Easiest European Countries to Get Citizenship 2023
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ZandCapital
Are you dreaming of becoming a citizen of Europe but feeling overwhelmed by the seemingly complicated process? Well, we have some good news for you! Some European countries offer an easier and more straightforward path to citizenship than others. In this blog post, we will explore the top easiest European countries to get citizenship in 2023. From stunning Mediterranean islands to vibrant capital cities, there is a wide range of options available that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. So let’s dive in and discover which EU country gives citizenship easily!
What Are the Easiest Countries in Europe to Get Citizenship?
Malta, a beautiful island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea, offers one of the easiest paths to citizenship among European countries. The country’s Individual Investor Programme (IIP) allows foreigners to acquire Maltese citizenship within a year by investing €650,000 or more. France is another country that provides a relatively simple route to citizenship. Foreigners who have lived in France for at least five years and can prove their proficiency in French may apply for naturalization as French citizens. Cyprus has been attracting foreign investors with its Citizenship by Investment Program since 2013. This program grants Cypriot passports to successful applicants who invest at least €2 million in real estate or other approved sectors.
Bulgaria offers an attractive option for individuals seeking EU citizenship through investment. Their Bulgarian Investor Program requires an investment of approximately €1 million, which must be held for at least five years before becoming eligible for citizenship. Austria’s Citizenship Act permits individuals who have continuously resided there for ten years – including two years on a permanent residence permit – to apply for Austrian nationality. Portugal’s Golden Visa Scheme grants residency permits and potential citizenship rights over time when non-European Union nationals invest at least €500,000 into Portuguese property or other qualifying investments.
Hungary provides several routes towards obtaining Hungarian citizenship; these include ancestry-based eligibility and simplified naturalization procedures based on exceptional merit or outstanding contributions made towards Hungary’s economic growth and social welfare system.
Malta
Malta is a beautiful and unique island country located in the Mediterranean Sea. One of the main reasons why Malta is considered one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship is due to its Citizenship by Investment program. The Maltese government has established this program for individuals who are willing to contribute financially towards the development of the country. This contribution can be made through investments in real estate, stocks or bonds and must meet certain criteria. In addition, Malta offers numerous benefits for those seeking citizenship such as visa-free travel to over 180 countries including Europe’s Schengen Area, tax incentives, free healthcare and education systems that are considered among some of the best in Europe.
Malta also boasts a rich culture with historic landmarks dating back thousands of years including prehistoric temples and grand baroque palaces. The island nation also features breathtaking beaches with crystal clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling activities. Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program combined with its numerous benefits make it an appealing option for those seeking European citizenship.
France
France is one of the most popular countries in Europe, known for its rich history and culture. The French government offers a variety of pathways to obtain citizenship, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking to live and work in Europe. One way to become a citizen of France is through naturalization. To be eligible, applicants must have lived in France for at least five years and demonstrate proficiency in the French language. Additionally, they must show that they are integrated into French society and respect its values.
Another option is through marriage or civil partnership with a French citizen. However, this route requires proof of long-term commitment to the relationship and may take longer to process than other methods. France also offers citizenship by descent, which allows individuals born outside of France but with at least one parent who is a French citizen to apply for citizenship. This can be a quicker process than naturalization but requires additional documentation. While not as straightforward as some other European countries’ processes, obtaining citizenship in France can offer many benefits such as access to healthcare and social services.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a small island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey and west of Syria. It has been a member of the European Union since 2004 and is considered as one of the easiest EU countries to obtain citizenship. One way to gain Cypriot citizenship is through investment. The government offers several investment programs that allow foreigners to invest in real estate, businesses or government bonds in exchange for citizenship. The minimum amount varies depending on the program, but it generally starts at €2 million.
Another way to acquire citizenship is through ancestry. If you have Cypriot parents or grandparents, you may be eligible for Cypriot nationality even if you were not born there. Cyprus also offers fast-track procedures for investors who want residency before obtaining full citizenship. This allows them to live and work in Cyprus while their application is being processed. Cyprus provides various options for those seeking EU citizenship with relatively low requirements compared to other European countries.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the easiest European countries to obtain citizenship in. The country offers a streamlined process for individuals who are looking to become Bulgarian citizens through investment. Bulgaria’s fast-track citizenship program requires an investment of €1 million, and it grants investors and their families permanent residency within six months, with the option to apply for full citizenship after just two years. This makes Bulgaria particularly appealing to foreign investors who want a foothold in the EU.
