11 Fastest Countries to Get Citizenship as an Immigrant

For many people seeking better opportunities abroad, what Nigerians often call “Japa” the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant have become a hot topic. Whether travelling for a fresh start or seeking better economic opportunities, one of the most important factors to consider is how long it takes to become a citizen in your new home. This is because citizenship grants you access to some rights and privileges.

While some countries require you to wait for 5, 10, or even more years, there are places where the road to citizenship is much shorter and surprisingly accessible. In this post, we’ll break down 11 of the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant, often without complex hurdles or lengthy wait times.

1.      Grenada (3–4 Months)

Grenada offers one of the quickest immigrant citizenship routes, typically within 90 to 120 days. The program, regulated by the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Act, 2013, allows applicants to contribute to the National Transformation Fund or invest in government-approved real estate.

The beauty of having a Grenada passport is that it grants visa-free access to over 140 countries, including China and the Schengen Area. As reported by Global Citizen Solutions, the ease of application, the affordable cost compared to other programs, and no residency or interview requirement make Grenada a solid choice for those seeking one of the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant.

2.      Turkey (3–6 Months)

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign nationals to become citizens within three to six months. The most common route is real estate investment with a minimum value of $400,000, as the Turkish Directorate of Land Registry stipulated.

Backed by legal transparency and Turkey’s strategic location straddling Europe and Asia, this program attracts global investors. In fact, according to Forbes, Turkey’s program has become one of the most popular globally, with over 19,000 applicants approved in recent years. Its inclusion among the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant is well-earned.

3.      St. Kitts & Nevis (2–9 Months)

St. Kitts & Nevis operates the world’s longest-standing Citizenship by Investment Program, established in 1984. Recognized by global immigration firms like CS Global Partners, this Caribbean nation allows applicants to secure citizenship within two to nine months via a non-refundable donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund or through government-approved real estate investment.

This dual-island country is widely recognised for its political stability, zero income tax, and strong passport. It ranks 25th globally according to the Henley Passport Index 2025, which gives you visa-free entries to 154 countries. For immigrants seeking a quick, reputable path, St. Kitts & Nevis ranks high among the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant.

4.      Vanuatu (1–4 Months)

If speed is your top concern, Vanuatu is one of the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant. Through the country’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, applicants can gain citizenship in as little as 30 to 60 days, with a maximum processing window of four months. This program is enshrined in the Vanuatu Citizenship Act [Cap 112] and administered by the Vanuatu Citizenship Commission.

Unlike many other programs, Vanuatu’s citizenship can be acquired remotely without any residency requirement. According to Henley & Partners, this process requires a donation of $130,000 (single applicant) to the country’s Development Support Program (DSP). With a Vanuatu passport, you are granted visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 100 countries, which makes it a powerful second passport option.

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5.      Antigua & Barbuda (3–4 Months)

This Caribbean nation offers a well-regulated CBI program with a three to four-month processing time. As an immigrant, you can gain citizenship through a $100,000 donation to the National Development Fund, a real estate purchase, or a business investment.

According to IMI Daily, Antigua & Barbuda is among the top picks due to its low residency requirement (only five days in five years) and high English proficiency. If you are an investor looking for quick and affordable options, this country continues to rank among the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant.

6.      Mexico (2 Years)

Mexico is another country where you can easily get expedited citizenship after two years of legal residency, especially if you are married to a Mexican citizen or originate from a Spanish-speaking or Latin American country.

The Mexican Nationality Law (Ley de Nacionalidad) outlines the eligibility and integration requirements. With over 1.2 million legal immigrants in 2023 (INEGI data), Mexico has a reputation as a migrant-friendly country. As such, it’s regularly listed among the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant, especially for regional immigrants.

7.      Peru (2 Years)

Peru grants citizenship after two years of legal residency. To be eligible, you must show basic Spanish proficiency and knowledge of Peruvian history and values. The Ministry of Interior handles the applications under the Decreto Legislativo N° 1350, and you must follow the due process.

Additionally, Peru has a bustling expat community, and the cost of living in Peru is low. It is an ideal location if you are looking for a balanced, culturally rich South American destination to dwell in.

8. Dominican Republic (2–3 Years)

While not as rapid as investment programs, the Dominican Republic provides a comparatively short path through residency-to-citizenship conversion, which takes around 2 to 3 years. To be able to apply, you must first obtain temporary residency, then permanent residency, and finally apply for naturalisation.

