Bifunctional ion-exchange resins are synthesized from vinylbenzyl chloride-styrene copolymers. The two types of functional groups are introduced by an Arbusov reaction followed by sulfonation. The effect of ligand ratios, macroporosity, and matrix rigidity on the complexation of Eu(III) from solutions of low pH is quantified. It is found that ion complexation kinetics and selectivity are maximized with resins having both sulfonic and phosphonic acid ligands. Maximum metal ion complexation rates depend on a balance between chemical interactions (i.e., a bifunctional network interacting with a given substrate through an access and a recognition mechanism) and physical parameters (i.e., matrix porosity and rigidity). Structural integrity must be maintained through an appropriate crosslink level in order for the advantage of bifunctionality to be maintained in low-pH solutions.