Easiest Countries to Get Permanent Residency in 2026 (Ranked)

Not all immigration systems are created equal. Some countries make it relatively straightforward for skilled workers and investors to obtain permanent residency, while others have complex, multi-year processes. Here are the easiest paths to PR in 2026, ranked by accessibility and processing speed.

1. Portugal (via D7 or Golden Visa)

Portugal tops the list because of its accessible entry points. The D7 visa requires just 920 euros per month in passive income, with no investment needed. After 5 years of legal residency, you can apply for permanent residency and citizenship. The Golden Visa offers even more flexibility with just 7 days per year required in Portugal.

2. UAE (Golden Visa)

The UAE Golden Visa grants 10 years of residence with straightforward requirements. Skilled professionals earning AED 30,000 per month qualify automatically, and real estate investors need AED 2 million. Processing is fast, typically weeks rather than months, though it does not lead to citizenship.

3. New Zealand (Skilled Migrant or Green List)

New Zealand’s Green List offers direct residence for workers in Tier 1 shortage occupations like doctors, engineers, and IT professionals. If your occupation is on the list and you have a job offer, the path to residence is remarkably direct compared to similar programs in Australia or Canada.

4. Netherlands (via DAFT for Americans)

US citizens have a unique advantage through the Dutch American Friendship Treaty, requiring only 4,500 euros to start a business in the Netherlands. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency. For non-Americans, the Highly Skilled Migrant visa through an employer is also a reliable path.

5. Singapore (Employment Pass to PR)

Singapore’s EP to PR pathway is well-defined if competitive. After working in Singapore on an Employment Pass for a few years, you can apply for PR. Approval rates favor those with higher salaries, longer tenure, and family ties to Singapore. Processing takes 4-6 months.

6. Australia (Subclass 189 or 190)

Australia’s Skilled Independent visa (189) grants permanent residency immediately, but competition is fierce with minimum competitive scores around 85 points. The 190 state-nominated visa is slightly easier as state nomination adds 5 points. Both require your occupation to be on the skilled occupation list.

Honorable Mentions

The UK Global Talent visa offers a 3-year path to settlement for endorsed individuals. Canada’s Express Entry remains popular but processing times and score cutoffs have risen significantly. Germany’s new points-based Opportunity Card has made it easier for skilled workers to enter the job market.

Find the best immigration path for your profile: explore our destination guides and interactive visa finders.