Simpliest Nations to Obtain Nationality This Year

The global landscape for second passports has shifted dramatically. In 2026, many traditional “Golden Visa” programmes have tightened their requirements, but new opportunities have emerged in Africa and Oceania, while South America remains a stronghold for those willing to put in a few years of residency.

Whether you have the capital to invest or the patience to naturalise, these are the 8 easiest paths to a new nationality this year.

1. São Tomé and Príncipe

One sure pathway is investment, which will take 1–2 months.

This island nation off the coast of Central Africa currently holds the title for the fastest and most affordable citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programme in the world. Launched recently to boost the local economy, it allows for direct citizenship without any residency requirements.

Cost: Minimum donation of $90,000.

2. Vanuatu

A sure pathway is investment, which will take 1–3 months.

Vanuatu remains a favourite for those needing a “Plan B” passport at lightning speed. The process is almost entirely remote, and the due diligence is streamlined compared to European counterparts.

Cost: $130,000 non-refundable contribution.

3. Argentina

A sure pathway is naturalisation, which can take 2 years.

Argentina offers the shortest residency requirement in the world for naturalisation. After living there for just two years on a legal residency permit (which is relatively easy to get via a “Rentista” or “Digital Nomad” visa), you can apply for citizenship.

Note: You must show a basic level of Spanish and a clean criminal record.

4. Nauru

A sure pathway is investment, which can take 3–4 months.

A new player in the 2026 market, Nauru has introduced a competitive programme targeting global investors. It is currently the most affordable option in Oceania, rivalling Vanuatu for speed and ease of documentation.

Cost: Minimum contribution starting at $105,000.

5. Dominica

A sure pathway is investment, which can take 4-6 months.

Dominica is widely considered the “gold standard” of the Caribbean. It offers a balance of affordability and a reputable passport that provides excellent travel freedom.

Cost: $200,000 donation or real estate investment.

6. Antigua and Barbuda

A sure pathway is investment, which can take 6-12 months.

This is the most “family-friendly” option. For a single flat fee, a family of four can often obtain citizenship more cheaply here than by paying individual fees elsewhere.

Requirement: You only need to spend 5 days in the country during the first five years.

7. Portugal

A sure pathway is naturalisation via “Golden Visa”, which can take 5 years.

While not “fast,” Portugal is the easiest EU country because you don’t actually have to move there. By holding a Golden Visa (via fund investment) and visiting for just 7 days per year, you can apply for citizenship after 5 years.

Requirement: You must pass a basic A2-level Portuguese language test.

8. Turkey

A sure pathway is investment (real estate) which can take 4–8 months

Turkey remains popular because it allows you to get citizenship by buying property. Unlike donations, you can eventually sell the asset (after 3 years) and potentially recoup your investment.

Cost: $400,000 in real estate.