Expert Advice

In this article, we explore the five easiest countries in Europe to get permanent residency without the need for investment. For a more detailed analysis, check out the 15 Easiest Countries to get Permanent Residency in Europe Without Investment. 5. Norway – **Labor Market Mobility:** 85 – **Family Reunion:** 58 – **Permanent Residence Certainty:** 71 – **Average Score:** 71.3 To qualify for permanent residency in Norway, EU/EEA citizens and their family members can apply after living in the country for at least five years. Non-European citizens must maintain valid residence permits for at least three years. Additionally, individuals aged 16 to 64 must pass exams in the Norwegian language and social studies. 4. Estonia – **Labor Market Mobility:** 69 – **Family Reunion:** 76 – **Permanent Residence Certainty:** 77 – **Average Score:** 74 Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals planning to stay in Estonia for over a year can apply for a temporary residence permit, which takes about two to three months to process. This permit allows them to live, work, and study in Estonia for up to five years. To qualify for permanent residency, they must have lived in Estonia for five years with a temporary permit, have valid health insurance, legal income, knowledge of Estonian culture and language (B1 level), and a registered address in Estonia’s population register. 3. Sweden – **Labor Market Mobility:** 91 – **Family Reunion:** 71 – **Permanent Residence Certainty:** 90 – **Average Score:** 84 Applicants with a residence permit in Sweden can apply for permanent residency after residing in the country for a certain period, usually at least four years. They must also demonstrate financial self-sufficiency and lead an orderly life. 2. Portugal – **Labor Market Mobility:** 94 – **Family Reunion:** 87 – **Permanent Residence Certainty:** 71 – **Average Score:** 84 Non-European immigrants must first obtain a temporary residence permit and live continuously in Portugal for five years. This permit allows indefinite residence and work in Portugal, given certain criteria are met, such as having a place of residence, financial stability, and basic Portuguese language knowledge. After five years, they can apply for permanent residency and potentially pursue Portuguese citizenship. 1. Finland – **Labor Market Mobility:** 91 – **Family Reunion:** 67 – **Permanent Residence Certainty:** 96 – **Average Score:** 84.6 To be eligible for permanent residency in Finland, one must have resided continuously in the country for four years with an uninterrupted residence permit (A permit). This means maintaining a continuous residence permit for the entire period and applying for extensions before the current permit expires. Additionally, applicants must have lived in Finland for at least two years within the last four years.