Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship

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Key Takeaways

Many countries allow you to acquire permanent residency or citizenship. You can become a permanent resident via investments, marriage, naturalisation, etc. Some easiest countries to get citizenship to include Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, Thailand, Australia and Ireland.

Most people move abroad to improve their financial prospects and ultimately become citizens of that country. Becoming a permanent citizen of a new country requires you to fulfill certain obligations. You can typically acquire permanent citizenship through marriage, investments, and naturalisation, i.e., living and working in a country for a certain number of years. However, there are some countries that provide citizenship more easily than others. Consider this list of the easiest countries to get permanent residency or citizenship.

Types of Citizenship

Citizenship by Descent

Citizenship by descent allows individuals to claim nationality through ancestral ties. This pathway is particularly advantageous for those with verifiable family links to countries that prioritize bloodline over birthplace.

Citizenship by Birth

Birthright citizenship (jus soli) is rare in most regions today, though a few countries, such as the United States and Canada, grant citizenship to individuals born on their soil.

Citizenship by Naturalisation

Naturalisation typically requires residency, language proficiency, and integration into the host country’s society. Residency periods range from 2 to 10 years, depending on the jurisdiction.

Citizenship by investment

Several nations offer fast-track citizenship in exchange for significant economic contributions, such as real estate purchases, donations, or job creation.

Countries offering Citizenship By Descent:

Italy’s citizenship-by-descent program is among the most accessible in the European Union. Under jus sanguinis, eligibility extends to descendants of Italian nationals born after March 17, 1861, regardless of generational distance.

Requirements:

• Proof of unbroken Italian lineage via birth, marriage, and naturalization records.
• Registration of the applicant’s birth certificate with Italian authorities.
• No residency or language requirements for descendants.

Process:

• Compile genealogical documents (e.g., ancestor’s Italian birth certificate).
• Submit the application to an Italian consulate or municipality.
• Wait 2–4 years for processing due to high demand.

Key Consideration: Maternal lineage claims are only valid for ancestors born after January 1, 1948, due to historical gender-discriminatory laws.

Ireland

Ireland’s citizenship-by-descent program prioritizes close familial connections, requiring applicants to register with the Foreign Births Register (FBR). Ireland is celebrated among easy citizenship countries because its citizenship by descent process is efficient and family friendly.

Its streamlined FBR system makes it one of the easiest countries to get citizenship, while applicants benefit from clear guidelines and can manage their financial interests through an NRI Savings Account.

Eligibility:

• At least one Irish parent or grandparent.
• Great-grandparent claims require proof of the intermediate parent’s FBR registration.

Requirements:

• Submission of Form FB1A (adults) or FB1B (minors).
• Processing fee: €278 (adults) or €153 (minors).
• Average processing time: 9 months in 2025.

Consideration: Applicants born before 2005 may qualify for automatic citizenship if their parent was an Irish citizen at birth

Hungary

Hungary’s simplified naturalization process enables descendants of Hungarian citizens to reclaim citizenship without residency obligations. Hungary’s Citizenship by Naturalisation option is popular among those seeking easy citizenship countries.

Its efficient process rewards applicants with strong ancestral ties, and prospective citizens should consider organizing their financial affairs—such as maintaining an NRE Account—to support smooth integration post-naturalisation.

Requirements:

• Documented proof of ancestry (e.g., birth/marriage certificates).
• Basic Hungarian language proficiency (tested during a consular interview).
• Clean criminal record.

Process:

1. Legalize and translate documents into Hungarian.
2. Submit the application to Hungarian consulates or immigration offices.
3. Attend a language and cultural interview.

Key Consideration: Dual citizenship is permitted, making this pathway attractive for retaining original nationality.

Citizenship By Naturalization

Argentina

Argentina offers one of the shortest naturalization timelines in Latin America. Recognized as one of the easiest countries to get citizenship in the region, Argentina’s citizenship by naturalisation program is both efficient and straightforward.

Its clear residency guidelines make it attractive, and applicants can benefit from maintaining an NRE Account to manage international finances seamlessly.

Requirements:

• Two years of continuous residency.
• Spanish language proficiency.
• No criminal record.

Process: Residency permits lead to citizenship applications, typically approved within 1–2 years.

Peru

Peru’s naturalization process favours spouses of citizens and long-term residents. Peru stands out among easy citizenship countries with a practical Citizenship by Naturalisation route, especially for expatriates and family members.

The process is cost-effective and encourages cultural integration, while savvy applicants may secure their financial stability through an NRI Savings Account during and after the transition.

Requirements:

• Two years of residency (reduced for marriage to a Peruvian citizen).
• Basic Spanish proficiency.

Ecuador

Ecuador offers a relatively straightforward path to citizenship through naturalization. Ecuador is an attractive option among easy citizenship countries due to its balanced approach in the Citizenship by Naturalisation process.

With an emphasis on cultural integration and clear residency rules, it offers a viable route to citizenship. Maintaining an NRE Account. can also facilitate financial management during the transition

Requirements:

• Residency: Three years of legal residency.
• Language: Basic proficiency in Spanish.
• Integration: Familiarity with Ecuadorian culture and history.

Process:

1. Obtain a temporary residency visa.
2. Upgrade to a permanent residency after 21 months.
3. Apply for naturalization after meeting the residency requirement.

Key Consideration: Ecuador permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality.

Paraguay

Paraguay provides an accessible route to citizenship through naturalization. Paraguay is regarded as one of the easiest countries to get citizenship in South America due to its straightforward Citizenship by Naturalisation process.

Its investor-friendly policies appeal to many and managing financial assets via an NRI Savings Account can further streamline the journey toward full citizenship.

