Obtaining a residence permit in the European Union (EU) provides ample opportunities for doing business, the labour market, education and a comfortable life. What a residence permit in an EU country usually gives (the exact rights depend on that country's law):
✅ Free movement: with a permit from a Schengen country you may stay in other Schengen countries for no more than 90 days in total in any 180-day period.
✅ The right to work and run a business: depends on the ground for the permit and the law of the issuing country; it is not automatic and applies in that country.
✅ Access to European education: the opportunity to study at prestigious EU universities on favourable terms.
✅ Social rights: the scope depends on the country and the status.
✅ The path to citizenship: after a certain period of time, an application for citizenship may be submitted in the chosen country.
What are the main ways to get a residence permit in the EU?
Depending on the goals and possibilities, there are several ways to obtain a residence permit in EU countries:
✅ Investments in the economy: conditions differ by country; in Latvia, real estate has not been a ground since 15 September 2026, while investment in a company's share capital still is.
✅ Employment: obtaining a work visa and an employment contract with a European company.
✅ Education: admission to an accredited EU higher education institution and a student's residence permit.
✅ Family reunification: moving with a spouse or close relatives who hold EU citizenship or a residence permit.
✅ Business Immigration: establishment of a company in an EU country and proof of economic activity.
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