In recent years, EuropeimmigrantsContinuing to heat up, especially Portugal, Spain and Hungary has become the focus of Chinese attention. But in the complex and changing policy background, which country's immigration program is more cost-effective? This article will start fromInvestment thresholds, status advantages, cost of livingrespond in singingResidence stabilityFour dimensions, bring you a comprehensive analysisImmigration to HungaryComparisons with Portugal and Spain to help you make a more informed choice.

I. Investment threshold: Hungary starts low, the threshold is more pro-people

In Portugal, "golden visa" investment threshold increased to 500,000 euros, Spain still maintains the purchase of 500,000 euros, Hungary's advantages gradually appeared. Hungary 2024 launchedrecent immigrantsThe policy emphasizes the "Residence Card + Investment Portfolio" model:

• Hungary: Families applying for a minimum combined cost of up to 200,000 euros without the compulsory purchase of a home;

• Portugal: the new golden visa investment rules canceled the property path, shifted to fund investment-based, risk and threshold rise;

• Spain: The threshold for home purchase starts at 500,000 euros, with a slower approval cycle and higher overall costs.

▶ Comparison Summary: Hungary has no mandatory home purchase and is flexible enough for families with limited budgets or those seeking flexible status allocation.

II. Identity Path and Residence Stability: Portugal and Spain are Strong in Schengen Freedom, Hungary Focuses on Transitional Identity

• PortugalAllows applicants to apply for permanent residence or naturalization after five years and has relatively loose residency requirements (only 7 days per year);

• SpanishWhile Golden Visa holders can renew their visas, they are required to physically reside in the country for at least 183 days per year to apply for permanent residence;

• HungaryIt is a phased residence status, usually temporary for the first three years, with a gradual changeover and a careful selection of service providers to ensure a legal path.

▶ Comparison Summary: For long-term planning of EU permanent residence or naturalization, Portugal is the most mature path. Hungary is more suitable for using the status as a springboard or configuration alternative.

Third, the cost of living and educational resources: Hungary lower prices, suitable for long-term planning

• Cost of living: Budapest's overall consumption is significantly lower than that of Lisbon and Madrid, and renting, transportation, and medical care are more economical;

• Educational resources: Hungary has a large number of English-medium international schools and a tradition of "medical schools" (e.g. University of Szemves), which attracts families planning to educate their children in a Western style;

• Healthcare system: The Hungarian healthcare system is one of the leading ones in Eastern Europe, with both public and private healthcare.

▶ Comparison Summary: Hungary is a pragmatic choice if the family is living there for a long time and pursuing cost of living control and children's education.

IV. Policy stability and risk prevention and control: Hungary's emerging policies still in the teething stage

Both Portugal and Spain have more than ten years of experience with golden visas and, despite policy adjustments, have more mature systems. In contrast, Hungary has made many policy adjustments in recent years, such as the short-term cessation of the investment residence in 2023, and the introduction of a new program in 2024 after there is still greater uncertainty.

▶ Comparison Summary: If you are looking for policy stability, Portugal and Spain are slightly better; Hungary is suitable for "fast in, fast out" type investors or multi-status planning people.

Conclusion: Which country is right for you?

One sentence summary: if you pursue long-term EU status, Portugal is the first choice; want to move to live + education both, Spain is more suitable; the pursuit of cost-effective and flexible identity entrance, Hungary is worth considering.