19 Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship in 2025: By Investment, Naturalization and Descent

The idea of holding a second passport is no longer reserved for the ultra-wealthy or global business elites. In 2025, more individuals and families are actively exploring the easiest countries to get citizenship, not just for travel freedom, but for enhanced lifestyle, security, and long-term planning.

From Americans seeking better healthcare and educational systems in Europe to investors looking for fast-track options in the Caribbean, second citizenship offers a wide array of benefits. It can grant visa-free access, open favorable tax regimes, provide access to world-class services, and serve as a strategic “Plan B” for political or economic instability.

Struggling with uncertainty in your home country, rising living costs, or limited travel freedom?
A second passport can offer peace of mind, open doors globally, and secure a future for your family—whether through ancestry, residency, or investment, there’s a path suited to your goals.

This guide breaks down the fastest, most accessible routes to dual citizenship in 2025, helping you identify which countries are truly easy to qualify for—and why now is the right time to act.

In this article, we’ll guide you through:

• Countries offering the fastest naturalization
• Nations allowing citizenship by descent
• Investment programs for economic citizenship
• Dual citizenship policies
• Key questions such as language tests, timelines, and costs

Top Countries by Pathway

The concept of “easy” citizenship depends on your eligibility, documentation, and goals. Below are some countries frequently named by legal experts and global citizenship consultants as the easiest for various reasons.

These countries often consider it easy to get citizenship due to shorter timelines, flexible requirements, and simplified documentation processes. Some countries offer accelerated routes to citizenship, especially through naturalization or investment. If speed is your top priority, these are worth considering.

Obtaining a second citizenship offers a range of benefits that can enhance personal freedom, economic opportunities, and security. According to Investopedia, dual citizenship allows individuals to enjoy the rights and privileges of two nations simultaneously, though it also comes with certain obligations.

Key Benefits of Second Citizenship

• Visa-Free Travel: Greater global mobility with fewer visa restrictions
• Employment Access: Ability to work freely in both countries
• Social Services: Access to healthcare, education, and public benefits
• Property Ownership: Right to own property in both countries
• Civic Participation: Right to vote and engage in political processes
• Educational Perks: In-state tuition rates and local scholarships eligibility
• Business Opportunities: Easier cross-border trade and investment
• Backup Plan: Relocation option during political or economic instability
• Cultural Connection: Maintain heritage while gaining new rights

Countries With the Easiest and Fastest Citizenship by Investment

Citizenship by Investment, also referred to as “golden passports,” these programs typically require:

• Non-refundable donations to national funds
• Real estate purchases above a set threshold
• Business or job creation investments
• Government-approved bonds or financial instruments

Most countries offering CBI do not require residency, making them ideal for frequent travelers and digital entrepreneurs. And some countries allow applicants to skip residency altogether and gain citizenship quickly by making a qualifying financial investment.

1) 🇻🇺 Vanuatu – Citizenship in 2 Months

• Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment: $130,000 minimum donation to a government fund.
• Processing time: 6–8 weeks.
• Perks: Visa-free travel to ~94 countries; fast-track option.

2) 🇹🇷 Turkey – Citizenship in 3–4 Months

• Turkey citizenship by investment: Real estate purchase of at least $400,000 or capital deposit of $500,000.
• Processing: Very quick and relatively inexpensive compared to EU programs.
• Strategic location: Bridge between Europe and Asia.

3) 🇩🇲 Dominica – Citizenship in 4–6 Months

• Dominica Citizenship by Investment: $100,000 government donation or $200,000 real estate.
• Advantages: Low cost; includes family members; visa-free travel to 140+ countries.

4) 🇲🇹 Malta – Citizenship in 12–36 Months

• Malta Citizenship by Investment: €600,000–€750,000 (donation), real estate lease/purchase, and due diligence.
• EU benefits: Residency allows free movement across the EU.

5) 🇰🇳 St. Kitts and Nevis – Citizenship in 6 Months

• St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by Investment: $250,000 donation to Sustainable Growth Fund.
• Popular among: Entrepreneurs, crypto investors, and retirees.

