In today's increasingly globalised world, many Indians are exploring opportunities to obtain citizenship in other countries. Whether driven by career opportunities, educational pursuits, or a desire for better living standards, the question of which countries offer the easiest pathways to citizenship has become a matter of great interest. For those seeking to broaden their horizons, understanding the various citizenship routes and residency options is essential.
But how to get citizenship of India? While India’s citizenship laws remain strict, offering an easy path to citizenship elsewhere can provide certain advantages. This article delves into some of the easiest countries to get citizenship for Indian citizens, providing a detailed overview of the options available. Whether through investment, marriage, descent, or naturalisation, these countries offer relatively accessible routes to citizenship, making them top choices for Indians seeking to obtain a second passport.
Dominica – Citizenship by Investment
For Indians looking for the easiest countries to get citizenship through a direct route, Dominica stands out. The Caribbean nation offers a well-established Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), which allows foreign nationals to acquire citizenship in exchange for a financial investment.
The requirements for obtaining citizenship through this programme are straightforward, making it one of the easy PR countries for Indians. Applicants can either make a contribution to the country's Economic Diversification Fund or invest in approved real estate projects.
Investment Options
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A minimum non-refundable contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund of $100,000 USD for a single applicant.
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Real estate investment options starting at $200,000 USD.
The process is relatively fast, with most applicants receiving citizenship approval in as little as 3 to 4 months. Furthermore, Dominica offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen states, and Hong Kong.
Additionally, Dominica is known for its low taxes, making it an attractive option for investors seeking both citizenship and a tax-friendly environment.
St Kitts and Nevis – Citizenship by Investment
Another Caribbean island offering a smooth citizenship process is St Kitts and Nevis. Known for its luxurious resorts and tropical beauty, St Kitts and Nevis runs the longest-standing Citizenship by Investment Programme, which has been in operation since 1984.
Similar to Dominica, this Caribbean nation offers two primary routes for Indians looking for citizenship:
Investment Options:
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A donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF), starting from $150,000 USD for a single applicant.
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Real estate investment of at least $200,000 USD.
The process is quick, with citizenship typically granted within 3 to 6 months. One of the key benefits of St Kitts and Nevis’ CIP is its flexible approach to family inclusion. Citizenship can be extended to a spouse, children, and even dependent parents or grandparents, making it a popular choice for families.
The country also offers visa-free access to numerous destinations, including the UK, Canada, and most European countries, which can be an added advantage for Indian nationals seeking greater travel flexibility.
Turkey – Citizenship Through Investment
In recent years, Turkey has emerged as one of the most popular countries for Indians seeking a relatively simple route to citizenship. Since 2017, Turkey has offered a Citizenship by Investment Programme, which provides a straightforward path to obtaining Turkish citizenship through financial investment.
Investment Options:
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Purchase of property worth at least $400,000 USD.
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A capital investment of $500,000 USD in Turkish businesses.
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A bank deposit of $500,000 USD or more.
Turkey's programme is appealing because it grants Turkish citizenship to applicants and their families, including spouses and children under 18. The country’s rich history, cultural appeal, and strategic location between Europe and Asia make it an attractive option for many Indians seeking a dual citizenship option.
The processing time is typically around 3 to 6 months, and Turkish citizenship provides access to a growing economy, as well as visa-free travel to numerous countries, including Japan, South Korea, and many European nations.
Cyprus – Citizenship by Investment
Cyprus is an increasingly popular destination for Indians seeking to acquire citizenship in a European Union (EU) member state. While Cyprus discontinued its earlier investment citizenship programme in 2020, the country still offers an Accelerated Naturalisation Programme, allowing investors to obtain citizenship in as little as 6 months.
Investment Options:
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A property investment of €2 million in real estate.
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A combination of property, business, or government bonds.
In return, investors and their families (spouse and children under 18) are granted Cypriot citizenship, which also gives access to the EU. Cyprus offers excellent healthcare, a high standard of living, and is an attractive destination for those seeking an EU passport.
However, it is important to note that the investment requirements are higher than those of many other programmes, so it may not be the best option for those with a limited budget.
Portugal – Golden Visa Programme
For those seeking a European option but with lower investment thresholds, Portugal is a top choice. The Golden Visa Programme allows foreign nationals to obtain Portuguese residency with a relatively small investment in the country, and after 5 years of residency, they can apply for citizenship. This makes it an ideal route for those considering long-term residence in Europe.
