European residency is coveted by many in this part of the world. Understandably, when you consider how quickly it can open the door to a host of incredible lifestyle and business benefits.

For those wishing to expand their horizons this way, there are numerous initiatives and investment programs, making the pathway to European residency much more accessible than ever before.

One of the easiest ways to unlock this door is by starting a business. Several European countries allow foreign nationals to launch new enterprises and receive long-term residency permits as part of the process.

So, if you’re looking for a greater freedom to travel and a safe, secure home from home, here’s how you can secure European residency by starting an overseas business.   

Understanding residency by investment programs

As the name suggests, residence by investment programs allow applicants to obtain the right to reside in a foreign country in return for investment into a country’s economy. In most cases, the investment is made into government bonds or corporate entities. 

Investors are usually required to leave their funds in the country for a minimum period of time before they can sell or transfer their holdings.

The benefits of residency are extended for as long as the visa or permit is valid. This tends to be five years, though most can be renewed as long as eligibility criteria continues to be met.

Those who obtain residency through investment are afforded the same benefits as any other resident. While the features of each program differ, for most, this means the freedom to live and work in the country, easier international travel and access to healthcare and education systems.

There may also be tax advantages to be being resident overseas, though this will depend on your personal circumstances. Some countries also allow long term residents to apply for citizenship after at five or ten years.

Where Can You Start a Business and Get Residency in Europe?

Here are three European countries that allow residency by investment. 

Latvia

Latvia’s residency by investment program offers many benefits. After investing in or forming a new business in the country, you are eligible for a five-year residency permit. This can be extended and potentially transitioned to permanent residency and even citizenship.

As a Latvian resident, you are free to travel throughout the 26-state Schengen Area without a visa. You will also benefit from an easier visa application program to many countries, including Canada, Japan, the UK and the US. 

Latvian residency also unlocks a world of new business opportunities, opening the door to over 400 million potential customers in the European Union markets. Your residency also affords you access to the country’s world-class and highly affordable healthcare system as well as education opportunities for you and your family. 

Investment options and eligibility criteria 

To be eligible for the Latvia Business Immigration Program, you must either: 

Invest in an existing Latvian business

You must invest at least EUR 50,000 into a reputable, revenue-generating Latvian business.

OR

Set up a new business in Latvia

There is no minimum investment criteria or requirement to hire employees. However, you must pay yourself a salary that generates at least EUR 730 in taxation every month.

In both cases, there is no minimum profit or turnover requirement. If starting a new business, you must prove your qualifications or experience relating to its activities. Once you have received your residency permit, you are free to register new companies or change your business type.

Applicants must speak English, attend an interview at a Latvian embassy and travel to Latvia to collect temporary resident permits. 

All permits are valid for five years, after which you can apply for permanent EU residency, followed by citizenship. 

UK

The UK is one of the most sought after countries in the world when it comes to residency. That’s why it often comes as a surprise to learn that it can be secured for as little as GBP 50,000.

There are several residency by investment programs available to business owners and entrepreneurs. Providing you meet the criteria, you can obtain a residency permit in as little as six months.

After five years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain followed by citizenship one year later.

As a UK resident, you get the freedom to live and work in one of the world’s wealthiest and politically stable countries. That’s on top of access to the UK NHS healthcare system and world-class education opportunities.

Investment options and eligibility criteria

There are several ways to qualify for UK residency by starting a business. You can:

Apply for a startup visa: There is no minimum investment requirement with this visa, but you will need to show proof of funds amounting to £1,270 in a UK bank account.

You will also need to obtain approval from a recognised UK higher education institution or a business organisation with a proven track record of supporting UK entrepreneurs.

Apply for a Skilled Work Visa: This is often the easiest path to UK citizenship. First you must establish a new UK company and apply for a sponsorship license. You should also hire a UK national and appoint key personnel at this stage.

Once you have your sponsorship license, you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa which will allow you to reside in the UK for up to five years.

To be eligible for this route:

• Your job title and salary must meet UK home office requirements
• You must satisfy the English language standard
• You will need to prove that you have the funds to fulfill the maintenance criteria

Belgium 

Program details

Just like Lativa, Belgium offers EU residency to those who establish qualifying businesses within the country.

After five years as a resident, you can apply for full citizenship provided you meet the in-country residency requirements during this period.

As a resident of Belgium, you are free to live, work and study in the country and travel freely between Schengen Area countries. Belgium also offers incredible standards of healthcare and education. 

Investment options and eligibility criteria.

To be eligible for residency by investment in Belgium, can must first start a new public limited company.

This company must have an office in Belgium and create jobs in the country. While there is no minimum investment requirement, it usually costs in the region of EUR 70,000 to EUR 100,000 per year to operate this kind of business.

You will also need to pay EUR 95,000 for the first year of your residency, plus EUR 25,000 for each yearly renewal. 

How Knightsbridge Can Help

Whether you want to quickly secure residency in a stable European nation or get on the long term path to EU citizenship, Knightsbridge can help.

We are a team of 30 seasoned experts boasting over 200 years of industry experience – and we’re dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

Our team will guide you through the entire process of residency by investment, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements while optimizing your chances of success.

With our expert advice, you can make informed decisions to unlock new opportunities for you and your family. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to assisting you on your journey to European residency.