6) 🇬🇩 Grenada – Citizenship in 4–6 Months

• Grenada citizenship by Investment: $235,000 donation or $350,000 real estate
• Unique benefits: Visa-free travel to 140+ countries and an E-2 visa treaty with the USA, allowing US investor visa access
• Includes: Spouse, children, dependent parents

7) 🇲🇪 Montenegro – Citizenship in 6–8 Months

• Investment: €450,000 in real estate in the capital (or €250,000 in the north) plus a €100,000 government donation
• Processing Time: Around 6–8 months
• EU Candidacy: Although not yet an EU member, Montenegro is in the process of accession, making its passport potentially more powerful in the future
• Attractive For: Investors looking for a lower-cost European option with access to Balkan markets and visa-free travel to 120+ countries

Countries With the Shortest Residency Requirements for Citizenship (By Naturalization)

Several countries allow you to apply for citizenship after just two to three years of legal residency.

1) 🇦🇷 Argentina (Naturalization in 2 Years)

• Requirements: Legal residency for 2 years, integration into society, clean criminal record.
• Why it’s fast: No language test required; owning property or employment helps.
• Bonus: Dual citizenship permitted; no need to renounce US citizenship.

2) 🇵🇪 Peru (Naturalization in 2 Years)

• Requirements: 2 years of continuous residency, proof of income or financial self-sufficiency.
• Cost of living: Very low; great for retirees and remote workers.
• Consideration: Political and economic changes may affect processing times.

3) 🇵🇾 Paraguay (Naturalization in 3 Years)

• Requirements: 3 years of residency, proof of income or investment, clean background.
• Investment: A Deposit of $5,000 in a Paraguayan bank is often sufficient for residency.

4) 🇵🇱 Poland (Naturalization in 3 Years with Conditions)

• Requirements: Polish spouse or long-term residency plus language fluency.
• Benefits: EU citizenship benefits, including work rights across 27 countries.

5) 🇪🇨 Ecuador (Naturalization in 3 Years)

• Requirements: Legal residency for 3 years, basic Spanish proficiency, clean criminal record, and proof of financial self-sufficiency.
• Why it’s appealing: Ecuador has a low cost of living, accessible visa types (retirement, digital nomad, investor), and no mandatory military service.
• Bonus: Dual citizenship is allowed, and there’s no requirement to give up your US passport.

6) 🇬🇷 Greece (Naturalization in 3–7 Years)

• Requirements: 7 years of residency (or 3 if married to a Greek citizen), integration, and Greek language proficiency
• Pathways: Includes both naturalization and residency-by-investment via the Greek Golden Visa
• Benefits: Schengen travel, Mediterranean lifestyle, dual citizenship allowed

What Is Citizenship by Descent?

This pathway grants citizenship to individuals who can prove their direct bloodline to a citizen of another country. It usually involves submitting documentation such as:

• Birth and marriage certificates
• Death certificates
• Government-issued IDs
• Family registration records

Some countries require a language test or cultural familiarity, but many simply verify lineage.

Countries Offering Citizenship by Descent

1) 🇮🇹 Italy

• Eligibility: No generational limit if no ancestor renounced citizenship before passing it on.
• Documents needed: Proof of unbroken lineage from an Italian citizen after 1861.
• Perks: Full EU rights; children automatically inherit citizenship.

2) 🇮🇪 Ireland

• Eligibility: If you have a parent or grandparent born in Ireland.
• Process: Register in the Foreign Births Register, then apply for an Irish passport.
• Benefits: Live and work across the EU and UK under the Common Travel Area.

3) 🇵🇱 Poland

• Eligibility: Polish ancestor born after 1900 and lineage must remain unbroken.
• Challenge: Requires comprehensive documentation and sometimes legal assistance.

4) 🇭🇺 Hungary

• Eligibility: Ancestors from regions formerly under Hungary (pre-1920 or 1941–45).
• Bonus: Fast-track if you speak basic Hungarian.