Aside from its favorable investment requirements, Bulgaria also has a low cost of living compared to other European countries. Housing costs, food prices, and transportation expenses are all significantly lower than in neighboring cities like Athens or Istanbul. Another advantage of obtaining Bulgarian citizenship is that it allows visa-free travel throughout Europe’s Schengen Area. This means that holders can easily travel across 26 countries without any additional border checks or paperwork. Bulgaria is an attractive destination for those seeking affordable living options as well as accessible pathways towards EU citizenship through investments.
Austria
Austria is a beautiful country that offers many benefits for those looking to obtain citizenship. It has a rich history, breathtaking scenery, and a high standard of living. Austria requires applicants to have lived in the country for at least ten years before applying for citizenship. However, there are some exceptions to this requirement. One way to bypass the residency requirement is by marrying an Austrian citizen or having Austrian ancestry. Another option is investing in the country’s economy through its economic citizenship program.
Austrian citizens enjoy free access to healthcare and education, as well as visa-free travel across Europe’s Schengen Area. They also benefit from a stable political system and strong economy. Austria provides excellent opportunities for those seeking European citizenship. With its diverse culture, picturesque landscapes, and attractive lifestyle options – it’s no wonder why so many people choose Austria as their destination of choice!
Portugal
Portugal is one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship. The process involves a minimum residency period of five years, during which applicants must demonstrate their commitment and integration into Portuguese society. One advantage that Portugal offers is its Golden Visa program, which allows investors to gain residency by investing in real estate or other economic activities. This program has been very popular with foreign investors from outside the EU looking for an easy way to obtain European citizenship.
Another benefit of obtaining Portuguese citizenship is the ability to travel throughout Europe without restrictions. As a member state of the EU, citizens are free to move and work within any country in the Union, making it an attractive option for those seeking greater freedom and opportunities. In addition, Portugal has a high quality of life with excellent healthcare and education systems. It also boasts beautiful beaches, vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto, delicious cuisine, rich history and culture as well as friendly locals who welcome newcomers with open arms.
Portugal presents itself as one of the most desirable options among all EU countries when it comes to acquiring citizenship due to its relatively easy procedures combined with various benefits including unrestricted movement across Europe!
Hungary
One of the lesser-known countries on this list is Hungary. This European nation has a unique citizenship program that allows foreign investors to acquire Hungarian citizenship in exchange for investment in the country’s economy. To be eligible, foreigners must invest at least 300,000 euros in government bonds issued by Hungary and hold them for at least five years. Alternatively, they can invest 250,000 euros in real estate or business ventures and create ten new jobs. Hungary also offers a fast-track option for those who are willing to pay an additional fee. With this option, applicants can receive their passport within six months instead of the usual eight months processing time.
Aside from its citizenship program, Hungary boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes that attract tourists from all over the world. The capital city Budapest is especially popular with its breathtaking architecture and thermal baths. Hungary may not be the first country that comes to mind when considering European citizenship options but it certainly offers a unique opportunity for those looking to invest in its economy while gaining access to EU benefits.
Norway
Norway is one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship. The process for acquiring Norwegian citizenship involves living in Norway for at least seven years, with some exceptions such as marriage to a Norwegian citizen or having a child with a Norwegian citizen. One of the benefits of becoming a Norwegian citizen is access to free healthcare and education. Norway also has a high standard of living and offers excellent job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking better opportunities.
Additionally, Norway is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities. From skiing in the winter to hiking and fishing in the summer, there are endless opportunities to explore this stunning country’s landscapes. It’s worth noting that while learning Norwegian isn’t required for citizenship, it can be beneficial when integrating into society and finding employment. However, many Norwegians speak English fluently, making communication easier for expats who may not yet have mastered the language. If you’re looking for an easy path to European citizenship without sacrificing quality of life or job prospects, Norway should definitely be on your radar!
