Easiest European Countries to Get Citizenship in 2024
Portugal – A Blend of Flexibility and Favorable Policies
Portugal tops the list for good reason. Its Golden Visa program has drawn in thousands of expats, and the country is renowned for its flexible citizenship laws. After five years of legal residency (which can be attained through various means like investment, work, or even studying), you’re eligible to apply for citizenship. Here's the kicker: you don’t even need to live in Portugal full-time to qualify. Many residents spend just a few weeks a year in Portugal and still meet the residency requirement. And unlike other nations, Portugal doesn’t demand you renounce your original citizenship.
Citizenship Through:
- Residency (5 years)
- Investment (real estate, job creation, or research contributions)
| Portuguese Citizenship | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Residency | 5 years of legal residency |
| Language Test | Yes, but basic A2 level |
| Full-time Stay Required | No |
| Dual Citizenship | Allowed |
Spain – Long-term but Worth the Wait
Spain, another popular Southern European destination, offers citizenship through residency after ten years. While the time requirement may seem long, Spain’s vibrant lifestyle and economic opportunities make it a prime choice. If you're from a Latin American country, it’s even better: you only need two years of residency to apply for citizenship. However, Spain doesn’t allow dual citizenship with most countries, so you might need to renounce your original nationality.
Citizenship Through:
- Residency (10 years, or 2 years for Latin Americans)
Italy – Embrace Your Heritage or Marry an Italian
Italy has one of the most lenient citizenship by descent policies in Europe. If you have Italian ancestors, you can apply for citizenship without needing to live in the country or speak the language fluently. There’s no generational limit either, which means that as long as you can prove your lineage, you’re eligible. Marrying an Italian also speeds up the citizenship process – spouses can apply after just two years of residency.
Citizenship Through:
- Descent (no limit on generations)
- Marriage (after 2 years of residency)
| Italian Citizenship | Criteria |
|---|---|
| By Descent | Italian ancestry, no time limit |
| By Marriage | After 2 years of residency |
| Residency | Minimum 10 years for non-EU citizens |
Malta – Fast-track with Investment
Malta offers one of the quickest routes to citizenship in Europe through its citizenship-by-investment program. By making significant contributions to the Maltese economy—such as investing in real estate or government bonds—you can get citizenship within just 12 to 18 months. The investment requirement is steep, typically ranging from €600,000 to €1 million. But if you’re looking for a fast track to European citizenship, Malta delivers.
Citizenship Through:
- Investment (1 year for fast-track)
Greece – Residency by Investment
Greece has a thriving residency-by-investment program that, while not offering immediate citizenship, provides a pathway to naturalization after seven years. By purchasing property worth at least €250,000, you can obtain residency, which is renewable every five years. After seven years of legal residency, you're eligible to apply for citizenship.
Citizenship Through:
- Investment (7 years of residency)
| Greek Citizenship | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Residency Requirement | 7 years |
| Investment Requirement | €250,000 (real estate) |
| Language Test | Yes |
Austria – A High Bar but Not Impossible
Austria has one of the most difficult citizenship processes in Europe. It doesn’t offer any citizenship-by-investment options, and residency requirements are strict. However, naturalization is possible after ten years of continuous residence. If you’re a high-net-worth individual, Austria might make exceptions for extraordinary economic contributions, though this is less common than in other countries.
Citizenship Through:
- Residency (10 years)
Ireland – A Family-Friendly Path
Ireland is another great choice for those with Irish ancestry. If you have Irish grandparents, you’re eligible for citizenship. You can also become a citizen through naturalization after five years of residency. Ireland, like Portugal, allows dual citizenship, making it an attractive option for many.
Citizenship Through:
- Descent (grandparents)
- Residency (5 years)
| Irish Citizenship | Criteria |
|---|---|
| By Descent | Irish grandparents |
| Residency Requirement | 5 years |
| Dual Citizenship | Allowed |
Iceland – Simplicity in the North
Iceland offers a relatively straightforward path to citizenship through naturalization after seven years of residence. The Icelandic government also offers citizenship after four years if you're a citizen of another Nordic country. However, Iceland has strict residency requirements, and applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Icelandic, which can be a challenge.
Citizenship Through:
- Residency (7 years, or 4 years for Nordic citizens)
| Icelandic Citizenship | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Residency Requirement | 7 years (4 for Nordic citizens) |
| Language Test | Yes, proficiency in Icelandic |
The Takeaway
While the path to European citizenship can vary greatly depending on the country, some nations offer easier and quicker routes. Portugal and Malta stand out for their flexibility and speed, making them ideal for individuals seeking European citizenship without full-time residency. Italy and Ireland offer advantageous options for those with ancestral ties, and Spain and Greece present attractive long-term residency paths. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term goals.
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