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Residency and Golden Visa Programs Around the World: Portugal, Dubai, Bali, Malta, Spain, Panama, Paraguay and Estonia Compared.

Updated: Mar 6


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This report provides a comprehensive overview of residency and golden visa programs in various countries, focusing on the needs of digital nomads and high-net-worth individuals seeking alternative residency or citizenship options. We will delve into the specifics of each program, including processing times, required documents, costs, potential challenges, and testimonials from those who have experienced the process.


All references are Cited below.


Portugal


Portugal has become a popular destination for those seeking residency in Europe due to its high quality of life 1, vibrant culture, and relatively low cost of living 2.


Residency Visa


Individuals with a stable passive income can apply for the D7 Visa. Almost any legal income obtained outside Portugal, including pension, rental payments, interest, or royalties, qualifies 3. The income must equal or exceed the Portuguese minimum wage, which is €870 in 2025 3.


To apply for a D7 visa, applicants will need to submit the following supporting documents to Portugal’s Immigration and Border Services:


  • A non-EU/EEA/Swiss passport (this must be valid for at least 6 months from the start of the application)

  • D7 visa application form.

  • 2 passport photos.

  • Evidence that shows that the applicant has a Portuguese bank account.

  • Evidence that shows the applicant has a NIF (tax identification number).

  • Bank statements from the past 6 months (these need to be from your regular bank and show a history of regular passive income)

  • Proof of accommodation in Portugal (a rental agreement, mortgage statements, property deeds, or a letter from a Portuguese resident stating that you will live with them, etc)

  • A clean criminal record from your current country of residence.

  • Any financial documents that show the applicant has a stable stream of passive work income.

  • Proof of private insurance (health insurance coverage or travel insurance that covers medical-related expenses) valid for the applicant’s first 12-month stay in Portugal 4.


The D7 visa is a temporary visa valid for 120 days (4 months) with 2 entries and, in most cases, comes with an automatically scheduled appointment with AIMA 5. Visa holders will need to travel to Portugal during this time, where they will then need to apply for D7 residency with Portugal’s Immigration and Border Service (SEF) 4.


Processing Time: It usually takes around 2 months for your initial D7 visa to be processed and issued 6.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend several hours gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 4.


Cost: The cost of a D7 visa application is €90 3.


Hassle: The process for obtaining a D7 visa can be time-consuming and bureaucratic, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 7.


Reviews and Testimonials: One expat shared their experience of moving to Portugal on a D7 visa, highlighting the challenges they faced with delays and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite the difficulties, they ultimately found the process worthwhile and have made Portugal their home 7.


Golden Visa


The Portugal Golden Visa program was launched in 2012. It offers a pathway to citizenship for non-EU nationals through investment. The program has undergone several changes in recent years, with the most recent update coming into effect in October 2023.


Recent Changes and Impact


As of October 2023, real estate investment is no longer an option for the Golden Visa. This change was implemented due to concerns about the program’s impact on the real estate market and rising housing costs. Investors now have fewer options to choose from, and the minimum investment amount for most routes has increased.


Investment Options


The following investment routes are currently available:


  • Capital transfer of at least €500,000 in research activities 8.

  • Capital transfer of €250,000 in preserving national heritage in Portugal 8.

  • €500,000 constitution of a commercial society with head office in Portugal and creation of 5 permanent working jobs 8.

  • Investment of €500,000 into a qualifying Private Equity investment fund or Venture Capital fund within Portugal 9.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:


  • Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen 8.

  • Be at least 18 years old 8.

  • Have a clean criminal record 8.

  • Have no outstanding tax or social security obligations in Portugal 8.


Processing Time


The processing time for the Golden Visa can vary. As of Q4 2023, the expected timeline is as follows:


  • Pre-Approval: 9–12 months 10.

  • Biometric Appointments: 1–2 months after pre-approval 10.

  • Final Approval: Depends on the location of biometric appointments 10.

  • Residence Card Arrival: Several months after final approval 10.


