On April 29, 2025, the European Court officially ruled that Malta's investment citizenship (Golden Passport) program violates EU law, with its "cash-for-citizenship" model deemed to undermine the legal and value system of member states' citizenship. This means that the method of directly obtaining a Maltese passport through substantial donations may be completely terminated in the future.
For high-net-worth families considering European identity planning, this is undoubtedly a significant signal: the "shortcut" to EU citizenship is tightening rapidly, and the window of opportunity is closing!
Portugal Golden Residence Program: The "Authentic Path" to the EU
In contrast to Malta's "fast-track citizenship," the Portugal Golden Residence system serves as a model for obtaining an EU passport through a "residency first, citizenship later" approach:
1. Applicants can apply for citizenship after five years from the submission of their immigration application.
2. There is no longer a requirement to take the Portuguese A2 language exam; applicants only need to participate in government-mandated Portuguese language courses, complete the required hours, and obtain an A2 language learning certificate. Additionally, only one spouse needs to obtain the certificate.
3. Once the applicant's citizenship is approved, they can bring their spouse and minor children to apply for citizenship in Portugal, thereby obtaining a Portuguese EU passport.
The Portugal Golden Residence program is both legal and compliant, with a clear pathway to citizenship, making it a rational choice for those seeking to "easily obtain EU citizenship." Currently, European immigration policies are tightening, and as the low-threshold access to the EU gradually closes, how can investors seize the last opportunity for rapid EU citizenship?
On May 13 (Tuesday) at 20:00, WorldWay Immigration invites European immigration and education expert Ms. Gigi to present a live broadcast on the Portugal Golden Residence Visa, deeply revealing the Portugal donation project and unlocking the code to obtaining EU citizenship, helping you better plan your identity. Book the live broadcast now to start your journey to Portuguese EU citizenship.
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* Investment involves risks; the above information is for reference only.*