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15 Countries with the Most Challenging Citizenship Processes in 2025
Qatar – A Nation with Stringent Residency and Citizenship Regulations
Qatar remains one of the most difficult countries to acquire citizenship due to its strict policies on naturalization. The country often limits eligibility to individuals with substantial investment or exceptional talent, and even then, the process can span several decades. Foreigners typically cannot pass on citizenship to their children, making permanent residency the only feasible option for most expats.
Vatican City – A Small Country with Unique Entry Criteria
Obtaining citizenship in Vatican City is virtually impossible for outsiders. The process is highly selective, usually limited to clergy and individuals with extraordinary service to the church. Residency is often granted temporarily, and citizenship is rarely conferred unless approved by the Holy See, which conducts a thorough vetting process.
Liechtenstein – Precise and Limited Naturalization Pathways
Liechtenstein stands out for its rigorous naturalization process. Applicants must have lived in the country for at least 10 years, with the last five years being continuous, demonstrate integration into the community, and possess a clean criminal record. Citizenship is granted sparingly, often requiring approval from the government and local community votes.
Bhutan – Culturally Preserved and Cautiously Open
Bhutan maintains strict controls over its citizenship policies to safeguard its cultural identity. Prospective citizens need to demonstrate a strong tie to the country through employment, investment, or marriage, and must surrender their original citizenship. The process can take many years, with approvals granted on a case-by-case basis.
Saudi Arabia – Limited Pathways for Foreigners
Saudi Arabia’s citizenship laws favor nationals and are highly restrictive towards foreigners. Citizenship is rarely granted unless through special royal decree—often to individuals who demonstrate significant economic or strategic importance. The process involves extensive background checks, with citizenship rarely passing to children of foreign-born residents.
Kuwait – Cautious and Complex Naturalization System
Kuwait’s naturalization policies are strict, requiring applicants to have lived in the country for at least 20 years, including a specific period of legal residence before applying. Marrying a Kuwaiti citizen can facilitate some pathways but does not guarantee citizenship. The government carefully screens applicants to prevent rapid naturalization.
Switzerland – Strict Criteria for a Naturalization Route
Swiss citizenship is attainable but challenging, requiring a minimum of 10 years of residence, language proficiency, and integration into local communities. Even after meeting these criteria, applicants face community votes and federal approval. The process emphasizes cultural adaptation and long-term residency.
China – Immense Barriers to Citizenship for Foreigners
China’s nationality laws favor long-standing citizens, making naturalization exceedingly difficult. Foreigners can only apply under specific circumstances—such as marriage to a Chinese citizen or outstanding contributions to the country—and the approval process is opaque and lengthy, often requiring years of residency and approval at multiple levels.
North Korea – Nearly Impossible For Ordinary Residents
North Korea’s citizenship process is shrouded in secrecy. The government strictly controls who can become a citizen, generally limited to those born within the country or descendants of long-standing residents who have shown unwavering loyalty. Naturalization is virtually nonexistent for outsiders seeking entry.
Japan – Lengthy and Stringent Processes
Getting Japanese citizenship involves a lengthy process, typically requiring at least five years of continuous residence, proficiency in Japanese, and proof of financial stability. Applicants must demonstrate integration and renounce their original citizenship, as Japan generally does not allow dual nationality.
United Arab Emirates – Limited Opportunities for Naturalization
The UAE’s policies prioritize economic investment and strategic importance. While there is a pathway for investors, professionals, and exceptional talents, the process is complex, and citizenship is granted sparingly. The government also considers long-term residents and their integration into society.
San Marino – Restrictive Naturalization Laws
As one of the world’s oldest republics, San Marino maintains strict naturalization requirements. Applicants usually need to have lived in the enclave for at least 30 years and demonstrate good conduct. The process involves extensive vetting, with approval often contingent on the government’s discretion.
Austria – Challenging Residency and Integration Requirements
Austria requires a minimum of 10 years of legal residence, coupled with language proficiency, economic stability, and integration into Austrian society. Applications are reviewed carefully, and the approval process can take several years, with strict conditions for naturalization.
Monaco – Rarely Grants Citizenship to Foreigners
Monaco’s tiny size and wealth-focused policies make naturalization difficult. Foreigners must typically reside continuously for at least 10 years and demonstrate integration and stability. The Prince’s approval is necessary for citizenship, and approvals are rare.
Finland – Demanding Naturalization Process with Strict Criteria
Finland demands a minimum of five years of continuous residence, language proficiency, and societal integration for citizenship. The country also emphasizes applicants’ ability to sustain themselves financially. The process is meticulous, often taking several years for approval.
In 2025, these countries continue to maintain some of the toughest barriers for foreigners seeking citizenship, reflecting their priorities around cultural preservation, national security, and strategic importance. Potential applicants must navigate strict legal requirements, lengthy waiting periods, and community or government approvals—making citizenship an elusive goal in these nations.
Source: TerraTern
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