10 countries where getting citizenship is difficult for Nigerians, others

For millions of people around the world, obtaining citizenship in a second country can provide greater security, mobility and long-term opportunities. While many countries have established routes for foreign residents to become citizens, others impose lengthy residency periods, strict language and integration requirements, limited eligibility or highly discretionary approval processes. In some cases, simply meeting the legal requirements does not guarantee success.

Authorities may retain broad powers over who can ultimately be granted citizenship, while countries such as Japan and China also place restrictions on dual nationality. Here are 10 countries where obtaining citizenship can be particularly difficult for foreigners. Qatar Qatar has one of the world’s most restrictive naturalisation systems.

Foreign applicants generally need to have lived in the country for 25 years before becoming eligible, alongside requirements including Arabic proficiency and good conduct. Even after meeting the conditions, citizenship is not guaranteed, with approvals tightly controlled by the authorities. Vatican City Vatican City does not operate a conventional citizenship-by-residency system.

Citizenship is generally connected to specific positions or official responsibilities within the Holy See. It can therefore end when the individual’s qualifying role comes to an end, making it fundamentally different from traditional naturalisation systems. Liechtenstein Liechtenstein is known for its lengthy route to citizenship, with naturalisation potentially requiring decades of residence.

Applicants can also face local and national approval procedures, making citizenship a highly selective process in the small European principality. Bhutan Bhutan maintains strict citizenship rules aimed at protecting its national identity and culture. Foreign applicants face demanding residency, cultural and integration requirements, while final approval is subject to government scrutiny.

The country’s approach makes naturalisation considerably harder than simply establishing long-term residence. Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian citizenship is generally far easier to obtain through family heritage than through naturalisation. The kingdom has opened limited opportunities for certain highly skilled professionals and individuals with exceptional expertise.