Greece
Greece is a country known for its rich history, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine. It’s also one of the easiest European countries to obtain citizenship, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate. To become a Greek citizen, you must have lived in the country for at least seven years or be married to a Greek citizen for three years. However, there are some exceptions that can expedite the process such as investing in real estate or starting a business in Greece.
In addition to being relatively easy to obtain citizenship, Greece offers many benefits including access to high-quality healthcare and education systems. The country has also recently implemented tax incentives for foreign retirees which make it even more appealing. The cost of living in Greece is generally lower than other EU countries, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. Plus, with its stunning natural beauty and warm climate, Greece is an ideal destination for anyone looking for sun-soaked Mediterranean living. Greece may be worth considering as your next home base if you’re interested in obtaining European citizenship without jumping through too many hoops.
Ireland
Ireland is known for its breathtaking landscape, rich culture, and friendly locals. It is also one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship in. To become a citizen of Ireland, you must be living in the country for at least five years and have a legal status as either an employee or self-employed individual. You must also possess a good character and not have any criminal record. Another way to gain Irish citizenship is through descent. If you were born outside of Ireland but your parent was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth, then you are entitled to apply for Irish citizenship.
One significant benefit of obtaining Irish citizenship is that it allows free movement throughout the European Union since Ireland is an EU member state. If you are looking for an easy way to obtain EU citizenship while experiencing beautiful scenery and warm hospitality from locals, then consider applying for Irish citizenship.
Latvia
Latvia is a beautiful country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It has a rich history and culture, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. One of the reasons why Latvia is considered one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship is due to its naturalization process. The requirements are relatively simple compared to other EU countries: applicants must have lived in Latvia for at least five years, speak Latvian fluently, pass a language exam, and provide proof of income or employment.
Latvia also offers great opportunities for business investors who want to obtain residency permits that can eventually lead to citizenship. The government provides several incentives such as tax exemptions and simplified procedures for obtaining licenses. Apart from being an easy place to gain citizenship, Latvia has much more to offer. Its capital city Riga boasts charming old town architecture, delicious local cuisine, and thriving nightlife scene. Nature lovers will find plenty of national parks with stunning landscapes such as Gauja National Park or Kemeri National Park.
All in all, Latvia may not be on top of everyone’s list when it comes to choosing their future home country but it definitely deserves consideration due its many advantages including ease of getting citizenship!
Spain
Spain is a beautiful country located in the south-western part of Europe. Its rich culture, ancient history, and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world. Spain also attracts those who are seeking to obtain citizenship in Europe. The Spanish government offers several pathways to acquire citizenship such as by residence or marriage. One of the most popular ways to get Spanish citizenship is through its Golden Visa program. The program grants residency to non-EU citizens who invest more than €500,000 in Spanish real estate.
Spain’s language requirement for naturalization can be challenging for some applicants since knowledge of both Spanish and regional languages is required. However, with dedication and commitment, applicants can fulfill this requirement. Apart from its welcoming environment towards foreign nationals which led Spain to become one of the easiest European countries to acquire nationality from; living in Spain has countless benefits including affordable healthcare services, diverse culinary traditions and amazing weather conditions throughout the year that attract millions of retirees annually.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a popular destination for those seeking citizenship in Europe. The UK offers several paths to obtain citizenship, including naturalization and investment programs. The naturalization process requires living in the UK for at least five years and passing an English language test. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as if you are married to a British citizen or have lived in the country legally for three years. For those looking to invest, the Tier 1 Investor Visa program allows individuals who invest £2 million or more into UK businesses or government bonds to apply for citizenship after five years of residency.
It’s important to note that Brexit has changed some of the rules regarding obtaining British citizenship. EU citizens will need to go through a different process than before, but it is still possible.While the United Kingdom may not be the easiest European country to obtain citizenship in currently due to recent changes post-Brexit, it remains a desirable option with multiple pathways available.
