Dual citizenship has very many benefits that include enhancing better global mobility, improved security, and better quality life. In this article, we will look at some of the easiest countries to attain a dual citizenship.
1. Malta
Since 2000, Malta has permitted dual citizenship without any limitation. Malta is a land that enjoys political stability, secure economic growth, top-class healthcare, and sound education systems. Malta, like Switzerland, offers some interesting tax advantages. A Maltese passport is recognised in 163 countries around the world. Here are some of the ways to acquire dual citizenship In Malta:
Citizenship by Investments Programs
Malta is one of the countries that offer an opportunity to individuals that want to acquire citizenship in return for business investments, the stock market, and real estate. These programs are responsible for providing all the due diligence checks, and they ensure that the investors provide the correct documentation. All sources of the investor funds have to be verified, and they have to carry out a suitable risk weighting.
Citizenship by Marriage
The Malta National Legislation allows foreigners to become a citizen by marrying a Maltese national. There are a few conditions for one to obtain Maltese citizenship by marriage. One must submit proof that they have been living with the Maltese national for more than five years. A divorced foreign person can also acquire citizenship if they apply under the five years of residence requirements.
Citizenship through a Residence Permit
Becoming a resident of Malta helps one acquire Maltese citizenship easily. A temporary permit is the first permit that can be obtained which can later be converted into a permanent resident permit. The individual applying for citizenship must have lived in Malta for four consecutive years with a permanent residence of 6 years. Work permits can help foreign citizens obtain a residence permit, and the above conditions can help them acquire Maltese citizenship.
Citizenship by Adoption
Children adopted from other countries by Maltese parents can get Maltese citizenship if they are under the age of 10 at the time of adoption. Malta is one of the most welcoming European countries as it grants adopted children citizenship as soon as the adoptive parents make the request.
2. St. Kitts and Nevis
There are no restrictions of dual citizenship in St. Kitts and Nevis. They also don’t charge taxes on overseas capital or income. This is why they have been attracting many applicants seeking second citizenship that will help them protect their wealth.
Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship in this country has adopted a program that requires any applicant to make an economic contribution to the country. Their families are granted full citizenship in exchange. These programs are assigned by the government to handle applicant’s citizenship by investments program. As an applicant, you are required to choose an investment by donating to the country through:
Sustainable Growth funds
This is one of the newest and most direct types of investment you can use to acquire citizenship in St. Kitts and Nevis. The fund will help to increase the country’s growth and development. The minimum stakes are USD 150000, USD 25000 for a spouse, and USD 10000 for any additional dependent.
Pre-Approved Real Estate
The government requires the applicant to purchase real estate, and an independent investment is held for a minimum of 5 years for UD 400,000. For a joint venture with another applicant, you will have to pay USD 200,000, which is held for a minimum of 7 years.
For this program, one is required to meet the criteria set by a cabinet decision. This citizenship program helps the applicants enjoy the rest of their lives in the country, and citizenship can be passed on to future generations. You can enjoy travelling to more than 150 countries around the globe, including all European Union member states. With a St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship, you can visit 60 countries without a visa.
3. Cyprus
A Cyprus dual citizenship is allowed under Cypriot citizenship law. Since it is a European Union member state, a Cyprus citizenship status will automatically make you a citizen of the EU. This citizenship cannot be revoked, and the applicant can live and work in any Europe countries without having to reside in Cyprus. Below are some ways to acquire dual citizenship in Cyprus:
Cyprus Investment Program
This is one the fastest way to attain a Cyprus citizenship. The investment programs are designed to attract foreigners to invest in the country’s economy. The applicants have to meet some conditions to qualify for the program. An individual can meet the requirements by investing in real estate, bonds, and many more. The requirement can also be met via a company where the applicant is an executive director or a shareholder. Cyprus has the lowest corporate tax rates, and that makes it convenient for foreigners to put up a business in the country.
Citizenship by Marriage
For you to become a Cyprus citizen by marriage, you need to have legally entered the country. By staying married for three years, individual married to a Cyprus citizen may be able to acquire citizenship. The application is made at the administrative district where the Cypriot national resides, or the nearest embassy for the ones overseas. The following documents are needed:
- Birth certificate of the applicant
- Marriage certificate
- Certificate of good conduct
- Photocopy of passport of both spouses
- Signed statement of harmonious cohabitation
The Cypriot spouse is required to write a letter stating the reason as to why they should be granted the Cypriot citizenship to their foreign spouse.
Cyprus Citizenship by Naturalization
This is where a non-citizen who has fulfilled the below requirements to become Cypriot citizenship. They include:
- The applicant must be above 21 years.
- The applicant must have lived in Cyprus for seven years.
- Since the date of the application, the individual must have lived continuously in Cyprus for at least a year.
- The applicant should have good character and get reports from the government authorities.
Conclusion
Getting dual citizenship comes with many benefits. You will be able to enjoy the best of two different countries. If you are looking for easy countries to acquire dual citizenship, you should consider making your application in Malta, Cyprus, and St. Kitts and Nevis.