8 most challenging countries to get citizenship and settle down

Obtaining citizenship in a foreign country can be a challenge, with some nations imposing particularly stringent requirements. For those aiming to settle abroad and become a citizen of some other country, the journey itself can be arduous and complex if you don’t know the rules and requirements. To help you sort out this issue a bit for you, here is a look at some of the toughest places to get citizenship and call them home.

In China, citizenship is largely reserved for those of Chinese descent, with non-nationals having limited opportunities. Applicants can sometimes obtain citizenship through marriage, but they must reside in China for at least two years. The process is complex, often requiring legal assistance and thorough documentation.

In Bhutan, a secluded Himalayan kingdom, obtaining citizenship is highly restrictive. Foreigners must reside in the country for a minimum of 20 years before becoming eligible to apply. During this time, any criticism of the monarchy can result in the denial or revocation of citizenship. Bhutanese authorities maintain full discretion over the approval process, making the path to citizenship even more challenging.

Qatar presents a formidable challenge with its stringent citizenship requirements. Foreigners must reside continuously in the country for 25 years, demonstrate proficiency in Arabic, and maintain a clean conduct record. Qatar’s laws also prohibit dual nationality, necessitating the renunciation of one's original citizenship.

Switzerland’s naturalisation process is stringent. Applicants must have resided in the country for at least 10 years and hold a C permit. While simplified naturalisation is available for individuals married to Swiss citizens or third-generation foreigners, all candidates are required to show significant integration into Swiss culture and fulfill additional criteria set by local cantons.

Liechtenstein has some of the world’s strictest citizenship requirements. Applicants must have resided in the country for a minimum of 30 years, including at least 5 years with Permanent Residency status. Exceptions include reduced residency for minors and spouses of Liechtenstein citizens, but the overall process remains highly challenging.

North Korea is infamous for its nearly insurmountable barriers to obtaining citizenship. The country demands renunciation of all other nationalities, strict age and education requirements, and a clean criminal record. The application process is long and includes interviews and exams, making North Korean citizenship almost unattainable for foreigners.

Japan’s citizenship process is rigorous, requiring at least five years of residency, a clean criminal record, and proficiency in Japanese. Applicants must submit a detailed application to the Ministry of Justice, including extensive personal information. Japan’s prohibition on dual citizenship further complicates the process, demanding that new citizens renounce their previous nationality.

Vatican City, the world’s smallest country with just over 800 residents, is notoriously difficult for foreigners to gain citizenship. Citizenship here is limited to those born within its walls or appointed by the Pope. Typically, this means only those in specific roles, such as diplomats or members of the Swiss Guard, are eligible, making it nearly impossible for most people.