Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship in Europe
Ever thought about calling Europe home? Enjoying freshly baked croissants in a Parisian café or taking trips to the Mediterranean sounds inviting, right?
But let’s be real - some paths to citizenship feel more like navigating a labyrinth with endless routes that tangle more and more.
So, if your back-and-forth deliberations have brought you to the point of becoming a European citizen, there are several countries with more straightforward routes to get there.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll enumerate the benefits of becoming a European citizen, factors that make a country’s citizenship easier to obtain, the list of the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe, and how citizenship through investment programs can make the path smoother and easier.
Key Takeaways
- There are many upsides to why you should consider European citizenship, starting from visa-free travel to most of the world's countries to enhance social security and privacy protection.
- Among many factors that make a country’s citizenship easier to obtain are low residency requirements, dual citizenship policies, shorter processing time, and family-friendly policies.
- The easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe are Malta, Portugal, Ireland, Bulgaria, the Netherlands, and Germany.
- Citizenship through investment programs is one of the most straightforward pathways to acquiring European citizenship. However, studying all those programs can be time and energy-consuming. Agents at Mirabello Consultancy are ready to find the perfect fit to meet your needs
Why Consider European Citizenship? 8 Benefits
Aside from the ability to casually say, “Oh, I have an EU passport,” there are some serious perks. European citizenship is not merely a legal status; it’s a golden ticket to a world of opportunities, privileges, and, let’s be honest, a bit of glamour.
But jokes aside, the ability to live and work in all EU member states without any of the usual red tape is a lot of freedom packed into one small yet mighty document. With over 1 million people acquiring EU citizenship annually, let’s understand why European citizenship is not only desirable but downright essential for global citizens.
- Visa-Free Travel
One of the most compelling reasons to consider European citizenship is the freedom it offers in travel. EU passport holders can visit over 180 countries visa-free or visa-on-arrival. So, European citizens enjoy unrestricted access to almost the entire world.
- Seamless Work and Residential Rights
European citizenship grants the right to live and work in any EU member state. This opens up a wealth of job opportunities across the continent. Plus, let’s take into account the fact that employers usually prefer EU citizens as potential teammates due to the lack of visa complications and appreciate the multicultural experience that comes with it. So, whether you are a tech enthusiast or a culinary guru, the job market is your oyster.
- World-Class Healthcare
It’s not a secret that healthcare in Europe is renowned for its high standards and excellent quality, and many European countries offer healthcare services that are either free or heavily subsidized.
With an EU passport, you can access healthcare services in any member state, ensuring quality medical care wherever you go. So, for any need for routine check-ups or immediate health treatment, you’re covered.
- Top-Tier Education
Many European countries offer world-class education at significantly reduced rates or even for free. For example, in Germany, public universities charge little to no tuition from EU citizens.
So, it’s no wonder that more than 40% of individuals aged 30-34 in the EU hold higher educational qualifications, showcasing the continent’s commitment to accessible education.
- Enhanced Social Security and Privacy Protection
Social security systems in many EU countries provide safety nets, including unemployment benefits, pensions, and family support.
EU citizenship comes with the additional benefit of strong privacy protections under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
This regulation empowers individuals to control their personal data, ensuring that information is handled with care. It’s a comforting thought in a world where data breaches are considered to be the norm.
- Business Opportunities and Economic Stability
Thinking of starting your own business in the EU? Well, EU citizenship simplifies the process significantly. You can register a company in an EU country with minimal bureaucracy and costs.
In many cases, the process can be completed in a few days for under €100. This entrepreneurial freedom encourages innovation and growth, making Europe a mecca for startups.
- Dual Citizenship Possibilities
Many European countries like Malta, Denmark, Germany, Greece, and Cyprus allow dual citizenship, meaning that you don’t have to renounce your original nationality to become an EU citizen. This flexibility allows you to enjoy dual benefits, whether you’re maintaining connections to your home country or embracing new opportunities in Europe.
- Property Ownership Across the EU
If you’ve dreamed of owning your nest in Europe, EU citizenship makes that dream a reality. You can buy property in any EU member state without additional permits, allowing you to diversify your investments and enjoy the perks of living in Europe.
Factors That Make a Country’s Citizenship Easier to Obtain
When it comes to acquiring a second passport, Europe often stands out as a top destination. The reasons behind the ultimate desire for a second passport vary from better travel opportunities to tax advantages or simply a new place to call home.
While some countries in Europe have strict criteria, others offer pathways to citizenship that are more attainable and straightforward, earning the status of the easiest country to obtain citizenship. But let’s understand what exactly makes certain countries more accessible.
