A life where you can live, work, and explore across 27 European countries without the need for a single visa sounds like a dream. For those with EU citizenship, it’s a reality. Whether you’re seeking financial freedom, global mobility, or a reliable Plan B for your family’s future, the benefits of holding an EU passport are undeniable. Obtaining EU citizenship through investment has become increasingly difficult in recent years owing to a raft of legal, political, and social changes.
In 2023, Ireland shut down its Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) more or less overnight. That same year Portugal made significant changes to its Golden Visa program—most notably removing the real estate investment option. 2024 saw the Netherlands end its Golden Visa program and this year Spain axed theirs.
Then, in April, the European Court of Justice unequivocally ruled that Malta’s Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program was in violation of EU law stating that citizenship should be based on more than simple finances and that there should be a genuine connection between the EU member state and any applicant.
Though the Maltese government accepted the decision, they have begun a legal review to determine how they might bring their program into line with the ruling. For now, any applications that had been in progress are in limbo.
It’s clear the knives are out in Europe for CBI programs so if you want an EU passport through investment, you’ll need to act fast.
But there are still some routes to EU citizenship, including those remaining through investment as well as ancestry, business, and residency in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Latvia, Bulgaria, Italy, and Ireland.
Why Consider European Citizenship?
Today securing a second citizenship is no longer just a luxury—it has become a strategic necessity for those seeking greater global mobility, financial security, and peace of mind.
An EU passport unlocks unparalleled opportunities, from visa-free travel to access across 27 European countries, to better asset protection and a reliable Plan B for the future.
Benefits include:
- Freedom of Movement: Access to live, work, and travel across all 27 EU member states.
- Economic Security: Protection of assets and opportunities to optimize taxes.
- Generational Benefits: A passport that benefits not just you, but future generations.
- Global Mobility: Visa-free access to over 150 countries in most cases.
Comprehensive Health Care Systems
One of the biggest perks of EU citizenship is access to top-notch health care. Many countries, like Germany, Sweden, and France, provide highly efficient public health care systems that are funded by taxes.
As a citizen, you’ll benefit from affordable or even free medical care, covering everything from regular check-ups to advanced surgeries. These systems focus on preventative care, keeping residents healthy in the long run. Plus, with an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), you can get health care services while traveling in other EU countries.
For families, this level of access offers peace of mind. You know your loved ones are covered if they need medical attention. For retirees, it means you can enjoy your later years with reliable health care infrastructure supporting you.
World-Class Education Opportunities
Education is a cornerstone of EU citizenship, with many countries offering free or low-cost schooling. Whether it’s primary school or higher education, EU citizens have access to some of the world’s best systems.
Countries like Finland and the Netherlands are known for their innovative and inclusive education approaches. If you’re looking at universities, being an EU citizen means significantly reduced tuition fees at institutions across the region. For instance, higher education in Germany is often free, even for international students.
Parents can also choose bilingual or international schools to prepare their children for a global future. With these resources, EU citizenship can set the foundation for a lifetime of learning.
Freedom Of Movement Across The Schengen Area
Imagine living, working, or traveling across 27 countries without the hassle of visas or border checks. That’s what EU citizenship offers through the Schengen Agreement.
For business owners, this means setting up operations in one country, sourcing materials from another, and meeting clients in a third—all without additional bureaucracy. Families and retirees can also enjoy the flexibility of splitting their time between different countries.
Freedom of movement isn’t just practical; it’s enriching. You can explore Europe’s diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes with ease, making your citizenship a passport to adventure.
Economic Stability And Opportunities
The EU’s strong economic foundation is a huge draw. As a citizen, you gain access to one of the largest and most stable economic zones in the world. This stability creates plenty of opportunities for growth, whether you’re an investor, professional, or entrepreneur.
Investors can tap into a massive integrated market for cross-border trade. Professionals benefit from access to the EU labor market, which prioritizes citizens and offers jobs in industries ranging from tech and finance to agriculture and tourism. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of supportive policies for startups and small businesses.
Additionally, EU citizenship often comes with favorable tax treaties and social security agreements, helping you manage your finances more effectively while safeguarding your future.
Generous Pension And Social Security Systems
Many EU countries offer robust pension and social security systems, ensuring financial stability in retirement. Countries like Denmark and the Netherlands consistently rank high in global pension system rankings, providing a steady income and excellent services for citizens.
If you’ve worked in multiple EU countries, you can combine your contributions through coordinated social security agreements. This ensures you’ll receive the benefits you’re entitled to, no matter where you’ve worked.
In addition to pensions, EU citizenship often provides access to services like subsidized housing and unemployment benefits, making it a reliable safety net during uncertain times.
Cultural And Lifestyle Advantages
Europe is rich in history, art, and culture, and as an EU citizen, you’ll have endless opportunities to enjoy it. From Italy’s world-renowned cuisine to Spain’s vibrant festivals and Scandinavia’s stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
Many EU countries also emphasize work-life balance, ensuring residents have the time to enjoy these cultural experiences. Families benefit from safe communities and family-friendly amenities, while retirees can settle into beautiful, serene environments.
By immersing yourself in Europe’s cultural diversity, you’ll find that EU citizenship enhances not just your opportunities, but also your day-to-day life.
Global Mobility And Diplomatic Support
An EU passport is one of the most powerful travel documents globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries. Whether for business, leisure, or visiting family, travel becomes significantly more convenient.
In addition, EU citizens benefit from robust diplomatic support. If you’re abroad and face an emergency, EU embassies and consulates are there to assist you. This level of support provides an extra layer of security, especially for frequent travelers.
Intergenerational Benefits
EU citizenship doesn’t just benefit you—it creates opportunities for your children and grandchildren. Citizenship is often passed down, giving future generations access to world-class education, health care, and economic opportunities.
This generational advantage makes EU citizenship not just an investment in your life, but in the lives of your family members. It’s a legacy that ensures better prospects for years to come.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Savory,
Simon Letter Contributor
