Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship in 2026: Top 10 Picks

Gain insight into the easiest countries to get citizenship with our direct guide. We've listed and compared countries that streamline the process, simplifying your path to a secondary nationality—whether for business, heritage, investment, or lifestyle choices.

Quick Glance: Citizenship Opportunities Around the World

From the tranquil island nations to the cultural hubs of European countries, many countries offer the golden ticket to second citizenship. In this article, we will explore the various easiest countries to get citizenship, each with its own unique benefits and attractions. Let's take a quick tour of some of the easiest countries to obtain dual citizenship:

• Best for Speedy Processing: Vanuatu
• Best for European Access: Malta (note: CBI program closed July 2025)
• Best for Caribbean Lifestyle: Antigua and Barbuda
• Best for Dual Citizenship: St. Kitts and Nevis
• Best for Middle Eastern Connection: Turkey
• Best for Ancestral Heritage: Italy
• Best for Natural Beauty: New Zealand
• Best for Latin American Ties: Ecuador
• Best for Residency by Investment: Cyprus (note: CBI ended November 2020; Permanent Residency program still active at €300K)

Best for Speedy Processing: Vanuatu

Pros:

• Fastest citizenship processing time is just eight weeks
• There is no need for a mandatory interview
• Visa-free access to many countries

Cons:

• High initial donation required
• Additional costs for families
• Lost EU/Schengen visa-free access in December 2024 (major reduction in travel benefits)

Vanuatu's citizenship-by-investment program is akin to a sprint in the world of acquiring citizenship. The archipelago offers a streamlined process that can see you holding a new passport in just two months. This lightning-fast turnaround is unparalleled, and the absence of a mandatory interview simplifies the process even further. So, what makes Vanuatu stand out? Let's explore.

For starters, the remote application process is a godsend for those who value their time and prefer minimal hassle. The investment, a significant $130,000 donation for an individual, is a gateway not just to a new nationality but to a world of travel possibilities. The Vanuatu passport offers visa-free access to approximately 90 countries. However, note that Vanuatu lost EU/Schengen visa-free access in December 2024 due to security concerns over its CBI program, significantly reducing its travel benefits for those targeting Europe. However, the financial barrier to entry may be steep for some. For those considering bringing their families along, it's worth noting that additional costs will apply.

Rating:

• Application Speed: 5/5
• Ease of Process: 4.5/5
• Financial Requirement: 3/5
• Family Inclusion: 4/5
• Global Mobility: 4.5/5

Best for European Access: Malta (Program Closed)

⚠️ Important Update: Malta's Citizenship by Investment program was terminated in July 2025 following a European Court of Justice ruling. The program is no longer accepting new applications. The information below is provided for historical reference only. For current EU citizenship options, consider Portugal's Golden Visa (residency leading to citizenship) or Greece's Golden Visa.

Pros (Historical):

• Full European Union citizenship
• Access to high-quality healthcare and education
• Visa-free travel to over 185 countries

Cons:

• Program closed as of July 2025
• Substantial financial contribution was required
• Minimum waiting period was 14 months

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta was a jewel for those seeking European citizenship. The advantages that accompanied Maltese citizenship included:

• Access to the European Union
• Visa-free travel to over 185 countries
• Right to live, work, and study in any EU country
• High standard of living
• Excellent healthcare and education systems
• Stable political and economic environment
• Attractive tax benefits

The Maltese program was comprehensive, requiring both a residency period and a significant financial outlay. While no longer available for new applicants, Malta remains an attractive destination for those seeking EU residency through other pathways.

Rating (Historical):

• European Access: 5/5
• Quality of Life: 5/5
• Financial Requirement: 3/5
• Family Inclusion: 4.5/5
• Global Mobility: 5/5

Best for Caribbean Lifestyle: Antigua and Barbuda

Pros:

• Processing typically within approximately 6 months
• Extensive visa-free travel to over 150 countries
• Option for long-stay US Visitor Visa

Cons:

• Real estate investment must be held for five years
• Requirement of a visa for US travel

Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of the Caribbean Sea and knowing you're a citizen of paradise. Among Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programs like Grenada's, Antigua and Barbuda offer this dreamy lifestyle, along with a citizenship process that is as refreshing as its tropical breezes. Let's embark on a journey of discovery to understand what distinguishes this program.

