Can one person have more than one passport, and how do you get multiple passports? Well, the answer is yes. If you have dual nationality, it means you are a citizen of two countries simultaneously. This allows you to hold multiple passports, as each is linked to a specific citizenship.
For example, the United States allows dual citizenship if you obtain citizenship in another country that permits it or are born with citizenship in both countries. The privilege of owning a second passport comes with many advantages, including expanded visa-free travel options, the chance to expand your investment opportunities, and the ability to safeguard assets for yourself and future generations.
In short, there are many routes to getting one or multiple passports, and this guide will provide the various pathways that can lead to an additional passport, such as citizenship by birthright, permanent residency, naturalization, and investment programs. Regardless of your reason for obtaining another passport, we’ll provide solutions to help you achieve your goal of second citizenship and acquiring a second passport.
Who is eligible for a second passport?
Foreign nationals can obtain dual citizenship and a second passport in a different country in several ways. Each approach comes with its own set of eligibility requirements, including but not limited to place of birth, familial ties, residency obligations, and financial investments.
Here are a few ways individuals can become dual passport holders:
Passports by birthright
A passport by birthright, more technically referred to as birthright citizenship, is a legal framework that grants citizenship to individuals based on their place of birth.
Countries with birthright citizenship either grant citizenship to a person born in the country regardless of their parent’s legal status, while some might have a few restrictions, like requiring at least one parent to be a citizen or have a lawful resident status.
The principle of citizenship by birthright is rooted in the belief that the place of birth (jus soli) establishes a fundamental connection between an individual and the nation. It is commonly practiced in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Brazil, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Panama.
Familial ties can also serve as a basis for birthright citizenship. In many countries, children are assigned the nationality of their parents (jus sanguinis). Some countries, like Italy, may grant citizenship to those with supporting documents proving they have ancestors in their direct lineage who were citizens of the country. Spanish citizenship by descent works on the same principle as Italy.
Additionally, birthright citizenship can be established based on the time of your birth as a result of amendments in citizenship legislation. Irish nationality was granted automatically to any children born in the country prior to 1 January 2005; Children born in Ireland since that date are only granted Irish citizenship at birth if they do not hold a claim to citizenship from any other country.
Passports by naturalization
Another scenario for obtaining a second passport without a birthright or descent is through the naturalization process. Naturalization for second citizenship typically includes:
- Meeting minimum legal residency requirements, the length of which may be determined by the type of permit currently held, such as a marriage or family visa, a work visa, or a student visa
- Passing citizenship character tests, like general knowledge of the country and the ability to speak the national language
The requirements for citizenship by naturalization include additional criteria such as holding a job or meeting specific financial requirements, like having a certain amount of savings in your bank account. You can also gain citizenship and a second valid passport in certain countries without fulfilling the general criteria for naturalization by making what the government deems a significant contribution to its society.
Passports by investment
More commonly referred to as citizenship by investment, one of the most common ways foreign nationals obtain passports in a second country is by making a financial contribution through an immigration investment program.
This is generally called economic citizenship, which comes with a Golden passport; however, it grants all the benefits afforded to those who gained citizenship by birth or naturalization.
Many countries, including developing and developed countries, now have citizenship by investment programs and a dedicated government agency to oversee economic citizenship. These programs ensure that only worthy investors can fast-track citizenship and get a second passport.
Real estate investment, purchasing government bonds, and charitable donations are typical investments available through investment programs for obtaining a country’s passport. The investment criteria also entail meeting a minimum investment amount.
How do you get a second passport?
Unless you have a valid entitlement to birthright citizenship from being born in a foreign country or can prove family ties to obtain ancestral citizenship, you would likely have to obtain a residence permit and enter the naturalization application process.
However, the criteria for naturalization in several countries can be quite rigorous. You must first convey a legitimate reason to establish residency to the country’s immigration officials.
After that, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Get a residence permit.
- Spend a lengthy period as a legal resident—most countries require five to ten years of continuous residency, with limits on the amount of time you can spend outside the country during that time.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the country’s official language(s).
