Fastest routes to permanent residence — settlement timelines compared
The "time to settlement" column below describes the minimum qualifying residence period under current rules. Physical-presence, absence rules, and good-character tests apply to all routes — actual settlement timelines can exceed these minimums.
| Destination | Route | Time to settlement | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Skilled Worker visa | Up to 5 years on initial grant, extendable; leads to settlement after continuous residence. | work-sponsored |
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Health and Care Worker visa | Up to 5 years on initial grant; leads to settlement after 5 years continuous residence. | work-sponsored |
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Global Talent visa | Up to 5 years per grant; leads to settlement after 3 or 5 years depending on endorsement type. | work-unsponsored |
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Innovator Founder visa | 3 years per grant; extendable. Leads to settlement after 3 years. | entrepreneur |
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Scale-up visa | 2 years; extendable; leads to settlement after 5 years. | work-sponsored |
| United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | Family visa (partner/spouse) | Initial 2.5 years then extension to 5 years total; leads to settlement. | family |
| Republic of Ireland | Critical Skills Employment Permit | 2 years initially; leads to Stamp 4 permission and long-term residence after 2 years. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Ireland | General Employment Permit | 2 years initially; renewable; longer-term residence possible after 5 years. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Ireland | Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) | Initial 2-year permission; renewable; leads to Stamp 4 after 5 years. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Ireland | Stamp 4 permission | Typically issued for 1–5 years at a time; renewable. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ireland | Join Family (Irish national or EEA national) | Variable — usually 1–3 years at a time; leads to Stamp 4. | family |
| Republic of Ireland | Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP — closed) | Closed to new applicants. | investor |
| Federal Republic of Germany | EU Blue Card (Germany) | 4 years (or duration of contract + 3 months, whichever is shorter). | work-sponsored |
| Federal Republic of Germany | Chancenkarte (Germany Opportunity Card) | Up to 12 months initial; one-time extension as Anschluss-Chancenkarte for up to 24 more months if a qualifying job offer is held but full recognition is still pending. | work-unsponsored |
| Federal Republic of Germany | Skilled Worker residence permit (§18a/§18b AufenthG) | Usually up to 4 years or contract length plus 3 months. | work-sponsored |
| Federal Republic of Germany | Recognition Partnership (Anerkennungspartnerschaft) | Up to 3 years. | work-sponsored |
| Federal Republic of Germany | Freelance / Self-employment residence permit (§21 AufenthG) | Initial 3 years typically; leads to settlement. | work-unsponsored |
| Federal Republic of Germany | Family reunion residence permit | Typically 1–3 years at a time; leads to settlement. | family |
| Portuguese Republic | D7 visa (passive income / retirement) | Initial 4-month entry visa; 2-year residence card renewable for 3 years; leads to permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years. | residence-general |
| Portuguese Republic | D8 visa (digital nomad / remote work) | Residence track: same 2+3 year pattern as D7, leading to permanent residence or citizenship. | digital-nomad |
| Portuguese Republic | D2 visa (entrepreneur / self-employment) | Same 2+3 year residence permit pattern; leads to permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years. | entrepreneur |
| Portuguese Republic | Portugal Golden Visa (residence by investment) | Initial 2-year residence renewable; very low physical-presence requirement (7 days in year 1, 14 in years 2 and 3). | investor |
| Portuguese Republic | D3 visa (highly qualified activity) | 2+3 year pattern leading to permanent residence or citizenship. | work-sponsored |
| Portuguese Republic | Family reunification (residence) | Matches sponsor's residence; leads to settlement. | family |
| Kingdom of Spain | Digital Nomad Visa (Spain) | Initial 1-year consular visa, extendable to 3-year residence permit, then renewable for further 2 years; counts toward permanent residence after 5 years. | digital-nomad |
| Kingdom of Spain | Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) | Initial 1 year; renewable for 2-year periods; leads to permanent residence after 5 years. | residence-general |
| Kingdom of Spain | Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) permit | 3 years; renewable for 2 years; leads to permanent residence after 5. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Spain | Entrepreneur Visa (Ley 14/2013) | Initial 3 years; renewable. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of Spain | Spain Golden Visa (ending April 2025) | Closed to new property-based applications from 3 April 2025. | investor |
| Kingdom of Spain | Family reunification (Spain) | Matches sponsor; leads to settlement. | family |
| Kingdom of the Netherlands | Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) | Matches contract, up to 5 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of the Netherlands | EU Blue Card (Netherlands) | Matches contract, up to 4 years plus 3 months; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of the Netherlands | Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) entrepreneur | Initial 2 years, renewable for 5; leads to permanent residence. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of the Netherlands | Startup Visa (Netherlands) | 1 year, non-renewable as Startup Visa; transitions to self-employment route. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of the Netherlands | Partner residence (Dutch national or resident sponsor) | Initial 5 years; leads to permanent residence. | family |
| United Arab Emirates | UAE Golden Visa | 10 years, renewable. | investor |
| Canada | Express Entry — Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Canada | Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Canada | Express Entry — Federal Skilled Trades (FST) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Canada | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Canada | Start-Up Visa (Canada) | Permanent residence. | entrepreneur |
| Canada | Spousal / common-law sponsorship (Canada) | Permanent residence. | family |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) | Up to 4 years. | work-sponsored |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) | 5 years provisional, with pathway to permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) | Permanent residence. | work-sponsored |
| Commonwealth of Australia | National Innovation visa (formerly Global Talent) | Permanent residence. | work-unsponsored |
| Commonwealth of Australia | Partner visa (subclass 820/801, 309/100) | Initial provisional to permanent residence. | family |
| United States of America | EB-1A Extraordinary Ability (Immigrant) | Permanent residence (green card). | skilled-migration |
| United States of America | EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| United States of America | EB-3 Skilled, Professional, and Other Workers | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| United States of America | EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program | Conditional 2-year residence leading to unconditional permanent residence. | investor |
| United States of America | K-1 Fiancé(e) of US Citizen | Single-entry 6 months; must marry within 90 days of entry. | family |
| United States of America | Spouse of US Citizen or Green Card Holder (IR1/CR1 & F2A) | Permanent residence (conditional 2-year CR1 converts to 10-year card via I-751). | family |
| New Zealand | Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa | Permanent residence. | skilled-migration |
| New Zealand | Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa | Permanent residence. | family |
| New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | 4-year conditional resident visa; transitions to full residence. | investor |
| French Republic | Talent Passport — Salaried Employee (Passeport Talent Salarié) | Up to 4 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| French Republic | Talent Passport — Researcher (Passeport Talent Chercheur) | Up to 4 years; renewable. | work-unsponsored |
| French Republic | EU Blue Card (Carte Bleue Européenne) | Up to 4 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| French Republic | Long-Stay Visa — Salaried Worker (VLS-TS Salarié) | 1 year; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| French Republic | Family Reunification (Regroupement Familial) | 1 year; renewable. Leads to 10-year carte de résident after 5 years. | family |
| Italian Republic | Citizenship by Descent (Jure Sanguinis) | Permanent — full citizenship. | citizenship-by-descent |