5) 🇵🇹 Portugal & 🇪🇸 Spain (Special Cases)

• Eligibility: Sephardic Jewish descendants can claim ancestry-based citizenship.
• Timeline: May include language tests and residency, depending on case.

6) 🇱🇺 Luxembourg

• Eligibility: Descendants of Luxembourgers who emigrated before 1900.
• Window: Open only during certain application periods.

How to Apply for Ancestral Citizenship

1. Verify eligibility: Check generational limits and country-specific rules.
2. Collect documents: Certified translations may be required.
3. Legalize documents: Apostilles or embassy verifications are often necessary.
4. Submit application: Either online or through consulates.
5. Wait for processing: Timelines vary—expect 6 to 24 months.

Tip: Countries like Italy and Ireland don’t require you to renounce your US citizenship.

One of the most common concerns for those seeking second citizenship is whether they can keep their original passport. The good news? Many countries allow dual citizenship, including those offering citizenship by descent, naturalization, or investment.

Countries That Allow Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship (or multiple citizenships) means a person is legally recognized as a citizen of two or more countries simultaneously. This allows for:

• Visa-free travel to more destinations
• Access to public services in both countries
• Property rights and investment flexibility
• Inheritable benefits for future generations

However, not all countries permit it—and those that do may have reporting obligations, tax implications, or limitations on public office eligibility.

Read Also: Does Greece allow dual citizenship?

Where and How to Apply for Dual Citizenship

1. Confirm your home country’s stance: The US allows dual citizenship but does not actively encourage it. Be sure to understand IRS tax obligations.
2. Choose a second country that permits dual status: Many in Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America do.
3. Declare intent (if required): Some countries may require formal notification.
4. Update travel documents: Carry both passports when traveling between the two countries.

Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship

Some nations—like India, China, and Singapore—do not permit dual nationality. Acquiring another citizenship there may mean automatically losing your original status.

For those who can afford it, citizenship by investment (CBI) offers the most direct and often the fastest path to a second passport. These programs legally allow individuals to obtain citizenship in exchange for a significant financial contribution to the host country’s economy.

Easiest Countries for Americans to Get Citizenship  and Immigrate to

In 2025, Americans seeking second citizenship have multiple pathways, including investment, ancestry, and naturalization. Below is a breakdown of countries offering accessible routes:

1) 🇮🇪 Ireland: Citizenship by Descent: Americans with at least one Irish-born grandparent can apply for Irish citizenship through the Foreign Births Register. Special Visa for Irish Descendants: The Irish government offers programs facilitating residency and potential citizenship for individuals of Irish descent.

Employment Permits:

• Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For employees transferring within multinational companies.
• Critical Skills Employment Permit: Targets occupations with skill shortages.
• General Employment Permit: For other job offers not covered by the Critical Skills list.

2) 🇨🇦 Canada: Express Entry Routes: A points-based system evaluating factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Successful applicants gain permanent residency, leading to citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

3) 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Visa Routes:

• Family Visa: For those with family members in the UK.
• Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with job offers in eligible occupations.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): After 5 years of residency, individuals can apply for ILR, a step towards citizenship.

4) 🇩🇪 Germany: Permanent Resident Routes: After 33 months (or 21 months with advanced German language skills) on a Blue Card, individuals can apply for permanent residency, leading to citizenship after 8 years (or 6 years with integration courses).

5) 🇦🇺 Australia: Residency & Citizenship Requirements: Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after 4 years of lawful residence, including 1 year as a permanent resident.

Visa Options:

• Family Visas: For partners, children, or parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
• Business & Exceptional Talent Visas: For entrepreneurs and individuals with recognized achievements.
• Worker Visas: For skilled workers in occupations listed on the Skilled Occupation List.

6) 🇿🇦 South Africa: Routes to Citizenship: Individuals can apply for permanent residency through work, business, or critical skills visas. Citizenship is attainable after 5 years of permanent residency. Work & Business Visas: Available for professionals and entrepreneurs meeting specific criteria.

7) 🇳🇿 New Zealand: Residency Pathways: Skilled Migrant Category offers residency to individuals with job offers in areas of skill shortage. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of residency.

