Fast, legal, and practical second-passport options worldwide
In 2026, getting citizenship in another country is more achievable than ever—if you choose the right path. Some countries offer citizenship in months through investment, others provide short residency routes, while a few allow citizenship through ancestry or family ties with minimal hurdles.
This list ranks countries based on:
- Speed and clarity of the process
- Realistic legal requirements
- Residency flexibility
- Dual citizenship allowance
- Overall accessibility
Fastest Citizenship Options (No Long Residency)
1. Vanuatu
One of the fastest citizenship programs globally, often completed within a few months and without any requirement to live in the country.
2. Dominica
A stable and affordable option with a simple application process and strong international acceptance.
3. St. Lucia
Known for flexibility in investment choices and a well-regulated approval system.
4. Antigua and Barbuda
Popular for families due to generous dependent inclusion and minimal physical presence rules.
5. St. Kitts and Nevis
A long-running and trusted citizenship program with a respected passport.
6. Grenada
Offers a unique advantage with expanded global travel access and business opportunities.
7. Turkey
Citizenship through real estate or business investment with faster processing than most European countries.
Shortest Residency to Citizenship Routes
8. Argentina
Citizenship can be requested after just two years of legal residence, making it one of the shortest timelines worldwide.
9. Bolivia
Low residency costs and relatively quick eligibility make Bolivia an underrated option.
10. Paraguay
A straightforward residency system with an accessible path to naturalization.
11. Uruguay
Well-known for transparency, stability, and a fair citizenship process.
12. Brazil
Citizenship timelines can be reduced through marriage or having children born in Brazil.
13. Ecuador
An expat-friendly country with manageable income requirements and clear legal steps.
Citizenship Through Ancestry or Family Roots
14. Italy
Citizenship by descent is available without long residence if lineage can be proven.
15. Ireland
One of the easiest EU citizenships through ancestry, especially for grandchildren of Irish citizens.
16. Poland
Strong citizenship-by-descent laws with excellent long-term passport benefits.
17. Hungary
Simplified naturalization for applicants with Hungarian heritage.
18. Lithuania
Allows citizenship restoration for descendants of former citizens.
Structured but Achievable European Routes
19. Portugal
Citizenship after several years of legal residence under a clear and predictable system.
20. Spain
Citizenship timelines are reduced significantly for applicants from certain countries or through marriage.
21. Greece
Longer residency, but transparent rules and EU benefits make it appealing.
22. Malta
Highly regulated but respected, combining residence and contribution-based routes.
Other Accessible Citizenship Options
23. Mexico
Citizenship available after a few years of residency, with relaxed cultural integration requirements.
24. Peru
A practical option with a short residency requirement and simple documentation.
25. Colombia
Offers citizenship after a reasonable residency period with flexible visa pathways.
How to Choose the Right Country
Before applying, consider:
- Total cost (including hidden fees)
- Residency and travel obligations
- Passport strength and visa-free access
- Tax and financial implications
- Whether you can keep your original nationality
Final Takeaway
In 2026, the easiest country to get citizenship depends on your budget, timeline, and background.
- Want speed? Investment-based countries lead.
- Want affordability? Short-residency nations work best.
- Have ancestry? That is often the simplest route overall.
A second passport is not just paperwork—it’s long-term freedom, security, and opportunity when chosen wisely.