The easiest second residency options in Latin America, Europe, and Asia offer expats and global nomads the chance to establish a legal foothold in a new country without overwhelming bureaucracy or unattainable requirements. Whether you’re looking to expand your travel freedom, reduce tax liabilities, or simply enjoy life abroad, these destinations provide straightforward residency paths. Below, we’ll explore some of the easiest second residency programs in Mexico, Europe, and Asia, detailing their processes and current requirements.
Easiest Second Residency in Latin America: Mexico
Mexico tops the list for the easiest second residency in Latin America due to its straightforward processes and minimal requirements. Although it’s one of the more expensive ones, the process is straightforward, it gives you a path toward citizenship, there is no physical requirement and it comes with tax benefits. The two most popular residency options are the Temporary Resident Visa and the Permanent Resident Visa.
- Temporary Resident Visa: This gives you a visa for a year and then you renew it for another four years. As of 2024, you need to demonstrate either a monthly income of the last six months of $4,300 or savings of $71,655.
- Permanent Resident Visa: This visa is typically given to retirees who want to live in Mexico. Investment or bank accounts with a monthly ending balance of at least 20,000 days of the current general minimum wage in Mexico City ($292,941.17 USD). Or, Pension that yields a monthly income of at least 500 days of the current general minimum wage in Mexico City (approx. $7,323.52 USD) after taxes, during each of the previous 6 months.
Both visas allow access to Mexico’s healthcare system and the ability to open bank accounts. With no language requirements and a generous pathway to citizenship after five years, Mexico is an excellent choice for an easy second residency.
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Easiest Second Residency in Europe: Portugal
While Portugal’s famous Golden Visa program is currently on pause, it’s still the easiest European country for obtaining a residence and eventually a citizenship.
- Golden Visa: This program is investment-based, requiring a real estate purchase of at least €280,000 in low-density areas or €500,000 in urban zones. It’s perfect for those seeking residency with minimal time spent in Portugal (just seven days per year). (Note: Currently on pause.)
- D7 Visa: Known as the passive income visa, this option requires proof of a stable income, such as rental or retirement income, of at least €9,840 annually ($10,316.14 USD) for the primary applicant.
Both options grant residency for five years, after which you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Portugal’s warm climate, friendly locals, and visa-free travel across the EU make it a top pick for expats.
Easiest Second Residency in Asia: Thailand
For those seeking the easiest second residency in Asia, Thailand offers the Thai Elite Visa and the Retirement Visa (O-A or O-X).
- Thailand Privilege Card (Formerly Thai Elite Visa): This unique residency option is essentially a membership program with fees starting at 900,000 THB (~$25,925.40) for a five-year visa. It provides multiple-entry access and perks like expedited airport services.
- Retirement Visa: The O-A visa requires proof of monthly income of at least 65,000 THB ($1,872.23 USD) and a security deposit of 800,000 THB ($23,046.78 USD). Applicants must be over 50 years old and provide a clean criminal record.
Both options allow for extended stays with minimal red tape, making Thailand an attractive and accessible destination.
Conclusion: Finding the Easiest Second Residency
For global citizens seeking the easiest second residency, Mexico, Portugal, and Thailand stand out for their simple application processes and attainable requirements. Whether you’re drawn to Mexico’s vibrant culture, Portugal’s access to the EU, or Thailand’s exotic lifestyle, these programs offer a streamlined path to residency. Start planning your journey today and enjoy the benefits of a second residency in these welcoming destinations!