Countries With Hardest Citizenship to Get

When it comes to acquiring citizenship, some countries have stringent requirements and procedures that make it exceptionally challenging for individuals. If you are considering pursuing citizenship in another country, it is crucial to be aware of the difficulties you might face along the way.

We will explore ten countries with the hardest citizenship to obtain, delving into their specific requirements and outlining the complexities involved.

1. Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, high standard of living, and efficient public services. However, obtaining Swiss citizenship is notoriously difficult. Swiss naturalization is primarily based on the process of naturalization by place of origin. This means that individuals must demonstrate a strong connection to a specific Swiss canton and fulfill various residency requirements, including living in the country for at least 10 years.

Expanding on this, the Swiss citizenship process requires individuals to prove their integration into Swiss society, including their knowledge of the local language, customs, and culture.

Applicants must have a clean criminal record and show that they are financially stable. The Swiss government also requires individuals to renounce their current citizenship in most cases, as dual citizenship is generally discouraged.

To further complicate matters, each canton in Switzerland has its naturalization laws and requirements, making the process even more challenging. It is important for individuals seeking Swiss citizenship to be prepared for a lengthy and meticulous process that involves thorough background checks and scrutiny of their eligibility.

Some additional points to consider about Swiss citizenship:

• The cantons have the power to grant or deny citizenship, so the process may vary depending on where you apply.
• The Swiss government places a strong emphasis on cultural integration, and applicants may be required to participate in language courses and cultural events to demonstrate their commitment to Swiss society.
• The process can be expensive, as there are fees associated with naturalization applications, language courses, and other requirements.

2. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, a country rich in culture and tradition, has strict requirements for granting citizenship. The Saudi government follows a highly selective approach, granting citizenship only to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country. Typically, citizenship is granted to foreigners who have resided in Saudi Arabia for an extended period, have valuable skills, and have made significant investments in the country.

Expanding on this, the Saudi citizenship process involves a thorough evaluation of an individual’s background, achievements, and contributions to the country. The government assesses factors such as professional accomplishments, economic investments, and social contributions when considering citizenship applications. The process can be lengthy and complex, requiring individuals to provide extensive documentation and evidence of their contributions.

It is important to note that Saudi Arabia does not grant citizenship by birth, and individuals born in the country to foreign parents do not automatically become citizens. Instead, they are generally considered foreign residents and must go through the naturalization process if they wish to obtain Saudi citizenship.

Some additional points to consider about Saudi citizenship:

• The Saudi government reserves the right to revoke citizenship if an individual is found to have engaged in activities that are deemed harmful to the country’s interests.
• Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in Saudi Arabia, and individuals who obtain Saudi citizenship may be required to renounce their previous citizenship.
• The process can be subjective, as the government has discretion in granting citizenship based on an individual’s perceived contributions and value to the country.

3. Japan

Known for its technological advancements, historical heritage, and unique culture, Japan has a complex and lengthy process for obtaining citizenship. The Japanese government requires applicants to reside in the country for at least five continuous years, demonstrate good conduct, possess a stable income, and renounce their current citizenship. Additionally, fluency in the Japanese language is essential, as the citizenship examination is conducted solely in Japanese.

Expanding on this, the Japanese citizenship process involves several requirements and assessments to ensure applicants are fully integrated into Japanese society. In addition to the residency requirement, individuals must demonstrate good conduct, which includes abiding by Japanese laws, paying taxes, and having a clean criminal record. They must also show financial stability and the ability to support themselves and their dependents.

Language proficiency is a crucial aspect of the Japanese citizenship process. The government requires applicants to pass a language proficiency test and an interview conducted in Japanese. This ensures that individuals can effectively communicate and participate in Japanese society.

Some additional points to consider about Japanese citizenship:

• The Japanese government places a strong emphasis on cultural assimilation, and applicants may be required to demonstrate knowledge of Japanese customs, traditions, and history.
• Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in Japan, so individuals must renounce their previous citizenship before obtaining Japanese citizenship.
• The process can be time-consuming and bureaucratic, requiring individuals to submit numerous documents and undergo multiple interviews and examinations.

