Second Citizenship: What is it and How to Obtain it?

Countries around the world offer foreign nationals the chance to become permanent residents and get a second passport through descent, naturalization, marriage, investment, or other means.

Dual citizenship is a legal status in which an individual is legally seen in two or more countries. This means the person has rights and responsibilities to each of the countries for which they hold passports.

There are many routes to getting a second passport, and this guide will take you through everything you need to know about acquiring additional citizenship, including the benefits of dual citizenship, the best countries to consider for the various pathways available, some of the scams to look out for, and more.

What is second citizenship?

The concept of dual nationality means that a person is a national of two countries at the same time. Each country has its own nationality laws based on its own policy. Persons may have dual nationality by automatic operation of different laws rather than by choice.

In the 19th century, mass immigration raised questions about citizenship, leading some countries to allow immigrants to retain their initial citizenship.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, globalization and advancements in communication and transportation have made it more common for people to have ties to multiple countries, leading to an increase in individuals obtaining passports from other countries.

However, it is important to remember that each country has dual citizenship rules and regulations. Some countries fully recognize and accept dual citizenship, while others may have restrictions or limitations on holding dual or triple citizenship and multiple passports.

Second Citizenship Advantages

Any individual who can obtain a second passport in a foreign country and unlock their dual national status can access both nations’ benefits and rights. These include:

By holding dual citizenship, you won’t need a visa to stay in the countries you hold citizenship. Depending on a country’s agreement with other nations, second-passport countries provide visa-free travel to more destinations than what is available with just one passport.

This makes dual citizenship particularly powerful in EU countries since EU passport countries offer freedom of mobility within the European Union and the right to live and work there indefinitely.

How to Get Second Citizenship

Contrary to popular belief, you cannot just ‘buy’ dual nationality. You have to earn it, depending on your unique circumstances and objectives. There are four common ways to get a second passport which include:

By birth

If you were born in a foreign country that grants citizenship by “jus soli” (right of soil), you may hold a claim to acquire citizenship based on being born in the country. Typically, nations that practice jus soli grant citizenship automatically to any child born within their territory.

When a country offers citizenship by birth with no restrictions, it usually means there are no conditions on the parents’ legal status: The child becomes a citizen at birth, even if the parents are foreign nationals or undocumented. At the same time, restricted citizenship means certain conditions must be met, generally related to the parents’ nationality, residency status, or legal immigration status.

The popular countries that offer unrestricted citizenship by birth include:

• Untinted states
• Dominica
• Canada
• Mexico
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Chile
• Uruguay
• Venezuela

By descent

Citizenship by descent is commonly known as “jus sanguinis” (right of blood), whereby an individual is granted citizenship or has the right to claim citizenship through a blood relative who holds citizenship in the respective country. This means that the acquisition of citizenship is based on a familial connection, typically through parentage, rather than the individual’s place of birth.

These are some of the general conditions of the countries that offer citizenship by descent:

• Direct Line of Descent: Most countries require a direct connection, such as a parent or grandparent, to claim citizenship.
• Unbroken Line of Citizenship: Sometimes, the claim may not be valid if an ancestor renounced their citizenship.
• Proof of Ancestry: Applicants must provide birth certificates, marriage records, and other documents proving their connection to the country.
• Residence and Language Requirements: Some countries, like Hungary, may require language knowledge or proof of ties to the government (e.g., cultural connections).

Popular countries that offer citizenship by descent include:

• Italy
• Ireland
• Poland
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Portugal
• Spain

Through marriage

Being married to a citizen is a common route foreigners pursue to become dual citizens. It adheres to the guidelines for naturalization, often with streamlined requirements, including legal marriage to a citizen, residency requirements, which may need an individual to live in the country for a particular time, proof that the marriage is genuine, and a background check to ensure no criminal record. It’s even better because the residency period is often reduced, and there are no language proficiency prerequisites.

These are some of the countries with the shortest residency period for citizenship by marriage:

• Dominican Republic: Six months
• Brazil: One year
• Spain: One year if living in Spain
• Argentina: Two years
• Portugal: Three years, even if living abroad
• Germany: Three years

By naturalization

Naturalization refers to the set of requirements a foreign national must satisfy to attain citizenship in a particular country. The primary basis for naturalization is a specified period of legal residence. This typically entails obtaining a residence permit and transitioning to permanent resident status before applying for citizenship after completing the required term of residence. Naturalization can also include demonstrating knowledge of the country’s customs and proficiency in one of its official languages.

