• EU residence permit summary

    Portugal

    Naturalization time: 5 years (one of the shortest timelines).

    Language requirement: Pass an A2 level Portuguese language test (basic level).

    Residency requirement: Stay in Portugal for at least 6 months each year.

    Advantages:

    • Dual citizenship is allowed.
    • No strict permanent residency requirements—just meet the minimum residency conditions.
    • Suitable for immigration through D7 visa, D2 entrepreneur visa, or Golden Visa programs.

    Best for: Freelancers, retirees, entrepreneurs, and investors.

    Sweden

    Sweden offers a Self-Employment Visa for entrepreneurs who want to start or invest in a business in Sweden. This visa leads to residency, permanent residency (PR), and citizenship.

    Key Requirements

    1. Business Ownership – Own at least 50% of a Swedish company and manage operations.
    2. Industry Experience – Proven work or business experience in the relevant field.
    3. Financial Stability –

    • 200,000 SEK for the applicant
    • 100,000 SEK for spouse
    • 50,000 SEK per child
      Language Skills – Proficiency in Swedish or English.
      Business Plan – A detailed and feasible plan, including market analysis, financial projections, and contracts.
      Valid Passport – Must cover the visa duration.

    Application Process

    • Prepare – Set up or acquire a business in Sweden, draft a business plan.
    • Apply – Submit documents to the Swedish Migration Agency.
    • Approval – Get a 2-year residence permit and move to Sweden.
    • Permanent Residency – After 2 years, apply for PR.
    • Citizenship – After 5 years of legal residence, apply for Swedish citizenship.

    Why Choose Sweden?

    • Quick PR & Citizenship – PR in 2 years, citizenship in 5 years.
    • No Fixed Investment Requirement – Business feasibility matters more than capital.
    • World-Class Benefits – Access to free healthcare, education, and social security.
    • Strong Passport – Visa-free travel to 155+ countries.

    Sweden’s Self-Employment Visa is a fast and flexible option for entrepreneurs looking to live, work, and gain permanent residency or citizenship in Europe.

    Germany

    Germany offers visas for entrepreneurs and freelancers looking to start a business or work independently.

    1. Self-Employment Visa (Business Owners)

    • For entrepreneurs starting a business in Germany
    • Key Requirements:
    1. Business Plan proving economic benefit
    2. Proof of Funds to support business & living expenses
    3. Retirement savings proof (if over 45)

    2. Pathway:

    • Apply at the German Embassy
    • Processing time: 8-12 weeks
    • Can apply for permanent residency after 3 years
    • Can apply for citizenship after 5 years

    3. Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler Visa)

    • For professionals (IT, arts, consulting, education, medicine, etc.)
    • Key Requirements:

    1.Work contracts with German clients

    2.Relevant qualifications (degree/certifications)

    3.Financial stability & health insurance

    4. Pathway:

    • Apply at the German Embassy
    • Processing time: 8-12 weeks
    • Can apply for permanent residency after 3 years
    • Can apply for citizenship after 5 years

    5. Why Choose Germany?

    • Strong economy for business & freelancing
    • Fast-track to permanent residency in 3 years
    • Live & work freely in the EU (Schengen Area)

    Germany’s Self-Employment & Freelancer Visas offer a great opportunity for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to build their careers in Europe.