Required Documents


The following documents are required to apply for the Golden Visa:



Cost


The cost of the Golden Visa includes government fees and legal fees. The government fees are as follows:


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Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend a significant amount of time gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 8.


Hassle: The Golden Visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 12.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many applicants have reported positive experiences with the Golden Visa program, highlighting the benefits of visa-free travel and the potential for EU citizenship 13. However, some have also expressed concerns about the lengthy processing times and recent changes to the program 12.


D7 Visa vs. Golden Visa


While both the D7 visa and the Golden Visa offer pathways to residency in Portugal, there are key differences to consider:


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The D7 visa is a more affordable option for those with a stable passive income, while the Golden Visa offers a faster path to citizenship and greater flexibility in terms of residency requirements 14.


Spain


Spain’s Golden Visa program offers non-EU nationals a residency permit in exchange for a significant investment in the country’s economy 15. This program, launched in 2013, has been a popular choice for those seeking to live and work in Spain or establish a European base for their families 15.


Residency Visa


Spain offers a Non-Lucrative Residence Visa for those who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any work or professional activities 16. This visa is ideal for retirees or individuals with sufficient passive income to support themselves and their families 16.


To be eligible for a Non-Lucrative Visa, you must meet specific criteria:

  • No Work or Economic Activity: You must not take on any form of employment or engage in any business activity in Spain 16.

  • Financial Stability: You must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support your stay in Spain without working 16.

  • Health Insurance: You must have comprehensive health insurance with full coverage in Spain 16.

  • Clean Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record issued in the last three months by the authorities of the country or countries where you have resided in the past 5 years 16.


Processing Time: The processing time for a Non-Lucrative Visa can take up to 3 months 16.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend a significant amount of time gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 16.


Cost: The application fee for a Non-Lucrative Visa is €516 17.


Hassle: The process for obtaining a Non-Lucrative Visa can be bureaucratic, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 17.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many applicants have reported positive experiences with the Non-Lucrative Visa, highlighting the benefits of living in Spain and the relatively straightforward application process 18. However, some have also expressed concerns about the financial requirements and the restrictions on working in Spain 19.


Golden Visa


The Spain Golden Visa program offers a fast-track route to residency for non-EU nationals who make a significant investment in the country 20.


Investment Options


The program offers several investment options:

  • Real Estate Investment: A minimum of €500,000 investment in Spanish real estate is required 20. The property acquired can be either residential or commercial.

  • Capital Investments: The minimum threshold includes a capital investment of at least €1,000,000 in either quoted shares, unquoted shares, or a deposit in a Spanish bank 20.

  • Business Projects: Alternatively, investments can be directed towards a business project deemed of public interest in Spain, with criteria such as job creation, social and economic impact, and contribution to scientific and/or technological innovation 20.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the Spain Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be over 18 years old 20.

  • Not be an illegal resident of Spain 20.

  • Have no criminal record in the last five years 20.

  • Not be on the list of undesirable people 20.

  • Have private healthcare to cover your stay 20.

  • Be able to prove sufficient funds to live on without working in Spain 20.

  • Have not been rejected for residence from certain other countries or from Spain 20.

  • Not have any of the illnesses according to a 2005 regulation 20.


Processing Time


The processing time for a Spain Golden Visa application typically takes 20–60 days 21.


Required Documents


In order to apply for a residency visa, it is necessary to supply certain documents in…(https://getgoldenvisa.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-spain-golden-visa) of your children (if applicable) 20

All of these documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized 20.


Cost


The cost of the Spain Golden Visa falls between EUR 4,000 — EUR 5,000 22. The renewal fees for the Spain Golden Visa are slightly less than that, between EUR 3,000 — EUR 4,000 22.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend a significant amount of time gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 20.


Hassle: The process for obtaining a Spain Golden Visa can be bureaucratic, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 15.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many applicants have reported positive experiences with the Spain Golden Visa, highlighting the benefits of living in Spain and the relatively straightforward application process 23. However, some have also expressed concerns about the financial requirements and the restrictions on working in Spain 24.