Keeping those requirements in mind, these are some of the countries with the shortest naturalization periods:

• Argentina Two years
• Peru: Two years
• Paraguay: Three years
• Belgium: Five years
• Sweden: Five years
• Portugal: Five years

By fast-track naturalization

Commonly known as citizenship by exception, the decision to award accelerated citizenship is often at the discretion of a head of state or ruling government body. There are no concrete guidelines for obtaining or awarding fast-track citizenship; however, the decision usually revolves around making substantial contributions to the country’s development, be it economic, educational, or cultural.

United Arab Emirates: The UAE Executive Regulation of the Federal Law concerning Nationality and Passports introduced new criteria for granting citizenship based on exceptional merit. Experienced individuals in fields such as scientific research, the arts, and medical care may be offered UAE citizenship at the discretion of royal UAE authorities.

Serbia: The Republic of Serbia has a discretionary program that may grant Serbian citizenship by exception to individuals deemed to have contributed significantly to Serbian society. Considerations can include contributions to education, business, or the possession of substantial assets in the Republic.

By investment

A few countries have introduced economic citizenship programs worldwide that allow foreign investors who contribute to their economies to receive a second passport by investment. These initiatives typically involve significant financial investments, such as real estate purchases, job creation, or contributions to specific economic sectors.

For instance, the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable dual citizenship programs, with a minimum contribution to the country’s National Development Fund (NDF) of $230,000. Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program stands out because it grants citizenship within 30 days to foreign nationals who contribute $130,000 to the country’s government fund.

The Nine Best Second Citizenship Programs

If you were born abroad or hold no familial ties to a country, the best way to get a second passport is through citizenship by investment programs (CBI) – also commonly known as ‘passport by investment’ or ‘economic citizenship.’ Most CBI programs offer a direct path to citizenship by investment; however, some provide an expedited naturalization process, allowing investors to reduce the naturalization period required to obtain a second passport.

However, if you’re not in a rush to acquire dual citizenship but are looking for a quick way to get temporary residency first in another country, in that case, applying for the Golden Visa is a perfect option, and some of the countries that offer some of the best second citizenship programs are Portugal and Spain.

This section will highlight the best CBI and Golden Visa programs for second citizenship.

1. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is an inviting Caribbean destination with beautiful beaches, a strong tourism sector, and a reputation for providing financial privacy. The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program allows visa-free access to over 150 countries and offers a straightforward path to citizenship. 

Investment options include:

• $230,000 donation to the National Development Fund
• $300,000 real estate investment
• $1.5 million business investment

2. St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the most established CBI programs. It is known for its strong passport, stable government, and calming island lifestyle. The St. Kitts and Nevis CBI program grants visa-free access to over 150 countries, including key European and Asian nations, making it a great choice for global mobility.

Investment options include:

• $250,000 contribution to the Sustainable Growth Fund
• $400,000 real estate investment
• $250,000 public benefit investment (infrastructure projects)

3. Dominica

Dominica is an eco-friendly destination known for its lush rainforests, hiking trails, and hot springs. Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most affordable, offering an easy route to citizenship while providing access to over 140 countries visa-free, making it perfect for nature lovers and investors looking for a second home.

Investment options include:

• $200,000 donation to the Economic Diversification Fund
• $200,000 real estate investment

4. Grenada

Grenada stands out for its warm climate and proximity to the U.S., along with the unique ability to apply for an E-2 investor visa to the U.S. Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program also offers visa-free travel to over 140 countries and is a great fit for those interested in expanding their travel options or business ventures.

Investment options include:

• $235,000 donation to the National Transformation Fund
• $270,000 real estate investment (in shares) 
• $350,000 (as a sole owner) 

5. Malta

Malta is a Mediterranean gem offering a rich history, vibrant culture, and EU citizenship, making it one of the most desirable CBI programs in Europe. As an EU member state, Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program provides visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the entire European Union.

Investment options include:

• €600,000 donation to the National Development and Social Fund
•  after 36 months of residency (€750,000 after 12 months of residency)
• €700,000 real estate investment

6. St. Lucia

St. Lucia offers a serene lifestyle with access to stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and a vibrant community. St. Lucia’s CBI program is relatively new but has quickly gained popularity due to its affordable investment options and visa-free access to over 140 countries.

Investment options include:

• $240,000 donation to the National Economic Fund
• $300,000 real estate investment
• $300,000 government bond investment

Vanuatu offers a relaxed island lifestyle with lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program is one of the fastest in the world, making it highly attractive for investors seeking quick access to visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the UK and Schengen Area.

