In 2013, referred to as the Year of European Immigration in the domestic immigration industry, with the tightening of policies in traditional immigration countries such as Australia and Canada, European countries have shown unprecedented favorable policies, creating new immigration directions for investors. In the face of the European immigration boom, how should investors choose? How much do they know about the corresponding immigration policies offered by various European countries?
The most investment-worthy country in Europe’s immigration year: Greece
Recommendation: A great opportunity to buy at the bottom
Two months ago, the latest investment immigration bill was approved by the Greek Parliament. According to this bill, the investment amount for immigration to Greece has been reduced by 50,000 euros compared to before. Investors only need to purchase real estate valued at over 250,000 euros to obtain a five-year residence status in Greece. If the property is not sold, the residence can continue until obtaining a Greek green card.
Once Greece's latest immigration bill was introduced, it attracted the attention of many Chinese investors. Relevant investment immigration experts analyzed that the Greek government launched this low-threshold immigration policy mainly due to the impact of the financial crisis and the European debt crisis, hoping to boost the national economy. After experiencing the crisis, Greek property prices have fallen to rock bottom, making it a great time for investors to buy at the bottom.
Industry experts also remind that after purchasing property, one can profit through rental income or hold it long-term for appreciation, but there is a risk of price stagnation or further depreciation. However, since Greece is a member of the Schengen Area, immigrants can travel freely between other Schengen countries, and there are no requirements for language, education, management experience, or immigration monitoring, allowing for easy lifelong possession of European nationality.
The second most investment-worthy country in Europe’s immigration year: Portugal
Recommendation: Reduced immigration monitoring, high educational returns.
In recent years, the Portuguese government has made several reforms to immigration laws to attract capable investors.
In January 2013, the Portuguese government made significant adjustments to the Golden Residence Permit program. For investors, the required residence time in Portugal in the first year is only 14 days, and in the following four years, the annual residence time will be reduced to 7 days. Entering from Portugal, one can travel visa-free to other Schengen countries and finally return to Portugal, which is considered as residing in Portugal during this period.
According to Portuguese immigration law, the Portuguese government has very lenient requirements for applicants regarding education, language proficiency, and business background. Applicants do not need to pass a language test, explain the source of funds, or affect their domestic business.
Additionally, as a Western European country, Portugal has a well-developed education sector, with compulsory education lasting 12 years. Notable universities include the University of Lisbon, the University of Coimbra, and the University of Porto. Compared to the high tuition fees in countries like the United Kingdom, the tuition fees in Portugal, which implements bilingual education, are much lower, and the degrees are recognized throughout Europe.
The third most investment-worthy country in Europe’s immigration year: Cyprus
Recommendation: Low taxes and high returns
Located in the eastern Mediterranean, the tourist city of Cyprus has become increasingly popular among investors in recent years.
At the same time, the Cypriot government has been continuously relaxing immigration policies. The immigration law enacted on August 23 last year stipulates that applicants who purchase property in Cyprus for 300,000 euros and have a personal annual income of no less than 30,000 euros can have their immigration applications approved within two months. This immigration law, known as the "8.23 New Policy," has made Cyprus the country with the shortest approval time for European "green cards."
In May 2013, the Cypriot immigration law was further amended, with standards for applicants' income sources, children's ages, and other criteria being relaxed. Compared to other European immigration countries, Cyprus's policy advantage is that once approved, permanent residency is granted without the need for regular reviews, language tests, or immigration monitoring.
It is worth noting that Cyprus is currently not a member of the Schengen Area, and traveling to other European countries requires obtaining a visa again. Additionally, one cannot work in the country or enjoy related benefits within five years. It is understood that Cyprus applied to join the Schengen Area this year, and if successful, it will be a significant benefit for investors in the country.
