Features of obtaining a residence permit in different countries of the world

In order to compile a complete and correct list of European countries where you can obtain a residence permit, as well as the individual features of obtaining it in each of them, we conducted a study of immigration legislation, which is subject to frequent changes. Given the dynamic nature of immigration policies, it is recommended to check the official websites of each country’s government or embassy for the most up-to-date information.

Europe

1. Germany

• There are several residence permits, for example for work, study, entrepreneurship and family reunification.
• The Blue Card is an option for highly qualified workers.

2. France

• Different types of permits: for work, family and students.
• Talent passport for qualified specialists.

3. Italy

• Offers optional resident visas for individuals with high levels of self-sufficiency and assets.
• Start-up Visa for innovative entrepreneurs.

4. Spain

• Non-profit residence visa for persons with sufficient funds, not requiring work.
• Golden Visa program for large real estate investors.

5. Portugal

• General work visas and family reunion visas.
• Golden visa for real estate investment or capital transfer.

6. Netherlands

• Program for highly skilled migrants.
• Individual entrepreneurs can obtain a residence permit if they meet certain criteria.

7. Switzerland

• Strict quota system for obtaining a residence permit.
• B permits are for temporary residence, and C permits are for permanent residence.

8. Belgium

• Applicants must have a job offer from a Belgian employer.
• Under certain conditions, independent professional activity is also possible.

9. Austria

• The “red-white-red card” scheme is intended for various categories of workers and their family members.
• Facilities for students and researchers are also provided.

10. Sweden

• Offers work permits for those who have job offers.
• Permits for students and people with family in Sweden.

11. Norway

• Job offer required, special rules for skilled workers, seasonal workers, etc.
• Special rules for self-employed persons.

12. Denmark

• Points-based system for certain qualified workers.
• The Green Card scheme allows you to live and work if you collect enough points.

13. Finland

• Options for workers, entrepreneurs and researchers.
• Family members can often apply on similar grounds.

14. Ireland

• General Work Permit and Critical Work Permit.
• Investment and entrepreneurial programs for citizens of non-EU countries.

15. Greece

• Residence permit to achieve financial independence, real estate investment and business investment.
• Digital nomad visa for remote workers.

This list only scratches the surface of the possibilities for obtaining a residence permit in Europe, and each country’s rules regarding residence permits differ greatly in terms of requirements such as financial means, integration measures, health insurance and many others. To stay up to date with current laws, you need to consult legal experts or official resources to obtain detailed and individual information.

North America

In the US and Canada, the process for obtaining permanent residence (known as Permanent Residency in Canada and Green Card in the US) includes different pathways designed for different categories of applicants, such as those with family ties, job offers, refugee status or asylum and others. Here’s a quick overview:

United States (Green Card)

1. For family reasons

• U.S. citizens and permanent residents may sponsor certain family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings, for a Green Card.

2. Based on employment

• There are several categories, including priority workers (EB-1), highly educated or exceptionally able workers (EB-2), skilled workers, specialists and other workers (EB-3), special immigrants such as religious workers (EB-4), and immigrant investors (EB-5).

3. Refugee or forced migrant status

• Individuals who have been granted asylum or refugee status may apply for a Green Card one year after receiving status.

4. Diversity Lottery

• Individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States may receive a limited number of Green Cards through the Diversity Visa Lottery program.

5. Special categories

• These include several special groups, such as abused spouses or children, victims of human trafficking, and persons born to foreign diplomats in the United States.

Canada (permanent residence)

1. Express entry

• A system that manages applications for qualified workers seeking permanent resident status based on their skills, work experience and language proficiency.

2. Provincial Nomination Program (PNP)

• Allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and are interested in residing in a particular province.

3. Family sponsorship

• Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor relatives, including spouses, partners, children, parents, grandparents and others, to obtain permanent resident status.

4. Business immigration

• Includes options for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who want to open or purchase a business in Canada.

5. Canadian Experience Class

• For those who have worked in Canada for at least one year as a qualified professional.

6. Humanitarian and compassionate grounds

• For people who are already in Canada and would face undue hardship if they were to return to their home country.

7. Refugees and asylum

• Individuals fleeing persecution, torture or inhumane treatment may seek asylum in Canada.

Both the US and Canada offer many other niche categories for permanent residence that are designed for specific situations, such as people with exceptional abilities, athletes, military personnel, caregivers, and others. The application process in both countries is complex, involving the completion of numerous forms, eligibility thresholds and often long waiting periods. Policies and procedures are subject to change, so you should consult the latest official government sources or legal advice when considering immigration and residency issues.