| Italian Republic | EU Blue Card (Carta Blu UE) | 2 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Italian Republic | Elective Residence Visa (Residenza Elettiva) | 1 year; renewable. Leads to long-term residence after 5 years. | residence-general |
| Japan | Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa | 5 years; with fast-track PR after 1–3 years. | skilled-migration |
| Japan | Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services | 1 or 3 years (5 years for renewals); renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Japan | Business Manager Visa (経営・管理) | 1 year initially; renewable for 1, 3, or 5 years. | entrepreneur |
| Swiss Confederation | B Permit — Third-Country National (Aufenthaltsbewilligung) | Up to 1 year; renewable annually. | work-sponsored |
| Swiss Confederation | C Permit — Settlement (Niederlassungsbewilligung) | Indefinite — valid as long as you remain resident in Switzerland. | residence-general |
| Swiss Confederation | Family Reunification (Familiennachzug) | Tied to the sponsor's permit status. | family |
| Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | Premium Residency | Permanent (one-time fee option) or 1 year renewable (annual fee option). | investor |
| Republic of Korea | E-7 Designated Activities Visa | 1–3 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Korea | F-2-7 Points-Based Long-Term Residence | 3 years; renewable. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Korea | D-8 Corporate Investment Visa | 1–2 years; renewable as long as the business operates. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of Sweden | Work Permit (Arbetstillstånd) | 2 years initially; renewable for another 2 years. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Sweden | EU Blue Card (Sweden) | 2 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Sweden | Self-Employment Permit (Eget företag) | 2 years initially; renewable. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Austria | Red-White-Red Card (Rot-Weiß-Rot-Karte) | 2 years; then RWR Card Plus (employer-independent, also 2 years, renewable). | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Austria | EU Blue Card (Austria) | 2 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Austria | Family Reunification (Familiennachzug) | 1 year initially; renewable. Spouses get RWR Card Plus (3 years). | family |
| Republic of Austria | Red-White-Red Card — Startup Founder | 2 years; then RWR Card Plus progression. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of Denmark | Pay Limit Scheme (Beloebsordningen) | Up to 4 years; renewable if employment continues. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Denmark | Positive List Scheme (Positivlisten) | Up to 4 years; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Denmark | Fast-Track Scheme (Fast-Track-ordningen) | Up to 4 years. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Denmark | Family Reunification (Familiesammenfoering) | Tied to the sponsor's residence status. Leads to permanent residence on the same conditions as work-permit holders. | family |
| Kingdom of Norway | Skilled Worker Residence Permit (Oppholdstillatelse som faglaert) | 1–3 years initially; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Finland | Residence permit for a specialist | Up to 2 years for the first permit; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Finland | Residence permit for an employed person | Usually tied to the job and permit decision; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Finland | Start-up entrepreneur residence permit | Initial permit is time-limited and renewable if the startup basis continues. | entrepreneur |
| Kingdom of Belgium | Single Permit | Usually tied to the employment authorisation and residence decision; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Kingdom of Belgium | EU Blue Card | Time-limited residence and work authorisation; renewable. | skilled-migration |
| Kingdom of Belgium | Professional Card for self-employment | Time-limited and renewable under regional rules. | entrepreneur |
| Grand Duchy of Luxembourg | Residence permit for salaried workers | Permit validity is tied to the authorised employment and renewal rules. | work-sponsored |
| Grand Duchy of Luxembourg | EU Blue Card | Time-limited permit; renewable under Luxembourg Blue Card rules. | skilled-migration |
| Grand Duchy of Luxembourg | Residence permit for self-employed workers | Up to 3 years for the first residence permit in many cases; renewable. | entrepreneur |
| Czech Republic | Employee Card | Long-term residence permit; validity depends on the job and decision. | work-sponsored |
| Czech Republic | Blue Card | Valid up to 3 months longer than the work contract, with a maximum listed by Czech rules. | skilled-migration |
| Czech Republic | Long-term residence for business | Long-term residence permit; renewable if the business purpose continues. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Poland | Temporary residence and work permit | More than 3 months and up to 3 years. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Poland | Temporary residence for highly skilled work (EU Blue Card) | Temporary residence permit; validity depends on the job and decision. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Poland | Temporary residence for business activity | Temporary residence permit; usually up to the statutory temporary-residence maximum. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Estonia | Temporary residence permit for employment | Temporary residence permit; renewable if the employment basis continues. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Estonia | Startup Visa | Visa or temporary residence route depending on stay length and case type. | entrepreneur |
| Hellenic Republic | EU Blue Card / highly qualified worker | Residence permit validity follows Greek/EU Blue Card rules and the employment basis. | skilled-migration |
| Hellenic Republic | Golden Visa | Residence permit is renewable if the qualifying investment condition continues. | investor |
| Republic of Malta | Single Permit | Usually 1 year, with some permits issued longer where eligible. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Malta | Specialist Employee Initiative | Issued through the employment residence framework; renewable if conditions continue. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Cyprus | Temporary residence and employment permit | Temporary permit; validity depends on employment category and approval. | work-sponsored |
| United Mexican States | Temporary Resident Visa | Visa supports residence longer than 180 days and up to 4 years after INM card exchange/renewal. | residence-general |
| United Mexican States | Visa by job offer / temporary resident with work authorisation | Depends on job length and residence status; temporary residence can be renewed within statutory limits. | work-sponsored |
| United Mexican States | Visa by family unit | Temporary or permanent residence outcome depends on the family relationship and sponsor status. | family |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | Residence authorization for work (VITEM V) | Commonly granted as a temporary residence aligned to the employment, with renewal and a pathway toward indefinite residence; confirm current terms on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | Residence authorization for investment | The real-estate investment authorization is initially granted for four years and is renewable for an indefinite period; confirm current terms on the official page. | investor |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | Family reunion residence (VITEM XI) | Residence is generally aligned to the sponsoring relationship and the sponsor status, with renewal and a pathway toward indefinite residence; confirm current terms on the official page. | family |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | MERCOSUR residence agreement (VITEM XIII) | Temporary residence is typically granted for up to two years and can be converted to indefinite residence on meeting the decree requirements; confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | Residence for retirees and pensioners | Initial residence is granted for up to two years and is renewable; confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Argentine Republic | MERCOSUR Temporary Residence (by nationality) | Granted for two years, renewable; defer to the official page for current terms. | residence-general |
| Argentine Republic | Temporary Residence as a Migrant Worker | Granted for one year, renewable; defer to the official page for current terms. | work-sponsored |
| Argentine Republic | Rentista (Fixed-Income) Temporary Residence | Granted for one year, renewable; defer to the official page for current terms. | residence-general |
| Argentine Republic | Inversionista (Investor) Temporary Residence | Granted for up to one year, renewable for periods of up to three years; defer to the official page for current terms. | investor |
