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 like 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 country that issued it.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about how to get a foreign passport, such as:
How to Get a Second Passport
You can obtain a second passport through several routes, depending on your circumstances and goals.
Citizenship by birth
Citizenship by birth is the most obvious route to getting a second passport. In some countries, birthright citizenship is automatically granted to anyone born on their soil. Some countries, like the U.S. and Canada, offer unrestricted birthright citizenship, granting citizenship to anyone born on their soil regardless of the parent’s legal status. Other countries, such as Ireland, have restricted birthright policies and only grant citizenship at birth if certain conditions are met, like having a parent who is a citizen or resident.
Citizenship by descent
Citizenship by descent is another common route, but it is dependent on the country’s laws. If you have parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents from certain countries, you may qualify for citizenship based on ancestry. Many European countries, such as Ireland, Italy, and Poland, offer this option.
Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
Citizenship by investment has gotten more popular over the years. This is when countries provide citizenship in exchange for financial investment, often in real estate, business, or government funds. Popular programs include Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda.
Citizenship by naturalization
Naturalization is also the most well-known pathway to gaining citizenship. It can be acquired when you have been living in a foreign country on a long-term visa, which can lead to citizenship by naturalization. Naturalization often requires a minimum residency period, language proficiency, and societal integration. Portugal’s Golden Visa, for instance, allows for citizenship after five years of residency.
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. 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.
15 Best Countries 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. Individuals interested in this program can make a $250,000 donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) or a minimum investment of $400,000 in government-approved real estate. A St. Kitts and Nevis passport grants visa-free access to over 150 countries. The whole citizenship application takes approximately 12 months, but once the passport application has been submitted, it will be issued in two to three weeks.
To get new citizenship through naturalization, you must live in St. Kitts and Nevis for at least five years on a valid residence permit. When it comes to marriage, foreign nationals married to a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage if they provide proof of the marriage and meet character requirements.
2. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda are other beautiful Caribbean islands that are popular for their stunning beaches and luxury resorts. The country offers attractive tax incentives, and through the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, applicants can get citizenship by making a $230,000 donation to the National Development Fund or a $300,000 investment in approved real estate. The passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries. The processing time to be granted your citizenship certificate takes about six months, but the passport application is quicker and only requires three weeks.
Foreign nationals can apply for citizenship through naturalization after residing in Antigua and Barbuda for a minimum of seven years, including holding a valid residency status during that time. Those with Antiguan or Barbudan parents or grandparents may be eligible for citizenship by descent, which requires proving the lineage and the necessary supporting documents.
3. Dominica
The Dominica citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable CBI programs. It requires a $200,000 donation to the Economic Diversification Fund as a single applicant, $250,000 for a family of up to four, and a $200,000 pre-approved real estate investment. Dominica’s passport grants visa-free access to over 140 countries, making it an attractive option for global travelers. Another benefit is that the processing time is only six to nine months, while a valid passport can be granted in three weeks.
Additionally, people with Dominican parents or grandparents can obtain a second passport through descent if they prove family lineage and provide documentation. Another route is through marriage. A person married to a Dominican citizen can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage. This includes demonstrating a genuine relationship and meeting residency requirements.
4. Grenada
The Grenada citizenship by investment program stands out because it grants access to the U.S. E-2 visa. Applicants can make a $235,000 donation to the National Transformation Fund, a $270,000 investment in shares, or $350,000 as the sole owner of government-approved real estate. Grenada has one of the lowest investment requirements and a relatively fast processing time of nine months.
Similarly, there are other options to consider, like naturalization, which means a foreign nation would need to live in Grenada for seven years while maintaining legal residency before they can apply for citizenship. If you have Grenadian parents or grandparents and have the required supporting documents you may qualify for ancestral citizenship.
5. St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program has grown rapidly due to its streamlined process and affordability. The program allows for a $240,000 donation to the National Economic Fund or a $300,000 investment in government-approved real estate. St. Lucia is undoubtedly one of the most attractive CBI programs, with a fast processing time of 10 to 12 months. This means applicants can apply for a new passport and get it in eight to ten weeks after obtaining citizenship.
If investment is not ideal for you, then a second passport through descent is possible if you have St. Lucian parents or grandparents. On the other hand, foreign nationals married to a St. Lucian citizen can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage. However, they must provide proof of the marriage, and compliance with character requirements is necessary.
6. Turkey
Turkey’s citizenship by investment program is especially attractive to those interested in European and Asian markets. The program offers investment options of $400,000 in real estate, $500,000 in government bonds or capital transfer, and $500,000 in a Turkish bank deposit. The path to citizenship in Turkey only takes four months, and applicants will only need to wait one to two weeks to get a new passport.
Obtaining citizenship through naturalization would require foreign nationals to reside in Turkey for five years on a valid residence permit, demonstrate fluency in the Turkish language, and integrate into society. Additionally, individuals with Turkish parents or grandparents may apply for citizenship by descent once they prove family ties.
7. Malta
The Malta Citizenship by Investment program, officially called the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, is one of the few European CBI programs. As an EU member, having Maltese citizenship as an alternative passport offers benefits like access to the Schengen Area. The English-speaking population makes migrating easier for U.S. citizens and others from English-speaking countries. The program requires a non-refundable investment of €600,000 or €700,000, depending on a residency period of 12 or 36 months, or a real estate purchase of at least €700,000.
Additionally, the Malta Residency by Investment Program (MPRP) provides an alternative route that does not directly lead to citizenship but has lower residency requirements. Applicants must lease a property worth at least €12,000 annually or purchase one for €350,000.