Indonesia (including Bali)


Indonesia offers a variety of visa options for foreigners, including those specifically designed for long-term stays in Bali. These options cater to diverse needs, from digital nomads and retirees to investors and entrepreneurs.


Visa on Arrival (VOA) and B211A Visa


For shorter stays, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) and the B211A Visa are popular choices. The VOA allows for a 30-day stay and can be extended once for another 30 days 25. The B211A Visa, also known as the “digital nomad visa,” provides a 60-day stay with the possibility of two 60-day extensions, totaling 180 days 26. Both options require a valid passport and proof of onward travel 27.


Processing Time: VOA is issued upon arrival. B211A processing time averages 1–2 weeks 26.


Personal Input Time: Minimal, typically involving completing an online application and providing basic documents 26.


Cost: VOA costs $35 25. B211A costs vary depending on processing time, with standard service around IDR 2,850,000 (approximately $180) 26.


Hassle: Generally straightforward, with potential challenges arising from overstaying or engaging in unauthorized activities 26.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many digital nomads and remote workers appreciate the B211A visa for its flexibility and affordability 26. However, some have reported issues at immigration due to the visa’s technical validity being limited to the initial 60 days 26.


KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas)


For longer stays, the KITAS is the primary residence permit. It comes in various categories, including:

  • Investor KITAS (E28A): Requires a significant investment in an Indonesian company or a substantial deposit in an Indonesian bank account 28. (You have to show this on paper, but often the government will not check this). A great agency to speak with is: Bali solve (https://www.balisolve.com/)

  • Working KITAS: Requires sponsorship from an Indonesian company and is typically valid for 1 year 29.

  • Freelance KITAS: Allows foreigners in 53 listed professions to work remotely from Indonesia 29.

  • Family KITAS: Available to spouses and children of KITAS holders or Indonesian citizens 28.

  • Retirement KITAS (E33F): Requires applicants to be at least 55 years old, have sufficient income, and not engage in any employment 28.

  • Second Home Visa: A long-term residence visa valid for 5 years, renewable for another 5 years. Requires proof of funds or property ownership 30.


Processing Time: KITAS processing time varies depending on the type and can take from 2 weeks to 2 months 25.


Personal Input Time: Significant, involving gathering and preparing various documents, including passport copies, financial statements, and sponsor letters 27.


Cost: KITAS costs vary depending on the type and processing time. For example, the Retirement KITAS costs $1,020 per person for one year 28.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with immigration authorities 31.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many expats appreciate the benefits of a KITAS, such as multiple entries, access to local services, and better prices 27. However, some have reported challenges with renewals and the need for a sponsor 31.


Golden Visa


Indonesia offers a Golden Visa program for investors, requiring a significant investment in the country’s economy 29.


Investment Options


The program offers three main investment options:

  • Invest between $350,000 and $700,000 in government bonds or company shares 29.

  • Start a company valued between $2.5 million and $5 million 29.

  • Invest in a company with a value between $25 million and $50 million 29.


Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa are not explicitly stated in the provided research materials.


Processing Time

The processing time for the Golden Visa is not specified in the provided research materials.


Required Documents

The required documents for the Golden Visa are not explicitly stated in the provided research materials.


Cost

The cost of the Golden Visa is not specified in the provided research materials.


Dubai (UAE)


Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, has become a global hub for business and tourism, attracting individuals and families from all over the world. The UAE offers a variety of visa options, including the Golden Visa, which provides long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals.


Residency Visa


Dubai offers several residency visa options for those who wish to live and work in the emirate. These include:


  • Employment Visa: Requires sponsorship from a UAE-registered company and is typically valid for 2–3 years 32.

  • Investor Visa: Requires a property investment of at least AED 750,000 (approximately $204,000) 33.

  • Freelance Visa: Allows foreigners to work remotely for companies or clients outside the UAE 33.

  • Retirement Visa: Requires applicants to be at least 55 years old and meet specific financial requirements 33.

