Fastest Countries for Naturalization: A Deep Dive into the Easiest Paths to Citizenship

Imagine obtaining citizenship in just a few months. No endless paperwork, no grueling interviews, no drawn-out processes. Fast-track citizenship is no longer a dream but a reality in several countries around the globe. Whether you’re chasing the freedom to travel visa-free, seeking a new lifestyle, or aiming for better financial opportunities, finding the right country to naturalize can change your life dramatically.

But which countries actually offer the fastest paths to naturalization? The answer isn't always straightforward, and the requirements vary dramatically depending on your individual situation — be it through descent, marriage, investment, or special government programs. Let's explore the countries leading the way when it comes to quick naturalization.

1. Dominica: 3 Months Through Investment

The Caribbean nation of Dominica has long attracted those looking for a fast, efficient way to gain citizenship. Through its Citizenship by Investment Program (CBI), individuals can become citizens in as little as three months. The requirements are clear: a minimum donation of $100,000 to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or a real estate investment starting at $200,000. There’s no need to live in the country or even visit during the application process. Once approved, you’ll enjoy visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area and the UK.

Why does Dominica work so fast? It's a combination of streamlined application processes and a focus on economic benefits from international applicants. Plus, Dominica doesn't impose taxes on income earned outside the country, making it an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals.

2. St. Kitts and Nevis: 3-6 Months

Another Caribbean nation on the fast-track list is St. Kitts and Nevis. Their CBI program is one of the oldest in the world, launched in 1984. Applicants can obtain citizenship within 3 to 6 months by making a non-refundable donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund or investing in pre-approved real estate. The minimum investment for the donation is $150,000, slightly higher than Dominica but still within reach for many.

St. Kitts and Nevis also provide visa-free travel to over 150 countries. The citizenship process is swift because the country has invested in a simplified, efficient vetting system that enables applicants to avoid lengthy bureaucratic delays.

3. Vanuatu: 1-2 Months

If you’re looking for speed, Vanuatu tops the list. With a fast-track naturalization process of just 1 to 2 months, it’s the quickest in the world. Through a $130,000 donation to the government’s Development Support Program, you can obtain Vanuatu citizenship in a matter of weeks. This option is popular among individuals who need second citizenship quickly for business or personal reasons.
Visa-free access is granted to over 120 countries, including the UK and Russia, but what makes Vanuatu particularly appealing is its zero income tax policy and no residency requirement, allowing you to hold the passport without ever stepping foot on the island.

4. Turkey: 6-9 Months Through Real Estate

Turkey offers a relatively quick and straightforward route to citizenship through real estate investment. Introduced in 2018, the Turkish government allows foreigners to become citizens by purchasing property worth at least $400,000. The process takes approximately 6 to 9 months, and unlike other countries, Turkey does not require you to live in the property or the country for a specific period.
Turkey is a desirable location for investors due to its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia and offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 110 countries. Plus, the booming real estate market makes it a great choice for those seeking both financial returns and a second passport.

5. Paraguay: 3 Years with Low Residency Requirement

Paraguay offers one of the fastest routes to citizenship in Latin America, with a minimum residency period of just three years. Compared to other countries, where you might need to live for 10 years or more before qualifying for citizenship, Paraguay stands out.
The process is simple: after residing in the country for three years and proving financial stability, you can apply for naturalization. There’s no need to work or own property during that time. Once you’re a citizen, you’ll enjoy visa-free access to all Mercosur countries and many others in Latin America. Paraguay’s naturalization process is popular with retirees, expats, and those looking for a lifestyle change in a peaceful country.

6. Portugal: 5 Years with Golden Visa

Portugal has risen as a favorite among expatriates, thanks to its Golden Visa program. While the process isn’t as fast as the Caribbean programs, it is still highly efficient for Europe. Through an investment of at least €500,000 in real estate, or other qualifying investments, you can apply for residency immediately. After maintaining residency for 5 years, you are eligible for citizenship.
The major attraction of Portugal is that you don’t need to live in the country for the entire 5 years. You only need to spend 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain residency, making it a highly flexible option for those who don’t want to relocate fully. Plus, once naturalized, you’ll gain access to the EU, including visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Zone.

7. Uruguay: 3 Years with Residency

Uruguay’s naturalization process is also quite fast, offering citizenship within 3 years for families or 5 years for individuals after establishing residency. The country has an attractive, transparent immigration process, and there are no specific income or investment requirements. You simply need to show that you’ve lived in Uruguay for the requisite amount of time, and you’re financially self-sufficient.
Uruguayan citizenship offers visa-free access to over 150 countries, including all of Europe, making it an attractive option for individuals looking to expand their travel horizons.

8. Argentina: 2 Years of Residency

Argentina boasts one of the fastest naturalization timelines in the world, with citizenship available after just two years of residency. Unlike other countries, you don’t need to make a large investment or meet strict requirements. After living in Argentina for two years, you can apply for citizenship and typically expect to receive it in under a year.
Argentina’s laid-back lifestyle, affordable cost of living, and access to Mercosur countries without a visa make it a top choice for those looking to settle in Latin America. It’s also a relatively tax-friendly nation, with no taxation on income earned abroad.

The Hidden Benefits of Fast Naturalization

The advantages of obtaining citizenship quickly are numerous. For some, it’s the ability to travel freely without the hassle of visas. For others, it’s about securing a financial future in a country with favorable tax policies. And for many, it’s about creating a safety net, giving them the flexibility to relocate in case of political or economic instability in their home country.
With countries like Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Vanuatu leading the way, the race to offer fast citizenship is becoming more competitive. The rise of investment programs and the global demand for multiple passports have transformed what was once a lengthy, bureaucratic process into a streamlined, accessible pathway for many.