Low Residency Requirements
Residency requirements are a crucial factor. The longer you have to wait, the more daunting the process may feel. That’s why countries like Portugal, with its relatively short 5-year residency period, are so appealing. In Contrast, Spain requires a full 10 years of residency before applying for citizenship.
So, if you are thinking of fast-tracking your way to European citizenship, keep an eye out for countries with relatively shorter residency requirements.
Pathways to Citizenship
There are different routes to obtaining citizenship in Europe. And the list of easiest countries to citizenship in Europe depends on each applicant’s needs. For instance, citizenship through descent allows individuals to smooth their pathway to the desired passport by using their European ancestry.
Marriage is also considered quite a straightforward way to acquire citizenship. But what if you can neither marry a European citizen nor have an ancestor? Here is where citizenship through investment programs comes into play. Many European countries, including Spain, Malta, Portugal, and Greece, have well-established programs packed with a number of benefits, which will be discussed in the following sections.
Dual Citizenship Policies
Let’s face it: the idea of having to choose between your original nationality and a shiny European passport isn’t exactly an ideal dilemma. That’s why countries with flexible dual citizenship policies are more appealing.
Portugal and Ireland, for example, allow their citizens to maintain their original nationality. This can also provide a sense of security and care from the country.
Shorter Processing Time
Some countries are known for their speedy processing time, which allows you to get from application to passport within several months. However, it might take longer for other countries. So, it’s really important to thoroughly research and understand each country’s policies regarding processing time.
Family-Friendly Policies
Some countries make it easy for not just you but also your spouse and kids to get citizenship. Italy, for instance, is known for its "jure sanguinis" policy, which grants citizenship to descendants of Italian citizens.
Similarly, countries like Spain and Portugal also offer citizenship options for those with ancestral ties, making it easier for the entire family to move together.
Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship in Europe
Europe is the most visited continent in the world, and this isn't just because it has countless historical landmarks and sights - Europe also offers some of the best living conditions around.
Therefore, many people from different points of the globe seek European citizenship. Let’s explore the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe with the possible routes they offer.
Malta
Malta offers the fastest path to European citizenship through its citizenship by naturalization for exceptional services by direct investment. It allows you to gain Maltese citizenship within just 12-36 months in return for investing a significant amount of money in the country.
Launched in 2020, the program attracts high-value investors to Malta. The main requirement to get citizenship is to invest €600,000 - €750,000 and reside for one to three years in the country.
There are also other options available, including:
Citizenship by Descent
- Individuals born to at least one Maltese parent or grandparent.
- Applicants must prove their Maltese ancestry with birth certificates or other legal documents. There is no residency requirement for this route.
Citizenship by Naturalization
- Foreigners who have resided legally in Malta for 5 years or more.
- Applicants must demonstrate good conduct, including a clean criminal record and an understanding of the Maltese language. Residency is key, with applicants needing to demonstrate strong ties to Malta.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign spouses of Maltese citizens.
- The couple must have been married for at least 5 years and must reside in Malta for a minimum period. Proof of a genuine relationship is required, along with good character and integration.
For families without family ties, naturalization is the most common pathway to citizenship. The process typically takes 5 years.
Portugal
Portugal is also considered one of the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe. The most straightforward route to obtain a Portuguese passport is through the Golden Visa program the country offers. The program requires a minimum investment of €350,000 in the country’s economy.
By making an investment in real estate, job creation, or research, you can apply for permanent residency. After five years of residency—without the need to actually live in the country full-time—you can apply for citizenship.
Other routes to citizenship include:
Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)
- Individuals with Portuguese parents or grandparents may be eligible, depending on their connection to Portugal.
- Applicants must prove their lineage through birth certificates and other legal documents. If applying through a grandparent, the parent connecting them to Portugal must register first as a Portuguese citizen.
Citizenship by Naturalization
- Foreigners who have legally resided in Portugal for at least 5 years.
- Applicants must demonstrate basic proficiency in Portuguese, a clean criminal record, and have permanent residency status.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Individuals married to a Portuguese citizen for at least 3 years.
- The couple must show they have a genuine connection to Portugal, and the foreign spouse must have a basic understanding of Portuguese culture and language.
Portugal permits dual citizenship, which means that there is no need to renounce original nationality to hold a Portuguese passport.
Ireland
Ireland holds a unique position on the list of the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe. Why? Because it’s the only country whose citizens can automatically live and work freely in both the UK and EU since Brexit concluded in 2021. Individuals born in Ireland to British and Irish parents are eligible for both UK and Irish passports, granting them automatic access to EU citizenship.