  • Student Visa: Granted to those enrolled in a UAE educational institution 33.

  • Family Visa: Allows residents to sponsor their family members, including spouses, children, and parents 33.


Processing Time: The processing time for residency visas can vary depending on the type and can take from a few days to several weeks 34.


Personal Input Time: Significant, involving gathering and preparing various documents, including passport copies, visa application forms, employment contracts (if applicable), and financial statements 34.


Cost: Residency visa costs vary depending on the type and processing time. For example, the Investor Visa costs AED 16,750 (approximately $4,550) 35.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with immigration authorities 36.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many expats appreciate the benefits of a Dubai residency visa, such as access to high-quality healthcare and education, a tax-free environment, and a safe and secure living environment 37. However, some have reported challenges with the high cost of living and cultural differences 37.


Golden Visa


The UAE Golden Visa program offers long-term residency (5 or 10 years) to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, exceptional talents, and outstanding students 38.


Investment Options


The program offers several investment options:

  • Public Investment: Invest at least AED 2 million in a public investment 36.

  • Real Estate Investment: Invest at least AED 2 million in real estate property 36.

  • Establish an Innovative Business: Set up an innovative business with a minimum investment of AED 500,000 36.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a non-UAE national 38.

  • Be at least 18 years old 38.

  • Have a clean criminal record 36.

  • Have no outstanding debts in the UAE 39.

  • Meet the specific requirements for their chosen investment category 36.


Processing Time


The processing time for the Golden Visa can vary depending on the category and processing service chosen. It can take from 5 to 15 working days 35.


Required Documents


The required documents for the Golden Visa vary depending on the category. However, general documents include:

  • A valid passport 40.

  • Proof of investment or business ownership 40.

  • Educational certificates (for students and specialized talents) 40.

  • Employment contract (for professionals) 40.

  • Medical insurance 40.

  • Police clearance certificate 40.


Cost


The cost of the Golden Visa includes government fees and potential legal fees. The government fees vary depending on the visa category and duration 35.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend a significant amount of time gathering and preparing the necessary documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 36.


Hassle: The Golden Visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 36.


Reviews and Testimonials: Many applicants have reported positive experiences with the Golden Visa program, highlighting the benefits of long-term residency, visa-free travel, and the ability to sponsor family members 41. However, some have also expressed concerns about the high cost of living and potential cultural differences 37.


Malta


Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, offers various residency programs for non-EU nationals, including the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), often referred to as the Malta Golden Visa 42.


Residency Visa


Malta offers several residency programs catering to different needs, including:

  • Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP): A renewable 1-year residency visa for non-EU nationals offering visa-free Schengen travel and tax advantages 42.

  • Malta Ordinary Residence (OR): For EU nationals who want to live in Malta for 183 days or more per year 42.

  • Malta Tax Residence Programme (TRP): For EU citizens who declare they do not spend more than 183 days in any other jurisdiction outside Malta 42.

  • Malta Retirement Programme (MRP): For retirees who receive a pension to be transmitted to Malta 42.

  • Malta Nomad Residence Permit (MNRP): A renewable 1-year visa for non-EU nationals who can work remotely for companies or clients outside Malta 42.


Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on the program. The MPRP typically takes 3–6 months 42.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend time gathering and preparing documents, including police clearances, financial statements, and health insurance 42.


Cost: Costs vary depending on the program. The MPRP involves government contributions, property investment or rental, and administrative fees 42.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with authorities 43.


Reviews and Testimonials: Malta is praised for its climate, quality of life, and opportunities 43. However, some applicants note challenges with bureaucracy and potential delays 44.


Golden Visa (MPRP)


The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers permanent residency to non-EU nationals through a one-time investment 42.


Investment Options


The MPRP requires a combination of investments:

  • Property: Purchase a property worth at least €350,000 (central/northern Malta) or €300,000 (southern Malta/Gozo), or rent for at least €12,000/year (central/northern) or €10,000/year (southern Malta/Gozo) 42.

