Immigration in 2026: how to prepare for changes in the EU
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What changes are coming to immigration programs in 2026? Stricter rules, digitalization, and new requirements. A practical guide to preparing for immigration to the EU, the US, the UAE, Israel, and more.
Immigration rules in the European Union are undergoing major changes, and 2026 is expected to become a turning point for those planning to obtain a residence permit, permanent residence, or citizenship in a European country. New requirements, digitalization of visa processes, stricter financial transparency checks, and tougher migration filters all demand careful preparation and a strategic approach.
In this article, we outline what changes to expect and how to prepare if you are planning immigration to Germany, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Austria, Spain, Serbia, Hungary, the UAE, the United Kingdom, the United States, or seeking citizenship in Israel, Lithuania, Romania, Moldova, Mexico, Turkey, or Chile.
In this article, we outline what changes to expect and how to prepare if you are planning immigration to Germany, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Austria, Spain, Serbia, Hungary, the UAE, the United Kingdom, the United States, or seeking citizenship in Israel, Lithuania, Romania, Moldova, Mexico, Turkey, or Chile.
Key immigration policy changes in 2026
1. Stricter Financial Control and Source-of-Income Checks
Many EU countries are tightening scrutiny of the legality of applicants’ funds. In 2026, those applying for residence permits or citizenship will need to provide more detailed proof of income, especially for business or investment-based routes. This particularly affects programs in Portugal, Greece, Spain, and Hungary.
2. Full Digitalization and Transition to Electronic IDs
Germany, Italy, and Austria are moving to fully digital residence permit applications. Online submission platforms were piloted in 2025 and are expected to become mandatory by 2026. Applicants should prepare digital copies of all documents in advance and ensure compliance with formatting and translation requirements.
3. Higher Income and Investment Thresholds
Financial thresholds are expected to rise. For example, Spain’s digital nomad visa may require a minimum income of €3,000 per month from 2026. In Greece, the minimum investment for a Golden Visa may increase to €500,000 in Athens and Thessaloniki.
4. Tougher Language and Integration Requirements
Austria, Germany, and France have already tightened language requirements for residence permit renewals and permanent residence. In 2026, passing A2–B1 level language tests may become mandatory even for applicants under the EU Blue Card scheme.
5. Political and Economic Factors
Due to geopolitical instability and increased migration pressure, the EU is strengthening migration filters. This is likely to affect processing times. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance and not rely on expedited procedures.
Many EU countries are tightening scrutiny of the legality of applicants’ funds. In 2026, those applying for residence permits or citizenship will need to provide more detailed proof of income, especially for business or investment-based routes. This particularly affects programs in Portugal, Greece, Spain, and Hungary.
2. Full Digitalization and Transition to Electronic IDs
Germany, Italy, and Austria are moving to fully digital residence permit applications. Online submission platforms were piloted in 2025 and are expected to become mandatory by 2026. Applicants should prepare digital copies of all documents in advance and ensure compliance with formatting and translation requirements.
3. Higher Income and Investment Thresholds
Financial thresholds are expected to rise. For example, Spain’s digital nomad visa may require a minimum income of €3,000 per month from 2026. In Greece, the minimum investment for a Golden Visa may increase to €500,000 in Athens and Thessaloniki.
4. Tougher Language and Integration Requirements
Austria, Germany, and France have already tightened language requirements for residence permit renewals and permanent residence. In 2026, passing A2–B1 level language tests may become mandatory even for applicants under the EU Blue Card scheme.
5. Political and Economic Factors
Due to geopolitical instability and increased migration pressure, the EU is strengthening migration filters. This is likely to affect processing times. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance and not rely on expedited procedures.
Required documents: a universal preparation checklist
Preparing for immigration in 2026 requires assembling the following documents in advance:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
- Financial documents: income certificates, bank statements, tax returns
- Proof of education and professional experience
- Marriage and birth certificates (if applying as a family)
- Health insurance valid in the EU
- Proof of accommodation or lease agreement
- Investment confirmation (if applicable)
- Apostilles, certified translations, and notarizations
Processing times and fees in 2026
Immigration procedures are becoming longer:
- Standard residence permit processing: 4–8 months
- Citizenship by repatriation: 6–18 months depending on the country (Romania, Israel, Lithuania, Turkey)
- Government fees are expected to increase by 10–20% in most countries
- Expedited online submissions may incur additional fees of up to €200–300
Additional benefits of proper preparation
- Higher approval chances
- Ability to apply for residence permits for the entire family at once
- Time and cost savings through a complete and accurate document package
- Opportunity to secure quotas in advance (e.g., Greece and Portugal)
- Confidence during interviews and language or integration tests
Conclusion: act now
Immigration in 2026 will require more thorough preparation than ever before. It is no longer enough to simply know the requirements—you must adapt your strategy in advance: choose the right country and program, prepare documentation properly, and closely monitor regulatory changes.
At Visa Dan, we guide clients through every stage—from the initial consultation to obtaining a residence permit or citizenship.
Contact us today to discuss your immigration plan and prepare for 2026 with clarity, confidence, and minimal stress.
At Visa Dan, we guide clients through every stage—from the initial consultation to obtaining a residence permit or citizenship.
Contact us today to discuss your immigration plan and prepare for 2026 with clarity, confidence, and minimal stress.
Why do customers choose Visa Dan?
Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:
- Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
- Complete transparency and support at every stage.
- A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
- Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.
The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!