In this article, we take a look at the 5 hardest countries to get citizenship in 2023. For a detailed and comprehensive analysis, go to 18 Hardest Countries to Get Citizenship in 2023.
5. Estonia
Access to Nationality: 16
Prerequisite Residency Timeline: 8 Years
The requirements for acquiring Estonian citizenship through naturalization encompass having either a long-term residence permit or permanent residency status, living lawfully in Estonia for at least eight years with the last consecutive five years as a permanent resident, exhibiting proficiency in Estonian via a language assessment or completing qualifying Estonian education, successfully passing an Estonian history test, demonstrating financial independence, officially registering one’s address in the Estonian population register, demonstrating allegiance to Estonia, and relinquishing previous nationality as part of the application procedure.
4. Bulgaria
Access to Nationality: 13
Prerequisite Residency Timeline: 5 Years
Bulgarian citizenship can be obtained via naturalization by fulfilling certain criteria, including being at least 18 years old, holding permanent residence for the past 5 years, maintaining a clean criminal record, demonstrating financial self-sufficiency, and showcasing adequate proficiency in the Bulgarian language.
3. Austria
Access to Nationality: 13
Prerequisite Residency Timeline: 10 Years
The eligibility requirements for obtaining Austrian citizenship include a compulsory period of 10 years characterized by continuous and lawful residency, with at least 5 years spent holding a valid residence permit, demonstrating good conduct, and ensuring sufficient financial stability. Additionally, Austria offers an alternative pathway to citizenship through investment, which involves making a hefty financial contribution to the Austrian economy.
2. UAE
Access to Nationality: 9
Prerequisite Residency Timeline: 30 Years
UAE ranks second as one of the most difficult countries to get citizenship for. The UAE government actively invites investors and promotes residency applications; however, the regulations pertaining to naturalization and citizenship within the country are nuanced. As per Emirati nationality law, there exist four avenues for acquiring citizenship: through descent, naturalization, marriage, or exceptional merit. While the standard procedure involves obtaining naturalization after 30 years of residing in the UAE, there are alternative faster routes, such as marrying an Emirati citizen or demonstrating exceptional merit, that facilitate a quicker acquisition of citizenship.
1. Saudi Arabia
Access to Nationality: 0
Prerequisite Residency Timeline: Permanent Residence
Gaining Saudi citizenship presents significant challenges for non-natives due to the stringent requirements outlined in the Saudi Arabian Citizenship System. Eligibility for naturalization mandates individuals to be at least 18 years old, maintain permanent residency in Saudi Arabia, possess a clean criminal record, and demonstrate fluency in Arabic. Moreover, the law allows for the granting of citizenship to offspring born to Saudi fathers and to foreign widows of Saudi nationals, albeit under specific circumstances. Exceptions exist, such as a formal naturalization initiative catering to foreigners with exceptional skills like doctors, clerics, and academics; however, the criteria for qualification are notably high. Consequently, the process of acquiring Saudi citizenship is complex and necessitates meeting rigorous standards.
You can also take a look at our articles 20 Best Residency by Investment Programs in 2023 & 15 Easiest Countries to get Permanent Residency in Europe Without Investment.
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