Yahoo Finance Four fastest ways to a second passport
Many people aspire to get hold of a second passport for a number of reasons, whether it is to escape a conflict zone, to get more freedom and or simply for an opportunity to invest, travel and reside in a new country.
While the lengthy route of naturalisation is a popular way to get a second citizenship, there are four much quicker and easier ways.
1. Citizenship by descent
If you have ancestors from another country, you may be able to obtain a second passport be descent.
The process is relatively quick – from anywhere between 6 months and 2 years – and most countries provide it as an option.
2. Make an investment
While less common, those which have a significant amount of money to invest can easily speed up their passport application process.
Most countries have provisions that allow their Government to grant citizenship in return for major contributions to society, culture, the economy, and other interests.
Other countries actually let you purchase a passport for a sizeable local investment – such as Dominica, which asks forXCD$100,000 (A$50,256), or Bulgaria which asks for €511,292 (A$788,890).
3. Marry a foreign national
If you are lucky enough to fall in love with someone with a great passport, it’s possible you could be a naturalised citizen of their home country.
Foreign spouses often qualify for a shortened waiting period for naturalisation, although language requirements sometimes exist.
There are also a handful of countries still offer instant citizenship for foreign spouses, such as Brazil.
4. Receive special treatment
If you are an exceptional artistic or have a particularly valuable talent, some countries can waive naturalisation requirements (including language requirements) and make anyone a citizen.
Examples include Albania, Poland, and Singapore.
This is the basis for Austria’s alleged economic citizenship program, but it is rarely used.
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