  • Government Contribution: €28,000 if purchasing property, or €58,000 if renting 45.

  • Philanthropic Donation: €2,000 to a Malta-based NGO 42.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the MPRP, applicants must:

  • Be over 18 years old 42.

  • Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national 42.

  • Pass due diligence checks 42.

  • Have a clean criminal record 42.

  • Have health insurance 42.

  • Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency 42.


Processing Time

The MPRP typically takes 3–6 months to process 42.


Required Documents

Required documents include:

  • Valid passport and birth certificates 43.

  • Criminal record certificate 43.

  • Health insurance policy 43.

  • Proof of property purchase or lease agreement 43.

  • Power of attorney 43.

  • Medical report and questionnaire 43.

  • Proof of source of funds and financial assets 43.


Cost

The MPRP involves various costs:

  • Government Contribution: €28,000 (purchase) or €58,000 (rent) 45.

  • Administration Fee: €40,000 46.

  • Philanthropic Donation: €2,000 45.

  • Property Investment: €350,000+ (purchase) or €10,000+/year (rent) 45.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend significant time gathering and preparing documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 42.


Hassle: The MPRP application process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring meticulous attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 43.


Reviews and Testimonials: Malta is praised for its climate, quality of life, and opportunities 43. However, some applicants note challenges with bureaucracy and potential delays 44.


Paraguay


Paraguay, a landlocked country in South America, offers a unique residency program that attracts individuals seeking a straightforward path to permanent residency and potential citizenship. The program, known as “SUACE” (Sistema Unificado de Apertura y Cierre de Empresas), focuses on business investment and economic contribution.


Residency Visa


Paraguay offers a temporary residency permit that can be converted to permanent residency after two years. This option is suitable for those who wish to establish ties with the Paraguayan economy through employment, business ventures, or other activities like scientific research or artistic endeavors 47.


Processing Time: The temporary residency permit is typically granted within 90 days of submission 48.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend time gathering and preparing documents, including police clearances, birth certificates, and proof of income 49.


Cost: The cost for obtaining temporary residency can vary, but it generally involves fees for document processing, translation, and potential legal assistance 49.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with authorities 49.


Permanent Residency


Paraguay’s permanent residency program offers a streamlined path to permanent residency through investment.


Investment Options


The primary investment option involves establishing a company in Paraguay and investing at least $70,000 over a 10-year period 50. This investment does not need to be made upfront but can be distributed over the 10-year period 51.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old 47.

  • Have a clean criminal record 50.

  • Commit to starting a business in Paraguay 50.


Processing Time


The processing time for permanent residency is typically around 90 days from the date of application submission 51.


Required Documents


Required documents include:

  • Valid passport 49.

  • Birth certificate 49.

  • Police clearance certificate 49.

  • Proof of income 49.

  • Health certificate 49.

  • Proof of address in Paraguay 49.


Cost

The cost of the program involves government fees and potential legal fees. The total cost of fees is approximately $14,000 52.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend time gathering and preparing documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 49.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 49.


Reviews and Testimonials: Paraguay is praised for its affordable cost of living, favorable tax regime, and relaxed lifestyle 53. However, some applicants note challenges with bureaucracy and potential language barriers 49.


Panama


Panama, a Central American country known for its canal and strategic location, offers various residency programs for non-EU nationals, including the Friendly Nations Visa and the Qualified Investor Visa.


Residency Visa


Panama offers several residency programs catering to different needs, including:

  • Friendly Nations Visa: For citizens of over 50 countries deemed “friendly” by Panama, with economic or professional ties to the country 54.

  • Professional Employment Visa: Allows foreign professionals employed in Panama to obtain temporary residency 55.

  • Reforestation Visa: Encourages investment in Panama’s reforestation projects as a means to obtain residency 55.

  • Panama-Specific Business Investor Visa: For individuals looking to establish or invest in a business in Panama 55.

  • Self-Economic Solvency Visa: Offers residency to individuals demonstrating significant financial solvency 55.