Those with Irish parents and grandparents typically qualify for an Irish passport. For those who choose naturalization as a path to citizenship, the rule is simple - 5 years of residency in the country and, of course, meeting the criteria. However, the cost of obtaining a certificate of naturalization is quite high, so it might be wise to hold off until being financially prepared.
Citizenship by Birth
- Anyone born on the island of Ireland before January 1, 2005, is automatically an Irish citizen, regardless of their parents' nationality.
- Those born after this date can claim citizenship if at least one parent was an Irish citizen or had the right to reside in Ireland or Northern Ireland at the time of the birth.
Citizenship by Descent
- Those with at least one Irish parent are automatically eligible, while individuals with Irish grandparents can apply for citizenship by registering their birth in the Foreign Births Register.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign spouses of Irish citizens can apply for citizenship through naturalization after living in Ireland for three out of the previous five years.
- The couple must be married and living together during this period, and the applicant must show proof of integration into the community.
Bulgaria
Thanks to its relatively straightforward processes and multiple pathways for applicants, Bulgaria is often considered one of the easiest countries to obtain citizenship in Europe.
Introduced in 2023, the Golden Visa program has become an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking to gain EU citizenship.
The minimum investment amount is €512,000, which can be made in different sectors. To maintain your Golden Visa status, you only need to spend one day per year in Bulgaria.
Other routes to gain citizenship in Bulgaria are:
Citizenship by Descent
- Those with Bulgarian heritage can claim citizenship if they can prove that at least one of their parents or grandparents was a Bulgarian citizen.
- Applicants must provide birth certificates and legal documents to establish their ancestry.
Citizenship by Naturalization
- Foreigners who have legally resided in Bulgaria for at least five consecutive years can apply for citizenship.
- To qualify, applicants must have permanent or long-term residency, demonstrate good conduct, a stable income, and a command of the Bulgarian language.
- The residency requirement drops to three years for those married to a Bulgarian citizen.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign spouses of Bulgarian citizens can apply for citizenship through naturalization.
- The couple must have been married for at least three years, and the applicant must have resided in Bulgaria for a minimum of three years.
The Netherlands
The process of obtaining Dutch citizenship is rather straightforward, with several pathways available depending on the circumstances. But before jumping to the routes, it’s important to know that applicants should legally reside in the Netherlands for 5 years before applying for citizenship.
Applicants submit the necessary documents to the local City hall. If approved, the king of the Netherlands signs the citizenship decree. An exciting event follows the process when applicants attend the naturalization ceremony and vow to adhere to the laws of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Citizenship by Birth
- Children born to at least one Dutch parent automatically acquire Dutch citizenship, regardless of where they are born.
- If born in the Netherlands to non-Dutch parents, they do not automatically gain citizenship unless certain conditions are met (e.g., statelessness).
Citizenship by Descent
- Individuals with Dutch parents or grandparents may be eligible for Dutch citizenship by descent.
- However, the rules surrounding descent are complex, and eligibility depends on the circumstances of birth, including the date and whether the parents were married at the time.
Citizenship by Marriage or Partnership
- Foreign spouses or registered partners of Dutch citizens can apply for naturalization after living in the Netherlands for three years, provided they have been married or in a registered partnership for at least three years and meet the other naturalization criteria (e.g., passing the civic integration exam)
Greece
Greece, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, is not only a dream destination but also an attractive option for those seeking citizenship in the European Union. There are four primary ways to obtain a Greek passport.
The Golden Visa program stands in the first row with its straightforward approach and many benefits. The program smooths the way to citizenship in return for a €400,000 investment in the country.
Other paths include:
Citizenship by Descent (Ancestry)
- Individuals with at least one Greek parent, or sometimes a grandparent, can apply for Greek citizenship by descent.
- Applicants need to provide proof of their Greek lineage, typically through birth certificates or other official documents showing the family's connection to Greece. There's no residency requirement for this route.
Citizenship by Birth
- Children born in Greece to foreign parents who have lived in Greece for at least five years may be eligible for citizenship.
- If the parents have lived in Greece for ten years or more, the child can acquire Greek citizenship automatically.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign spouses of Greek citizens can apply for citizenship after being married for at least three years and residing in Greece for a minimum of three years. Proof of a genuine marriage and integration into Greek society is required.
Spain
If you are considering making Spain your permanent home, there are several routes to obtaining Spanish citizenship. Though it’s not the easiest country to get citizenship in Europe in terms of time, it’s totally worth it. And the reasons are numerous. Vibrant culture, warm people, stunning landscape, favorable living conditions, just to name a few.