- Pass a citizenship test that assesses knowledge of the country’s history, government, and laws.
- Having no serious criminal convictions and demonstrating good moral character during residency.
Citizenship by Investment
Here are some of the best citizenship by investment programs that will lead you to a second passport in just a few months:
Country | Minimum Investment | Residency Requirement | Time to Citizenship |
Portugal | €250,000 | 7 days/year for 5 years | 5 years (can apply for citizenship) |
Greece | €250,000 | None (but must maintain investment) | 7 years (can apply for citizenship) |
Spain | €500,000 | 10 days/year for 2 years | 10 years (can apply for citizenship |
Malta | €690,000 | None (but maintain investment) | 12 to 36 months |
St. Kitts and Nevis | $250,000 | None (investment must be maintained) | 12 months |
Antigua and Barbuda | $230,000 | 5 days | 4-5 months |
Dominica | $200,000 | None (investment must be maintained) | 6-9 months |
Vanuatu | $130,000 | None (investment must be maintained) | 60 days |
Grenada | $235,000 | None (investment must be maintained) | 9 months |
Saint Lucia | $240,000 | None (investment must be maintained) | 10-12 months |
Naturalization is a commitment that goes beyond the sole desire to get a second passport. Citizenship by investment has emerged as a popular choice for acquiring second citizenship. A citizenship-by-investment program will allow a foreign investor to gain citizenship and submit a passport application in as little as two months.
The citizenship processing timeframe depends on the country; however, after fulfilling the necessary financial requirements and passing due diligence checks, most citizenship-by-investment countries will provide citizenship and a second passport within six months.
Click here to discover the easiest countries to get citizenship
Analyze the Global Passport Index
Analyzing the Global Passport Index (GPI) before selecting a second passport is crucial for making an informed decision when planning to get a second passport.
The Global Passport Index provides valuable insights into each passport’s power and mobility, including visa-free travel privileges to different countries, ease of business, and where the passport ranks on the Quality of Life Index.
By studying the index, you can determine the strength of a passport and compare it to your current passport by assessing the number of countries you can access without requiring a visa or with visa-on-arrival.
The strength of a passport is also improved by how easy it is for citizens to conduct business, the business opportunities available, and the quality of life the country provides. This analysis helps you gauge the potential travel freedom, opportunities, and lifestyle associated with each passport, enabling you to choose a second passport that aligns with your travel, business, and lifestyle needs.
Understanding the Global Passport Index ensures that you make a well-informed choice and maximize the benefits of holding a second passport.
Applying for Citizenship by Investment
Choose a suitable second passport
The most suitable choice for second or triple citizenship boils down to your personal preferences and intentions:
- Are you seeking permanent ties with the European Union by obtaining EU citizenship and an EU passport?
- Do you engage in frequent cross-border travel and want a second passport to add to your passport portfolio with additional visa-free access?
- Will financial freedom and a second passport from a tax-free country without income, inheritance, or capital gains taxes fulfill your needs?
You might ask these questions when choosing a citizenship by investment country. By analyzing our Global Passport Index, you can determine which passport aligns with your goals and its strengths and weaknesses.
Choose the best investment option
Several investment options are available for citizenship by investment, and each country has its own prerequisites for investment. Deciding on an investment option will largely depend on the motivation behind seeking a second citizenship.
If you intend to relocate permanently, investing in real estate may provide the ideal solution, granting you both a place of residence and permanent legal status in the country. Long-term investments can also include purchasing stocks and shares for an investment portfolio or investing in new or existing enterprises.
If your primary motivation is to hold a second passport, citizenship by investment programs that provide a non-refundable government contribution as an investment option will be the cheapest and fastest route to receive citizenship and a second passport.
Consider the investment amount
A new passport’s available investment options depend on personal preferences and financial circumstances. Citizenship by investment programs in Caribbean countries like Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia offer citizenship to foreign nationals starting with a minimum investment of just $230,000.