The twin-island nation promotes an array of investment avenues, from charitable donations to real estate ventures. The processing time typically takes approximately 6 months. The cherry on top? A passport from Antigua and Barbuda provides access to over 150 countries visa-free or on arrival.

For US-bound travelers, the long-stay B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa is an attractive perk. However, investors should note that real estate must be held for a minimum of five years, and despite the visa-free privileges, a visa is still required for the US. But with potential annual returns on real estate investments, patience can indeed be lucrative.

Rating:

• Caribbean Experience: 5/5
• Investment Returns: 4/5
• Processing Efficiency: 4/5
• US Travel Convenience: 3.5/5
• Global Mobility: 4.5/5

Best for Dual Citizenship: St. Kitts and Nevis

Pros:

• There are no restrictions on dual citizenship
• Inclusion of family members in the application
• Citizenship by descent for future generations

Cons:

• High investment threshold
• No direct benefits in Commonwealth countries, despite privileges

St. Kitts and Nevis is a sanctuary for those wishing to hold dual citizenship without having to renounce their current nationality. The twin-island nation respects your global identity and offers a citizenship-by-investment program that is among the most venerable—established in 1984, it is the world's oldest such program. What significance does this hold for you and your family?

Holding a passport from St. Kitts and Nevis is more than just having a travel document; it's about securing a legacy for your descendants. The program's inclusiveness allows for family members to be part of your citizenship journey, with the promise of generational passage. The investment options include a $250,000 donation or $325,000 in approved real estate (with a 7-year holding period).

As part of the Commonwealth, there are certain courtesies extended to its citizens, although these do not equate to tangible benefits in member states. Despite these considerations, the allure of St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship is undeniable, especially for those who value the continuity of their lineage.

Rating:

• Dual Citizenship: 5/5
• Family Benefits: 5/5
• Investment Flexibility: 4/5
• Commonwealth Privileges: 3/5
• Legacy Planning: 5/5

Best for Middle Eastern Connection: Turkey

Pros:

• Diverse investment options, including foreign direct investment and investment programs
• Visa-free travel to over 110 countries
• Profitable real estate market

Cons:

• Investment must be completed before citizenship approval
• Excludes parents and children over 18 from the program

Turkey stands at the crossroads of cultures and continents, offering a citizenship program that reflects its rich mosaic. With a minimum real estate investment of $400,000 USD, the Turkish citizenship-by-investment program is a gateway to the East with a solid footing in the West. What concrete perks can you expect from this?

A Turkish passport does more than just testify to your identity; it's your ticket to over 110 countries without the need for a visa. Turkey also has an E-2 investor visa treaty with the United States, making it attractive for those seeking US business access. And for those eyeing the long-term, the Turkish real estate market holds the promise of profits, with the option to sell after a three-year holding period. However, the journey to citizenship is not without its specifics; investments must be locked in before application approval, and the program is not as inclusive for family beyond the immediate. Nonetheless, for those seeking to weave the threads of the Middle East into their global identity, Turkey offers a compelling proposition.

Rating:

• Investment Diversity: 5/5
• Global Access: 4.5/5
• Real Estate Potential: 4/5
• Family Inclusion: 3.5/5
• Cultural Richness: 5/5

Best for Ancestral Heritage: Italy

Pros:

• Citizenship by descent for direct descendants
• There are no restrictions on birth date for paternal lineage claims
• Potential for EU citizenship

Cons:

• Maternal lineage claims through administrative channels restricted to post-1948 births (though pre-1948 claims may be possible through Italian courts via jure sanguinis litigation)
• Complex documentation requirements

Italy is not just a country; for some, it's an ancestral beacon calling them home. The Italian citizenship by descent program is a tribute to the bonds of blood, allowing those with Italian lineage to reclaim a part of their heritage. How can one traverse this trail of ancestry?