According to Nomad Capitalist, the Dominican Republic appeals to retirees, digital nomads, and investors with consistent income or employment. While this path involves some bureaucratic navigation, the timeline still makes it one of the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant for non-investment seekers.

9.      Argentina (2 Years)

Argentina has one of the most generous naturalisation policies in the world, requiring only two years of continuous residency. Unlike many countries, renouncing previous citizenship or making a financial investment is not required.

Per Argentina’s National Constitution (Art. 20) and citizenship laws, legal residents can apply after two years by demonstrating ties to the country (employment, community involvement, etc.). This makes it a top contender among the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant, especially for students, professionals, and remote workers.

10. Paraguay (3 Years)

Paraguay is often called a hidden gem for global migrants. You can apply for citizenship after three years of permanent residency, provided you spend meaningful time in the country and show basic economic activity.

The interesting thing about Paraguay is that its pathway is low-cost and suitable for long-term residents. Many expats choose Paraguay for its lenient tax policies, peaceful atmosphere, and easy bureaucratic processes. This makes it one of the fastest countries to get citizenship as an immigrant, especially if you are a non-investor.

11. Uruguay (3–5 Years)

Uruguay offers a clear and structured path to citizenship. It provides three years for families and five years for individuals. To apply, you must demonstrate integration, including residency, local ties, and cultural understanding.

Residing in Uruguay is satisfactory as it is one of the top-rated Latin American countries regarding political stability and expat satisfaction. With its progressive policies and democratic governance, it holds a strong reputation among the fastest countries to get citizenship, which is ideal for families relocating for the long haul.

READ MORE: Top 3 Easiest Countries to Get Permanent Residency in 2025

Which Country Gives Free Citizenship in Europe?

While no European country offers “free” citizenship with no strings attached, some offer citizenship with minimal costs under specific conditions, like ancestry or refugee status. Portugal and Spain, for instance, allow descendants of Sephardic Jews or Latin Americans to naturalise faster, often within 2–3 years. However, it’s essential to provide documentation proving lineage or historical ties.

Fastest Country to Get Citizenship in Europe

Turkey tops the list for the fastest citizenship acquisition in Europe, with just 3 to 6 months through investment. Among EU countries, Portugal offers one of the quickest naturalisation timelines, which allows you to apply and get citizenship in 5 years with residency and basic language knowledge. There is no requirement to live in the country permanently.

Free Citizenship Countries Without Investment

Very few countries provide truly free citizenship without investment, but here are a few that offer affordable, minimal-hurdle processes:

• Argentina – Only requires two years of residency, no investment.
• Mexico – Two years of residency, especially for Latin American nationals or spouses.
• Peru – Two years of legal residency with language and integration basics.

Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship by Investment

If you’ve got some capital and are looking to fast-track citizenship, here are the top performers:

• Vanuatu: 1 to 4 months, donation required.
• Kitts & Nevis: 2 to 9 months, through investment.
• Grenada; 3 to 4 months.
• Antigua & Barbuda; 3 to 4 months.
• Turkey: 3 to 6 months via real estate purchase.

These countries have well-established Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs with transparent processes.

Which Country Gives Fastest Citizenship by Marriage?

Marriage-based citizenship pathways vary, but here are the quickest:

• Mexico – As little as 2 years if married to a Mexican citizen.
• Argentina – Also allows citizenship after 2 years of residency, even for spouses.
• Portugal – A spouse of a Portuguese citizen can apply after 3 years of marriage and cohabitation.

However, it is essential to check for documentation requirements as immigration laws are updated regularly.

Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship by Naturalisation

Naturalisation typically involves a residency period, language requirements, and proof of integration. Some of the easiest include:

• Argentina – Just 2 years of legal residency.
• Peru – 2 years with basic Spanish skills.
• Mexico – 2 years for specific groups or marital ties.
• Uruguay – 3 years for families.
• Paraguay – 3 years of residence.

READ MORE: 10 Affordable European Countries with Visa Fees Under ₦150,000 for Nigerians

These countries offer accessible routes for long-term residents, professionals, and families without massive investment.

Achieving the dream of a second passport doesn’t have to take a decade. From Caribbean islands to South American havens and even parts of Europe, there are fast-track citizenship options for immigrants ready to leap.

Whether looking to invest, marry, work, or simply build a new life elsewhere, these 11 countries offer some of the fastest and most flexible routes to becoming a global citizen.

If you are ready to start this journey, you must research each country’s requirements carefully, consult immigration experts, and get all the required documentation ready.