The Easiest Countries to Get Dual Citizenship

If you’re considering a new life in a different country a second passport can provide an extra bit of security. Some countries that have faced political instability have seen expats cast out; such as Kenya back in 2016. Therefore, dual citizenship can ensure you remain in the country of your choice. Perks also include tax benefits, social services, employment options and investment opportunities and freedom to travel. There are a variety of ways of securing citizenship in another country and some locations are easier to call home than others.

Paraguay

If the thought of life in South America is one that appeals to you then Paraguay might be an option for you. To become eligible for citizenship you will have needed to have been in the country for three years and have just shy of £4,000 in a Paraguayan bank account. However, for those three years you only need to have to be in Paraguay for 183 days minimum per year.

As long as you meet these two criteria you are likely to be offered dual citizenship and receive a Paraguayan passport, regardless of where you are from. There are no limits if you meet the conditions.

Italy

You will need to get your family tree out if you want to emigrate to Italy on a permanent basis. You have a chance of being granted citizenship if you have Italian heritage; you will need to have an Italian parent or grandparent. You can also apply for citizenship if you marry an Italian and live in the country for three years or were born in Italy and resided there until the age of 18 as a minimum.

Alternatively, you can secure citizenship in Italy based upon how long you have lived there. If you’re an EU citizen, you can apply after four years whereas other countries require residency of 10 years to qualify. You will also need to prove your identity and citizenship claim, as well as meet the requirement of being of ‘good character’.

Ireland

Becoming an Irish citizen is relatively easy, particularly if you have Irish ancestors. If somebody in your family was born in Ireland all you need to do is make an application for citizenship through the Foreign Birth Register.

If you are a foreigner, you can achieve dual nationality by applying to become an Irish citizen by naturalisation. You will need to have lived in Ireland for five years to be considered for naturalisation, or three years if you are married to an Irish citizen. You will need to pay €175 for your application and a certification fee of €950 for an adult, €200 for a child or widow/widower and €) for a refugee or stateless person.

Dominica

The Caribbean Island nation of Dominica is part of the Commonwealth; a confederation of 53 independent states dedicated to international cooperation as well as social development, human rights and economics. This means, as a legal citizen of Dominica, you could visit Commonwealth countries without a visa.

To claim citizenship in Dominica you will need to settle processing fees and also have $100,000 invested. You will need to attend an interview, go through a background check and complete medical exam. Getting Dominican citizenship can take over a year to achieve but the benefits related to travel are why many choose to do so.

Moving overseas?

If you are emigrating abroad but are not a citizen of the country yet, make sure you are covered by a comprehensive international health insurance policy. Whilst you may have certain public healthcare benefits following a successful citizenship application, carrying on with a private policy would ensure you receive the best care available in your country of residence.