8) 🇵🇹 Portugal: Golden Visa Program: Investment options include real estate, capital transfer, or job creation. Residency leads to citizenship after 5 years, with minimal stay requirements.

9) 🇯🇵 Japan: Naturalization Process: Requires 5 years of continuous residence, financial stability, and renunciation of previous citizenship.

Countries You Can Buy Citizenship

1) 🇻🇺 Vanuatu

• Vanuatu citizenship by Investment: $130,000 (single applicant)
• Processing Time: ~2 months
• Benefits: Fastest CBI program globally; no residency required; visa-free travel to ~94 countries

2) 🇩🇲 Dominica

• Dominica Citizenship by Investment: $100,000 (donation) or $200,000 (real estate)
• Processing Time: ~4–6 months
• Highlights: Includes family members; visa-free access to 140+ countries

3) 🇰🇳 St. Kitts & Nevis

• St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by Investment: $250,000 donation or $200,000 real estate (held for 7 years)
• Processing Time: ~6 months
• Note: One of the oldest and most trusted CBI programs

4) 🇹🇷 Turkey

• Minimum Investment: $400,000 in real estate or $500,000 capital deposit
• Processing Time: 3–4 months
• Perks: Strategic location; growing economy; access to US E-2 visa

5) 🇲🇹 Malta

• Malta citizenship by investment : €600,000–€750,000 (donation) + real estate and €10,000 charitable donation
• Processing Time: 12–36 months
• EU Access: Citizenship allows residence and work across all EU member states

6) 🇱🇨 St. Lucia

• St Lucia citizenship by Investment: $240,000 real estate or government bonds
• Unique Option: Offers a government bond route (refundable after 5 years)

7) 🇬🇩 Grenada

• Grenada citizenship by Investment: $235,000 donation or $350,000 real estate
• Highlights: Only Caribbean country with E-2 treaty with the US, allowing investor visas

8) 🇦🇬 Antigua & Barbuda

• Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by investment: $230,000 donation or $400,000 real estate
• Processing Time: ~5 months
• Includes: Spouse, children, and dependent parents

Pros and Cons of Investment Citizenship

Investment citizenship—also known as citizenship by investment (CBI)—allows individuals to acquire a second passport by making a qualifying financial contribution to a country’s economy. This pathway is popular among entrepreneurs, global investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking fast and flexible access to global opportunities. But like any strategic decision, it comes with trade-offs.

Pros:

• Fast-track to citizenship (2–12 months)
• No residency or language requirements
• Visa-free access to dozens of countries
• Family inclusion options
• Attractive for asset protection, global mobility

Cons:

• High financial cost
• Potential for scrutiny or policy change
• Not all programs include EU rights
• Varying transparency and due diligence standards

Whether through ancestry, investment, or naturalization, obtaining a second citizenship involves a legal and administrative process that varies by country. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help navigate that journey.

Citizenship Application Process: Steps, Documents & Timelines

Obtaining second citizenship—whether by descent, investment, or naturalization—follows a formal process that varies by country. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect and how long each pathway may take.

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, confirm that you meet the specific requirements for your chosen route:

• By Descent: Proof of lineage from a citizen (parent, grandparent, etc.)
• By Naturalization: Minimum years of legal residency, language skills, and integration
• By Investment: Financial contribution to a government fund or real estate

Important: Ensure that your home country permits dual citizenship to avoid legal conflicts or loss of your original nationality.

2. Gather Required Documents

Typical documentation includes:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate(s)
• Marriage/divorce certificate(s)
• Police clearance or criminal record check
• Medical certificate
• Proof of legal income or sufficient funds
• Investment confirmation (for CBI applicants)

Countries may request additional documents depending on their laws and due diligence protocols.

3. Pass Language or Cultural Exams (If Required)

Some nations require applicants to demonstrate basic language proficiency or knowledge of the local culture:

• Required in: Portugal, Germany, France
• Not required in: Argentina, Dominica, Vanuatu

For descent-based applications, these tests are typically not applicable.