| Argentine Republic | Temporary Residence by Family Reunification | Defer to the official page; terms depend on the relationship and the sponsor status. | family |
| Republic of Chile | Temporary Residence - Lawful Remunerated Activities | Temporary residence valid up to 2 years; counts toward Residencia Definitiva after roughly 24 months. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Chile | Temporary Residence - Employment Opportunity | Temporary residence valid up to 2 years; counts toward Residencia Definitiva after roughly 24 months. | work-unsponsored |
| Republic of Chile | Temporary Residence - Investors and Related Personnel | Temporary residence (up to 2 years per the Residencia Temporal framework); counts toward Residencia Definitiva. | investor |
| Republic of Chile | Temporary Residence - Family Reunification | Temporary residence (up to 2 years under the Residencia Temporal framework); renewable and counts toward Residencia Definitiva. | family |
| Oriental Republic of Uruguay | Permanent Legal Residence (Residencia Permanente) | Permanent on grant; cedula renewed periodically. Leads to naturalisation under separate citizenship rules. | residence-general |
| Oriental Republic of Uruguay | MERCOSUR Permanent Residence | Permanent on grant; cedula renewed periodically. Leads to naturalisation under separate rules. | residence-general |
| Oriental Republic of Uruguay | Permanent Residence by Uruguayan Family Link | Permanent on grant; cedula renewed periodically. Leads to naturalisation under separate rules. | family |
| Oriental Republic of Uruguay | Retiree and Pensioner Residence Benefit (Law 16.340) | Tied to permanent residence (permanent on grant). The imported vehicle cannot be sold for 4 years; qualifying property cannot be sold for 10 years. | residence-general |
| Republic of South Africa | Critical Skills Work Visa | Up to 5 years per issue; renewable. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of South Africa | Business Visa | Issued for the period of the business activity, subject to conditions. | investor |
| Republic of South Africa | Retired Persons' Visa | Issued for an extended period subject to continued financial qualification. | residence-general |
| Republic of Mauritius | Occupation Permit (Professional) | Issued for up to 10 years and renewable, subject to a continuing qualifying employment contract. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Mauritius | Occupation Permit (Investor) | Issued for up to 10 years and renewable, subject to meeting ongoing turnover conditions. | investor |
| Republic of Mauritius | Occupation Permit (Self-Employed) | Issued for up to 10 years and renewable, subject to meeting ongoing business income conditions. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Mauritius | Residence Permit for Retired Non-Citizens (50+) | Initial residence permit valid for up to 10 years and renewable. | residence-general |
| Republic of Kenya | Class D Work Permit (Employment) | Issued and renewable in line with the employment; counts toward the residence record for permanent residence. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Kenya | Class G Work Permit (Trade, Business or Consultancy) | Issued and renewable in line with the business; counts toward the residence record for permanent residence. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Kenya | Class K Permit (Ordinary Residents) | Issued and renewable subject to continued assured income; counts toward the residence record for permanent residence. | residence-general |
| Republic of Kenya | Class A Work Permit (Prospecting and Mining) | Issued and renewable in line with the licensed activity; counts toward the residence record for permanent residence. | investor |
| Republic of Kenya | Permanent Residence | Permanent on grant, subject to the conditions of the Act. | residence-general |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | General Employment Policy (GEP) | Initial stay normally up to 36 months on employment conditions; extensions typically follow a 3+3+2-year pattern. | work-sponsored |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) | Initial stay normally up to 36 months under the General Points Test (or a longer initial period for Achievement-based applicants); renewable. | skilled-migration |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) | Initial stay of 36 months (Category A) or 24 months (Categories B and C); renewable on meeting the criteria. | work-unsponsored |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) | Initial stay of 24 months on time limitation only; renewable subject to meeting the criteria. | work-unsponsored |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) | Employment-based stay aligned with the company quota and the applicant contract; renewable subject to continued eligibility. | work-sponsored |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Entry for Investment as Entrepreneurs | Initial stay normally up to 36 months on employment (business) conditions; extensions follow the standard pattern. | entrepreneur |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) | Initial stay granted under the scheme, renewable while the investment and asset requirements continue to be met. | investor |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China | Entry for Residence as Dependants | Stay normally aligned with the sponsor permitted period of stay; renewable alongside the sponsor. | family |
| Taiwan (Republic of China) | Taiwan Employment Gold Card | Valid for 1 to 3 years; renewable. | work-unsponsored |
| Taiwan (Republic of China) | Work Permit for Specialized or Technical Work + ARC | Work permit and resident visa run with the employment contract (which must have more than six months remaining at application); renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Taiwan (Republic of China) | Foreign Special Professional Work Permit | Employment permit of up to five years for designated foreign professionals; renewable. | work-sponsored |
| Taiwan (Republic of China) | Entrepreneur Resident Visa | Initial residence of 2 years; extensions of up to 2 years each subject to continuing to meet the qualification directions. | entrepreneur |
| Taiwan (Republic of China) | Permanent Residence (Alien Permanent Resident Certificate, APRC) | Permanent, subject to maintaining the rolling presence requirement; re-entry and the certificate are maintained per NIA rules. | residence-general |
| Republic of India | Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card | Lifelong, subject to re-issue conditions for cards issued before age 20 and after age 50. | residence-general |
| State of Qatar | Permanent Residency (Law No. 10 of 2018) | Permanent status (subject to the law and committee conditions); a distinct status, not citizenship. | residence-general |
| State of Israel | Aliyah - Immigration under the Law of Return | Leads to Israeli citizenship; an A/1 temporary residence visa for eligible persons is issued for a multi-year period as an alternative pathway. Verify on the official page. | citizenship-by-descent |
| State of Israel | Status through Marriage to an Israeli Citizen or Permanent Resident | A graduated, multi-year process leading over time toward permanent residence or citizenship; exact duration depends on circumstances. Verify on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Work Permit (employer-sponsored) | Definite permit up to one year initially, extendable; permanent work permit available after eight years legal work. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Short-Term Residence Permit | Up to one or two years per issuance, renewable. | residence-general |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Turquoise Card | Provisional three-year transition period, then indefinite on successful conversion. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Family Residence Permit | Up to two years per issuance, not exceeding the sponsor permit duration; renewable. | family |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Citizenship by Investment | Citizenship, subject to a three-year no-sale restriction on the qualifying property. | investor |
| Republic of Türkiye | Turkey Long-Term Residence Permit | Indefinite, subject to the conditions of the permit. | residence-general |
| Republic of Indonesia | Work KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) | Commonly issued for periods of up to about two years, renewable while employment continues. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Indonesia | Investor KITAS (Limited Stay Permit for Investors) | Commonly issued for periods of up to about two years, renewable while the qualifying investment and role continue. | investor |
| Republic of Indonesia | Golden Visa (5 and 10-year) | Granted for 5 or 10 years depending on the qualifying tier, renewable. | investor |
| Republic of Indonesia | Family / Spouse KITAS | Commonly issued for periods of up to about two years, renewable while the family relationship continues. | family |
| Republic of Indonesia | KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) | Issued for a multi-year period and renewable, with provisions for extended validity. | residence-general |
