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Citizenship rules: These countries have the most difficult requirements for obtaining citizenship

Akshay pic - Sunday, Dec 28, 2025
Last Updated on Dec 28, 2025 09:32 PM

Citizenship rules: These countries have the most difficult requirements for obtaining citizenship: Obtaining citizenship is not the same everywhere. While some countries grant passports based on investment, residency, or ancestry, others make the process considerably more difficult. Let's explore which countries have the most stringent requirements for obtaining citizenship.

Vatican City-

Vatican City is one of the most difficult places in the world to become a citizen of. Citizenship here is not permanent and is granted to only a select few. These include cardinals, priests, and officials working for the Holy See. As soon as their official position ends, their Vatican citizenship is automatically revoked.

North Korea-

North Korea is one of the most isolated countries in the world. Obtaining citizenship there is virtually impossible for foreigners. There is no transparent process for granting citizenship in the country, and citizenship is only considered under exceptional political or military circumstances.

Qatar-

Obtaining residency in Qatar involves a lengthy process. Applicants must have legally resided in the country for at least 25 years, demonstrate proficiency in the Arabic language, and provide proof of financial independence. Even after fulfilling all these requirements, citizenship is not automatically granted. It is entirely at the discretion of the government.

Saudi Arabia:

Saudi Arabia grants citizenship under very strict conditions. To obtain citizenship in this country, an individual must reside there for 10 years, demonstrate proficiency in the Arabic language, and show strong cultural ties. Adherence to Islam is a mandatory requirement, and approvals are very rare.

Kuwait -

Kuwait also has very strict laws. Non-Muslims are generally not granted citizenship. Even Muslims have to reside in the country for 20 years before they can apply. Even after living there for such a long time, most applications are rejected.

Switzerland:

The process of obtaining Swiss citizenship is difficult not for ideological reasons, but due to rigorous scrutiny at the local level. Applicants must have lived in Switzerland for at least 10 years, be fully integrated into Swiss society, and pass language, culture, and citizenship tests.

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Akshay Thakur Writter

Akshay Thakur

Hello, I'm Akshay Thakur, and sports is my passion. Football and cricket are my biggest hobbies, and that's why I love writing about both.

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