17 Best Countries to Get a Second Passport in 2024

A second passport is a travel document from a country where you have citizenship alongside your main passport. It’s important to understand that a passport is proof of your citizenship. You can get a second passport through different methods, such as citizenship by descent, naturalization, marriage, or investment.

A second passport grants dual citizenship and offers benefits like visa-free travel to more countries, increased personal and financial security, and possible tax advantages. It also allows you to live, work, or retire in the foreign country that issued it. Investment programs offer a viable option for those seeking a new passport, making it an attractive choice for those looking to gain citizenship through financial investment.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about how to get a foreign passport, such as: 

• What is a second passport?
• How to get a second passport
• The benefits of owning another passport
• 15 best countries to get a second passport
• How to apply for a second passport
• How much does a second passport cost? 
• How long is a passport valid?

What is a second passport?

A second passport is a travel document issued by a country other than yours, allowing you to hold dual nationality or citizenship. You can apply for a second passport after citizenship, which gives you the right to live, work, and travel in that country as a legal citizen.

A second passport offers benefits like visa-free travel to more countries, increased personal and financial freedom, and a backup plan in case of political instability in your home country. There are several viable options for obtaining a second passport, such as ancestry, marriage, naturalization, or investment programs.

How to Get a Second Passport

You can obtain a second passport through several routes, depending on your circumstances and goals.

Citizenship by birth

Birthright citizenship grants automatic citizenship to those born in certain countries, like the U.S. and Canada. Some countries, like Ireland, have restrictions requiring a parent to be a citizen or resident.

Citizenship by descent

Citizenship by descent allows you to obtain citizenship based on your ancestry, depending on the country’s laws. You may qualify if you have parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents from certain countries. Many European countries, including Ireland, Italy, and Poland, offer this route.

Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

Citizenship by investment (CBI) allows individuals to obtain citizenship by making a financial investment, such as in real estate, business, or government funds. Popular CBI programs include those in Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda.

Citizenship by naturalization

Citizenship by marriage

Marrying a citizen of another country can make you eligible for citizenship by marriage after a certain period, depending on the country’s laws. In most cases, you must provide a marriage certificate as proof of your marriage. France and Spain offer this route with shortened residency requirements.

Citizenship by exception

Citizenship, by exception, is a special pathway that lets some foreigners become citizens without first living in the country. This route is usually for people who make big contributions, like investing, creating jobs, or achieving in sports, culture, or science. Countries such as Serbia and the UAE offer it to people who bring special value or recognition to the country.

The Benefits of Owning Another Passport

Many benefits come when you own another citizenship or “buy a passport.” From enhanced global mobility to increased freedoms, here are some of the top benefits.

More travel freedom

Second, passports offer immense travel benefits. They allow you to travel visa-free to numerous countries and move or work freely across borders, significantly expanding your global travel options.

Global mobility opportunities

A second passport from a high-ranking country on the Global Passport Index provides access to a wider range of investments and easier business travel.

Adds stability

Circumstances can change suddenly, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and recent political shifts in the U.S. A second passport provides stability by offering more options for you and your family in times of uncertainty. It ensures greater personal and economic freedoms, reduces risks, and helps build a secure future.

Eases retirement planning

A second passport is a great option for retirement planning, especially for those moving abroad. While not required, it simplifies living in a foreign country and makes visiting family easier.

Tax and financial benefits

A second passport can offer access to countries with favorable tax policies, such as lower income tax rates or business tax incentives. This can reduce your overall tax burden and improve financial planning, particularly for retirees or business owners looking for more favorable tax environments.

17 Best and Fastest Pathways to Get a Second Passport in 2024

The best way to get a second passport from another country is often through citizenship by investment from nations that offer this option, as it can lead directly to citizenship. Some Golden Visa programs also provide a path to citizenship after a few years, and other routes can eventually lead to a second passport as well.

1. St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis, a dual-island nation in the Caribbean, is known for its stunning beaches and landscapes. The St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program is one of the longest-running CBI programs in the world. The investment options include:

• Donation: Make a $250,000 contribution to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF).
• Real Estate: Invest a minimum of $400,000 in government-approved real estate.

A St. Kitts and Nevis passport grants visa-free access to over 150 countries. The citizenship application process takes four to six months, and once the passport application is submitted, the processing time should be two to three weeks.

2. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, known for its beaches and luxury resorts, foreign nationals can obtain a second passport through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program by:

• Donating $230,000 to the National Development Fund.
• Investing $300,000 in approved real estate.

The process takes six months, with the second valid passport issued in just three weeks.

 3. Dominica

The Dominica citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable investment programs for obtaining a second valid passport. Applicants can choose between:

• Donating $200,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund for a single applicant or $250,000 for a family of four.
• A $200,000 investment in pre-approved real estate.

Processing time is about six to nine months, and a new passport is issued in three weeks. The passport offers visa-free access to over 140 countries, appealing to global travelers who want enhanced mobility. 

 4. Grenada

The Grenada citizenship by investment program is popular because it grants access to the U.S. E-2 visa. Applicants can qualify by:

• Donating $235,000 to the National Transformation Fund.
• Investing $270,000 in government-approved shares.
• Buying government-approved real estate for $350,000.

