How to Become a European Citizen in 2024

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Obtaining European citizenship can be problematic. The route to naturalization can resemble a long and winding road. There are shortcuts, however, and in this article we will show you how to become a European citizen in 2 easy ways.

1.) How to Become a European Citizen Via Investment

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) offers a path to become a European national. While there has been more than one European CBI Programmes in the past, presently Malta is the only country to run one. This is Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalization (MEIN).

Maltese citizenship allows you to apply for a Malta passport. We rank this travel document as the 7th most powerful passport in the world. It guarantees you visa-free access to 175 countries.

Either secure residence in Malta for 12 months and invest €750,000 or take the 36-month option and pay €600,000.

Whichever route you choose to follow, you must buy residential property in Malta worth a minimum €700,000 or rent residential real estate with an annual rent of at least €16,000.

There are additional due diligence fees of €15,000 for you, €10,000 for your spouse, and €10,000 for any dependants aged 13 and over.

2.) Become a European Citizen Via Residency

If you’re a Third Country National (TCN), as in a non-EU citizen, Residency by Investment is your alternative route to becoming a European national. The main issue is that this is the lengthiest passage to European citizenship. That’s because you have to factor in naturalization with these 3 programmes.

A.) Greek Residency by Investment

The Greek Golden Visa is set to rise from a minimum €250,000 to €400,000 on Monday, September 30, 2024, as we reported in March.

After 7 years of permanent residency in the country, you’re eligible for Greek citizenship. This can see you qualify to apply for a Greek passport, a travel document we rate 4th strongest worldwide due to its visa-free access to 178 destinations.

B.) Portuguese Residency by Investment

You can obtain citizenship through the Portuguese Golden Visa. However, you will have to reside in the country for 5 years and demonstrate A2 proficiency in the language by taking the CIPLE exam. You’re then able to become a holder of a Portuguese passport offering visa-free travel to 179 countries.

C.) Spanish Residency by Investment

With a Spanish Golden Visa, you will need to reside in the country for 10 years before qualifying for citizenship and take a language test too. This is reduced to 2 years if you’re a national of a Spanish-speaking Latin American country or the Philippines.

We rate the Spanish passport as the 2nd most powerful travel document in the world as it allows you to access 180 countries without a visa.

How to Choose the Best Route to European Citizenship For You

So, how to become a European citizen in 2024? Talk to an investment migration expert such as RIF Trust to find the perfect match for your needs. That’s right, don’t delay and contact us today.