Many Americans seek a second residence or citizenship to improve global mobility, reduce taxes, or gain economic security. Several countries offer attractive programs for high-net-worth individuals looking for stability and investment opportunities and second citizenship for US citizens.
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest outlines the easiest countries to move from the United States.
Best second citizenship for Americans
Some countries provide second citizenship by investment or naturalisation. Each has its own benefits, from visa-free travel to tax advantages. The following countries stand out as top choices.
Spain Golden Visa program allows investors to gain residency by purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000. After ten years, residents can apply for citizenship. Spain has a high quality of life, good healthcare, and strong business opportunities. However, dual citizenship is not allowed, meaning Americans must renounce their US citizenship to become Spanish nationals.
Spain’s tax system requires residents to pay taxes on their worldwide income. However, non-resident investors only pay tax on Spanish-sourced income. Spain is a popular destination for retirees and entrepreneurs due to its well-developed infrastructure and Mediterranean climate.
Portugal. Portugal’s Golden Visa is one of the most popular programs. The minimum investment is €250,000. After five years, applicants can apply for citizenship. Portugal allows dual citizenship, has low living costs, and offers access to the European Union. The country also ranks high for safety, quality of life, and digital nomad-friendly policies.
Canada. Canada has a well-structured immigration system with multiple pathways for HNWIs. The Start-up Visa Program and Quebec Immigrant Investor Program provide opportunities for permanent residency, leading to citizenship in five years. Canada offers a stable economy, high living standards, and strong passport benefits, including visa-free travel to over 180 countries.
Unlike some European options, Canada requires applicants to have a physical presence in the country for at least 1,095 days over five years before applying for citizenship. However, it remains a preferred option due to its strong healthcare system, English-speaking environment, and political stability.
Greece. Greece provides a Golden Visa program for investors purchasing real estate worth at least €250,000. Residency is granted quickly, and citizenship is possible after seven years. Greece offers a warm climate, a lower cost of living than other EU countries, and an attractive tax regime for new residents.
Greek residency does not require physical presence, making it a convenient option for investors who want a second residence without relocation. However, citizenship requires full integration into Greek society, including language proficiency and continuous residence.
Malta only grants citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. The minimum investment requirement is around €690,000. Malta has a stable financial sector, an English-speaking environment, and access to the EU and Schengen Zone.
How to obtain a second passport for US citizens
A best second passport for Americans can be obtained by investment, ancestry, or naturalisation. The most common routes include:
- Investment programs — countries like Malta and Portugal offer citizenship in exchange for financial contributions.
- Residency by investment — Spain and Greece allow investors to gain residency, leading to citizenship over time.
- Ancestry-based citizenship — some countries, like Ireland and Italy, grant citizenship to those with ancestral ties.
- Naturalisation — living in a country for a set number of years can lead to citizenship, as seen in Canada and Portugal.
Conclusion
A second residence or citizenship offers financial security, travel benefits, and lifestyle improvements. Spain, Portugal, Canada, Greece, and Malta have attractive programs suited for different needs. Before applying, investors should consider factors like taxation, residency requirements, and dual citizenship rules. Each country has unique conditions, and professional advice can help navigate the process.
Blog received on email
