Choosing the Right Consultant for European Residency: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

Introduction

In today’s fast-evolving global landscape, acquiring European residency has become more than a status symbol—it’s a strategic asset. Whether you’re a high-net-worth individual seeking mobility, lifestyle diversity, or a business owner looking to access the European market, obtaining EU residency can unlock a world of opportunity.

But with that opportunity comes risk—particularly when choosing the right consultancy to guide you through the process.

At Baltic Capital Partners, we specialise in helping Australasian individuals and businesses secure European residency through its Gateway to Europe program, based in Lithuania, one of the EU’s most streamlined and cost-effective jurisdictions.

Lately we’ve noticed an increase in the number of new clients sharing horror stories about trying to either submit their visa, or residency applications themselves, or worse, using inexperienced, unprofessional or downright untrustworthy “consultants” to do it for them.

Before you engage with any consultancy, it’s crucial to understand what sets a professional firm apart from the many opportunists who offer little more than vague promises and overpriced services.

Here’s what we think you should look for when evaluating a consultant to assist with your European residency goals:

1. Do They Charge for an Initial Consultation?

A reputable consultancy will always offer an initial consultation—either free or at a nominal cost—with the goal of understanding your needs and evaluating whether you qualify for what you hope to achieve.

Red Flag: If a consultant demands substantial payment upfront just to speak with you, it may be more about making a quick profit than offering value. This is a common tactic used by unscrupulous operators who prioritise fees over long-term client outcomes.

What to Look For: A trustworthy firm will provide clarity upfront about the consultation scope, qualification criteria, and transparent next steps.

At Baltic Capital Partners, we insist on a no-obligation, face-to-face (often via Zoom) consultation before we engage. We need to understand your needs, to see if there is a good fit for our services and we need to assess your situation and provide honest feedback.

2. Do They Have a Verified Office Address?

Physical presence matters. A firm that has a registered and leased office in their name demonstrates stability, accountability, and transparency. Plus as they aren’t going anywhere fast, they have more to loose if they get it wrong.

Key Questions to Ask: Is the office shared, or solely occupied? Is the lease in the company’s name? How long have they been operating from this address? Is the office located in a reputable business district?

These may seem like small details, but they signal whether you’re dealing with an established organisation or a fly-by-night operator working from a co-working space or virtual address, that could be gone tomorrow. With your fee.

Baltic Capital Partners is proudly based in Vilnius, at the top of the tallest building in the Baltic’s, with long-term, verifiable premises that reflect our commitment to serving clients professionally and consistently.

3. Do They Employ In-House Legal Counsel?

Immigration and business expansion are legal processes. A consulting firm without dedicated, qualified legal professionals on staff could put your application and future at risk.

Why In-House Legal Counsel Matters: Quick, reliable legal assessments of eligibility and risk; up-to-date expertise on immigration laws; seamless integration between documentation and compliance. Your application is unique to you. In-house legal expertise can offer Bespoke guidance, and tailored legal outcomes to further ensure the success of your application.

Always ask to speak directly with the legal counsel handling your case. If they refuse or cannot provide contact details, proceed with caution.

We maintain an in-house legal, and accounting team specialising in European immigration, business formation, and residency law. Clients are introduced directly to our professionals to foster transparency and trust.

4. Is In-House Accounting Support Available?

Residency applications often involve business investment or company formation. That means accounting plays a key role—not just for residency approval, but also for ongoing operations and compliance.

Risks Without Proper Accounting: Incomplete or non-compliant records; missed tax deadlines; difficulty scaling or repatriating funds.

What to Expect: EU-based accounting and tax planning; VAT registration and support; payroll, invoicing, and audit preparation.

Our in-house financial specialist helps our clients not only get residency, but thrive as EU residents and business owners. Many clients report, the tax structure they received as part of their Gateway to Europe package, from Baltic Capital Partners, has saved them thousands, often well and truly covering the flat fee they paid to gain residency. Thanks to our in-house legal and accounting team, it’s not unusual to hear the phrase “self funded” in client testimonials.

5. Do They Have a Track Record of Success?

Too many consultants make grand claims without delivering measurable results. Reputation matters—look for firms that have helped clients, can provide case studies, and work transparently with client timelines.

Are you being the offered the opportunity to speak with existing clients, to get a true understanding of their experiences? Has your consultant at least offered video testimonials, if not live clients to speak with? A company with a high success rate will have many happy clients, who are often willing to discuss their experiences, either face-to-face, or through pre-recorded testimonials.

Avoid one-size-fits-all agencies. Residency applications are nuanced and should be tailored to your goals.

6. Is Their Process Transparent and Efficient?

Ask detailed questions: How long will the process take? What documentation is needed? What happens if your application is rejected?

A reliable firm explains possible delays, offers clear support, and tailors solutions to your profile.

Baltic Capital Partners’ model is built around maximising the most efficient pathways, with a step-by-step process ensuring transparency and results.

7. Do They Offer Support After Residency Approval?

Getting a residency card is just the beginning. True value comes from support like housing, banking, business setup, tax understanding, social networking and wealth management.

A consultant who disappears after approval isn’t invested in your success.

Baltic Capital Partners helps clients live and prosper in Europe—not just relocate. We offer a Gateway to Europe, not a residency service.

8. Are They Affiliated With Any Regulatory Bodies or Industry Networks?

Membership in associations shows a commitment to best practices. Be cautious if your consultant lacks visible affiliations, client references, or a clear history.

Check for chamber memberships, government endorsements, and licensing.

Baltic Capital Partners works with senior business and political figures in the Baltic region, connecting new clients with local opportunities, while lobbying at a political level for increased access and streamlined application processes for clients.

9. Do They Understand the Bigger Picture?

Getting European residency should not be just about a visa. A real consultant helps you align your lifestyle, business, and future goals in Europe.

Baltic Capital Partners supports visa-free access to all 27 EU member countries, secure financial structures, global healthcare and education, with integrated social and cultural living.