4. Australia

Australia, with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a dream destination for many. However, the pathway to Australian citizenship is far from easy. Permanent residents in Australia must hold a valid visa for four years before being eligible to apply for citizenship. They must provide evidence of proficient English language skills, pass a citizenship test assessing their knowledge of the country, and demonstrate a commitment to Australian values and way of life.

Expanding on this, the Australian citizenship process involves multiple requirements to ensure that individuals are fully integrated into Australian society. In addition to the residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate proficient English language skills, which can be proven through language tests or completing eligible English language courses.

The citizenship test assesses an individual’s knowledge of Australia, including its history, geography, political system, and culture. Applicants need to prepare and study for the test to ensure success. Additionally, individuals must demonstrate a commitment to Australian values, such as democracy, freedom, and equality, and provide evidence of their integration into the Australian community.

Some additional points to consider about Australian citizenship:

• There are different pathways to citizenship, including options for children, spouses of Australian citizens, and individuals with special eligibility.
• The Australian government places a strong emphasis on the value of citizenship and actively encourages residents to become citizens.
• The process can be lengthy, and individuals need to plan and fulfill the residency requirements before applying for citizenship.

5. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an economic hub attracting individuals from around the world. Gaining Emirati citizenship, however, is extremely challenging. The UAE government grants citizenship primarily to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country, including outstanding achievements or investments. The process involves extensive scrutiny and stringent requirements, making it one of the most difficult citizenships to obtain.

Expanding on this, the Emirati citizenship process involves careful evaluation of an individual’s contributions to the country. The government considers factors such as professional achievements, economic investments, and social contributions when assessing citizenship applications. Individuals need to demonstrate a long-term commitment to the UAE and show how their presence in the country benefits its development and progress.

The process can be highly selective, and individuals must provide extensive documentation and evidence of their achievements and investments. Background checks are conducted, and applicants must meet strict criteria to be considered for citizenship. The UAE government has the discretion to grant citizenship based on its assessment of an individual’s value to the country.

Some additional points to consider about Emirati citizenship:

• The UAE government does not grant citizenship by birth, and individuals born in the country to foreign parents are generally considered foreign residents.
• Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in the UAE, and individuals who obtain Emirati citizenship may be required to renounce their previous citizenship.
• The process can be lengthy and complex, requiring individuals to navigate through various government departments and provide extensive documentation.

6. Germany

Germany, renowned for its strong economy and rich cultural heritage, has a complex naturalization process. To acquire German citizenship, individuals must reside in the country for at least eight years. They should also demonstrate proficiency in the German language, pass a citizenship test, and showcase integration into German society. Moreover, dual citizenship is generally discouraged, requiring individuals to renounce their previous citizenship.

Expanding on this, the German citizenship process involves several requirements to ensure that individuals are fully integrated into German society. In addition to the residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the German language, which can be proven through language tests or by completing eligible language courses.

The citizenship test assesses an individual’s knowledge of Germany, including its history, political system, and culture. Applicants need to prepare and study for the test to ensure success. Additionally, individuals must showcase their integration into German society, which can include factors such as participation in community activities, employment, and social integration.

Some additional points to consider about German citizenship:

• There are different pathways to citizenship, including options for individuals of German descent and individuals who have completed specific integration courses.
• The German government encourages individuals to give up their previous citizenship, although exceptions can be made for citizens of EU and Swiss countries.
• The process can involve extensive paperwork and bureaucratic procedures, so individuals need to familiarize themselves with the requirements and seek assistance if needed.

7. Singapore

Singapore, known for its strict legal system and thriving economy, has a challenging citizenship process. Applicants must hold permanent residency for at least two to six years before becoming eligible for citizenship. They must possess a good command of the English language, be gainfully employed, and demonstrate a commitment to integrating into Singaporean society. Additionally, the government reserves the right to selectively grant citizenship based on individual merits.

