European immigration is becoming increasingly popular, not merely for obtaining residency in a single country, but as a springboard to freely enter, reside, study, work, and live throughout Europe. However, before immigrating, one must clearly understand the immigration statuses of popular countries to make more informed decisions. Key statuses in EU immigration countries include: residence visas, permanent residency, EU long-term resident status, and EU citizenship.
Residence Visa
This is the starting status for becoming a "European." Currently, for most European investment immigration programs on the market, the status initially obtained by applicants falls into this category. These visas grant immigrants the right to reside in the country for 1 to 5 years, while rights regarding work, business, and social benefits vary by country. If the country issuing the residency is also a Schengen member, immigrants enjoy the right to travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Permanent Residency
Many EU countries stipulate that foreigners may apply for permanent residency after residing legally in the country for 5 years. Applying for permanent residency also requires meeting certain residency requirements and local language proficiency standards. Upon obtaining permanent resident status in an EU country and meeting relevant tax requirements, one can enjoy the same benefits as citizens of that country.
If the country issuing the permanent residency is also a Schengen member, holders of that status can travel freely to any other Schengen member state for business or tourism, with stays in other Schengen countries not exceeding 90 days within a six-month period, but they do not have the right to freely settle, work, conduct business, or study.
Holders of this status and their children enjoy the same treatment as citizens of the issuing country when studying there.
EU Long-term Resident Status
Also known as EU Long-term Residents, this status was established by the 2003 EU Long-term Residence Directive. Once transposed into national law by member states, it is issued by EU member countries. Holders of this EU permanent resident status issued by any EU country have the right to freely settle, work, conduct business, and study in other EU countries. Holders of this status enjoy the same tuition fee treatment as local citizens when studying in any EU country, without having to pay the international student tuition rates applicable to non-EU citizens.
Although the name is "EU Long-term Residents," EU legislation clearly stipulates that this status is permanent in nature. The EU permanent residence card has a validity period of at least 5 years and can be automatically renewed upon expiration.
EU Citizenship
This means becoming a citizen of an EU country. Naturalization requirements vary by country; generally, it requires at least 5 years of legal residence in the country, with more than half a year of residency per year, as well as passing local language exams and meeting additional requirements. Upon obtaining citizenship, one enjoys all the rights of a European citizen.