| Republic of the Philippines | 13(A) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa by Marriage | Probationary for the first year, then permanent on conversion once the marriage is confirmed subsisting. | family |
| Republic of the Philippines | Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) | Indefinite stay with multiple-entry privileges while the qualifying deposit and conditions are maintained. | residence-general |
| Republic of the Philippines | Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV) | Probationary on issue, then indefinite stay for as long as the qualifying investment is maintained. | investor |
| Republic of the Philippines | Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) | Resident status with multiple-entry privileges while the qualifying enterprise and employment continue. | investor |
| Republic of the Philippines | Quota Immigrant Visa (Section 13) | Permanent residence once granted, subject to maintaining status. | residence-general |
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Work Visa (LD) and Work Permit | Work permits are commonly issued for up to about two years, with the LD visa and any residence card aligned to the permit. | work-sponsored |
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Investor Visa (DT1-DT4) | Validity rises with the tier - the highest tiers run for several years, while the lowest tier is shorter; residence cards align to the tier. | investor |
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Temporary Residence Card (TRC) | Issued for a multi-year period aligned to the underlying status (commonly up to two or three years), renewable. | residence-general |
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Permanent Residence Card | Long-term permanent residence, with the card periodically renewed as an identity document. | residence-general |
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Family / Dependent Visa (TT) | Aligned to the sponsor's status, with a temporary residence card commonly available for a multi-year period. | family |
| Republic of Colombia | Visa M (Migrante) | Granted for up to three years depending on the subcategory and renewable; continuous holding accrues toward the Resident (R) visa. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Colombia | Visa M Inversionista / Socio o Propietario | Granted for up to three years and renewable while the investment or business is maintained; M time accrues toward the Resident (R) visa. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Colombia | Visa M Conyuge o Companero de Nacional | Granted for up to three years and renewable while the relationship subsists; M time accrues toward the Resident (R) visa. Confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Colombia | Visa R (Residente) | A permanent-residence visa, subject to periodic renewal and the rule that prolonged absence from Colombia can cause it to lapse. Confirm current validity and absence limits on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Temporary Residence - Employed Worker | Commonly granted for a defined period (often around one to two years) and renewable, leading to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Temporary Residence - Pensionado (Pensioner) | Granted for a defined period (commonly two years) and renewable while the pension is maintained, leading to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Temporary Residence - Rentista (Person of Independent Means) | Granted for a defined period (commonly two years) and renewable while the income is maintained, leading to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Temporary Residence - Inversionista (Investor) | Granted for a defined period (commonly two years) and renewable while the investment is maintained, leading to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Temporary Residence - Family Tie (Vinculo) | Granted for a defined period and renewable; the spouse or parent of a Costa Rican can typically reach permanent residence after a shorter qualifying period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Costa Rica | Permanent Residence (Residencia Permanente) | Settled status, with the DIMEX card renewed periodically; permanent residents may generally work freely. Confirm current renewal and absence rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Panama | Friendly Nations Residence Permit (Naciones Amigas) | 2-year provisional (temporary) permit, after which the holder may apply for permanent residence. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Panama | Qualified Investor Permanent Residence (Inversionista Calificado) | Permanent residence, granted on a direct basis subject to maintaining the qualifying investment for the required term. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | investor |
| Republic of Panama | Retiree-Pensioner Residence (Jubilado / Pensionado) | Generally an indefinite permit while the qualifying pension is maintained. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Panama | Economic Solvency Residence (Solvencia Economica Propia) | Permanent residence subject to maintaining the qualifying investment or deposit for the required term. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | investor |
| Republic of Panama | Married to a Panamanian (Casado con Panameno/a) | Leads to permanent residence, generally via an initial provisional period and a genuineness review while the marriage subsists. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | family |
| Republic of Panama | Permanent Residence (Residencia Permanente) | Settled status, subject to periodic renewal of the residence card; prolonged absence from Panama can affect it. Confirm current terms on the official SNM page. | residence-general |
| Federal Republic of Nigeria | Investor Visa (multiple-entry) | Multiple-entry validity that scales with the investment tier (the small-scale tier commonly carries a multi-year stay); confirm current durations on the official page. | investor |
| Federal Republic of Nigeria | Permanent Residence (Nigeria) | Long-term, multi-year residence depending on the category (the Highly Skilled Immigrant Visa carries a multi-year multiple-entry stay); confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ghana | Indefinite Residence Status (Ghana) | Indefinite residence once granted, subject to the conditions of the status. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ghana | Right of Abode (Ghana) | Indefinite residence once granted, subject to the conditions of the status. | residence-general |
| Georgia | Work Residence Permit | Issued as a temporary residence permit, commonly for up to a year at a time and renewable; longer initial validity can apply - confirm on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Georgia | Investment Residence Permit | Issued for a longer fixed validity than ordinary temporary permits and renewable; can convert to permanent residence once conditions are met - confirm on the official page. | investor |
| Georgia | Family Reunification Residence Permit | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Georgia | Permanent Residence Permit | Permanent status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Croatia | EU Blue Card (Croatia) | Issued for a fixed validity that the 2025 amendments extended, and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Croatia | Stay-and-Work Permit (single permit) | Tied to the employment and typically issued for up to a year or more, renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Croatia | Temporary Stay for Family Reunification (Croatia) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's stay and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Croatia | Long-Term Residence / Permanent Stay (Croatia) | Permanent status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Hungary | Hungarian Card | Up to three years, extendable for up to a further period subject to conditions - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Hungary | EU Blue Card (Hungary) | Issued for a fixed validity tied to the contract and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Hungary | Guest Investor Programme (golden visa) | A long fixed validity, renewable, for the guest investor residence permit - confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Hungary | Family Reunification Residence Permit (Hungary) | Validity depends on the sponsor's status and is renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Hungary | National Permanent Residence / EC Long-Term Residence (Hungary) | Indefinite settlement status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Serbia | Single Permit (residence and work) | Up to three years and renewable for the single permit - confirm current validity on the official portal. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Serbia | Residence via Company Founding / Self-Employment | Up to three years via the single permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official portal. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Serbia | Temporary Residence via Real-Estate Ownership | Temporary residence up to three years and renewable while you own the property - confirm current validity on the official portal. | residence-general |
