In this article, we take a look at the 5 hardest countries to get citizenship in Europe. For a detailed and comprehensive analysis, go to 15 Hardest Countries to Get Citizenship in Europe.
5. Slovakia
Naturalization Rate: 0.7%
Access to Nationality Rank: 28
In order to qualify for Slovak citizenship through naturalization, candidates are required to have maintained continuous permanent residency in Slovakia for a minimum of eight years. Additionally, they must demonstrate their uprightness within the parameters outlined by the Nationality Act, exhibit proficiency in the Slovak language, possess a general understanding of the Slovak Republic, and fulfill any other specific criteria set forth.
4. Croatia
Naturalization Rate: 0.7%
Access to Nationality Rank: 19
In order to qualify for Croatian citizenship through naturalization, the individual needs to fulfill several criteria. These include having resided continuously in Croatia for a minimum of 8 years with a registered address, holding permanent resident status, demonstrating proficiency in the Croatian language and Latin script, as well as displaying familiarity with Croatian culture and societal norms. Additionally, the applicant is required to formally apply for citizenship and submit various supporting documents, including a curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation, and a birth certificate.
3. Estonia
Naturalization Rate: 0.5%
Access to Nationality Rank: 16
The criteria for obtaining Estonian citizenship through naturalization involve possessing either a long-term residence permit or permanent residence rights, residing legally in Estonia for a minimum of eight years with the last five years continuously as a permanent resident, demonstrating proficiency in Estonian through a language test or qualifying Estonian education, passing an Estonian history examination, proving financial self-sufficiency, registering one’s residence in the Estonian population register, showcasing loyalty to Estonia, and renouncing one’s prior nationality as part of the application process.
2. Latvia
Naturalization Rate: 0.3%
Access to Nationality Rank: 24
To acquire Latvian citizenship, passing a citizenship exam is mandatory, assessing knowledge in fundamental aspects such as Latvia’s Constitution, proficiency in the Latvian language, familiarity with the Latvian National Anthem’s lyrics, and understanding the basics of Latvia’s history and culture. Alternatively, if the residency requirement cannot be fulfilled, there’s a possibility of obtaining Latvian citizenship through investment.
1. Lithuania
Naturalization Rate: 0.2%
Access to Nationality Rank: 22
If an individual has been living in Lithuania for the past decade, maintains habitual residency there, has successfully completed the examination in the official language and fundamental principles of the Republic of Lithuania’s Constitution, possesses a lawful means of income, is stateless, or has formally expressed the intent to relinquish citizenship of another nation, and fulfills additional criteria specified in the Law on Citizenship of Lithuania, they may be eligible to acquire Lithuanian citizenship through the process of naturalization.
You can also take a look at our articles What are Golden Visas and 10 Countries that Hand Them Out? & 20 Most Desirable Digital Nomad Visa Countries in 2023.