This program has one of the lowest investment costs and takes about nine months to process. Once all supporting documents are approved, individuals receive a second valid passport, offering more travel freedom and granting citizenship in a foreign country.

5. St. Lucia

The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program is attractive for those seeking second citizenship. Applicants can gain citizenship by:

• A $240,000 donation to the National Economic Fund.
• A $300,000 investment in government-approved real estate.

The program is efficient, with a 10 to 12-month processing time. Once citizenship is granted, the passport application takes 8 to 10 weeks, allowing you to receive a new passport for enhanced global mobility.

6. Turkey

Turkey’s citizenship by investment program offers several investment options for those interested in second citizenship:

• $400,000 in real estate
• $500,000 in government bonds or capital transfer
• $500,000 in a Turkish bank deposit

The process is quick, with citizenship granted in just four months. After that, the passport application can be completed in just one to two weeks. This makes Turkey an appealing option for those looking to expand their global mobility.

7. Malta

The Malta Citizenship by Investment program, known as the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, offers an EU citizenship option. This program provides new citizenship and the possibility of an additional passport for individuals who want access to the Schengen Area. The investment required is:

• €600,000 or €700,000, depending on a 12 or 36-month residency period
• €700,000 minimum investment in real estate

For frequent travelers, Maltese citizenship offers visa-free access to most countries and the Malta Residency by Investment Program (MPRP) which is a lower-cost alternative to citizenship, allowing applicants to lease a property for €12,000 annually or purchase one for €350,000.

8. Portugal

Portugal offers an attractive Portugal Golden Visa program, which gets you long-term residency through a minimum investment in the country. After meeting the required residency criteria of legally living in the country for five years, the program allows applicants to apply for second citizenship and a new passport by: 

• Investing €250,000 in arts or the restoration of cultural sites. 
• Invest €500,000 in scientific or technological research.
• Invest €500,000 in businesses that create jobs.

The Portugal D7 Visa also offers an alternative for those who don’t want to make a large investment. It’s ideal for retirees as it provides long-term residency without significant financial commitment.

9. Spain

The Spain Golden Visa program offers long-term residency through various investment options. While it does not directly grant citizenship, applicants can apply for a Spanish passport after ten years of residency, provided they maintain their investment. Investment options include:

• €500,000 investment in real estate.
• €1 million investment in Spanish businesses or companies.
• €2 million investment in Spanish government bonds
• €500,000 deposit in a Spanish bank.

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa also provides an alternative for those not wanting to make a large investment. It is ideal for retirees requiring a minimum monthly income of approximately €2,361.08.

10. Greece

11. United States

12. Canada

A second Canadian passport is an attractive option for U.S. citizens. The quickest path to Canadian citizenship is through the Express Entry system, which selects skilled workers based on work experience, education, and language skills. You can apply for citizenship after holding permanent residency for three years within a five-year period.

Family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can be sponsored for residency, and citizenship eligibility is after three years. Another option is the Canada Start-Up Visa program, which offers permanent residency to entrepreneurs who start a business and secure investment from a designated Canadian incubator.

13. Hungary

The Hungary Golden Visa allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency through a minimum investment of €250,000. You can choose from these options:

• Invest €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund.
• Invest €500,000 to purchase residential real estate (starting 1 January 2025).
• Donate €1 million as a non-refundable contribution to a higher education institution.

Citizenship is possible after eight years of residency, offering the benefits of second citizenship and enhanced global mobility.

14. Latvia

The Latvia Golden Visa program is tailored for non-EU citizens, investors, and entrepreneurs, with investment options starting at €50,000. Other investment routes include:

• Invest €250,000 in property.
• Invest €50,000 in a capital company with fewer than 50 employees and an annual budget under €10 million.
• Deposit €280,000 in a Latvian bank for at least five years.
• Purchase government bonds for a minimum of €250,000.

Citizenship in Latvia is available after 10 years of continuous residency.

15. Italy

The Italy Golden Visa program offers long-term residency through investment, with the possibility of citizenship after ten years of residency. The investment options inlcude:

• €250,000 in a startup
• €500,000 in corporate bonds or shared investments

16. Serbia

Serbia’s residency by investment program offers a straightforward path to residency through real estate purchases with no minimum required investment. However, applicants can only purchase certain types of real estate:

• Apartments
• Residential buildings
• Business premises and business buildings, if they perform business activities.

These investment programs offer a chance to secure residency in Serbia, with citizenship eligibility possible after five years.

17. Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment Program offers non-citizens a way to second citizenship through a low investment of $130,000 and ensures fast and efficient processing. The required investment is: 

• A donation of $130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP) as a non-refundable contribution.

This investment program offers a unique opportunity to gain second citizenship, allowing access to visa-free travel to over 90 countries and valuable global mobility benefits.

How to Apply for a Second Passport

Here’s a general overview of the step-by-step process for applying for a second passport:

Step 1: Determine eligibility

Confirm your eligibility for a passport, which generally requires being a citizen of the country you are applying to.

