Fastest Countries to Become a Citizen

Want to become a global citizen faster than you can say “immigration paperwork”? Well, some countries offer pathways to citizenship in just a few years, and in some cases, you may even be able to obtain citizenship in mere months! This article takes a deep dive into the fastest countries where you can obtain citizenship through naturalization, investment, or other unique means. These options may appeal to anyone seeking a second passport for travel, security, or financial benefits. Buckle up and let’s explore the fastest ways to call another country home.

The Race for Citizenship: Why Speed Matters
In today’s globalized world, acquiring a second citizenship has never been more appealing. Whether you're looking for visa-free travel, a financial haven, or simply an escape plan, a second passport opens doors to opportunities that may not be available in your home country. And time is of the essence for many people. So, which countries offer the fastest routes to citizenship, and why does speed matter?

Imagine this: You’ve decided to make a new country your permanent home, but you don’t want to wait 10 years to become a citizen. For high-net-worth individuals, investors, or people with ancestral ties, some countries offer a faster track to citizenship. You could be holding a new passport in your hand within just months to a few years. But where can you do this? Let's dive in!

1. St. Kitts and Nevis – As Fast as 60 Days (Citizenship by Investment)

St. Kitts and Nevis, a small twin-island nation in the Caribbean, is known for its fast-track citizenship program through investment. This program allows investors to become citizens in as little as 60 days. How does it work? The government offers two main investment options: a donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund or an investment in real estate. The minimum contribution is around $150,000 for the fund, while real estate investments start at $200,000. No residency requirements, and the passport provides visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including the EU.

Why St. Kitts and Nevis?

• Fastest processing time in the world for citizenship.
• Visa-free travel to 150+ countries.
• No residency requirement.

2. Dominica – 2 to 4 Months (Citizenship by Investment)

Dominica also offers one of the fastest citizenship programs through investment. You can obtain citizenship in just 2 to 4 months by either donating to the Economic Diversification Fund or investing in pre-approved real estate. The minimum donation is $100,000, and the real estate investment option starts at $200,000. This island nation offers visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the EU and the UK.

Why Dominica?

• Affordable investment options.
• Quick processing times, no need for residency.
• Visa-free access to major regions.

3. Turkey – 6 Months (Citizenship by Investment)

Turkey has grown into a popular destination for people looking to gain citizenship quickly, thanks to its investment program. By purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000 or making a bank deposit of $500,000, applicants can secure citizenship in as little as six months. Unlike some other fast-track programs, Turkey's citizenship program allows dual citizenship, and you can access visa-free travel to over 110 countries.

Why Turkey?

• Strategic location bridging Europe and Asia.
• Flexible investment options.
• Fast-track process and option for dual citizenship.

4. Portugal – 5 Years (Golden Visa Program)

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program offers an attractive route to European citizenship through investment, though it is not as fast as the Caribbean programs. After investing in real estate (minimum €500,000) or making a capital transfer, you can apply for citizenship after five years. While this may seem longer compared to other countries, Portugal's Golden Visa stands out because it does not require residency or language proficiency until the very end of the process.

Why Portugal?

• Access to European Union citizenship.
• No requirement for continuous residency during the five years.
• Attractive real estate market and investment returns.

5. Malta – 12 to 18 Months (Citizenship by Investment)

Malta offers a slightly longer but still relatively fast citizenship route through its investment program. Applicants must first obtain residency, which can be done immediately, and then apply for citizenship after a 12- to 18-month waiting period. The investment requirements include a donation to the national development fund (starting at €650,000), a real estate purchase, and additional charitable contributions.

Why Malta?

• EU citizenship and access to Schengen countries.
• Clear, structured path to citizenship.
• Excellent lifestyle, healthcare, and educational facilities.

6. Argentina – 2 Years (Naturalization)

Argentina offers a rapid naturalization process compared to most countries. Anyone who has legally resided in Argentina for just two years can apply for citizenship, without the need for huge investments or other specific ties. Argentina allows dual citizenship, and once you’re a citizen, you have access to visa-free travel to over 150 countries.

Why Argentina?

• Only requires two years of residency.
• No investment needed, making it accessible to more people.
• Large diaspora community, especially for Europeans and Americans.

7. Paraguay – 3 Years (Naturalization)

Paraguay is another country that offers a relatively quick pathway to citizenship through residency. After residing in Paraguay for just three years, you can apply for naturalization. The process is straightforward, and there is no need for high investments. Paraguay is known for its low cost of living, pleasant climate, and good quality of life, making it an appealing destination for retirees and expats alike.

Why Paraguay?

• Fast residency-to-citizenship timeline.
• Affordable living and investment costs.
• Dual citizenship permitted.

8. Vanuatu – 2 to 3 Months (Citizenship by Investment)

This tiny Pacific island nation offers one of the quickest citizenship-by-investment programs in the world. The Vanuatu Development Support Program requires a donation of $130,000 to a government fund, and the entire process can be completed within two to three months. Vanuatu’s passport offers visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the UK and most of Europe.

Why Vanuatu?

• Fast, efficient processing.
• Attractive for digital nomads and business professionals.
• No physical residency required.

The Fast Track Through Descent

If you have ancestors from countries like Ireland, Italy, or Poland, you may be able to fast-track citizenship through descent. Many countries offer citizenship to descendants of nationals, making it one of the quickest routes if you meet the criteria.

• Ireland: If you have a grandparent born in Ireland, you can become a citizen with just documentation.
• Italy: Italian citizenship by descent is available to individuals with Italian ancestors up to two generations back.
• Poland: Poland allows citizenship by descent if you can prove Polish ancestry.

Conclusion: What’s the Best Option for You?

Choosing the fastest country to become a citizen depends on your goals. If you're looking for speed, the Caribbean nations like St. Kitts and Nevis or Dominica are top contenders. If you're focused on accessing European markets, Portugal and Malta offer excellent routes. Those with family ties might find that acquiring citizenship by descent is the quickest and most affordable route.

In the end, the best citizenship route will depend on your personal, financial, and strategic needs. Whether you're seeking global mobility, financial benefits, or just a change of scenery, these countries offer some of the fastest paths to a second passport.