8. Portugal
The Portugal Golden Visa program allows people to get a long-term residence permit by investing in the country. To qualify, you must invest at least €250,000 in the arts or the restoration of cultural sites. Although you can’t get a Portuguese passport immediately, Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of living there.
Another option is the Portugal D7 Visa, which is great for people with a stable income, like pensions or remote work. It’s a good choice for retirees and remote workers who want to live in Portugal long-term without needing to make a large investment like the Golden Visa.
9. Spain
The Spain Golden Visa program doesn’t offer citizenship, but it is possible to get a Spanish passport after obtaining a residence permit through the Golden Visa and fulfilling the country’s residency requirements. To qualify for naturalization, you must maintain your investment of €500,000 and permanent residency in the nation for ten years.
Another residency option is the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, which is for non-EU citizens who have sufficient financial means to support themselves without working in Spain. It’s popular among retirees and individuals with passive income who want to live in Spain long-term. The minimum income requirement is about €2,361.08.
10. Greece
The Golden Visa Greece requires a minimum investment of €250,000, and citizenship is possible after seven years of maintaining your residency. The primary applicant and their family can live or work anywhere within the European Union (EU) with Greek citizenship.
To get Greek citizenship through marriage, foreign spouses of Greek citizens may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage and reside in Greece for at least one year. They must also demonstrate a basic understanding of the Greek language.
11. United States
If you are a non-US citizen, the United States is among the best countries for second passport acquisition. The US EB-5 Permanent Resident Visa offers a Green Card first, followed by the possibility of US citizenship after the five-year mark. To qualify for citizenship in the United States, you must keep your investment and Green Card for at least five years. This is important if you want to gain dual nationality, and it can be worth it in the long run.
The US has two additional ways to get a second passport through family connections. One option is family sponsorship, where US citizens or permanent residents can sponsor close relatives like spouses, parents, and children for a Green Card. After living in the US for five years with this Green Card, they can become eligible for citizenship.
Another is through marriage. Being married to a US citizen is a faster route to getting a second passport because foreign spouses of US citizens can apply for naturalization after just three years of marriage and Green Card residency.
12. Canada
The fastest route to Canadian citizenship is often through the Express Entry system, which selects skilled workers based on criteria like work experience, education, and language skills. After holding permanent residency for three years within a five-year period, you’re eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.
Similar to America, close family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can be sponsored for permanent residency, with eligibility for citizenship after meeting the three-year residency requirement. Canada also offers investment options through the Canada Start-Up Visa program, which allows entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency by starting a business that meets specific requirements and secures investment from a designated Canadian business incubator.
13. Hungary
Hungary also has a Golden Visa, officially known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP). It was reintroduced on 1 July 2024 and allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency in Hungary through investment. The program requires applicants to invest €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund, and in turn, they will receive a renewable 10-year residency permit.
Another pathway to a second passport is living in Hungary with a valid residence permit and then applying for naturalization after eight years, provided you pass language and integration requirements. Additionally, those with Hungarian ancestry may be eligible for citizenship by descent, often with reduced residency requirements.
14. Latvia
Latvia offers the Latvia Golden Visa program, which is primarily targeted at non–EU citizens who wish to
live in Europe. It is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high–net–worth individuals who can make a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate, including residential or commercial properties. Alternatively, individuals can invest €50,000 in a Latvian company.
After 5 years, they can apply for permanent residency, and after 10 years, they’re eligible to apply for Latvian citizenship. Depending on the connection and proof of ancestry, those with Latvian ancestry can apply for citizenship by descent.
15. Italy
Italian citizenship can be obtained through several routes. The Italy Golden Visa offers residency to those who invest €250,000 in a startup or €500,000 in corporate bonds or shared with citizenship eligibility after ten years of residency. There is also the Italy Digital Nomad Visa, which allows remote workers to live in Italy while working for foreign employers.
The residence permit for the Digital Nomad Visa is renewable and opens a path to long-term residency and eventual citizenship after ten years of living in Italy. Another viable option to consider is citizenship by descent. Italy offers citizenship to people with Italian ancestry, so individuals with Italian parents or grandparents can apply without needing to live in the country first.
The Benefits of Owning Another Passport
There are many benefits to owning another passport. From enhanced global mobility to increased freedoms, here are some of the top benefits.
More travel freedom
Second passport benefits for frequent travelers are immense. Imagine being able to travel across the world without a visa or move and work freely in a number of different countries. Depending on the country of citizenship, second travel documents can expand your options to travel internationally.
Global mobility opportunities
The opportunities that come with having second citizenship for business purposes and other financial objectives can be innumerable. Whether concerning investment or business travel, a new passport from a high-ranking country on the Global Passport Index can widen your options and allow you to access a better and broader range of investments.
Adds stability
Circumstances can change suddenly, as we all witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brexit in the UK and the recent political climate in the United States have also shown that having dual citizenship and a second passport can give you more options when making life-changing decisions for you and your family. Second passports provide peace of mind, increase personal and economic freedoms, and minimize risk.
If you’re looking to build a better future for yourself and your family, a second passport is the best way to ensure they will have a more secure life in the future.
Eases retirement planning
A second passport for retirement planning is one of the best options for individuals seeking retirement abroad. While you don’t need a second passport to move to a new country, having a second passport simplifies the experience of living in a foreign country, particularly if you frequently return home to visit family. The generous tax benefits of having a second passport from certain countries are also key in strategic retirement planning.
What Golden Visa to pick?
Compare our Spain vs Portugal Golden Visa Programs.
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 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 typically 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.