| Republic of Serbia | Family Reunification Temporary Residence (Serbia) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's status, up to three years and renewable - confirm current validity on the official portal. | family |
| Republic of Serbia | Permanent Residence (Serbia) | Permanent status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official portal. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ecuador | Temporary Residence - Work (Relacion de Dependencia) | Granted for up to two years and renewable; counts toward permanent residence after the qualifying period of temporary residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Ecuador | Temporary Residence - Pensioner (Jubilado) | Granted for up to two years and renewable while the pension continues; leads to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ecuador | Temporary Residence - Rentista (Independent Income) | Granted for up to two years and renewable while the income continues; leads to permanent residence after the qualifying period. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Ecuador | Temporary Residence - Investor (Inversionista) | Granted for up to two years and renewable while the investment is maintained; allows multiple entries with no limit on time abroad while held. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Ecuador | Temporary Residence - Professional (Profesional) | Granted for up to two years and renewable; leads to permanent residence after the qualifying period of temporary residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Ecuador | Permanent Residence (Residencia Permanente) | Settled status, renewed periodically; permanent residents may generally live and work freely. Confirm current renewal and absence rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Paraguay | Temporary Residence (Residencia Temporal, Law 6984/2022) | Granted for up to two years and renewable for an equal period; it is a prerequisite for changing category to permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Paraguay | Permanent Residence for Investors (SUACE) | Permanent residence granted directly; the resident card is renewed every 10 years. Confirm current validity and renewal terms on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Paraguay | Permanent Residence (Residencia Permanente, 10-year card) | Indefinite settled status; the permanent resident card is renewed every 10 years. Confirm current renewal and absence rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Paraguay | Temporary Residence - Pensioner (Pensionado / Jubilado) | Granted as temporary residence for up to two years and renewable; converts to permanent residence after the temporary-residence period. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Paraguay | Temporary Residence - Independent Means (Renta Propia) | Granted as temporary residence for up to two years and renewable; converts to permanent residence after the temporary-residence period. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| People's Republic of China | Z Work Visa (with Foreigner Work Permit and Residence Permit) | The Z visa itself is short-validity for entry; the work-type residence permit you obtain after arrival is typically issued for one year and renewable. | work-sponsored |
| People's Republic of China | R Talent Visa (high-level and urgently needed talent) | The R visa is for entry; the work-type residence permit obtained after arrival is typically issued for one or more years and is renewable. | skilled-migration |
| People's Republic of China | Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card (Five-Star Card) | Permanent residence status; the physical card is issued with a validity period and is renewed while you maintain eligibility. | residence-general |
| People's Republic of China | Q Family Reunion Visa (Q1 and Q2) | Q1 is a long-stay route: after entry you obtain a family-type residence permit, often issued for up to several years and renewable. Q2 is for short visits only. | family |
| Barbados | Barbados Immigrant Status | A long-term, settled status once granted; subject to the conditions the Immigration Department attaches. Confirm current validity and conditions on the official page. | residence-general |
| Commonwealth of The Bahamas | Bahamas Economic Permanent Residence | Permanent residence once granted, conditional on maintaining the qualifying investment for the required period; confirm current conditions on the official page. | residence-general |
| Dominican Republic | Residence by Investment - Pensionado (Retiree) | A fast-track residence route: pensioners are typically granted a permanent-residence card from the first card rather than a long temporary period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Dominican Republic | Residence by Investment - Rentista (Annuitant) | A fast-track residence route: rentistas are typically granted a permanent-residence card from the first card rather than a long temporary period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Dominican Republic | Residence by Investment - Investor | A fast-track residence route: investors are typically granted a permanent-residence card from the first card rather than a long temporary period. Confirm current terms on the official page. | investor |
| Dominican Republic | Permanent Residence (RP-1) | Settled status: a permanent-residence card is issued (commonly for one year initially, then renewed for several years at a time). Confirm current validity and renewal on the official page. | residence-general |
| Cayman Islands (British Overseas Territory) | Certificate of Permanent Residence for Persons of Independent Means | Permanent residence (settled status) once granted, subject to maintaining the qualifying investment; allocations are subject to an annual quota. Confirm current conditions on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Bulgaria | Single Permit for Residence and Work | Usually granted for one to three years and renewable while you keep the qualifying job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Bulgaria | EU Blue Card (Bulgaria) | Issued for a fixed validity tied to your contract and renewable; confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Bulgaria | Continuous (Long-Term) Residence Permit | Generally up to one year at a time and renewable each year while your qualifying ground continues - confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Bulgaria | Residence by Investment | A continuous residence card is generally issued first and can convert to permanent residence at higher tiers; confirm current rules on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Bulgaria | Family Reunification Residence (Bulgaria) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Bulgaria | Permanent Residence (Bulgaria) | Indefinite status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Romania | Single Permit for Work and Residence | Tied to your employment and typically renewable; renew at least 30 days before it expires - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Romania | EU Blue Card (Romania) | Issued for a fixed validity tied to your contract and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Romania | Residency by Investment / Business Activities (Romania) | Residence is tied to the business activity and renewable; a longer right to stay can follow at higher investment or job-creation levels - confirm current rules on the official page. | investor |
| Romania | Family Reunification (Romania) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's residence and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Romania | EU Long-Term Residence (Romania) | Long validity (longer for family members of a Romanian citizen), renewable - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Armenia | Temporary Residence for Employment | Temporary status, commonly granted for one year at a time and renewable; from 1 August 2026 the system moves online with biometric cards - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Armenia | Temporary Residence for Business / Self-Employment | Temporary status, commonly granted for one year at a time and renewable; biometric cards from 1 August 2026 - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Armenia | Residence for Ethnic Armenians (by descent) | Issued as temporary or permanent residence on the basis of descent; the long-validity special status closes to new applicants after July 2026 - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Armenia | Temporary Residence for Family (Armenia) | Temporary status, commonly granted for one year at a time and renewable; biometric cards from 1 August 2026 - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Armenia | Permanent Residence (Armenia) | A five-year card with renewal options under the 2026 reform - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Albania | Unique Permit (Leje Unike) | Initially valid for one year and renewable each year; permanent residence follows after five continuous years - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Albania | Unique Permit for Investors | Tied to the investment and renewable; permanent residence follows after five continuous years - confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Albania | Family Reunification (Albania) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's residence and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Albania | Permanent Residence (Albania) | Long validity after five continuous years of lawful residence, renewable - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis | St Kitts and Nevis CBI - Sustainable Island State Contribution | Full citizenship, granted for life and transmissible to future generations, once the contribution is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis | St Kitts and Nevis CBI - Approved Real Estate | Full citizenship for life; the qualifying property must be held for a minimum period (historically several years) before it can be resold under the programme. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis | St Kitts and Nevis CBI - Public Benefit Option | Full citizenship, granted for life and transmissible to future generations, once the qualifying investment is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis | St Kitts and Nevis Permanent Residence | Indefinite right to reside once granted; a separate work permit may still be needed to work. | residence-general |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Antigua and Barbuda CBI - National Development Fund | Full citizenship once the contribution is made and the application is approved; a short physical-presence step applies in the early years (see FAQ). | citizenship-by-investment |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Antigua and Barbuda CBI - Approved Real Estate | Full citizenship; the qualifying property must be held for a minimum period before it can be resold under the programme. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Antigua and Barbuda CBI - University of the West Indies Fund | Full citizenship once the contribution is made and the application is approved; the early-years physical-presence step applies. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Antigua and Barbuda CBI - Business Investment | Full citizenship once the qualifying business investment is made and the application is approved; the early-years physical-presence step applies. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Commonwealth of Dominica | Dominica CBI - Economic Diversification Fund | Full citizenship once the contribution is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Commonwealth of Dominica | Dominica CBI - Approved Real Estate | Full citizenship; the qualifying property must be held for a minimum period before it can be resold under the programme. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Commonwealth of Dominica | Dominica Permanent Residence | Indefinite right to reside once granted; a separate work permit may still be needed to work. | residence-general |
| Grenada | Grenada CBI - National Transformation Fund | Full citizenship once the contribution is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Grenada | Grenada CBI - Approved Real Estate | Full citizenship; the qualifying property must be held for a minimum period before it can be resold under the programme. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Grenada | Grenada Permanent Residence | Right to reside in Grenada once granted; a separate work permit is generally still needed to work. | residence-general |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia CBI - National Economic Fund | Full citizenship once the contribution is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia CBI - Government Bonds | Full citizenship; the bonds are held for a fixed period (historically five years) before the capital is returned. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia CBI - Approved Real Estate | Full citizenship; the qualifying property must be held for a minimum period before it can be resold under the programme. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia CBI - Enterprise Project | Full citizenship once the qualifying enterprise investment is made and the application is approved. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia Permanent Residence | Indefinite right to reside once granted; a separate work permit may still be needed to work. | residence-general |
| Kingdom of Morocco | Permanent Residence Card (carte de residence, 10-year) | A longer-term residence card, typically valid for ten years and renewable; confirm the current validity and qualifying period on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Rwanda | Investor Permit (Class A-1 / B-1) | Issued for a period tied to the investment class and renewable; can support a longer-term residence pathway. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Rwanda | Permanent Residence Permit | Long-term, durable residence beyond the renewable temporary permits; confirm the current validity and qualifying period on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Botswana | Residence Permit - Spouse of a Botswana Citizen | A renewable residence permit tied to the marriage that can support longer-term settlement; confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Botswana | Permanent Residence | Durable, long-term residence beyond the renewable permits, granted at the authorities' discretion; confirm the current validity and qualifying period on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Kazakhstan | Work Permit and Residence (employer-sponsored) | Work permits are tied to your employment and renewed while you keep the job; the residence permit is issued for a defined period and renewed alongside it. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Kazakhstan | Digital Nomad Residency (IT specialists, via Astana Hub) | Designed as a long-horizon route for IT talent that can lead to a permanent residence permit; confirm the current validity terms on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Kazakhstan | Permanent Residence Permit | Confirms permanent residence; the physical permit is issued with a validity period and renewed while you keep your status. | residence-general |
| Republic of Kazakhstan | Family Residence (reunification) | Issued for a defined period and renewable while the family relationship and basis continue; can lead towards permanent residence over time. | family |
| Republic of Uzbekistan | Golden Visa (5-year residence for investment) | A five-year residence permit under the programme, renewable in line with the rules; confirm the current terms on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Uzbekistan | Residence through Qualifying Property Purchase | A residence permit linked to your qualifying property, typically issued for a multi-year period and renewable; confirm the current terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Uzbekistan | Residence Permit (long-term, vid na zhitelstvo) | Typically issued for a multi-year period (commonly around five years) and renewable, with longer validity possible for older applicants; confirm on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Uzbekistan | Family Visa and Residence (reunification) | Issued on the basis of the family relationship and renewable while it continues; can lead towards a longer-term residence permit. | family |
| Montenegro | Temporary Residence and Work Permit | Commonly issued for up to one year at a time and renewable while you keep the qualifying job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Montenegro | Residence for Company Founders and the Self-Employed (Montenegro) | Commonly issued for up to one year at a time and renewable while the business stays active - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Montenegro | Residence by Property Ownership (Montenegro) | Commonly issued for up to one year at a time and renewable while you own the qualifying property - confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Montenegro | Temporary Residence for Family Reunification (Montenegro) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Montenegro | Permanent Residence (Montenegro) | Longer-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Moldova | Temporary Residence for Employment (Moldova) | Tied to your employment and renewable; the migration authority reviews complete applications within a published period - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Moldova | IT Specialist Residence (Moldova IT Park) | Commonly granted for up to two years and extendable while you keep the qualifying IT Park role - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Moldova | Temporary Residence for Investors (Moldova) | Can be granted for periods that scale with the investment or jobs created, and is renewable - confirm current rules on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Moldova | Temporary Residence for Family Reunification (Moldova) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's status and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Moldova | Permanent Residence (Moldova) | Longer-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Slovenia | Single Residence and Work Permit (Slovenia) | Tied to your employment and renewable while you keep the qualifying job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Slovenia | EU Blue Card (Slovenia) | Issued for a fixed validity tied to your contract and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Slovenia | Self-Employment Residence (Slovenia) | Tied to your self-employment activity and renewable while it stays genuine and active - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Slovenia | Temporary Residence for Family Reunification (Slovenia) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Slovenia | Permanent Residence (Slovenia) | Long-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Peru | Worker Resident (Trabajador Residente) | Commonly granted for 365 days and renewable while the employment continues; counts toward permanent residence after three consecutive years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Peru | Rentista (Independent Means / Passive Income) | Granted as a resident category for people of permanent income; the rentista category is associated with indefinite permanence. Confirm current validity and renewal terms on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Peru | Investor (Inversionista) | Commonly granted for 365 days and renewable while the investment is maintained; counts toward permanent residence after three consecutive years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Peru | Resident Family Member (Familiar Residente) | Commonly granted for 365 days and renewable while the family relationship continues; can count toward permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Peru | Permanent Resident (Residente Permanente) | Settled status, renewed periodically; permanent residents may generally live and work freely. Confirm current renewal and absence rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of El Salvador | Temporary Residence with Work Authorisation | Generally granted for up to two years and renewable for an equal period; can lead to permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of El Salvador | Investor Temporary Residence | Generally granted for up to two years and renewable for an equal period; can lead to permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of El Salvador | Rentista Temporary Residence (Stable Foreign Income) | Generally granted for up to two years and renewable for an equal period; can lead to permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of El Salvador | Pensionado Temporary Residence (Retiree) | Generally granted for up to two years and renewable for an equal period; can lead to permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of El Salvador | Freedom Visa (Citizenship by Investment) | Grants Salvadoran citizenship if approved; the programme describes no physical-residence requirement to maintain it. Confirm current conditions on the official page. | citizenship-by-investment |
| Republic of El Salvador | Permanent Residence (Residencia Definitiva) | Permanent settled status; the card is renewed (refrenda) for periods set by the rules, and absence of up to two years is generally permitted. Confirm current renewal and absence rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Fiji | Investor Permit for Non-Citizen Investors | Tiered - a larger qualifying investment supports a longer multi-year permit and a smaller approved investment a shorter one; renewable while the business operates. Confirm current tiers on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Fiji | Residence Permit on Assured Income | Granted as a renewable residence permit while the assured income and deposit conditions continue. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Fiji | Permanent Residence | Settled status held long term once granted, normally after a qualifying period on other permits. Confirm current validity and conditions on the official page. | residence-general |
| Jamaica | Permanent Residence via Employment | Settled residence status once granted; applications are commonly described as taking around three to six months to process. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Jamaica | Permanent Residence for Retirees | Settled residence status once granted; applications are commonly described as taking around three to six months to process. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Jamaica | Unconditional Landing | Valid for the life of the foreign passport it is stamped in, then transferred to a new passport. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Jamaica | Marriage Exemption Certificate (spouse of a Jamaican) | Held while the certificate is valid; PICA endorses the matching stay in your passport. Confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Iceland | Residence Permit for Qualified Professionals (Iceland) | Commonly issued for up to one year first and renewable for longer periods while you keep the qualifying job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Iceland | Residence Permit for the Self-Employed (Iceland) | Commonly issued for up to one year first and renewable while the business stays genuine and active - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Iceland | Residence Permit for Family Reunification (Iceland) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's status and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Iceland | Permanent Residence Permit (Iceland) | Longer-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Lithuania | Temporary Residence Permit for Employment (Lithuania) | Commonly issued for up to two years, and up to three years for highly qualified workers, renewable while you keep the job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Lithuania | EU Blue Card (Lithuania) | Commonly issued for up to about three years where the contract allows, and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Lithuania | Startup Visa (Lithuania) | Commonly issued for one year first and extendable while the startup progresses - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Lithuania | Temporary Residence for Business or Self-Employment (Lithuania) | Commonly issued for up to two years and renewable while the business stays genuine and active - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Lithuania | Temporary Residence for Family Reunification (Lithuania) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Lithuania | Permanent Residence / EU Long-Term Resident Status (Lithuania) | Longer-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Latvia | Temporary Residence Permit for Employment (Latvia) | Commonly issued for up to one or more years tied to the contract and renewable while you keep the job - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Latvia | EU Blue Card (Latvia) | Tied to the contract and renewable while you keep qualifying employment - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Republic of Latvia | Startup Residence Permit (Latvia) | Commonly issued for an initial period and extendable while you actively develop the product - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Republic of Latvia | Investor Residence Permit / Golden Visa (Latvia) | Tied to maintaining the qualifying investment and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Latvia | Residence Permit for Family Reunification (Latvia) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Latvia | Permanent Residence / EU Long-Term Resident Status (Latvia) | Longer-term status, subject to conditions on continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Slovak Republic | Temporary Residence for Employment / Single Permit (Slovakia) | Can be granted for up to five years for employment, tied to the contract and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Slovak Republic | EU Blue Card (Slovakia) | Tied to the contract and renewable while you keep qualifying employment - confirm current validity on the official page. | skilled-migration |
| Slovak Republic | Temporary Residence for Business / Self-Employment (Slovakia) | Fixed at three years under the 2025 reform and subject to the annual quota - confirm current validity on the official page. | entrepreneur |
| Slovak Republic | Temporary Residence for Family Reunification (Slovakia) | Can be granted for up to five years, generally aligned to the sponsor, and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Slovak Republic | Permanent Residence (Slovakia) | A first permanent-residence permit followed by longer or unlimited status, subject to conditions - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Principality of Liechtenstein | Residence Permit B for Gainful Employment (Liechtenstein) | Commonly issued for an initial period and renewable while you keep qualifying; the annual quota is very small - confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Principality of Liechtenstein | Residence Permit B without Gainful Employment (Liechtenstein) | Commonly issued for an initial period and renewable while you keep qualifying; the annual quota is very small - confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Principality of Liechtenstein | Settlement Permit C (Liechtenstein) | Longer-term settlement status with fewer conditions than Permit B, subject to continued residence - confirm current rules on the official page. | residence-general |
