As a Nigerian, there are four main pathways to obtaining a second passport:-citizenship by birth, citizenship by descent, naturalisation, and citizenship by investment.
With growing interest in global mobility and securing a second passport, many are looking for the fastest and simplest routes to citizenship. Dual citizenship has become an attractive option, whether for financial stability, new lifestyle opportunities, or simply having a backup plan.
However, it’s essential to verify whether the country you’re considering permits dual citizenship. While many Caribbean nations allow multiple citizenships, some EU countries have restrictions.
Below, we explore the easiest countries to gain citizenship through descent, naturalisation, or investment:
Citizenship by birth
Citizenship by birth, also known as jus soli (right of the soil), allows individuals to acquire nationality simply by being born within a country’s territory. A number of countries offer this pathway, including some where Nigerians may be eligible for citizenship at birth.
Here are countries where Nigerians can potentially obtain citizenship by being born on their soil:
-United StatesÂ
– CanadaÂ
– BrazilÂ
– ArgentinaÂ
– MexicoÂ
– FranceÂ
– IrelandÂ
– ChileÂ
– PeruÂ
– VenezuelaÂ
– The BahamasÂ
– New Zealand
– Panama
It’s important to note that while these countries generally grant citizenship to those born on their territory, there are exceptions—particularly for children of foreign diplomats or under certain legal conditions. Always review the specific laws and eligibility requirements of each country before making any plans to relocate or apply for citizenship.
Citizenship by Descent
If you have ancestral roots in another country, obtaining a second passport through descent can be one of the most accessible and cost-effective options. Many countries allow individuals to claim citizenship by proving their lineage, sometimes going back multiple generations.
Here are some of the most accessible countries where you can gain citizenship by descent:
Italy
Italy offers one of the most inclusive citizenship-by-descent programs, allowing individuals to claim citizenship through great-grandparents in many cases. Although the process can be time-consuming due to bureaucratic delays, it remains a clear path to securing an EU passport and the freedom to live and work across Europe.
Ireland
Ireland has one of the easiest and most efficient descent-based citizenship processes. If you have a parent, grandparent, or in some cases, a great-grandparent born in Ireland, you’re likely eligible. The application is generally faster and less complicated than in many other EU nations.
Hungary
Hungary provides a streamlined route to citizenship for those with Hungarian ancestry. Applicants must prove their lineage and demonstrate basic Hungarian language skills. As a member of the EU, Hungary offers a valuable passport with wide-ranging travel and residency rights.
Poland
Poland recognizes citizenship claims through descent, often up to great-grandparents. While the application requires detailed documentation and can be complex, a successful claim offers full EU benefits, including the right to live, work, and travel freely across member states.
Portugal
Portugal stands out for its flexible descent policies, including a special provision for descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the Inquisition. This inclusive approach, paired with relatively clear eligibility criteria, makes Portugal an appealing option for many.
Spain
Spain offers citizenship to those with Spanish-born parents and has a dedicated route for Sephardic Jewish descendants. However, for applicants beyond the first generation, additional proof and documentation may be necessary. Still, it remains a strong pathway to EU citizenship.
Citizenship by Naturalization
For those without ancestral connections, citizenship by naturalization is a practical and achievable route to a second passport. This process usually requires a minimum period of legal residency, basic language proficiency, a clean record, and sometimes a citizenship test. Below are some of the countries with relatively accessible naturalization pathways:
Argentina
Argentina offers one of the world’s shortest naturalization periods—just two years of legal residency. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate ties to the country, such as steady employment, property ownership, or a legitimate source of income. Other countries with a two-year requirement include the Dominican Republic and Spain.
Peru
Peru also grants citizenship after two years of residency. The process is generally straightforward, and combined with its low cost of living, Peru is an attractive option for those seeking an affordable and efficient path to a second passport.
Poland
In Poland, citizenship can be obtained after three years of continuous residence under a permanent residence permit, EU long-term residency, or right of permanent residence. Applicants must show a stable income. If married to a Polish citizen, you can apply after just two years of residency, provided you’ve been married for at least three years. Serbia, Canada, Paraguay, and Armenia also have three-year naturalization pathways.
Brazil
Brazil requires four years of legal residency to qualify for citizenship. However, this period can be reduced to just one year if you’re married to a Brazilian citizen or have a child born in Brazil. Ethiopia and Australia also offer naturalization after four years of residency.
Portugal
Portugal is known for its relatively short five-year residency requirement. To apply for citizenship, you must also demonstrate basic knowledge of Portuguese (A2 level) and have no serious criminal record. Other countries with similar five-year requirements include Belgium and Barbados.
Citizenship by Investment
For individuals with the financial capacity, citizenship by investment is the fastest and most straightforward route to acquiring a second passport. In return for a qualifying investment—usually in real estate or a government fund—many countries offer expedited citizenship and expanded global mobility. Here are some of the quickest and most appealing programs:
Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers one of the world’s fastest citizenship-by-investment processes, with passports issued in as little as two months. A minimum investment of $130,000 is required. The country’s passport grants visa-free access to a wide range of countries, making it a favorite among frequent travelers.
Turkey
Turkey’s program enables applicants to secure citizenship in three to four months through a real estate investment of at least $400,000. With its strategic location between Europe and Asia, Turkey provides investors access to a growing market and excellent travel benefits.
Dominica
Dominica features one of the most cost-effective citizenship-by-investment options, requiring a minimum contribution of $200,000. The process typically takes about six months, and the passport offers visa-free travel to over 140 destinations, including the EU and UK.
St. Kitts & Nevis
Home to one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs, St. Kitts & Nevis grants citizenship in approximately six months with a minimum investment of $200,000. Like Dominica, it offers extensive visa-free travel and is recognized for its efficient application process.
