spanish for this – as long as you have stable income or savings, Spain welcomes you with open arms. This is a huge advantage for many people seeking a peaceful life by the Mediterranean.

I’ve heard plenty of success stories about friends and colleagues who moved to Spain under these terms. In fact, my friend Emma from London did this last year, and she said the process was much easier than she expected. Plus, Spain's vibrant culture and quality of life made it an even better decision!

The Low-Cost Alternatives: EU Countries With Less Financial Strain

Bulgaria: Low-Cost, Easy Residency

If you’re looking for a less expensive option, Bulgaria might be the place for you. Compared to Portugal or Spain, Bulgaria has one of the lowest living costs in the EU, and it offers a simple path to residency. The country allows you to apply for long-term residence by either starting a business or investing in real estate.

The requirements for residency are less stringent than in other EU countries. In fact, I recently had a conversation with a colleague who moved to Bulgaria to start his own business, and he found the process incredibly straightforward. If you can prove you have the means to support yourself, Bulgaria makes it relatively easy to gain residency.

Additionally, Bulgaria has a fast-track program for investors, and the country’s low tax rates make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs looking to settle in the EU.

Hungary: Flexible Residency Options for Everyone

Another interesting option is Hungary. Known for its rich history and growing expat community, Hungary offers relatively easy access to residency for foreign nationals. The residence bond program in Hungary allows individuals to invest in government bonds for a certain period, which leads to a residency permit. The initial investment required is lower compared to other countries, making it a viable option for those seeking affordable residency in the EU.

Hungary’s rural areas also offer lower living costs, which makes it easier to manage expenses while securing your residency. And, while I’ve heard mixed reviews about the bureaucracy, many people I’ve spoken to have had positive experiences overall.

What About the Other EU Countries?

Germany and France: More Complex, But Not Impossible

Germany and France, both powerhouses in Europe, offer residency options, but the process is a bit more complex. Germany has a well-structured residency process for highly skilled professionals, and France provides a relatively straightforward pathway for retirees and individuals with stable income. However, both countries tend to have more stringent requirements compared to places like Portugal or Bulgaria. You’ll likely need proof of employment, income, or family ties, and there may be language requirements as well.

That being said, if you’ve got the qualifications or financial stability, both countries are still viable options. I’ve heard that people who relocate to Germany for work often find the residency process quite smooth, and that’s reassuring!

Conclusion: Which EU Country Is Easiest for Residency?

So, which EU country is the easiest to get residency in? Portugal and Spain clearly top the list, with their relatively simple and welcoming processes, especially for retirees and investors. If you're looking for more affordable options, Bulgaria and Hungary also offer straightforward paths to residency without breaking the bank.

At the end of the day, it depends on your personal situation. Are you planning to invest in property? Do you have enough income to support yourself? Or are you hoping for a fast-tracked residency based on a specific skillset or investment?

I’d recommend doing some research on each country’s specific residency programs to see which one aligns with your goals. And if you’re like me, a little extra advice from someone who's already been through it helps a lot. But one thing’s for sure: The EU offers plenty of opportunities for those looking to make it their new home.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.