Investment options include:

• $130,000 donation to the Vanuatu Development Support Program
• $180,000 contribution for a family of four

With so many Caribbean CBI programs available, we have a Caribbean citizenship by investment comparison guide that will help you understand the various investment routes, requirements, and timeframes for citizenship.

The best citizenship by investment programs

7. Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal is an attractive destination for citizens seeking a peaceful yet vibrant place to call home. The country’s appeal lies in a combination of attributes — pleasant weather, captivating landscapes, sun-soaked beaches, and a short naturalization process.

The Portugal Golden Visa program creates a pathway to European citizenship after five years of residency. The visa has many investment options that take you to permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship such as:

• The creation of at least ten jobs.
• €500,000 toward research activities by scientific institutions integrated into the national scientific and technological system.
• €250,000 toward artistic production, recovery, or maintenance of national cultural heritage.
• €500,000 in establishing a new company or the share capital of existing companies, alongside job creation.
• €500,000 contribution to Portuguese investment funds.

8. Spain Golden Visa

You can also consider Spain’s Golden Visa program. After completing the program and maintaining your investment of €500,000 and permanent residency in the nation for ten years, you can get Spanish nationality. Other investment options include:

• Investing at least €500,000 in Spanish real estate.
• A Business Investment of €1 million that generates employment contributes to technological or scientific innovation or has a significant socio-economic impact.
• Investing at least €1 million in Spanish company shares, bank deposits, or investment funds.
• Investing at least €2 million in Spanish public debt securities.

Spain offers fast-track naturalization to only citizens of Ibero-American countries, the Philippines, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and France. Citizens of these countries can acquire citizenship after two years of residency, in addition to the right to keep their original citizenship.

9. Greece Golden Visa

Greece is an ideal destination for those seeking to live in a historically rich country with access to the EU. The Greece Golden Visa program doesn’t offer immediate citizenship but provides residency with the possibility of applying for citizenship after seven years, making it a great option for long-term investors seeking to gain EU residency.

Investment options include:

• €250,000 minimum real estate investment
• €500,000 investment in government bonds
• €800,000 in Greek corporate shares or bonds 

Avoiding Second Passport Scams

Sadly, the increasing interest in obtaining second passports has given rise to an industry of scams and purveyors of false information. Some of the most common ways include:

• Diplomatic passport scams: Fraudulent agents offer illegal diplomatic IDs, which are rarely awarded and subject to strict global standards.
• Canceled CBI programs: Some companies still offer citizenship services for programs that no longer exist, like Montenegro’s CBI, which ended in 2022.
• Camouflage passports: Scammers claim you can obtain citizenship in defunct countries like Rhodesia, which is false.
• Gray market passports: Bribing officials to issue illegitimate passports can lead to criminal prosecution.
• Black market passports: These fake or stolen passports offer no legitimacy and are sold by scammers.

Second Citizenship as an American

The United States does not explicitly have a law that addresses dual citizenship. Instead, it follows the principle of “jus soli,” which grants citizenship to anyone born within the territorial boundaries of the United States, regardless of the nationality of their parents.

When a foreign national becomes a US citizen through the process of naturalization, they are not required to renounce their original citizenship, nor does it actively discourage the holding of dual citizenship.

They can maintain multiple citizenships with their home country and any other country, provided each country allows dual citizenship.

As a dual citizen of the US, you are also entitled to a passport, as the US government issues a valid US passport to all American citizens, including those with dual or triple citizenship.

Tax Benefits of Dual Citizenship

Acquiring dual citizenship can offer various tax benefits to individuals, depending on the countries’ policies. Some countries with citizenship through investment programs provide favorable tax regimes, including lower income tax rates, exemptions on foreign income, and reduced capital gains taxes. Vanuatu is a perfect example; successful applicants of Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program are subject to no personal or corporate income taxes, and companies must only pay an annual fee.

Although Americans are subject to citizenship-based taxation, they can substantially reduce their tax liability by acquiring citizenship in a low-tax jurisdiction and leveraging the tax exemptions provided to overseas US citizens.

Thus, the strategic selection of dual citizenships can be a powerful tool for managing and optimizing taxes, offering increased financial flexibility and enhancing overall wealth preservation and succession planning.

What is double taxation for dual citizens?

Double taxation in the context of dual citizenship refers to an individual being subject to taxation in two countries on the same income or assets. This can occur when a person is considered a tax resident in both countries due to citizenship or residency status.