Step 2: Gather required documents

Collect necessary documents, which typically include:

• Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or naturalization certificate).
• Valid identification (e.g., driver’s license or government-issued ID).
• Passport photos that meet specific size and quality requirements.
• Any additional documents, such as a marriage certificate if your name has changed.

Step 3: Complete the application form

Fill out the passport application form. Most countries offer online applications, but paper forms are also available. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Check the fee structure for the passport application fee and make the payment, which can usually be done online, by check, or in person, depending on the country’s regulations.

Step 5: Submit your application

Submit your application and documents. This can often be done online, by mail, or in person at a designated passport office or agency. If applying in person, make an appointment if required.

Step 6: Track your application

After submission, keep track of your application status through the passport agency’s website or customer service channels.

Step 7: Receive your passport

Once processed, you will receive your passport by mail or may need to pick it up in person. Check the delivery method provided during your application.

Step 8: Verify your passport

Upon receiving your passport, verify that all information is correct. Report any discrepancies immediately to the issuing authority.

How much does a second passport cost?

The cost of obtaining a second passport varies depending on the country and the specific circumstances. Generally, fees can range from $100 to $500 for application processing, with additional costs for documentation, legal fees, or investment requirements if applying through citizenship by investment programs. Some countries may have higher fees or require significant investments, especially for residency or citizenship options. Always check the official government websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How long is a passport valid?

In many countries, including the United States, passports are typically valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. However, the validity period can vary depending on the issuing country, so it’s important to check the specific regulations of the country that issued your passport.

How Global Citizen Solutions Can Help You

At Global Citizen Solutions, we provide expert guidance on investor visa programs worldwide. With an international team operating out of four countries, we can discuss your objectives and help you secure second citizenship by investment to gain a second passport.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Second Passport

What is a second passport?

A secondary passport is a second travel document issued by a country’s government.  This could be a duplicate passport from one country, which acts as a replacement passport, or an alternative passport from a second country, which offers benefits beyond what the first passport provides.

Can I get a second passport?

Getting a second passport requires your country of origin and the second country of citizenship to accept dual or multiple citizenship. You can obtain passports from two different countries if you qualify for dual nationality.

What is the cheapest second passport?

Dominica, St. Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda offer the cheapest second passports, with a minimum investment of $200,000 to qualify for their citizenship by investment programs.

What is the easiest way to get a second passport?

If you don’t hold the right to citizenship from another country through the naturalization process, descent, or marriage, citizenship by investment is the easiest way to get a second passport. Countries with easy second passport programs include St. Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, and Vanuatu.

Which country gives the fastest passport?

Vanuatu, a South Pacific Ocean country, has the world’s fastest citizenship by investment program. Successful applicants receive a second passport within 60 days of making the required contribution of $130,000.

Can US citizens get a second passport?

Americans can legally have a second passport as the United States permits dual nationality. As a US citizen, you’re free to get citizenship and a second passport in any country.

Where to apply for a second passport?

If you are unsure where to invest in another passport, it can be a good idea to contact a migration specialist. Global Citizen Solutions has experts who can advise on the best options that best suit your personal preferences and financial goals.

What is the easiest passport to acquire?

The easiest passports to acquire are from countries offering Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, like St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda. These countries allow individuals to obtain citizenship quickly, often within 3-6 months, by making a financial investment, such as purchasing real estate or donating to a national fund.

Can you have three different passports?

Your capability of having three different passports or multiple citizenships depends on whether or not your countries of citizenship allow multiple citizenships. For each additional passport you seek to obtain, you should check eligibility with your country’s passport services or immigration department.

Which countries allow dual citizenship for US citizens?

American dual citizenship is allowed in many countries. You can be a dual citizen in Portugal, Malta, the UK, Dominica, and others worldwide if you have a valid US passport.

This list is subject to change depending on policies in the specific country, and it is best to check with the government agency in the country. Dual nationality will depend on the citizenship laws of the second country.

Are there any restrictions on using a second passport?

Yes, there can be restrictions on using a second passport, depending on the countries involved. Some nations, like the United States, require citizens to use their U.S. passport when entering and leaving the country, even if they hold a second passport. Additionally, some countries may not recognize dual citizenship and might require you to renounce other nationalities. Certain diplomatic or political tensions can also restrict travel between specific countries using your second passport.

Are there any tax implications with having a second passport?

Yes, having a second passport can have tax implications, particularly related to citizenship-based taxation. Some countries, like the United States, tax citizens on worldwide income regardless of where they reside. Additionally, the tax laws of your second passport country may affect your overall tax obligations, so it’s important to understand the tax treaties and regulations in both countries to avoid double taxation.

What is the validity period of a second passport?

Adult passports in most countries are typically valid for ten years. However, it’s important to note that the validity period can vary depending on the country, and certain countries have different renewal procedures or requirements for obtaining a second valid passport. 

Are there any risks or disadvantages associated with having a second passport?

Yes, there are some risks and downsides to having a second passport. These can include legal problems, like issues with taxes or rules about living in two countries. You might also face extra checks from authorities or have to follow different laws in each place. Plus, keeping up with the requirements in both countries can be complicated and take a lot of time.