Residence by buying property abroad in 2026: where it still works

For many buyers, property abroad is no longer only an investment - it is a plan B: a second home and a legal basis to live in another country. But the map changed sharply in 2025 and 2026, so it is worth knowing where buying property still comes with residence and where that door has closed.

The golden visas are closing

The classic "buy property, get residence" route in the EU has narrowed fast. Spain ended its golden visa completely on 3 April 2025, citing housing pressure. Portugal removed the property option back in 2023 - investment there now runs through funds and other routes, not real estate. Ireland and the Netherlands closed their investor schemes in 2023, and Latvia plans to shut most of its routes from January 2027. Greece still allows residence through property, but it has raised its price thresholds twice.

Where property still opens a residence permit

Outside the shrinking EU programmes, several countries still tie residence to owning a home. Serbia is one of the most accessible: it sits right next to the EU, prices are far below Western Europe, and the process is straightforward for foreigners.

How Serbia's residence-by-property route works

Buying residential property in Serbia can be the basis for a temporary residence permit. The key points, as a general guide:

• No official minimum price. Unlike most golden visas, Serbia sets no legal minimum investment - the property should simply be a reasonable home.
• Three-year permit, renewable. Temporary residence is usually granted for up to three years and can lead to permanent residence if you respect the time-in-country rules.
• Right to work included. The permit generally carries the right to work in Serbia.
• Fast and remote. The application is electronic and approval can take around two weeks; buyers abroad can complete the purchase through an authorised lawyer.
• Open to most nationalities. Serbia applies reciprocity; for most buyers, including those from Russia and the CIS, the direct route works - a local lawyer confirms your specific case.

A home and a basis for residence in one

This is where a project like Uplife fits: a gated community of two-storey townhouses near Belgrade, from 200,000 euro, 25 minutes from the centre. You get a real family home - a yard, parking, a pool and security - that can also serve as the basis for a Serbian residence permit, rather than an empty asset bought only for a visa.

Important: immigration rules change and depend on your nationality and situation. This article is general information, not legal advice - always confirm the current requirements with a qualified Serbian lawyer or the Ministry of Internal Affairs before you buy.

If you are weighing a move or a plan B near the EU, leave a request below - we will send current prices, floor plans and the terms for a specific home at Uplife within one working day.