The process of claiming Italian citizenship is a delicate dance with history, where the birthplaces and citizenship status of your progenitors play crucial roles. While paternal lineage offers a relatively unrestricted route, maternal claims through standard administrative channels have a temporal threshold (post-1948). However, Italian courts now routinely approve pre-1948 maternal claims through jure sanguinis lawsuits, providing an alternative pathway for those with earlier maternal ancestry. The true beauty of this journey lies not in its complexity, but in the connection it reignites with your roots and the potential it unlocks for EU citizenship. However, the path is strewn with paperwork and legal intricacies that demand attention and patience. For those with Italian blood coursing through their veins, the pursuit of citizenship is not just a legal process; it's a homecoming.

Rating:

• Connection to Heritage: 5/5
• EU Access: 5/5
• Documentation Complexity: 3/5
• Maternal Lineage Limitations: 4/5
• Historical Significance: 5/5

Best for Natural Beauty: New Zealand

Pros:

• Processing time varies: simple cases take weeks, complex cases may take months
• Easy step towards a New Zealand passport
• High quality of life and welcoming community

Cons:

• Limited to those with New Zealand descent
• Additional expedited processing fees
• Processing times depend on complexity of documentation and verification requirements

New Zealand is a portrait of natural splendor, and its citizenship by descent is a testament to the ease with which beauty and bureaucracy can coexist. For those with Kiwi ancestry, citizenship is but a formality away. What implications does this hold for those desiring to make Aotearoa their home?

The process timeline varies depending on your circumstances. Simple cases with straightforward documentation may be resolved in weeks, while complex cases requiring additional verification can take several months. The advantages of this are manifold: a passport that opens doors worldwide, a quality of life that many dream of, and a community that embraces diversity. The limitations, however, are clear: this pathway is reserved for those with New Zealand blood. And for those in a rush, expedited processing comes at an extra cost. Nevertheless, for the right candidates, New Zealand citizenship is a canvas of opportunity, painted in the most vibrant of hues.

Rating:

• Processing Efficiency: 4/5
• Quality of Life: 5/5
• Exclusivity to Descent: 3/5
• Community Inclusiveness: 5/5
• Natural Beauty: 5/5

Best for Latin American Ties: Ecuador

Pros:

• Simplified process for those with Ecuadorian family ties
• Cultural integration through language and historical knowledge
• Citizenship after five years of residency

Cons:

• Economic self-sufficiency requirements
• Must demonstrate proficiency in Spanish

Ecuador's citizenship program is a siren call to those with ties to the heart of Latin America. For those with Ecuadorian spouses or children, the residency requirement for citizenship is not just reduced; it's a heartfelt invitation. What does it entail to tread this path?

The journey to Ecuadorian citizenship is one of immersion, where an understanding of Spanish and the nation's cultural underpinnings are as crucial as the legal processes. The residency timeline is clear: five years to call Ecuador your own. For those married to Ecuadorians or with Ecuadorian children, the process is expedited, a testament to the value placed on family. Yet, the path demands proof of economic independence and a willingness to delve deep into the country's rich heritage. For those who answer its call, Ecuador offers a citizenship experience that is as enriching as it is enlightening.

Rating:

• Cultural Integration: 5/5
• Family Advantage: 5/5
• Residency Requirement: 4/5
• Economic Self-Sufficiency: 3.5/5
• Language Requirement: 4/5

Best for Residency by Investment: Cyprus

Pros:

• Fast track to permanent residency in 2 months
• Potential for EU citizenship after seven years
• Strategic location for business

Cons:

• High investment requirement (€300,000 minimum)
• Long path to EU citizenship

Cyprus offers a Permanent Residency by Investment program (note: the former Citizenship by Investment program ended in November 2020). The current program is a stepping stone not just to permanent residency but to the broader European landscape. The island nation is not merely a place of investment; it's a hub where East meets West. What distinguishes Cyprus from other investment paradises?