  • Marriage Visa: For foreign nationals married to a Panamanian citizen 55.


Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on the program. The Friendly Nations Visa typically takes 2–3 years to process 54.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend time gathering and preparing documents, including police clearances, birth certificates, and proof of income 56.


Cost: Costs vary depending on the program. The Friendly Nations Visa involves government fees, potential legal fees, and investment costs 54.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with authorities 56.


Golden Visa (Qualified Investor Visa)

The Panama Qualified Investor Visa program offers permanent residency to non-EU nationals through a one-time investment 55.


Investment Options


The program offers three investment options:

  • Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth at least USD 300,000 (increasing to USD 500,000 from October 15, 2024) 56.

  • Stock Market Investment: Invest USD 500,000 in the Panamanian stock market 56.

  • Bank Deposit: Invest USD 750,000 in a Panamanian bank 56.


Eligibility Criteria


To be eligible for the Qualified Investor Visa, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old 57.

  • Have a clean criminal record 57.

  • Make a qualifying investment 57.


Processing Time


The processing time for the Qualified Investor Visa is typically around 30 days 58.


Required Documents


Required documents include:

  • Valid passport 56.

  • Criminal record certificate 56.

  • Proof of investment 56.

  • Bank reference letter 56.


Cost

The cost of the program involves government fees and potential legal fees 57.


Personal Input Time: Applicants should expect to spend time gathering and preparing documents, including obtaining police clearances, translating documents, and potentially legalizing them 56.


Hassle: The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with various authorities 56.


Reviews and Testimonials: Panama is praised for its strategic location, favorable tax regime, and relatively fast processing time 55. However, some applicants note challenges with the high cost of living and potential cultural differences 54.


Estonia


Estonia, a digitally advanced nation in Northern Europe, offers a unique e-Residency program and temporary residence permits for entrepreneurs and investors.


E-Residency


Launched in 2014, Estonia’s e-Residency program provides a transnational digital identity to individuals worldwide 59. This program is particularly attractive to location-independent entrepreneurs, freelancers, and digital nomads who wish to establish and manage an EU-based company online 60.


Benefits:

  • Establish and manage a location-independent EU company online 59.

  • Access Estonian e-services, including digital signing, online banking, and tax declaration 61.

  • Benefit from Estonia’s business-friendly environment and low startup costs 59.

Eligibility:

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Have a clean criminal record.

  • Provide a valid passport and a photograph.

  • State the reason for applying.

Processing Time:

  • Application review: 8–30 days 62.

  • Card delivery: 2–5 weeks 62.

Personal Input Time:

  • Minimal, typically involving completing an online application and providing basic documents 60.

Cost:

  • State fee: €150 63.

Hassle:

  • Generally straightforward, with potential challenges arising from technical issues or delays in card delivery 64.

Reviews and Testimonials:

  • The e-Residency program has been praised for its innovativeness and potential, with over 100,000 e-residents from 181 countries by the end of 2023 60.


Temporary Residence Permit


Estonia offers temporary residence permits for those who wish to physically reside in the country for business, employment, or family reasons 65.


Benefits:

  • Live and work in Estonia.

  • Access to Estonian healthcare and education systems.

  • Potential path to permanent residency and citizenship.

Eligibility:

  • Vary depending on the purpose of the stay.

  • Generally require proof of sufficient income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Processing Time:

  • Typically 3–4 months 65.

Personal Input Time:

  • Significant, involving gathering and preparing various documents, including police clearances, financial statements, and health insurance 65.

Cost:

  • State fees vary depending on the type of permit 66.

Hassle:

  • The process can be bureaucratic, requiring attention to detail and potential follow-ups with authorities 67.

Reviews and Testimonials:

  • Estonia is praised for its high quality of life, low crime rates, and business-friendly environment 68.


Please note:This is just the start of our deep dive into countries’ residency programs. I will continue to expand it to include the other countries requested so please leave a comment below.


Works cited


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