The Spanish Golden Visa through investment, provides access to numerous benefits typically reserved for citizens, including unrestricted travel and business opportunities. By contributing a minimum of €500,000, those who acquire a Spanish Golden Visa will be able to travel in the Schengen area, reside in Spain, and enjoy a bunch of other benefits.
Other routes to citizenship include:
Citizenship by Birth
- Children born to Spanish parents, regardless of their place of birth, automatically acquire Spanish citizenship.
- Born in Spain to Foreign Parents: Children born in Spain to foreign parents can acquire Spanish citizenship if at least one parent is also born in Spain or if the parents are legal residents at the time of birth.
Citizenship by Option
- Minors who have lived in Spain for a significant period under legal guardianship or whose parents acquired Spanish citizenship can apply for citizenship by option.
Germany
Germany is known for its strong economy, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it an attractive destination for many seeking citizenship. It is also considered one of the easiest countries in Europe to get citizenship thanks to its well-structured and straightforward procedures. Of course, the fastest way to citizenship is provided by the investment program.
With a minimum of €200,000 investment in the country, the applicant can apply for citizenship. Here is how it works. To qualify for German citizenship, individuals generally need to have legally resided in Germany for 8 years. However, completing an approved integration course can reduce this requirement to 7 years. Additionally, holding a German language certificate at B2 level or higher can shorten the residency requirement to just 6 years.
Other options for citizenship include:
Citizenship by Birth
- Children of German Parents: Children born to at least one German parent automatically acquire German citizenship, regardless of their place of birth.
- Children Born in Germany: If a child is born in Germany to non-German parents, they can acquire German citizenship if at least one parent has been a legal resident in Germany for at least eight years and holds a permanent residence permit at the time of the child's birth.
Citizenship by Descent
- German Ancestry: Individuals who can prove German ancestry—typically through grandparents or great-grandparents—may be eligible for citizenship.
- The process involves demonstrating that the ancestor was a German citizen and fulfilling specific documentation requirements.
Citizenship by Marriage
- Foreign spouses of German citizens can apply for naturalization after living in Germany for three years, provided they have been married for at least two years and meet other residency and integration requirements.
Why Should You Consider Citizenship by Investment to Get an EU Passport?
In today’s globalized world, the idea of holding multiple citizenships isn’t just something for showing off - it’s a strategic advantage. Among the myriad ways to obtain a second passport, Citizenship through investment programs stands out as the best and fastest option in most cases. So, here’s a closer look at why citizenship by investment is a better choice than, for example, naturalization.
Swift and Streamlined Process - CBI programs are designed to expedite the citizenship process. Depending on the country, you can secure an EU passport within a few months to a few years.
No Long-Term Residency Requirement - Citizenship by Investment often does not require long-term residency. For example, Malta’s CBI program requires just 12 months of residence before citizenship can be granted.
Fewer Integration Requirements - BI programs usually have minimal integration requirements. While some programs may require a basic understanding of the country’s language or culture, these requirements are often less stringent.
Enhanced Economic and Business Opportunities - An EU passport obtained through investment provides immediate access to the European market. This is particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs and business professionals looking to expand their ventures across Europe.
Conclusion
It’s no wonder that European citizenship can open up a world of opportunities. Among different pathways to the most cherished passport, citizenship by investment stands out as a more straightforward and structured option.
Why? Unlike conventional methods that may involve lengthy residency requirements or rigorous integration standards, citizenship by investment allows individuals to bypass many of these hurdles, making it an attractive option for those looking to secure an EU passport swiftly.
And, of course, we included those on our list of the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe that offer investment programs. Choosing citizenship by investment not only offers a faster route to an EU passport but also comes with significant benefits, such as access to a thriving European market and diverse business opportunities. For many, the flexibility and speed of these programs, coupled with the reduced bureaucratic barriers, present a highly advantageous path to European citizenship.
Agents at Mirabello Consultancy are ready to provide you with more details about European citizenship through investment programs and guide you smoothly on your path to obtaining citizenship.
FAQ
- How long does it take to get an EU passport?
Obtaining an EU passport through citizenship by investment can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the specific country's requirements and processing times.
- How to get an EU passport as an American?
To get an EU passport as an American, you can pursue citizenship through various pathways such as naturalization after residing in an EU country for a certain period, obtaining citizenship by descent if you have European ancestry, or participating in a citizenship by investment program.
- What is the fastest way to get EU citizenship?
The fastest way to get EU citizenship is through a citizenship by investment program, such as Malta's, which can grant citizenship within 12 to 36 months in exchange for a significant financial investment.
- What is the fastest country in Europe to get citizenship?
The fastest and easiest country to get citizenship in Europe is Malta, where individuals can obtain citizenship through investment in as little as 12 months.