Investment Options:
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Property investment starting from €280,000 in certain areas of Portugal.
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Investment of at least €350,000 in research or renewable energy projects.
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Business investments or job creation can also be options.
After holding residency for five years, applicants can apply for citizenship. Portugal’s Golden Visa also allows you to include family members in your application, making it an excellent choice for families seeking to live, work, and travel freely in the EU.
Portugal is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways for Indians to gain access to Europe, and the process typically takes 5 to 6 years, making it one of the most accessible easy PR countries for Indian citizens.
Panama – Friendly Nations Visa
Panama is known for its quick and efficient residency and citizenship programmes. One of the most popular options for Indian nationals is the Friendly Nations Visa, which is open to citizens of specific countries, including India.
Residency Requirements:
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A minimum deposit of $5,000 USD in a Panamanian bank account.
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Proof of a stable income or the ability to invest in Panama.
Once residency is granted, applicants can apply for naturalisation after five years. While this is not an immediate path to citizenship, the initial residency process is relatively straightforward, and Panama’s tax incentives and quality of life make it a highly attractive option for Indian citizens.
Additionally, Panama’s Panama Canal, warm climate, and cost-effective living make it a desirable destination for those looking to establish a second home or business in Central America.
Mexico – Citizenship Through Naturalisation
Mexico is one of the easiest countries for Indians to obtain citizenship through naturalisation, especially if you are already living in the country. While the process does not offer an investment route, Mexico’s naturalisation process is relatively quick, and you can apply for citizenship after just five years of residency.
Residency Requirements:
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A temporary resident visa for 4 years, followed by an application for permanent residency.
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Alternatively, marriage to a Mexican citizen can speed up the process.
Mexico offers many benefits, including proximity to the United States, a relatively low cost of living, and a vibrant culture. Moreover, having Mexican citizenship provides access to a wide range of benefits, including travel to many countries without the need for a visa.
Malaysia – Malaysia My Second Home Programme
For Indians looking for long-term residency and eventual citizenship, Malaysia offers the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme. This initiative allows foreigners to live in Malaysia on a long-term visa, which can later be converted to citizenship.
Residency Requirements:
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A minimum income requirement of RM 10,000 per month for applicants under 50 years of age and RM 10,000 in liquid assets for applicants over 50 years old.
While the MM2H programme does not immediately grant citizenship, it is an attractive pathway for those seeking long-term residence in a Southeast Asian country with a strong economy and excellent infrastructure.
Vanuatu – Citizenship by Investment
Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation, offers a fast-track route to citizenship through investment. The country has one of the quickest citizenship processes in the world, with applicants typically receiving their passport within 1 to 2 months of submitting their application.
Investment Options:
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A donation of $130,000 USD to the Vanuatu Development Support Programme.
Vanuatu offers visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the UK, EU countries, and many Asian nations. Although this programme is more expensive than others, its speed and simplicity make it a popular option for those seeking a second passport quickly.
Canada – Express Entry Programme
Finally, Canada offers one of the most popular immigration pathways for skilled workers worldwide. Through the Express Entry Programme, skilled professionals can apply for permanent residency, and after three years, they may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.
Eligibility:
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Applicants must have skilled work experience, language proficiency, and meet educational requirements.
Canada’s high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and vast natural scenery make it an attractive destination for Indians seeking permanent residency or citizenship. Although the process is not as quick as some of the other options mentioned, Canada remains one of the most popular destinations for those looking to relocate for better opportunities.
Conclusion
Obtaining citizenship in a foreign country is a dream for many Indians, whether for personal, professional, or economic reasons. With various options available through investment, residency, or naturalisation, there are numerous countries offering relatively easy paths to citizenship. From the Caribbean islands of Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis to the European charm of Portugal and Cyprus, the opportunities are abundant.
Before embarking on this journey, it’s important to consider factors like investment requirements, processing times, and family inclusion. For health and insurance coverage during international relocations, Niva Bupa offers excellent travel and health insurance plans that can provide peace of mind while handling your citizenship process.
Ultimately, choosing the best country for citizenship depends on your personal circumstances, goals, and preferences. Whether you're after an easy PR country for Indian citizens or a long-term European residency, these countries offer varied options to suit every need.
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