I get asked all the time, “I don’t like bureaucracy. Where can I get a long-term visa easily?” Indeed, retiring in Europe can be a dream come true: rich culture, walkable cities, quality healthcare, and affordable living in many areas, but for American retirees, the biggest hurdle isn’t choosing where to go—it’s figuring out how to legally stay. While each country has its own visa and residency requirements, a few nations stand out for their welcoming policies, straightforward processes, and retiree-friendly lifestyle.

The good news is that obtaining a visa in any of these countries listed allows you to travel throughout the Schengen area of Europe without worrying about overstaying your welcome. Each of these countries is in the Schengen area which means your travel to other Schengen countries will not be recorded or tracked at all. For instance, if you are staying in Spain and drive to France for 2 weeks, there is no immigration or passport check on your trip.

So, bearing all that in mind, here are five of the easiest European countries where an American retired couple can obtain a long-term visa—and exactly how to do it.

1. Portugal – D7 Visa ("Passive Income Visa")

Portugal is consistently ranked among the best places for American retirees due to its mild climate, affordable healthcare, and large expat community.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Verify Eligibility: You must show stable passive income—usually from Social Security, pensions, investments, or rental income. The minimum for a couple is around €1,600–€2,000/month (subject to exchange rate).

2. Gather Documentation:
o Passport valid for at least 6 months
o Proof of income
o Portuguese tax number (NIF)
o Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or ownership)
o Clean FBI background check (Apostilled)
o Private health insurance valid in Portugal

3. Apply at the Portuguese Consulate: Schedule a visa appointment at your local consulate in the U.S. and submit all documents.
4. Receive Your D7 Visa: This is a 4-month entry visa that allows you to enter Portugal and apply for residency.
5. Arrive and Apply for Residency: Once in Portugal, book your appointment with SEF (immigration services) to finalize a 2-year residence permit, renewable thereafter.

2. Spain – Non-Lucrative Visa

Spain offers a similar visa for retirees who can support themselves without working. It's ideal if you're seeking sun, culture, and world-class healthcare.

Step-by-Step Process:

1.     Confirm Financial Requirements: As of 2025, you need around €30,000/year for the main applicant, plus around €7,000–€8,000 for a spouse. This may rise with inflation.

2.     Prepare Your Documents:

o    Valid passport

o    Proof of passive income

o    Private Spanish health insurance

o    Clean FBI background check (Apostilled)

o    Medical certificate

o    Proof of accommodation in Spain

3.     Apply at the Spanish Consulate in the U.S.: Submit all documents and pay a fee (around $150–$200).

4.     Obtain the Visa: You’ll receive a 1-year visa.

5.     Move to Spain and Apply for a TIE (residency card): Within 30 days of arrival, register at the local town hall and schedule your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) appointment.

3. Italy – Elective Residency Visa

Italy's residenza elettiva is tailor-made for retirees with passive income, and although it’s paperwork-heavy, it's very doable for Americans with patience.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Meet Financial Criteria: You’ll need around €31,000/year for an individual or €38,000+ for a couple, from pensions, investments, or property income.

2. Assemble Your Documents:
o Valid passport
o Proof of income
o Lease or property ownership in Italy
o Health insurance
o Clean criminal record
o Detailed cover letter explaining why you want to live in Italy

3. Apply at Your Nearest Italian Consulate: This is done in the U.S. Bring originals and translated documents.
4. Receive the Visa: The visa allows a 1-year stay and is renewable annually.
5. Convert to Residency in Italy: Within 8 days of arriving, apply for a permesso di soggiorno at the local police station (questura).
Note: This visa does not allow you to work. Passive income only.

4. Malta – Permanent Residency via the MPRP

Malta, a sunny English-speaking Island in the Mediterranean, offers a residency-by-investment program that is surprisingly accessible for some retirees.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Choose the MPRP Route: This program requires both an investment and proof of financial self-sufficiency.

2. Meet the Requirements:
o Purchase or rent a qualifying property (€10,000/year rent minimum in Gozo/south, or €12,000 in other areas)
o Pay a government contribution of €28,000–€58,000 (based on whether you rent or buy property)
o Have €500,000 in assets, €150,000 of which must be liquid
o Obtain private health insurance

3. Hire a Licensed Agent: You must apply through an authorized agent in Malta.
4. Submit the Application: Your agent will handle the process, which includes background checks.
5. Receive Permanent Residency: Approval typically takes 4–6 months. The residency card is valid for 5 years and renewable.

5. Greece – Financially Independent Persons (FIP) Visa

Greece’s visa for non-working individuals with stable income is growing in popularity. It allows American retirees to live in one of Europe’s most affordable and beautiful countries.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Verify Income Level: Around €2,000/month for an individual, or €2,400–€2,600/month for a couple. Must come from passive sources.

2. Gather Required Documents:
o Valid passport
o Proof of income (bank statements, pension letters, etc.)
o Lease agreement or property deed
o Private Greek health insurance
o Criminal background check
o Medical certificate

3. Apply at Greek Consulate in the U.S.: Submit all documents and wait for visa approval (may take 4–8 weeks).
4. Travel to Greece: Upon arrival, apply for your residence permit at the local migration office.
5. Receive Your Permit: The permit is usually valid for 2 years and can be renewed.

Final Thoughts

For U.S. retirees seeking a relaxed and culturally rich life in Europe, the process is more accessible than ever. The keys are financial readiness, patience with paperwork, and following each country’s unique procedures. Portugal and Spain are the easiest for most, while Italy and Greece are ideal for culture lovers who can handle a few extra hoops. Malta is a luxury option with near-instant permanent residency for those with investment means.
Pro Tip: Work with an immigration lawyer or relocation service in your destination country. While not required, it can save time and stress.