In contrast, European countries like Malta, which provide expedited naturalization, require substantial capital investment exceeding $1 million to obtain full citizenship and a European passport.
Consider using a migration consultant
Migration consultants’ expert knowledge and experience in immigration and dual citizenship procedures offer numerous benefits when applying for second citizenship. They streamline the application process by assisting with paperwork, document preparation, and adherence to strict deadlines.
Global Citizen Solutions is invested in providing investment migration services to make the journey to acquire a second passport as smooth as possible. Therefore, we have some of the best immigration lawyers and experts who will provide an in-depth understanding of the process. Our experts will help maximize your chances of becoming a double citizen and gaining a second passport, address any concerns or pitfalls, and provide access to valuable networks and resources.
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 How to Obtain Multiple Passports
Is it okay to have multiple passports?
Yes, it is generally okay to have multiple passports if you hold dual or multiple citizenships. However, the rules regarding multiple passports vary by country, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations of each country involved.
Can you own four passports?
Yes, you can own four passports if you hold citizenship in four different countries that allow multiple citizenships. However, it’s important to ensure that each country’s laws permit dual or multiple citizenships, as rules may vary. Always check the specific regulations to confirm compliance.
How do some people have multiple passports?
Some people have multiple passports by obtaining citizenship in more than one country, which is known as dual or multiple citizenship. This can happen through various means, such as being born in a country that grants birthright citizenship, naturalization after meeting residency requirements, or through family connections. Additionally, some individuals acquire citizenship through investment programs, allowing them to hold multiple passports legally.
Is it illegal to have two US passports?
It is perfectly legal for a US citizen with a valid US passport to acquire a second US passport.
The United States allows citizens to hold multiple valid passports under certain circumstances.
However, issuing a second American passport is subject to specific criteria and requirements the US Department of State sets.
What are the cons of having multiple passports?
The drawbacks of dual citizenship can include managing the legal obligations and responsibilities associated with each citizenship.
European countries like Greece and the Netherlands and countries in South America like Brazil and Paraguay have compulsory military service, which could affect you or your family members who gain dual citizenship.
When it comes to passports from multiple countries, there is also the matter of tax obligations and adherence to different laws.
If the countries you hold passports with don’t have dual taxation agreements with one another, you may be subject to additional taxation.
Can a British citizen have two passports?
British citizens can hold two passports under certain circumstances.
The United Kingdom allows dual citizenship and more than one passport, meaning a British citizen can get a passport in another country without losing their British passport.
However, it’s important to note that the process and eligibility criteria for various passport options may vary depending on specific circumstances and laws of the countries involved.
How can I get multiple passports legally?
There are several ways for foreign nationals to obtain dual citizenship and a second passport in a foreign country.
Each approach has its own eligibility requirements such as place of birth, familial ties, residency obligations, and financial investments.
Your passport is linked to your citizenship, so if you hold dual nationalities, you will have multiple passports.
The United States allows for dual citizenship whether you apply for citizenship in a country that permits it or are born into it.
How do you get citizenship?
When you’re born in a country, you automatically become a citizen of that country. Your passport is linked to your citizenship, so if you have dual nationality, you will have multiple passports. The United States permits dual citizenship, whether you acquire it through applying for citizenship in a country that allows it, or if you were born with it.
It’s possible to hold three or four passports if you are a citizen of multiple countries. However, not all countries allow dual citizenship. For example, India, Japan, and Kazakhstan do not permit dual nationality. Therefore, it’s important to check the laws of other countries to ensure that holding multiple passports is legal.
Is buying a passport through investment legal?
Yes, obtaining a passport through investment is legal in countries that offer citizenship by investment programs. However, this process is not about “buying” a passport; it involves making a qualifying investment, such as in real estate or government funds, which meets the specific requirements set by that country.
How much does it cost to buy a passport through investment programs?
The cost to obtain a passport through investment programs typically ranges from $100,000 to over $2 million, depending on the country and the type of investment required, such as real estate, government bonds, or donations. Additional fees for processing and due diligence may also apply.