The program's allure lies in its rapidity and the promise of EU citizenship on the horizon. With a minimum real estate investment of €300,000, the gates to Cyprus swing open swiftly, providing immediate access to its stable economy and favorable tax landscape. The investor's family is not left behind, with benefits extending to education and healthcare. Yet, the investment is substantial, and the seven-year wait for EU citizenship requires a long-term view. For the discerning investor, Cyprus represents an investment in a future where business and lifestyle converge.

Rating:

• Investment Speed: 5/5
• Family Benefits: 4.5/5
• Business Location: 5/5
• Financial Commitment: 3/5
• EU Prospect: 4/5

Navigating the Path to Second Citizenship

Embarking on the journey to acquire citizenship in a second country is akin to navigating a complex maze with multiple routes and considerations at each turn. The process is layered, with various factors influencing each decision, from the swiftness of the application to the depth of financial investment. What's needed to navigate this journey successfully and obtain citizenship, while also ensuring you gain citizenship? One must be well-informed and prepared for the challenges of obtaining citizenship.

One might start by pondering the following factors when considering a country for immigration:

• The speed of the application process, as some countries offer quick resolutions while others require a more protracted engagement
• The financial aspect, with programs ranging from sizable donations to substantial real estate investments
• The geographic allure of a country, such as bustling streets or serene shores
• The complexity of the required paperwork

Consider your personal priorities and how they align with the different options available.

Yet, beyond the initial outlay and application details, one must weigh the tax implications of their new country, including capital gains tax and income tax. Will your global income be taxed, or only the income generated within these borders? This could significantly affect your financial planning. Likewise, consider the laws of your home country regarding dual citizenship; not all nations view multiple nationalities favorably.

Pathways to a second passport are varied, each with its own tapestry of rules and rewards. Whether it's through:

• ancestral ties to Italy
• marriage
• investment
• naturalization

the avenues are as diverse as the applicants themselves. Equally important is the global perception of the country's passport you choose to pursue, for it will become part of your identity, potentially easing travel and visa applications in the future.

Rating:

• Application Speed: Varies
• Financial Investment: Varies
• Geographic Appeal: Varies
• Personal Priorities: Varies
• Tax Considerations: Varies

Summary

We've journeyed through the myriad pathways to second citizenship, from the idyllic islands of the Caribbean to the historic landscapes of Europe. Each option presents its own unique blend of requirements and rewards, be it through investment, descent, or residency. As you contemplate this crossroads, remember that the quest for a second citizenship is not just about obtaining a new passport—it's about embracing a new chapter of opportunities, connections, and experiences that will enrich your life for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What country takes the least amount of time to become a citizen?

Vanuatu offers the quickest citizenship option through its citizenship by investment program, with processing times as fast as 8 weeks. Among Caribbean options, Antigua and Barbuda typically processes applications in approximately 6 months.

What are the fastest countries to get citizenship through investment?

Vanuatu is known for its quick citizenship-by-investment program, processing applications in as little as eight weeks.

Can I obtain dual citizenship without renouncing my current nationality?

Yes, some countries, like St. Kitts and Nevis, allow for dual citizenship without requiring you to renounce your current nationality.

Are there citizenship options based on my ancestral heritage?

Yes, Italy offers citizenship by descent, allowing individuals to claim citizenship based on their Italian ancestry.

What are some considerations for business investors seeking citizenship?

When seeking citizenship through investment, business investors should consider the minimum investment required, the speed of obtaining residency, and the potential access to EU citizenship. Note that Malta's CBI program has been restructured as 'Citizenship by Merit' with stricter criteria, but options like Portugal and Greece Golden Visas still offer pathways to eventual EU citizenship through residency.