For many people, the idea of settling in another country is the ultimate dream. While there are numerous ways to experience life abroad temporarily—like studying, joining a volunteer program or even securing residency—citizenship offers the most permanent and secure option. Dual or multiple citizenships provide individuals with greater access to international investment opportunities, world-class education, and diverse healthcare systems.
For those seeking a second passport, whether for travel freedom, tax benefits, or a fresh start, citizenship by naturalization, descent, or investment is an appealing option. Some countries make the process easier than others. Here’s a look at some of the easiest countries to obtain citizenship in 2025.
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Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa program offers a pathway to citizenship for those looking to relocate abroad through investment. To qualify, applicants must have a clean criminal record and cannot already hold citizenship from the European Economic Area (EEA), European Union (EU), or Switzerland.
The program requires making a financial commitment to Portugal, which can take several forms. For one, you can purchase real estate with a minimum value of €280,000. Alternatively, you can contribute at least €250,000 as a donation, create jobs, make a capital investment, or transfer funds into the country.
After maintaining the investment for five years, participants can then apply for Portuguese citizenship. While the current processing times can be lengthy, Portugal remains a top choice for those seeking an alternative residency option.
Italy
Obtaining Italian citizenship through “jure sanguinis” (right of blood) is an option for those with direct Italian ancestry. This can be typically through a parent or grandparent. To qualify, your Italian ancestor must have been born in Italy on or after March 17, 1861. The date marks the unification of the Kingdom of Italy—or after their birthplace officially became part of the kingdom.
The process requires meticulous documentation, including proof of lineage, such as your ancestor’s birth certificate, along with other official records. Additionally, applicants must pay a €600 fee when submitting their request. Once all documents are compiled and the application is deemed complete and consistent, processing can take up to two years before a final decision is made.
Argentina
Argentina remains a sought-after destination for those pursuing a second citizenship, thanks to its relatively straightforward naturalization process. Although its appeal has diminished in recent years due to soaring inflation and a challenging job market for expats, obtaining Argentine citizenship is still an attractive option for many.
Applicants over the age of 18 can become Argentine citizens after legally residing in the country for just two years on various visas or permits. This short residency requirement makes Argentina one of the more accessible countries for naturalization, offering a fast track to dual citizenship compared to many other nations.
St. Kitts and Nevis
If the allure of St. Kitts and Nevis’ turquoise waters, lush mountains, and idyllic beaches appeals to you, obtaining citizenship might be worth considering. The process is relatively straightforward, but the financial commitment makes it an exclusive opportunity.
It’s one of the more affordable Caribbean nations in terms of offering citizenship by investment. St. Kitts and Nevis requires a minimum donation of $250,000 through the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) or an Approved Public Benefit Project.
However, beyond the investment itself, applicants should factor in an additional $35,000 to $40,000 in legal and processing fees. With a typical processing time of around six months, this isn’t a casual relocation plan—rather, it’s a high-end route to a second passport.
Greece
Greece offers a relatively affordable residency-by-investment program compared to other European countries, but obtaining citizenship is a long-term commitment. By investing at least €250,000 in real estate, you and your immediate family—including your spouse, children under 21, and even your parents—are eligible for a permanent residency visa.
This visa is renewable every five years, allowing you to maintain legal residence in Greece. However, gaining full citizenship isn’t immediate; you must reside in the country for a minimum of seven years before applying. While the process requires patience, it ultimately grants you the benefits of an EU passport, opening doors to unrestricted travel and work opportunities across Europe.
Malta
Malta’s Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment offers one of the quickest routes to EU citizenship. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking greater mobility within Europe. As an EU citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and travel freely across member states, a significant advantage for businesspeople, digital nomads, and frequent travelers.
However, obtaining Maltese citizenship through this program comes at a steep price. Applicants must invest a minimum of €600,000, in addition to making a €10,000 donation to a government-approved organization.
Furthermore, they are required to maintain legal residence in Malta for at least 36 months before qualifying. While this program has attracted high-net-worth individuals looking for EU access, it has also drawn criticism for exacerbating Malta’s housing crisis.
Ireland
If you have Irish ancestry, you may be eligible to claim Irish citizenship through descent, thanks to Ireland’s Foreign Birth Registration process. This pathway allows individuals to apply if one of their parents was an Irish citizen at the time of their birth.
Even if that parent was born outside Ireland, or if they have a grandparent who was born in the country. The application requires official documentation, including birth certificates, photo identification, and any necessary marriage certificates.
You’ll also pay a €278 processing fee. Currently, the process takes around nine months to complete. Once granted citizenship, you gain the privilege of holding an Irish passport. It not only provides the right to live and work in Ireland but also free movement across both the European Union and the UK.
Conclusion
Whether through investment, ancestry, or naturalization, these countries provide some of the easiest routes to citizenship in 2025. With changing immigration laws, it’s always best to check official government policies or consult an immigration expert before making a decision. A second passport can open doors to new opportunities, greater travel freedom, and enhanced global mobility.