| Principality of Liechtenstein | Family Reunification (Liechtenstein) | Generally aligned to the sponsor's permit and renewable - confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| United Republic of Tanzania | Long-tenure Residence (high-value investors, discretionary) | Discretionary long-tenure residence for high-value investors; the official position notes total validity may exceed ten years in such cases. Confirm the current position on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Namibia | Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) | Durable, long-term residence beyond the renewable temporary permits; confirm the current qualifying basis on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Namibia | Investor Residence (qualifying investment) | A renewable residence permit tied to your investment and business; after operating long enough you may become eligible to apply for permanent residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Namibia | Retirement Permanent Residence (substantial means) | A permanent residence basis for retirees of substantial means; confirm the current qualifying basis on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Azerbaijan | Work Permit and Temporary Residence Permit | The work permit is tied to your employment, and the temporary residence permit is issued for a defined period (often up to a year) and renewed alongside it while you keep the job. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Azerbaijan | Temporary Residence Permit (investment, real estate or deposit) | A temporary residence permit issued for a defined period (often up to a year) and renewable while the qualifying basis continues; it can lead toward permanent residence after about two years. | investor |
| Republic of Azerbaijan | Permanent Residence Permit | Confirms permanent residence; the permit is generally issued for a multi-year period (often around five years) and renewable while you keep your status. | residence-general |
| Republic of Azerbaijan | Temporary Residence Permit (family ties) | A temporary residence permit issued for a defined period (often up to a year) and renewable while the family relationship and basis continue; it can lead toward permanent residence. | family |
| Mongolia | Work Permit and Residence (HG employment) | The residence permit is granted for the same duration as your work permit (often up to a year) and renewed alongside it while you keep the job. | work-sponsored |
| Mongolia | Investor Residence (foreign-invested company) | Granted for a defined period linked to your investment or role and extendable; years of qualifying residence can count toward permanent residence. | investor |
| Mongolia | Private and Family Residence (H-series) | Granted for a defined period and renewable while the family or private basis continues; years of qualifying residence can count toward permanent residence. | family |
| Mongolia | Permanent Residence | Confirms long-term residence and is renewed in line with the rules; it is a settlement status but does not lead to citizenship. | residence-general |
| Brunei Darussalam | Entry Permit (route toward permanent resident status) | The route toward permanent resident status; once granted, permanent residence is a settled status with re-entry permits issued and renewed under the rules. | residence-general |
| Brunei Darussalam | Permanent Residence (discretionary, long-term) | A long-term settled status; in practice it is typically reached only after many years (often around fifteen) and is granted at the authorities' discretion. | residence-general |
| Republic of Trinidad and Tobago | Residence after Five Years (Permanent Residence) | Grants resident status under the Immigration Act; confirm current validity, renewal and the right to remain on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Trinidad and Tobago | Residence as Spouse of a Citizen or Resident | Grants resident status based on the marriage; confirm current validity, renewal and conditions on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Trinidad and Tobago | Residence as a Sponsored Parent or Grandparent | Grants resident status based on the sponsored family relationship; confirm current validity, renewal and conditions on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Trinidad and Tobago | CARICOM Skills Certificate (Free Movement) | Allows an initial entry stamp followed by an indefinite stay once the certificate is verified; can lead toward settled status. Confirm current validity on the official page. | work-unsponsored |
| Belize | Temporary Residence | Held during your legal residence in Belize and renewed as required; it leads toward permanent residence once the qualifying period is completed. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Belize | Permanent Residence | Grants settled permanent residence; reachable after about a year of legal residence with strict absence limits. Confirm current validity and renewal on the official page. | residence-general |
| Belize | Family Residence (Spouse and Dependants) | Grants residence based on the family relationship and can lead toward permanent residence; confirm current validity and renewal on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Guatemala | Temporary Residence - Worker (Residencia Temporal Trabajador) | Granted following the job offer up to a maximum period and renewable; counts toward permanent residence after about five years of legal residence. Confirm current validity on the official page. | work-sponsored |
| Republic of Guatemala | Temporary Residence - Rentista or Pensionado | Granted as a renewable temporary residence; income is typically re-evidenced periodically and time counts toward permanent residence after about five years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Guatemala | Temporary Residence - Investor (Residencia Inversionista) | Granted as a renewable temporary residence while the investment is maintained; counts toward permanent residence after about five years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | investor |
| Republic of Guatemala | Temporary Residence - Digital Nomad (Residencia Nomada Digital) | Typically granted for a year and renewed annually; time held counts toward permanent residence after about five years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | digital-nomad |
| Republic of Guatemala | Temporary Residence - Family (Residencia por motivos Familiares) | Granted as a renewable temporary residence while the family relationship continues; counts toward permanent residence after about five years. Confirm current validity on the official page. | family |
| Republic of Guatemala | Permanent Residence (Residencia Permanente) | Grants settled permanent residence, renewed periodically; reachable after about five years of legal residence. Confirm current validity and renewal on the official page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Vanuatu | Residence Visa (Foreign Investor ground) | Issued for set periods and renewable while you hold a valid VIPA certificate and the investment continues. Confirm the current bands on the official Department of Immigration page. | investor |
| Republic of Vanuatu | Residence Visa (Partner / Child ground) | Issued for set periods and renewable while the qualifying relationship continues. Confirm the current bands on the official Department of Immigration page. | family |
| Republic of Vanuatu | Permanent Resident Visa | Longer-term permanent residence status, subject to the conditions and any renewal or reporting requirements set by the Department. Confirm the current terms on the official Department of Immigration page. | residence-general |
| Republic of Vanuatu | Development Support Program (citizenship by investment) | Grants citizenship, not a time-limited residence; the underlying programme rules can change. Confirm the current rules with the Vanuatu Citizenship Office. | citizenship-by-investment |
Every row links to a visa page where the underlying primary source and last-reviewed date are shown.
Frequently asked questions
Which visa leads to permanent residence fastest?+
Germany's EU Blue Card is one of the quickest — a settlement permit in as little as 21 months with B1 German. Points-based routes such as Canada Express Entry and Australia's subclass 189 grant permanent residence on approval but take longer to reach the invitation stage, and most other work routes need three to five years of qualifying residence.
Does the listed time to settlement include physical-presence rules?+
No. The figure is the minimum qualifying-residence period under current rules. Absence limits, continuous-residence requirements, and good-character or language tests apply on top, so a real-world timeline can run longer than the headline minimum.