Immigrating to Europe through property investment has been accepted by an increasing number of immigrants. For immigrants, the specific meaning of "immigration" is to obtain local residency, which includes both temporary and permanent forms, commonly referred to as a Green Card. So, what benefits can one enjoy by immigrating to Europe?
Benefit 1: Travel freely across the 26 Schengen countries and enjoy Europe
Compared to residency in the United States, Canada, or Australia, the greatest appeal of a European Green Card is the ability to travel through all Schengen Area countries in the European Union. After purchasing property, immigrants can apply for a temporary residence permit card. With a temporary or permanent residence card, one can apply for a Schengen visa and travel without hindrance.
Benefit 2: Access to public education aligned with British and American schools
For many, the primary purpose of immigrating overseas is to create better educational conditions for their children. Possessing residency means being able to enjoy the same educational resources as local residents. Compulsory education in Europe is generally 12 years, and many countries provide free or subsidized public education to immigrants with residency. In European countries, the language of instruction is usually a combination of the local language and English, and there are also numerous international schools that adopt British and American educational systems and teach in English.
Benefit 3: A comprehensive free healthcare system
The high cost of medical care in China makes the "free healthcare" in European countries even more attractive. Several European countries that accept immigrants currently have free healthcare policies; as long as patients seek treatment in public medical facilities, they can enjoy free medical diagnosis and treatment.
Spain implements a universal free healthcare system known as the "National Health System." Immigrants use their residence permits to apply for a medical card. After registering, an individual is assigned a primary care physician, and all costs for medical treatment are free, covered by the "Social Security Bureau."
Further Reading: The difference between residency and citizenship
For foreign immigrants with residency, all the benefits listed above can be enjoyed. However, if an immigrant does not apply for citizenship, there are still some differences in rights compared to citizens.
The most significant point is the right to vote and stand for election; immigrants with only residency cannot participate in the politics of the host country. Of course, for most first-generation immigrants, political rights are not of primary importance.