Obtaining a second nationality is not an easy task, as most countries seek to naturalize individuals with exceptional skills and qualifications. However, there are several countries where the process is not as difficult. Many nations grant citizenship after a few years of residency, language proficiency, and good behavior. Below are six of the easiest countries that offer citizenship opportunities:
1- Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the easiest country globally to grant citizenship to non-citizens. To obtain citizenship, you need to have a steady job with a salary of at least $1500 per month from a foreign source. Once this condition is met, you can apply directly for permanent residency. After two years of permanent residency, you can apply for citizenship, and the entire naturalization process takes about three years. The process also includes an interview in the Spanish language (with possible pre-review of questions and answers) and a medical examination. Dual citizenship is allowed.
2- Belgium
Getting Belgian citizenship is relatively easy compared to other European countries that require substantial investments. Residing in Belgium for three years is enough to qualify for citizenship. Simply securing a job in Belgium can qualify you for residency, and in such cases, there is no need for investment. Each case is processed individually, so you can get a job offer from a Belgian employer, live in the country, prove your indispensability, or excel in sports, culture, or science, and then reside for five years. The constant requirement is to prove financial independence with sufficient income or wealth to cover your living expenses, after which you can apply for citizenship.
3- Poland
Poland grants citizenship to those who have continuously lived in the country for at least three years as permanent or long-term residents. These applicants must also prove a stable and secure source of income, as well as legal ownership of a home. Furthermore, you need to have a good reason for wanting to become a Polish citizen, whether it's due to problems in your home country or a desire to build a new life in a developed nation. You must also demonstrate good relationships with colleagues and the surrounding community, proficiency in the Polish language, and a realistic reason for your citizenship request. Once granted Polish citizenship, you can easily naturalize your immediate family.
4- Brazil
Brazil grants citizenship to permanent residents who have lived in the country for at least four consecutive years. However, there is an exception where one year of residency is sufficient for spouses of Brazilian citizens or those who have a Brazilian child, as the child automatically acquires Brazilian citizenship upon birth in Brazil. For those who own property or run businesses of significant value in Brazil, three years of residency is required. Applicants must be able to support their families and demonstrate proficiency in the Portuguese language.
5- Peru
Peru is known for being one of the easiest countries to grant citizenship. All you need is to provide evidence that you receive a monthly salary of at least one thousand dollars. You can obtain residency through study or investment. Usually, residency applications are approved within three months, and after that, you have six months to settle your affairs in your current country before moving to Peru to complete your residency visa. To obtain citizenship, you must pass a language and history test in the Spanish language.
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6- Japan
If you have lived in Japan continuously for at least five years, you can apply for citizenship. However, you must be willing to renounce all other nationalities you hold. Despite that, the Japanese government does not have strict rules for the naturalization process, but the required documents to be collected from your home country may take some time. The naturalization criteria are outlined in Article 5 of the Nationality Law, which includes continuous residency in Japan for at least five years, being at least twenty years old, demonstrating good behavior throughout your residency in Japan, proving good behavior from your original country, having enough funds for living, pledging allegiance to Japan, choosing a legal name in Japanese, composed of any combination of the approved Japanese characters (Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji).
Please note that citizenship laws and procedures may change over time, so it's essential to verify the current requirements and regulations before proceeding with any citizenship application.