Expanding on this, the Singaporean citizenship process involves a careful assessment of an individual’s integration into Singaporean society. In addition to the residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, as English is one of the official languages in Singapore.

The government also places a strong emphasis on employment and economic contributions. Individuals must be gainfully employed and show that they are economically self-sufficient. They must also demonstrate a commitment to integrating into Singaporean society, which can include factors such as participation in community activities, volunteer work, and engagement with local culture.

Some additional points to consider about Singaporean citizenship:

• The Singaporean government reserves the right to selectively grant citizenship based on individual merits, and there is no automatic right to citizenship through birth or descent.
• Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in Singapore, and individuals who obtain Singaporean citizenship may be required to renounce their previous citizenship.
• The process can involve interviews and background checks, and individuals must provide documentation to support their citizenship application.

8. Qatar

Qatar, a rapidly developing nation in the Middle East, has stringent requirements for acquiring citizenship. The government typically grants citizenship to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country. This includes those who have excelled in their professions, invested substantially, or demonstrated exceptional talent. The process involves extensive background checks and a thorough examination of an applicant’s eligibility.

Expanding on this, the Qatari citizenship process involves a careful evaluation of an individual’s contributions to the country. The government considers factors such as professional achievements, economic investments, and social contributions when assessing citizenship applications. Individuals need to demonstrate a long-term commitment to Qatar and show how their presence in the country benefits its development and progress.

The process can be highly selective, and individuals must provide extensive documentation and evidence of their achievements and investments. Background checks are conducted, and applicants must meet strict criteria to be considered for citizenship. The Qatari government has the discretion to grant citizenship based on its assessment of an individual’s value to the country.

Some additional points to consider about Qatari citizenship:

• The Qatari government does not grant citizenship by birth, and individuals born in the country to foreign parents are generally considered foreign residents.
• Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in Qatar, and individuals who obtain Qatari citizenship may be required to renounce their previous citizenship.
• The process can be lengthy and complex, requiring individuals to navigate through various government departments and provide extensive documentation.

9. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom, with its rich history and cultural diversity, has a complex process for obtaining citizenship. Individuals typically start by acquiring indefinite leave to remain and must reside in the UK for at least five years before becoming eligible to apply for citizenship. Applicants must pass the Life in the UK test, which assesses their knowledge of British traditions, history, and the legal system. Additionally, they should demonstrate proficiency in the English language.

Expanding on this, the British citizenship process involves several requirements to ensure that individuals are fully integrated into British society. In addition to the residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, which can be proven through language tests or completing eligible language courses.

The Life in the UK test assesses an individual’s knowledge of British traditions, history, geography, and the legal system. Applicants need to prepare and study for the test to ensure success. Additionally, individuals must showcase their integration into British society, which can include factors such as employment, community involvement, and engagement with local culture.

Some additional points to consider about British citizenship:

• There are different pathways to citizenship, including options for individuals with British ancestry and individuals married to British citizens.
• The British government encourages individuals to give up their previous citizenship, although exceptions can be made for citizens of certain countries.
• The process can involve extensive paperwork and bureaucratic procedures, so individuals need to familiarize themselves with the requirements and seek assistance if needed.

10. New Zealand

New Zealand, famous for its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, has a challenging citizenship process. Individuals must hold a resident visa for at least five years before becoming eligible to apply for citizenship. They must demonstrate a commitment to New Zealand by residing in the country and actively contributing to its society. Proficiency in the English language is mandatory, and applicants must pass a citizenship test assessing their knowledge of New Zealand’s culture, history, and values.

Expanding on this, the New Zealand citizenship process involves several requirements to ensure that individuals are fully integrated into New Zealand society. In addition to the residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to New Zealand by residing in the country and actively participating in its society.

Language proficiency is a crucial aspect of the New Zealand citizenship process. The government requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English