Obtaining citizenship in a foreign country can be a complex and challenging process, especially in nations with strict naturalization laws.
Some countries have rigorous criteria that make it extremely difficult for foreigners to acquire citizenship.
Here are ten of the most difficult countries to become a citizen of:
- Qatar
Qatar has one of the most difficult citizenship processes. Foreigners must reside continuously in the country for 25 years, demonstrate proficiency in Arabic, and maintain a clean conduct record. Additionally, Qatar does not permit dual nationality, requiring applicants to renounce their original citizenship. - North Korea
North Korea’s citizenship process is nearly impossible for foreigners. The country requires renunciation of all other nationalities, strict age and education qualifications, and a clean criminal record. The lengthy application process involves interviews and examinations, making citizenship almost unattainable. - Kuwait
Kuwait has an exclusive citizenship policy that makes naturalization nearly impossible. Foreigners must live in the country for at least 20 years, be fluent in Arabic, and be Muslim by birth or conversion. Even long-term expatriates who have lived in Kuwait for generations struggle to obtain citizenship. Dual nationality is not recognized. - Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has strict naturalization policies. Foreigners seeking citizenship must reside in the country for at least 10 years, be fluent in Arabic, and contribute economically or socially. However, most expatriates remain on temporary work visas, as the process for acquiring Saudi citizenship is highly selective. - Vatican City
Gaining citizenship in Vatican City is nearly impossible for ordinary individuals. Citizenship is limited to those appointed by the Pope, such as diplomats and members of the Swiss Guard. Once their service ends, they lose their citizenship, making Vatican City one of the hardest places to acquire nationality. - Bhutan
Bhutan has extremely restrictive citizenship laws. Foreigners must reside in the country for at least 20 years before applying. Any criticism of the monarchy can lead to denial or revocation of citizenship. The final decision rests solely with the Bhutanese authorities, making the process highly selective. - China
Chinese citizenship is primarily reserved for those of Chinese descent. Non-nationals have very limited opportunities for naturalization. Even foreigners married to Chinese citizens must live in China for at least two years before applying, with legal complexities making the process challenging. - Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein has some of the strictest citizenship requirements in the world. Applicants must have resided in the country for a minimum of 30 years, with at least five years as a Permanent Resident. There are some exceptions for minors and spouses of Liechtenstein citizens, but naturalization remains highly restrictive. - Japan
Japan’s citizenship process is rigorous, requiring at least five years of residency, a clean criminal record, and fluency in Japanese. The application process demands extensive personal documentation, and Japan’s prohibition of dual citizenship complicates matters further, as new citizens must renounce their previous nationality. - Switzerland
Switzerland’s naturalization process is highly stringent. Applicants must have resided in the country for at least 10 years and hold a C permit. Even with simplified naturalization for spouses of Swiss citizens and third-generation foreigners, applicants must prove deep integration into Swiss culture and meet additional canton-specific criteria.
