Residence Permit Abroad

Information about residence permits abroad

Only certain categories of citizens can obtain a residence permit, and the list varies from country to country. To simplify the process, some foreigners choose to apply for a long-term visa. With it, you can travel abroad for almost any purpose. However, such a permit does not grant all the rights that a residence permit abroad provides. In addition, to obtain or extend a visa, migrants usually have to return to Ukraine. With a residence permit, there is no such need, especially if the migrant has already decided to settle permanently in a given country.

There are two main types of residence permits:

• Temporary — issued to foreigners for a period that may vary depending on the country’s requirements and immigration grounds.
• Permanent — issued indefinitely. Migrants only need to renew their card every 5 years. They don’t have to reapply for a residence permit.

Most often, foreigners first obtain a temporary residence permit abroad, with which they must live in the country for some time, e.g., 3–5 years. After this period, they can apply to the local migration authority for a permanent residence permit. Later, they may also become eligible to apply for citizenship.

Why obtain a residence permit abroad

There are many benefits available to residence permit holders abroad. This permit grants foreigners nearly the same civil rights as citizens. The only restrictions are: they cannot vote or hold government positions.

With a residence permit abroad, migrants can:

• Study at educational institutions of the chosen country.
• Legally work in local companies.
• Open their own business or register as a private entrepreneur.
• Receive allowances, social benefits, and legal protection.
• Access public and private healthcare services on equal terms with citizens.

In addition, a residence permit allows foreigners to legally reside and move freely within the country for the entire duration of the permit.

Residence permit abroad: required documents

To apply for a residence permit abroad, a set of documents must be prepared. The list may vary depending on the chosen country. At a minimum, applicants are usually required to provide:

• National and/or international passport.
• Proof of grounds for obtaining a residence permit (e.g., a university enrollment letter, employment contract, property purchase agreement, etc.).
• Police clearance certificate.
• Medical examination results. Usually, tests confirming the absence of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis are required. In some cases, certificates confirming the absence of certain mental illnesses are also necessary.

As a rule, documents must be notarized or certified at the embassy of the chosen country. They must also be translated into the relevant foreign language depending on the destination country.

Case review usually takes about 1 month, while the residence permit itself can take up to 6 months to issue. The exact timeframes depend on the country and must be clarified individually.

How to obtain a residence permit abroad: common options

There are several ways to obtain a residence permit abroad, each with its advantages and requirements. By meeting the conditions, a foreigner can legalize their stay in the chosen country. Below are some of the most common options.

Investment

Many countries offer residence permits through investment programs. The essence of such programs is that a foreigner invests a certain amount in the national economy or buys real estate within the country.

As a rule, invested funds cannot be withdrawn for several years. Otherwise, the residence permit will be revoked. In the case of real estate, some countries also require that the investor actually reside in the purchased property. Violation of this condition may also lead to cancellation of the permit.

Business

Financially independent foreigners may acquire a company in the chosen country or start their own business. If they pay taxes properly and create jobs, their chances of obtaining a residence permit abroad increase significantly.

It’s important to note that requirements vary by country. For example, in Romania, an entrepreneur must create at least 15 jobs to qualify for a residence permit.

All these nuances are taken into account by our experts, who can provide personal consultation and assistance with obtaining a residence permit abroad.

Employment

If a foreign company is willing to hire a migrant, this provides grounds for obtaining a residence permit. In such cases, the employer must sign an employment contract clearly outlining the conditions of work.

Usually, such permits are issued for 1 year, but they can be renewed multiple times as long as the person remains employed.

Residence permits abroad can also be issued to migrants who come for seasonal work.

Family reunification

If a migrant’s spouse or close relatives live in a certain country, they can apply for a residence permit based on family reunification. In this case, the migrant must prove the relationship, e.g., by providing a marriage or birth certificate.

They may also need to prove financial dependence on relatives or, conversely, that family members depend on them financially.

There are many other ways to obtain a residence permit abroad. Contact Incluence experts for detailed information about each option. We will answer your questions, prepare the necessary documents, and guide you through the process.