Your Partner in Global Mobility

Planning to relocate internationally? At De Facto Juristbyrå, we specialize in seamless global mobility services, guiding you through the legal complexities of relocating to destinations like Spain, UAE, Cyprus, and Portugal. With our trusted network of partners, we tailor solutions to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition.

Global map with connections

Spain: Your Gateway to Europe

Spain offers a robust legal framework for relocation, catering to professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, students, and families with diverse pathways to residency.

Immigration Pathways

  • Work Permits: Non-EU nationals can secure residence through employment contracts with Spanish or multinational companies sponsoring work permits.
  • Entrepreneur Visa: Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals can apply under the Entrepreneur Visa (Ley 14/2013) or Self-Employment Authorization.
  • Study Visas: Students at accredited institutions qualify for study visas, convertible to work or self-employment permits after graduation.
  • Family Reunification: Spouses, minor children, and dependent parents of permit holders can join through family reunification.
  • Non-Lucrative Residence: Ideal for financially independent individuals, this permit allows residence without employment.
  • Digital Nomad Visa: Introduced in 2023, this visa allows remote workers employed by foreign companies to live in Spain for up to five years, subject to income and qualification criteria.

Taxation

Tax residency in Spain is determined by spending over 183 days annually or having primary economic interests in the country. Residents face worldwide taxation, while non-residents are taxed only on Spanish-sourced income. The "Beckham Law" offers a flat 24% tax rate on Spanish income (up to €600,000) for qualifying professionals for six years, exempting foreign income. Standard income tax is progressive (19%–47%), varying by region. Inheritances, gifts, and wealth taxes apply, with exemptions in regions like Madrid and Andalusia. Corporate tax is 25%, with reduced rates for startups.

Property & Investment

Spain's real estate market is attractive, with no restrictions on foreign property purchases. Transaction costs range from 10%–14%, covering VAT, transfer tax, and fees. Rental income is taxable, with deductions for residents. Capital gains on property sales are taxed progressively, with exemptions for primary residences. Popular regions like Andalusia, the Balearic Islands, and Valencia offer lifestyle and investment value.

Spanish coastal city

Cyprus: Strategic EU Relocation Hub

Cyprus provides tailored immigration pathways for individuals and families, making it an ideal EU destination for relocation and investment.

Immigration Pathways

  • Employment-Based Residence: Non-EU nationals can relocate through employment with international or local companies.
  • Business Permits: Entrepreneurs and business owners qualify for self-employment or business permits.
  • Study Permits: Students at recognized institutions are eligible for study permits.
  • Family Reunification: Spouses, minor children, and dependent parents can join primary residence permit holders.
  • Permanent Residency by Investment: A €300,000 investment in real estate or business entities grants permanent residency.
  • Digital Nomad Visa: Available for remote workers, capped at 500 beneficiaries, with approvals in 4–6 weeks.
  • Fast-Track Residency: Permanent residency applications are processed in 2–3 months.

Taxation

Tax residency requires 183 days in Cyprus or meeting the 60-day rule (Cyprus address, no other tax residency, and business/employment activities). The Non-Domiciled regime exempts dividends, interest, and rental income from tax for 17 years. High earners (over €55,000 annually) benefit from a 50% income tax exemption. Capital gains on securities are tax-exempt, and there are no wealth, inheritance, or gift taxes. Corporate tax is 12.5%, with no withholding taxes on outbound dividends, interest, or royalties in most cases.

Property & Investment

EU/EEA nationals face no property purchase restrictions, while non-EU buyers need Council of Ministers' approval, which is straightforward. A €300,000 real estate investment (excluding VAT) qualifies for permanent residency, making Cyprus a top choice for investors seeking EU residency.

Cyprus beach

UAE: Tax-Free Global Hub

The UAE offers diverse immigration pathways and a tax-friendly environment, making it a premier destination for relocation and investment.

Immigration Pathways

  • Employment Visas: Available for those with job offers from UAE companies, processed in 1–2 months.
  • Business Relocation: Entrepreneurs can set up free zone companies or mainland businesses for residency.
  • Family Sponsorship: Residents can sponsor spouses, children, and parents under their residency permit.
  • Investment-Based Residency: Property purchases of AED 2 million or more qualify for residency.
  • Retirement Visa: For individuals aged 55+ with property ownership or sufficient savings.
  • Golden Visa: Offers 5–10 years of residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent, processed in 1–2 months.

Taxation

Tax residency is established by spending 183 days in the UAE or maintaining a permanent presence (business or residence). The UAE has no personal income, wealth, or inheritance taxes. Corporate tax is 9% for mainland businesses, with 0% in free zones. Worldwide income, dividends, interest, royalties, and trust income are tax-exempt, ideal for wealth planning.

Property & Investment

Foreign buyers face no restrictions in freehold areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Property investments of AED 2 million or more grant residency visas for 2–10 years, depending on the emirate. The UAE's tax benefits and open property market make it a top investment destination.

UAE skyline

Portugal: EU Residency with Tax Incentives

Portugal combines flexible residency options with attractive tax benefits, making it a top choice for relocation and investment.

Immigration Pathways

  • Employment Permits: Non-EU workers with job offers from Portuguese companies qualify for residency.
  • D2 Visa: Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals can apply for this business-focused visa.
  • Study Permits: Available for students at recognized institutions.
  • Golden Visa: Offers residency through a €500,000 investment in real estate or other assets, processed in 2–4 months.
  • D7 Visa: For retirees or those with passive income (€820/month minimum), processed in 3–6 months.

Taxation

Tax residency requires 183 days in Portugal or a permanent home. The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime offers a 20% tax on Portuguese income, 10% on pensions, and exemptions on most foreign income for 10 years. There are no wealth or inheritance taxes. Residents face progressive income tax (14.5%–48%), and capital gains are taxed at 28% (50% exempt). Corporate tax is 21%, with lower rates for SMEs.

Property & Investment

Foreign buyers face no restrictions on property purchases. A €500,000 real estate investment qualifies for the Golden Visa, offering residency and EU mobility. Portugal's tax incentives and open property market make it highly attractive.

Portuguese town

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Contact De Facto Juristbyrå today to explore your relocation options and begin your new chapter with confidence.

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