7 Countries That Grant You Citizenship WITHOUT Investing

Summary

The script explores various pathways to citizenship in different countries, focusing on residency requirements, naturalization processes, and the possibility of obtaining citizenship by investment or merit. It covers Mexico, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic, highlighting unique aspects such as tax benefits, residency options, and expedited citizenship procedures. The information also includes practical tips for navigating the legalities of each country’s citizenship process, helping individuals considering second citizenship or tax residency options around the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mexico offers citizenship in as little as 2 years if you're from a country with specific agreements, but requires at least 18 months of physical presence in the country.
• 😀 Many people obtain Mexican citizenship by first becoming a temporary resident, then permanent resident, and living in Mexico for two years.
• 😀 Mexico allows citizenship by merit for large investments or donations in underdeveloped areas, even without fulfilling the full residency requirement.
• 😀 Argentina recently changed its laws to require continuous legal residency and two years of full physical presence for citizenship, making it more difficult to obtain.
• 😀 Argentina also offers citizenship by investment, with opportunities to receive citizenship after investing in underdeveloped areas or making donations of $200,000-$300,000.
• 😀 Paraguay is becoming a popular destination for tax residency, with a low tax burden and a fast citizenship process (3 years) for those with established local ties.
• 😀 To obtain Paraguayan citizenship, one must have ties such as paying taxes, owning property, or creating a business with a solid plan that employs locals.
• 😀 Uruguay has a territorial tax system, and citizenship can be obtained in 3-5 years through family ties, with no shortcuts for those living there for a short time.
• 😀 Brazil offers a lengthy citizenship process, but having a child in Brazil can reduce the naturalization process to just one year of residency.
• 😀 The Dominican Republic offers fast-track citizenship (as quickly as 2 years) through residency and investment, but its passport is weaker in terms of international travel compared to other countries mentioned.

Q & A

What is the process for obtaining Mexican citizenship as a foreigner?

In Mexico, foreigners can obtain citizenship after 2 years of temporary residency if they are from a country with agreements in place, such as Spain. The residency period requires physical presence for at least 18 months, with a maximum of 6 months allowed outside the country. Alternatively, some opt for a family-based approach, having a child in Mexico to gain permanent residency, and then living there for two years.

Can someone from a non-agreement country obtain Mexican citizenship more quickly?

For those not from a country with an agreement, the path to Mexican citizenship typically involves obtaining temporary residency for one year, renewing it for three more years, and then applying for permanent residency. After two years of permanent residency, they can apply for citizenship.

What is the 'bride citizenship' method in Mexico, and is it recommended?

The 'bride citizenship' method involves having a child in Mexico, which grants the child Mexican nationality and the parents permanent residency. However, it is advised to proceed with caution as some authorities may complicate the process if they suspect the intent behind the application.

What are the tax implications for foreigners living in Mexico for citizenship?

Many foreigners prefer not to pay taxes in Mexico due to the high tax burden. However, under Mexican law, it is possible to remain a non-tax resident even while living there. If you become a tax resident, you can apply for the Reiko tax regime, paying a progressive tax rate between 1% and 1.25% on revenue, with a revenue cap of 3.5 million pesos (~$175,000).

How can one obtain Argentine citizenship?

Argentina previously allowed citizenship without legal residency, but this has changed. Now, individuals must have continuous legal residency for at least two full years, living in the country every day without leaving. Investment in local development, like donating $200,000 to underdeveloped areas, can also lead to citizenship through merit or exception.

What are the conditions for obtaining Paraguayan citizenship?

In Paraguay, individuals can obtain temporary or permanent residency by investing $70,000 in a real business that employs locals. Citizenship can be applied for after three years of permanent residency, with the requirement to establish 'ties' like paying taxes, owning land or businesses, or donating to local institutions.

What makes Uruguay's citizenship process unique?

Uruguay offers multiple residency options and naturalization within 3 to 5 years, depending on family ties. They also removed nationality from the passport data page, reducing travel restrictions for passport holders. Uruguay requires continuous residency for naturalization and does not provide expedited options like merit-based citizenship for short stays.

How can one obtain Brazilian citizenship quickly?

Brazilian citizenship can be obtained relatively quickly if you have a child in Brazil, shortening the process to just one year. Alternatively, nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries can obtain expedited citizenship. There are also strategies where you can first acquire merit-based citizenship in a smaller country, then apply for Brazilian citizenship within a year.

What are the main benefits of the Dominican Republic's citizenship program?

In the Dominican Republic, you can gain citizenship after living there for two years. However, the Dominican passport has limited travel freedom compared to other countries discussed. Investment, especially in property worth $200,000 or more, may expedite the process, although this is less reliable and more subject to external factors.

Are there any other countries with citizenship by investment programs?

Yes, Argentina is considering launching a citizenship by investment program next year, requiring an investment of $500,000, potentially in real estate. This could resemble Portugal's golden visa program, allowing for partial residency and eventual citizenship while avoiding scrutiny faced by Caribbean passports.