4. Submit Your Application

• Where to file: Local immigration authority, embassy, or consulate
• Submission method: Some countries allow online applications, while others may require in-person appointments

Ensure all documents are translated and notarized if needed.

5. Undergo Background Checks & Due Diligence

This is especially rigorous for Citizenship by Investment programs:

• Financial background
• Source of funds verification
• Interpol/Interpol-equivalent checks
• Political exposure risk screening

Failure to pass due diligence will lead to automatic rejection.

6. Approval and Oath of Allegiance

Once approved:

• You may need to take an oath or sign a declaration of loyalty
• Exceptions: Citizenship by descent typically skips this step

7. Citizenship Certificate & Passport Issuance

After final approval:

• You’ll receive a certificate of naturalization or citizenship
• You can then apply for your second passport

How Long Does the Citizenship Process Take?

Note: Delays may occur due to incomplete paperwork, high application volumes, or geopolitical events.

Can You Speed Up Passport Processing?

Some countries offer expedited services or priority reviews. These typically cost extra and may only apply to investment routes.

For US citizens:

• You can request expedited US passport processing if you need to update or maintain your current passport during the application process.
• Services like Swift Passport Services offer rush processing in 1–5 business days.

Summary: Easiest Passports to Get

These countries are well-known for offering citizenship with minimal requirements, whether through ancestry or investment:

These are among the easiest countries to get citizenship without years of residency or cultural integration.

Best Passports for Travel Freedom

These countries offer the highest number of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations:

Note: While Caribbean passports offer excellent travel freedom, they may not grant work or residency rights in the EU.

Most Difficult Countries to Get Citizenship

If speed and simplicity are priorities, you may want to avoid countries with strict or prolonged processes:

These are not suitable for fast or flexible citizenship seekers.

Final Tip on Passport Selection

Consider what matters most to you:

• Travel freedom? Choose EU or Caribbean CBI passports.
• Long-term relocation? Focus on descent or naturalization in EU countries.
• Minimal commitment? Look into Vanuatu or Dominica.
• Heritage preservation? Countries like Ireland and Italy are ideal.

Choosing the easiest country to get citizenship depends on your background, resources, goals, and timeline. There’s no universal answer, but with the right strategy, many options become accessible.

Summary of Key Pathways

How to Choose

Ask yourself:

• Do I have ancestral ties to a country that offers citizenship by descent?
• Am I ready to reside abroad for 2–5 years and fulfill naturalization requirements?
• Do I have the financial means for a citizenship by investment program?
• Do I need a fast and easy-to-get second passport for mobility, safety, or tax planning?

If you answered yes to any of the above, there are several citizenship options available to you in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a second citizenship is more than a legal status—it’s a gateway to new opportunities, global freedom, and long-term security. Whether you’re interested in reconnecting with your roots, improving your global mobility, or creating a safety net for your family, the easiest countries to get citizenship in 2025 offer viable, strategic paths forward.

At Premium Citizen, we help individuals and families navigate the complexities of dual citizenship, from document preparation to legal consulting. If you’re considering a second passport, now is the time to act.

Explore your eligibility, understand your options, and take the next step today.

Easiest Country to Get Citizenship – Frequently Asked Questions

Which country is easy to obtain citizenship in?

Argentina is widely recognized as one of the easiest countries to get citizenship. It requires only two years of legal residency for naturalization and does not demand language tests, large investments, or renouncing your original nationality.

What Is the Easiest Country for a US Citizen to Move To?

Ireland is often the easiest for Americans, especially those with Irish ancestry. You can claim citizenship by descent without living in the country. Portugal also ranks highly due to its Golden Visa and remote work options.

How to get citizenship in Ireland?

Which Country Is Easiest to Get Permanent Residency?

Portugal offers some of the most accessible residency permits, including the D7 visa (for passive income earners) and the Golden Visa (for investors). It requires only minimal stays and leads to permanent residency in 5 years.

What Is the Cheapest Fastest Citizenship?

Dominica provides one of the cheapest and fastest options through its Citizenship by Investment program, starting at $100,000 with passports issued in 4–6 months.