Requirements:

• Residency: Three years of permanent residency.
• Economic Means: Proof of financial stability or investment.
• Language: Basic knowledge of Spanish.

Process:

1. Secure permanent residency through investment or other qualifying criteria.
2. Maintain residency for the required period.
3. Apply for citizenship through the appropriate governmental channels.

Key Consideration: Paraguay allows dual citizenship, enabling individuals to maintain their original nationality.

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Countries that offer Citizenship by Investment

Portugal (Golden Visa Program)

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains a top choice for non-EU investors, offering residency and a pathway to citizenship. Portugal is a leading destination for Citizenship by Investment, renowned among easy citizenship countries for its streamlined process and clear investment criteria. Investors benefit from a stable legal framework and may also optimize their international portfolios by keeping an NRE Account active.

Requirements:

• Investment of €500,000 in real estate or €350,000 in low-density regions.
• Five years of residency (with minimal physical presence).

Process:

1. Secure a Golden Visa.
2. Maintain investments for five years.
3. Apply for citizenship after passing A2-level Portuguese

Vanuatu

Vanuatu's Citizenship by Investment Program offers a swift route to citizenship. Vanuatu stands out as an efficient Citizenship by Investment option for high-net-worth individuals seeking rapid results. Its streamlined approach makes it one of the easiest countries to get citizenship, and applicants often benefit from managing offshore assets through an NRE Account.

Requirements:

• Investment: Minimum contribution of $130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program.
• Background Check: Clean criminal record.

Process:

1. Submit an application through an authorized agent.
2. Complete due diligence checks.
3. Make the required financial contribution.
4. Receive citizenship approval and passport issuance.

Turkey

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program grants passports within 3–6 months. Turkey’s program is popular among investors looking for a swift Citizenship by Investment route. As one of the fastest processes available among easy citizenship countries, it offers lucrative benefits, and applicants can efficiently manage their finances through an NRE Account while capitalizing on Turkey’s strategic location.

Requirements:

• Property purchase of $400,000 (held for three years).
• Creation of 50 jobs.

Key Benefit: Visa-free access to 110+ countries, including Japan and Singapore.

Dominica

Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the longest-running schemes. Dominica’s program remains a favourite among investors due to its cost-effectiveness and streamlined process. It consistently ranks among easy citizenship countries and offers significant benefits for dual citizenship, with many applicants choosing to maintain an NRI Savings Account to support their global financial strategy.

Requirements:

• Investment Options:
• Donation: Minimum of $100,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund.
• Real Estate: Minimum investment of $200,000 in a government-approved real estate project.

Process:

1. Choose an investment option and submit an application through an authorized agent.
2. Undergo due diligence checks.
3. Complete the investment upon approval.
4. Obtain citizenship and passport.

Key Consideration: Dominica's program is known for its affordability and efficiency.

> St. Kitts & Nevis

St. Kitts & Nevis has one of the oldest Citizenship by Investment Programs. It is renowned for its well-established Citizenship by Investment program, making it one of the easiest countries to get citizenship for global investors. The program offers extensive tax advantages and financial flexibility, with many applicants managing their assets via an NRE Account to ensure smooth international transactions.

Requirements:

• Investment Options:
• Donation: Minimum of $250,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund.
• Real Estate: Minimum investment of $400,000 in an approved real estate project.

Process:

1. Select an investment route and apply through an authorized agent.
2. Undergo due diligence procedures.
3. Finalize the investment upon receiving approval.
4. Receive citizenship and passport.

Key Consideration: Purchasing property in developments like the Four Seasons Resort Nevis can qualify investors for citizenship, offering luxury living alongside citizenship benefits.

What are income visas and how can they help you?

Income visas, such as Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa or Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa, allow individuals to reside in a country based on passive income (e.g., pensions, dividends). These visas often serve as stepping stones to permanent residency and citizenship.

Example:

• Spain: Requires proof of €28,800 annual income for a Non-Lucrative Visa, renewable annually. After five years, holders can apply for permanent residency

Final Note

Navigating citizenship pathways requires meticulous research and adherence to evolving immigration laws. While Italy, Ireland, and Hungary lead in descent-based claims, Portugal and Turkey offer expedited investment routes. Prospective applicants should consult government portals or legal experts to ensure compliance with 2025–2026 regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which countries offer citizenship by investment programs?

   Several countries offer citizenship by investment programs, which allow individuals to obtain citizenship in exchange for a significant financial investment. Some of the notable countries are Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Malta and Grenada.

2. Which countries offer dual citizenship easily?

   Yes, several countries allow dual citizenship and have relatively straightforward processes for obtaining citizenship. For example:

   • Argentina: Offers citizenship after just two years of continuous residence and allows dual citizenship.
   • Ireland: Provides citizenship through ancestry or after five years of residency, and allows dual citizenship.
   • Portugal: Grants citizenship after five years of residency and allows dual citizenship.

3. How long does it take to get citizenship in the easiest countries?

   The time it takes to obtain citizenship varies by country, but some of the fastest options include Vanuatu, Argentina and Peru.

4. Which country gives PR in 1 year?

   While there isn't a country that typically grants permanent residency (PR) in exactly one year through a straightforward process, some countries offer fast-track residency options such as Greece and Portugal.

5. Which country allows only single citizenship?

   Countries that do not allow dual citizenship are Austria, India and Japan. These countries generally require individuals to renounce any existing citizenship to obtain their citizenship.

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*Disclaimer: This article is published purely from an information perspective and it should not be deduced that the offering is available from DBS Bank India Limited or in partnership with any of its channel partners.

The purpose of this blog is not to provide advice but to provide information. Sound professional advice should be taken before making any investment decisions. The bank will not be responsible for any tax loss/other loss suffered by a person acting on the above.