Poland
Poland has been an attractive destination for immigrants looking to settle in Europe. The country offers a stable economy, affordable cost of living, and a rich cultural heritage. Polish citizenship can be acquired by birth or through naturalization. Poland allows dual citizenship, which makes it easier for foreigners to become citizens without losing their original nationality. To obtain Polish citizenship through naturalization, one must have lived in the country legally for at least 5 years and meet other requirements such as being employed or having enough financial resources to support oneself.
The process of obtaining citizenship involves submitting various documents including proof of language proficiency, health insurance coverage, criminal record certificates from the applicant’s home country and Poland. Once all requirements are met and approved by authorities, applicants undergo an interview process where they are tested on their knowledge of Polish history and culture. Poland is considered one of the easiest countries in Europe to get citizenship due to its flexible policies towards immigration and dual nationality. It presents a great opportunity for those seeking better prospects in life either economically or culturally.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is one of the easiest European countries to get citizenship in. The country has a straightforward and transparent process that makes it easy for foreigners to obtain citizenship. To become a citizen of the Czech Republic, you must have been living in the country for at least five years, with a valid residency permit throughout this period. You should also have basic knowledge of the Czech language and pass an exam on its history and culture. The application process takes approximately six months, during which the authorities will conduct background checks on you. If all goes well, you will be invited to take an oath of allegiance before receiving your new citizenship certificate.
One significant advantage of being a Czech citizen is that you can travel freely within the Schengen area without restrictions. Also, as a member state of the EU, citizens enjoy all benefits like access to education, healthcare system and job opportunities across Europe. In conclusion,Czechia offers plenty of opportunities for those who want to start their life anew or just experience more freedom while traveling around Europe. Their quick and efficient naturalization process allows immigrants from various backgrounds easier access into becoming long-term residents if they so choose!
Estonia
Estonia is a small country located in northeastern Europe, bordered by the Baltic sea to the west and Russia to the east. The country has been gaining popularity among digital nomads and entrepreneurs due to its e-Residency program that allows foreign nationals to establish an online business without physically being present in Estonia. The process of obtaining Estonian citizenship is relatively straightforward and easy. A person can apply for citizenship after living legally in Estonia for at least eight years or marrying an Estonian citizen. One unique aspect of Estonia’s citizenship law is that it allows dual nationality, which means that a person does not need to renounce their previous nationality when acquiring Estonian citizenship.
Estonia also offers visa-free travel to over 100 countries, making it an attractive destination for those seeking greater mobility. Its low cost of living, high quality of life, and excellent education system are additional reasons why many people choose Estonia as their second home. With its innovative e-residency program and welcoming attitude towards foreigners, Estonia is one of the easiest European countries to acquire citizenship.
Lithuania
Lithuania is one of the Baltic states that was once part of the Soviet Union. It is a small country with a population of around 2.8 million people, and it has been attracting foreign investors and entrepreneurs for its easy citizenship process. One of the main benefits of obtaining Lithuanian citizenship is being able to travel visa-free throughout Europe’s Schengen area. Lithuania also offers affordable living costs, an excellent education system, and a rapidly growing economy.
To be eligible for Lithuanian citizenship by descent, you must prove your ancestry through documents such as birth certificates or passports. The process can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on individual circumstances. For those without Lithuanian ancestry, there are other options available such as investment in real estate or businesses within Lithuania. In general, these processes tend to be more time-consuming and costly than acquiring citizenship through descent.
Lithuania may not be the easiest EU country to obtain citizenship compared to others on this list but it certainly offers many benefits worth considering for those seeking European residency or permanent settlement opportunities.
Conclusion
Europe offers a wide range of options for those who are looking to obtain citizenship. Each country has its own requirements and procedures that need to be followed. However, some countries tend to have more relaxed policies than others. If you’re looking for the easiest European countries to get citizenship in 2023, then Malta, France, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Austria, Portugal and Hungary are great options due to their shorter residency requirements or investment programs. Other countries such as Norway, Greece, Ireland and Latvia also offer paths towards citizenship but may require longer waiting periods.
It’s important to do your research before deciding on which country is right for you. Consider factors such as language barriers and cultural differences when making your decision. With proper planning and preparation though, obtaining European citizenship can open up numerous opportunities for travel and work across the continent.
