Securing a second passport is becoming increasingly attractive for enhanced global mobility, expanded business opportunities, and long-term security.
While citizenship laws differ from country to country, some nations offer relatively simple pathways through investment or ancestry.
Based on accessibility, processing speed, and overall requirements, here are six of the easiest countries to obtain citizenship:
- Dominica
Dominica runs one of the world’s most affordable and efficient citizenship-by-investment programmes. Applicants can qualify by making a contribution to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in approved real estate projects.
Processing is usually completed within a few months. Dominican citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone. There is no residency requirement, and dual citizenship is allowed.
- Ireland
Ireland offers a straightforward citizenship route for people with Irish ancestry. Individuals with an Irish-born parent qualify automatically, while those with an Irish-born grandparent can apply through the Foreign Births Register.
An Irish passport provides full European Union rights, including freedom of movement across EU member states. Ireland permits dual citizenship and does not require a language test for applicants applying by descent.
- Turkey
Turkey provides a fast-track citizenship option through investment. Foreign nationals who purchase qualifying real estate valued at a minimum of 400,000 dollars can obtain citizenship within a few months.
The programme does not require residency or renunciation of an existing nationality. Turkish passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, with the government continuing efforts to expand travel agreements.
- Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa programme remains one of Europe’s most attractive residency-to-citizenship routes. After five years of legal residence and compliance with programme requirements, applicants can apply for citizenship.
Eligible investments include venture capital funds and other approved assets. Successful applicants gain an EU passport, access to the Schengen Area, and the right to hold dual citizenship, subject to passing a basic Portuguese language test.
- Vanuatu
Vanuatu operates one of the fastest citizenship programmes globally. Through its Development Support Programme, qualified applicants can receive citizenship in as little as two months after making a required financial contribution.
The country offers visa-free access to more than 100 destinations and imposes no tax on global income or capital gains. With minimal residency obligations, the programme appeals to those seeking rapid citizenship with limited bureaucracy.
- Italy
Italy grants citizenship by descent to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, following a 2025 legal update that tightened eligibility rules. Applicants must submit official documentation proving a direct family link to an Italian ancestor.
Italian citizenship provides full EU rights, broad visa-free travel, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations. Dual nationality is permitted, and no language test is required for descent-based applications.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
