Top 10 Hardest Countries to Get Citizenship: Why It's Nearly Impossible
Acquiring citizenship in any nation typically involves extensive paperwork, thorough background checks, and years of unwavering patience. However, in certain countries, the process transcends mere rigor—it becomes so restrictive that only those with ironclad determination can navigate it successfully. These nations enforce rigid regulations, including decades-long residency mandates, prohibitions on dual nationality, and approvals granted solely at the discretion of authorities. If you're curious about where citizenship is most elusive, here are the 10 countries where obtaining it ranks among the world's most difficult challenges, complete with detailed explanations of why.
1. Qatar
Qatar operates one of the globe's strictest naturalization systems. Despite hosting millions of foreign workers, citizenship remains an exceptionally rare privilege. Foreign nationals must reside in the country for 25 consecutive years before even becoming eligible to apply for citizenship by naturalization. Dual nationality is strictly forbidden, compelling applicants to renounce their original citizenship entirely. Proficiency in the Arabic language, demonstrated financial stability, and evidence of cultural integration are mandatory prerequisites. Moreover, approvals are entirely discretionary, with only a handful of individuals—often fewer than 100 per year—successfully granted Qatari citizenship.
2. Vatican City
With a population under 1,000, Vatican City does not offer citizenship through standard application channels. Citizenship is exclusively granted to individuals employed by the Holy See, such as cardinals, clergy, diplomats, or Swiss Guards, and typically extends to their immediate family members. Crucially, citizenship is directly tied to employment and usually terminates once official duties conclude, unless specifically extended by papal decision. There is no publicly accessible application process or fee structure, making it virtually inaccessible to the general public.
3. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein's citizenship process stands as one of Europe's most restrictive. Applicants must fulfill long-term residency requirements, often extending up to 30 years in practice. They must demonstrate fluency in German, renounce any previous nationality, and, most notably, secure approval from the local community, sometimes through a municipal vote. Even financially stable and well-integrated residents frequently face rejection. Notably, citizenship-by-investment programs are not available in this principality.
4. Bhutan
Bhutan rigorously monitors its immigration and citizenship policies to safeguard its unique cultural heritage. Foreign nationals are required to reside in Bhutan for 15 to 20 years before applying for citizenship. The application process includes passing examinations in Dzongkha language and history, obtaining reference letters from Bhutanese citizens, and accepting the renunciation of any other nationality. Ultimately, the decision rests entirely with the Bhutanese government, and any criminal record or behavior-related issues result in immediate rejection.
5. Saudi Arabia
Despite its vast expatriate population, Saudi Arabia grants citizenship sparingly. Potential applicants must typically live within the kingdom for at least 10 years, achieve fluency in Arabic, maintain a clean criminal record, and demonstrate social integration. The authority to grant citizenship lies solely at the discretion of officials, with preferences often given to investors, scientists, and royals. Dual nationality is not permitted, and the process includes rigorous security inspections.
6. Kuwait
Kuwait permits applications for citizenship after 20 years of continuous residency (15 years for Arabs), but approvals are exceedingly rare. Applicants must be Muslim, fluent in Arabic, financially stable, and of "good character." Citizenship decisions are made by the government without any appeals process, and dual nationality is prohibited. Most applications are rejected without detailed explanations, adding to the uncertainty.
7. Switzerland
Switzerland's citizenship process is renowned for its thoroughness and decentralization. Applicants must have resided in the country for 10 years, achieve fluency in one of the national languages (German, French, or Italian), and establish deep roots in Swiss society. Local authorities play a critical role and can oppose applications even if federal criteria are met. A clean criminal record and sound financial standing are vital components of the evaluation.
8. China
China almost never grants citizenship to foreigners. Applicants must first obtain permanent residence, which itself presents significant challenges. Naturalization is realistically feasible only for individuals of Chinese descent, spouses of Chinese citizens, or those employed in strategic sectors. China does not allow dual nationality, and the process is characterized by opacity, length, and high selectivity.
9. North Korea
For foreigners, attaining citizenship in North Korea is virtually impossible. Citizenship is acquired almost exclusively through birth or descent. Marriage to a North Korean citizen does not confer citizenship, and the government does not publicly disclose naturalization policies. Dual citizenship is prohibited, and foreign naturalization is not considered a realistic pathway under any circumstances.
10. Japan
While Japan's residency requirement is five consecutive years, the approval process is notably challenging. Applicants must renounce their current nationality, undergo severe financial and background scrutiny, and demonstrate Japanese language proficiency through interviews. Authorities meticulously review stability, conduct, and long-term commitment to life in Japan. Most approvals are granted to spouses or children of nationals, highlighting the stringent nature of the process.
In summary, these countries exemplify the extreme difficulties faced by those seeking citizenship abroad, with barriers ranging from prolonged residency and language mastery to cultural integration and discretionary approvals. For aspiring citizens, patience and perseverance are not just virtues—they are necessities.
