Start with your eligibility, not a passport ranking
Many people search for how to get a second citizenship or a second passport, but the starting point should be the lawful nationality route available to them. Existing family ties, where you were born, marriage, past residence, current employment and whether a country operates a citizenship-by-investment programme may change the options.
Citizenship by descent
Some countries recognise citizenship for children or later generations of their nationals. Parents’ nationality at the time of birth, records of ancestors, marriage certificates and registration deadlines can be important. This is a legal eligibility review, not a commercial purchase.
Citizenship by marriage
Marriage to a citizen may create an application route in some countries, but citizenship is rarely automatic. Waiting periods, residence, genuine relationship evidence, language or integration requirements and background checks may apply.
Citizenship through residence and naturalisation
A person may first obtain a qualifying immigration status, satisfy a lawful residence period, meet language and character requirements, and then apply for nationality. In New Zealand, standard citizenship by grant ordinarily includes an eligible immigration status and presence of at least 1,350 days across the preceding five years, including 240 days in each year. A residence visa is not the same as citizenship.
Citizenship by investment where the law allows
Some countries establish formal nationality routes involving qualifying investments or government contributions. They also require screening and the applicable legal criteria. Programme availability changes: Malta’s former direct-investment scheme was discontinued in 2025, while several Caribbean and Pacific schemes have their own current governing requirements.
Compare consequences before applying
Dual-nationality restrictions, obligations of residence or military service, tax residence rules, exit and entry rules, and family eligibility may matter. Citizenship does not automatically make a person tax resident in a country, but tax consequences should be assessed separately. Check your existing nationality’s rules as well as the destination’s.
Practical next steps
Gather your citizenship and civil records, define your timeline and desired rights, shortlist jurisdictions with a genuine legal pathway, then compare official eligibility and fees. Do not pay intermediaries who promise guaranteed nationality or a direct passport purchase.
Official information and related reading
New Zealand citizenship requirements ↗
Malta investor programme ended ↗
Continue exploring: Programmes · Citizenship By Investment · Investment Vs Residency