It can be difficult to obtain citizenship or residency in another country. However, a number of countries have made the process much easier. Many people seeking to relocate to different countries pursue economic opportunities, global mobility, and a fresh start in a new environment. Some countries welcome foreigners to take advantage of the various programs that offer citizenship or residency. Today, we are exploring different countries that offer the easiest options to get citizenship or residency.
Firstly, citizenship and residency are very different. While citizenship offers all the rights (including voting rights) of someone born in that country, residency grants only the rights to live, work, and travel within the country.
Golden Visas
One of the most popular ways to secure residency in another country is through golden visas. These visas, which are typically temporary, make it easy for a businessperson to relocate to a foreign country because golden visas are obtainable by investing in the country’s economy. A golden visa may be given to someone who does real estate in the country, creates jobs, or donates to government funds.
Countries that offer golden visas are frequently issued in Portugal, Spain, and Greece. In 2024, Spain issued about 800 golden visas. In Turkey, Hungary, and Brazil, persons can obtain residency through residency-by-investment programs.
Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIP)
Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIP) is a fast way to secure a second passport. However, applicants must pay a substantial amount through investments or one-time fees. Some countries that offer these programs include Cambodia, which requires at least a $245,000 investment, and Singapore, which requires a $7 million investment for a 2-year residency card. Additionally, Australia requires applicants to have a net worth exceeding $1 million.
Some of the more affordable CIPs can be found in the Caribbean. Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Dominica require at least a $100,000 investment.
Digital Nomad Visas
Another option to get residency that is also popular is the digital nomad visa. This visa offers the opportunity to live and work remotely in a foreign country while maintaining tax obligations in your home country. Countries that have grown popular for their digital nomad visa programs include Estonia, Germany, and Norway.
What It Takes
The requirements differ for each country when it comes to acquiring residency or citizenship. However, applicants are typically required to invest in the country through land purchase, donation to a government fund, or creating a business. They are also typically required to pay legal and processing fees, pass background checks, and have valid health insurance.
Top Countries for Easy Citizenship and Residency
1. St. Kitts and Nevis
Individuals who want citizenship in the Caribbean can obtain it in St. Kitts and Nevis by investing as low as $150,000 through its Sustainable Growth Fund. This CIP allows individuals to travel to over 150 visa-free countries, and the process is completed in 3 to 6 months.
2. Dominica
Another option is Dominica, which offers citizenship in exchange for at least a $100,000 investment. This process is completed within 3 months, and individuals can travel to many destinations.
3. Portugal
In Portugal, applicants can secure a golden visa by making an investment of around €280,000 to €500,000 in real estate grants residency. This program is popular because it is possible to obtain citizenship through this program after 5 years.
4. Cambodia
Cambodia offers an affordable CIP that allows applicants to make an investment of no less than $245,000. The process is easy and finishes relatively quickly.
5. Turkey
In Turkey, citizenship is exchanged for a $400,000 investment in real estate.
6. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda offers two options to obtain citizenship. Interested individuals can either donate at least $100,000 to the National Development Fund or they can make a $200,000 real estate investment.