Asia and Middle East

In Asia, immigration policies vary significantly from country to country, and each has unique pathways and requirements to obtain long-term or permanent residency. Here’s a general overview of some Asian countries:

1. China

• China offers permanent residence, often called a “Chinese Green Card.”
• Eligibility requirements may include having direct family ties to Chinese citizens or other permanent residents, playing a significant role in a successful business, or having significant investments.

2. Japan

• Japan offers various long-term visas such as work, student and family.
• After 10 years of continuous residence in the country, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
• Highly qualified specialists can obtain the right to permanent residence after just 1 year.

3. South Korea

• South Korea provides an F-5 permanent residence visa for those who meet the investment, business, or specialized ability categories.
• An F-2 resident visa can lead to an F-5 if certain requirements are met, such as a point system based on age, income and language proficiency.

4. Singapore

• Offers permanent resident status through work, investment or family connections.
• Programs such as the Professional/Technical and Skilled Worker Program or the Global Investor Program for investors.

5. Malaysia

• The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program allows foreigners to obtain a long-term visa to live in the country.
• Proof of financial solvency is required, including a minimum monthly income and a fixed deposit account in Malaysia.

6. Thailand

• Offers several types of long-term visas, such as the Thai Elite Visa for high-net-worth individuals who can make significant long-term financial commitments.
• Other options are business visas and retirement visas, although permanent residence permits are difficult to obtain and have a limited annual validity.

7. Indonesia

• KITAP is a permanent residence permit that can be issued after holding a temporary KITAS permit for several years.
• There are various ways to obtain KITAS, including work, family reunification and retirement.

8. Philippines

• The Philippines offers several long-term stay options, including a special resident visa for retirees.
• Citizens of countries that have diplomatic relations with the Philippines are eligible for a quota immigrant visa.

9. India

• Offers the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, which provides visa-free travel and rights similar to those of non-resident Indians.
• Permanent Resident Status (PRS) is offered to foreign investors subject to certain eligibility criteria.

10. UAE

• The UAE offers long-term residence visas, known as the Golden Visa, to investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, researchers in various fields of science and knowledge, and bright students with promising scientific abilities.

11. Saudi Arabia

• Saudi Arabia has a "Premium Residency" that allows expatriates to live, work, own businesses and property in the country without a Saudi sponsor, renew their residency permits and benefit from document processing services designed for Saudis.

Asia is very diverse both culturally and legally; the rules for obtaining a residence permit are subject to frequent changes and updates. When considering residency in any Asian country, you should check the latest advice from official immigration portals or seek advice from legal professionals.

Australia and Oceania

Immigration policies in this region are developed by each country taking into account the characteristics of the population, economic needs and security considerations. Here is a general overview of the residency systems in Australia and some Oceania countries:

Australia

1. Permanent residence visas:

• Skilled Migration : For skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer but have passed a points test.
• Employer Designation Scheme : Employers can sponsor qualified foreigners.
• Innovation and Business Investment Program : For entrepreneurs and investors.
• Family Visa : Allows Australians to sponsor family members.
• Humanitarian program : For refugees and people in need of humanitarian assistance.

2. Paths to Citizenship : Generally, permanent residents can apply for citizenship after four years, including one year as a permanent resident.

New Zealand

1. Residence class visas:

• Skilled Migrant Category : For those who have the skills, qualifications and experience required by New Zealand.
• Family categories : Sponsorship of partner and dependent children.
• Business and Investor Visas : For those who want to invest or start their own business.

2. Permanent Residence : Residence visa holders can apply for permanent residence after meeting certain criteria, including time spent in the country.

Fiji

1. Permanent residence permit

• Available to those who invest in Fiji, have specialized skills or have family ties to the country.

Samoa

Permanent residence permit:

• Available to individuals who make a significant contribution to the Samoan economy or have family ties.
• There is a quota system in place that limits the number of residence permits issued annually.

Papua New Guinea

Permanent residence:

• Available through investment, business creation or family connections.
• The points system can also provide the opportunity to obtain a residence permit based on qualifications, work experience and language proficiency.

Vanuatu

Permanent residence:

• Long-term residence options are available through investment programs.
• The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program is also one of the ways to obtain residency and citizenship.

French Polynesia (French overseas territory)

Residence permit:

• For long-term stays related to work, family reunification or retirement, it is necessary to obtain a residence permit from the French authorities.
• EU immigration and visa laws apply in France.

Palau, Micronesia and Marshall Islands

• In these small island states, long-term residence is often available through family connections or special work or investment arrangements.

The criteria and processes for obtaining a residence permit in the Oceania region can be quite complex, with restrictions on the number of immigrants and an emphasis on protecting local employment. Countries with small populations or fragile ecosystems may have stricter immigration controls. For the most up-to-date information and advice, you should contact your local consulates, embassies or immigration attorneys familiar with your country’s specific requirements.