Can you obtain second citizenship after residence permit in European countries?

Some European countries allow foreign investors and residents to become citizens after holding a residence permit for a certain period. The rules vary, and not every country grants citizenship easily.

Vladlena Baranova, Lawyer, AML Compliance officer at Immigrant Invest, certified CAMS specialist explains where it is possible and  how to apply for a second passport by investment.

Countries where foreigners can obtain citizenship through a residence permit in Europe

Some EU countries offer a path to citizenship. Investors and residents who hold a residence permit for several years may apply for citizenship under certain conditions. The key factors include residency duration, integration requirements, and investment contributions. Here are the countries with the fastest citizenship, where you can get EU citizenship through residency.

Portuguese citizenship after five years. Portugal offers a relatively short naturalization period compared to other European countries. A residence permit holder can apply for citizenship after five years of legal residence. The Golden Visa program allows for flexible stay requirements, requiring only seven days per year in the country. Applicants must pass a basic Portuguese language test and show ties to the country.

Portugal is part of the EU, meaning citizens can live, work, and study anywhere in the bloc.

Greek citizenship requires long-term residence. Greece grants citizenship after seven years of continuous residence. The applicant must live in the country, integrate into society, and pass a Greek language exam. The Golden Visa program does not count towards this requirement unless the investor lives in Greece full-time.

Greek citizens enjoy visa-free access to many countries and the right to reside in any EU state. Greece also offers a cost-effective real estate market for investors seeking to maintain residence status through property ownership.

Naturalization in Cyprus is possible after eight years. Cyprus allows investors and other residents to apply for citizenship after living in the country for at least five years. Those who reside continuously for seven years but do not invest can also qualify. Applicants must demonstrate ties to Cyprus and knowledge of the Greek language.

The country has a favorable tax system, with no inheritance tax and low corporate tax rates. Cyprus is also a strategic location for international business due to its connection to European, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets.

Italian citizenship requires 10 years of residence. Italy has one of the longest residency requirements. A foreign resident must live in Italy for ten years before applying for naturalization. This applies to those with work permits, elective residence visas, and investors. Citizenship applicants must prove integration, knowledge of Italian, and financial stability.

Italian passport holders have access to free healthcare and education in one of the world’s most culturally rich countries. Italian citizenship also grants the right to travel visa-free to over 190 countries.

Hungary offers citizenship in 11 years. A residence permit holder in Hungary can apply for citizenship after eight years of legal residence. The process includes a language test and proof of integration. The upcoming Hungary Golden Visa may provide a path to long-term residence but does not directly lead to faster citizenship.

The country offers relatively low living costs compared to Western Europe, while still providing access to the EU market. The Hungarian passport also allows visa-free travel to numerous destinations worldwide.

How to get citizenship after a residence permit in the EU

Meeting residency requirements. Most European countries require continuous legal residence before granting citizenship. Some allow limited time spent abroad, while others demand full-time presence.

Language and integration tests. Almost all EU countries require applicants to pass a language test and demonstrate knowledge of national history and culture.

Financial stability. Some countries ask for proof of income or financial self-sufficiency to ensure that the applicant will not rely on state support.

Investment routes. In some cases, making a significant investment in the country can speed up the residency or naturalization process, but most EU nations still require a long waiting period before granting citizenship.

Dual citizenship considerations. Some EU countries allow dual citizenship, while others require applicants to renounce their previous nationality. Portugal, Italy, and Cyprus permit dual citizenship, whereas Greece and Hungary may have specific conditions or restrictions.

Conclusion

Citizenship through residence is possible in several EU countries. Portugal offers the fastest path, while Greece, Cyprus, Italy, and Hungary have longer requirements. Each country has its own conditions regarding residence duration, integration, and financial stability. Those looking to obtain EU citizenship should choose the country that best fits their needs.

Understanding the residency and naturalization process in advance can help investors and high-net-worth individuals make informed decisions about where to settle.