What Is a Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows foreign nationals to gain residence (and later, citizenship) in exchange for a qualifying investment in the host country. It’s common in Portugal, Spain, Greece, and UAE.

Which Country Is Best for Permanent Living?

Canada, Portugal, and New Zealand are frequently named the best countries for permanent living. They offer high quality of life, excellent healthcare and education systems, and friendly immigration policies.

What Is the Hardest Country to Immigrate To?

Switzerland, Japan, and Austria have some of the most difficult immigration and naturalization processes, often requiring 10+ years of residency, language fluency, and strict integration requirements.

What Is the Fastest Way to Become a Permanent Resident?

The fastest way is usually through investment visas such as those offered by Vanuatu (fastest passport in 2 months) or Turkey (citizenship in 3–4 months). Naturalization via Argentina (2 years of residence) is also very fast.

How to Move to Canada as a US Citizen?

US citizens can move to Canada through several options:

• Express Entry (for skilled workers)
• Family sponsorship
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
  Once a permanent resident, you may apply for citizenship after 3 years of physical presence.

Which Residency Is Easiest to Get Into in the USA?

Residency-by-employment is one of the easier pathways, especially for high-demand professions (e.g., medicine, tech). For doctors, internal medicine and family medicine residencies are among the most accessible.

Which Is the Most PR PR-friendly country?

Portugal is one of the most permanent-residency-friendly countries. After 5 years, residents can apply for permanent status and citizenship, often with minimal language or stay requirements.

How to Move to Germany as an American?

Americans can move to Germany through:

• Job Seeker Visa
• EU Blue Card
• Freelance/Artist Visa: After 5–8 years of legal residency, you can apply for naturalization, depending on integration and language proficiency.

What Country Is Easiest to Move to From the USA?

Ireland, Canada, and Portugal are often seen as the easiest countries to move to from the USA due to cultural similarities, language access, and streamlined visa programs.

Which Country Gives the Fastest Citizenship?

Vanuatu citizenship by Investment is the fastest citizenship —available in as little as 2 months. Dominica and Turkey also offer expedited processes within 4–6 months.

Which European Country Is the Easiest to Get Citizenship?

Portugal is considered the easiest in Europe due to its 5-year naturalization path, minimal physical presence requirements, and acceptance of dual citizenship. Ireland is also very accessible for those with ancestry.

Which Country Has the Best Residency?

Portugal and Canada consistently rank among the best for residency due to:

• High quality of life
• Transparent immigration systems
• Pathways to citizenship
• Strong passport power

Where Can I Get a Golden Visa?

You can apply for a Golden Visa in countries such as:

• Portugal
• Greece
• Spain
• UAE
• Hungary (reinstated in 2024)

Each has its own investment thresholds and benefits.

Which Country Has the Easiest Golden Visa?

Portugal offers the easiest and most flexible Golden Visa. It requires only 7 days of stay per year, and leads to citizenship in 5 years with full EU access. The program remains popular among remote workers and investors.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get Permanent Residency?

For many, the fastest route is:

• Investment-based residency (Portugal, UAE)
• Ancestry-based citizenship (Ireland, Italy)
• Quick naturalization countries (Argentina, Peru)

These paths typically bypass years of temporary residence.

What Is the Best Country to Migrate to With a Family?

Canada is widely seen as the best country to migrate to with a family. It offers:

• Universal healthcare
• High education standards
• Family sponsorship routes
• Generous parental support programs

Other great options include New Zealand, Portugal, and Germany.

Related Posts

• Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
• May 29, 2025

Does US Allow Dual Citizenship? A Complete Guide for Americans in 2025

For U.S. citizens considering dual citizenship, the perks are hard to ignore: visa-free travel, ..

• Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
• June 4, 2025

Which Country Give Free Citizenship in Europe?

Many people dream of becoming a citizen of a European country, whether for visa-free travel, hi ..

• Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
• June 12, 2025

The Easiest Country to Get Permanent Residency in Europe Without Investment

In recent years, the demand for permanent residency in Europe without investment has surged, pa ..