Countries often form bilateral tax treaties or agreements to mitigate double taxation. These treaties aim to prevent or alleviate the issue of double taxation by providing guidelines on which country has the primary right to tax specific types of income or assets. They may also include provisions for tax credits or exemptions to prevent or reduce double taxation.

Understanding the tax laws and treaties between their countries of citizenship or residence is essential for individuals with dual citizenship. Seeking advice from tax professionals or consulting official government sources can help individuals navigate their tax obligations and take advantage of available relief measures.

Second Citizenship and Legal Considerations

The legal implications of dual citizenship and a valid passport in two countries can vary widely. While tax advantages may be attached to dual citizenship, there can be negative tax implications that come with multiple citizenships, depending on the countries involved.

Another duty of citizenship to consider is military service. Some nations legislate conscription, and citizens of a certain age may have to fulfill military service. If you hold multiple citizenship in countries with mandatory enlistment, you may find yourself subject to military service obligations in both nations, necessitating careful consideration of how these requirements align and potentially affect your personal and professional life.

Countries That Prohibit Dual Nationality

Globally, most countries recognize dual citizenship, but a handful of nations don’t. For various reasons, these countries will outright deny your request for a foreign passport and, in some cases, compel you to renounce the citizenship of your home country before you acquire citizenship of another country and a second passport.

China: China does not officially recognize dual citizenship. If Chinese citizens acquire foreign citizenship, they are generally considered to have renounced their Chinese citizenship. However, China does have provisions for individuals of Chinese descent born abroad to acquire Chinese citizenship while retaining their original one.

This is typically done through applying for the Chinese “Huaqiao” or “Overseas citizen” status. This status does not grant the full rights of a Chinese citizen, but it does allow for certain privileges.

India: India does not allow dual citizenship in the strictest sense. However, it does recognize the concept of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) cards. These schemes provide certain privileges to Indian citizens living abroad, akin to some of the benefits of Indian citizenship, but without conferring full citizenship status.

Japan: Japan does not allow dual citizenship for adults. Japanese law generally requires individuals to choose one nationality and renounce any other citizenship by age 22. However, there is an exception for dual citizenship for children.

Children born with dual citizenship (for example, if they are born to parents of different nationalities) are not required to choose one nationality until they reach the age of 22. At that point, they must decide which citizenship to retain.

Singapore: Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. If a Singaporean citizen acquires foreign citizenship, they are generally required to renounce their Singaporean citizenship.

Singaporean law explicitly states this policy. Individuals who hold dual citizenship are expected to renounce their foreign citizenship upon becoming Singaporeans. Failure to do so can lead to various consequences, including revoking Singaporean citizenship.

Argentina: Argentina generally does not allow dual citizenship for Argentinians or anyone seeking Argentinian citizenship. However, there are exceptions for citizens of specific countries. Argentina has dual citizenship agreements with Italy and Spain based on historical ties, meaning Italian and Spanish nationals can obtain dual citizenship status in Argentina.

Netherlands: The Netherlands does not allow dual citizenship. Dutch law states that if a Dutch citizen voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship, they typically lose their Dutch citizenship.

However, there are several exceptions and situations where dual citizenship is allowed, such as children born to parents of different nationalities in the Netherlands, Dutch citizens who marry a foreigner and acquire their spouse’s nationality, and non-EU/EFTA citizens who become Dutch citizens through naturalization can sometimes retain their citizenship.

Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia does not officially recognize or allow dual citizenship. If a Saudi citizen acquires foreign citizenship, they are generally considered to have renounced their Saudi citizenship.

It’s important to note that Saudi Arabia’s citizenship laws and policies are stringent, and acquiring citizenship in another country can lead to the automatic loss of Saudi citizenship. In practice, individuals who acquire foreign citizenship are often required to surrender their Saudi passports.

Malaysia: Malaysia does not allow anybody to be a dual citizen. If a Malaysian citizen acquires foreign citizenship, they are considered to have renounced their Malaysian citizenship.

Israel: Israel does not allow its citizens to hold dual citizenship in most cases. Israeli law generally requires individuals to renounce their foreign citizenship upon becoming an Israeli citizen.

However, there are exceptions and special circumstances, particularly for certain individuals who acquire Israeli citizenship through the Law of Return (which grants Jewish people the right to immigrate to Israel). In some cases, these individuals may be allowed to retain their original Israeli citizenship.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Second Citizenship