Becoming a citizen of another country may sound exciting, but in reality, it’s not always easy. Some countries have strict rules and long waiting periods before they allow foreigners to become citizens. In this article, we explore the hardest countries to get citizenship in 2025, explaining why they are so tough and what makes their citizenship laws so strict.
Whether you’re a traveler, expat, or someone dreaming of a second passport, this guide will give you a clear understanding of the barriers you may face. We use simple language so everyone—from young students to adults—can understand, and the information is backed by facts and organized for easy reading.
Why Citizenship is Hard to Obtain in Some Countries
Citizenship means being a legal member of a country, with full rights such as voting, working freely, and getting a passport. Some countries make this process difficult for various reasons, including:
- National security concerns
- Preservation of culture or ethnicity
- Limited resources or population control
- Strict immigration policies
- Complex legal requirements
Now, let’s dive into the countries where becoming a citizen is the most difficult in 2025.
Top 10 Hardest Countries to Get Citizenship in 2025
Here is a list of the countries with the toughest citizenship policies in 2025, along with detailed explanations.
1. Japan
Why it’s difficult:
- Japan values cultural homogeneity and is cautious about allowing outsiders to become citizens.
Requirements:
- 5+ years of residency
- Fluency in Japanese language
- Proof of good conduct and financial stability
- Renounce any previous citizenship (Japan does not allow dual citizenship)
Key Challenge: Japan’s emphasis on language and cultural integration makes it one of the hardest countries to get citizenship in 2025.
2. Switzerland
Why it’s difficult:
- Citizenship in Switzerland is decided at the federal, cantonal (state), and local levels.
Requirements:
- Minimum 10 years of residency
- Integration into Swiss culture and lifestyle
- Fluency in a national language (German, French, Italian)
- Approval from local community
Key Challenge: Even if you meet the requirements, locals can vote against your citizenship application.
3. Austria
Why it’s difficult:
- Austria allows citizenship in very limited cases and has a strict naturalization policy.
Requirements:
- 10 years of continuous residence
- Financial self-sufficiency
- German language proficiency
- No dual citizenship allowed
Key Challenge: Unless you have exceptional merit (like artists or athletes), the path to citizenship is long and rigid.
4. Germany
Why it’s difficult:
- Although Germany recently eased some immigration laws, citizenship remains complex.
Requirements:
- 8 years of residency (can be reduced to 6 with integration courses)
- Language proficiency (B1 level German)
- No criminal record
- Financial independence
- Dual citizenship allowed only in limited cases
Key Challenge: Navigating Germany’s bureaucracy and integration expectations is a big hurdle.
5. Qatar
Why it’s difficult:
- Qatar is highly protective of its small citizen population.
Requirements:
- 25 years of continuous legal residency
- Fluent Arabic
- Good conduct and stable income
- Limited quotas each year
Key Challenge: The government rarely grants citizenship, even to long-term residents.
6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Why it’s difficult:
- The UAE offers citizenship by invitation only and typically for special talents.
Requirements:
- Usually only for investors, scientists, doctors, or creatives
- Proficiency in Arabic
- Renouncement of other nationalities
- Proven contribution to the country
Key Challenge: Ordinary expatriates rarely have a chance, no matter how long they live there.
7. Liechtenstein
Why it’s difficult:
- This tiny European country has one of the most exclusive citizenship laws.
Requirements:
- 30 years of residence or marriage to a citizen
- Cultural integration and fluency in German
- Must be approved by a local vote
Key Challenge: The sheer length of time required makes it one of the hardest countries to get citizenship in 2025.
8. Saudi Arabia
Why it’s difficult:
- Saudi Arabia only recently began granting citizenship, and it is still extremely rare.
Requirements:
- Highly skilled professionals or investors
- Mastery of Arabic
- Adherence to Islamic traditions
- No dual citizenship allowed
Key Challenge: Even long-term residents and their children born in Saudi Arabia struggle to get citizenship.
9. China
Why it’s difficult:
- China has a strict immigration and naturalization policy.
Requirements:
- Permanent residency is required first, which is very rare
- Must prove contribution to Chinese society
- Renounce any other citizenships (no dual nationality)
Key Challenge: China’s focus on national identity makes citizenship nearly impossible for outsiders.
10. Bhutan
Why it’s difficult:
- Bhutan prioritizes cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.
Requirements:
- 20 years of residency (15 for government employees)
- Full cultural integration
- Proficiency in Dzongkha (national language)
- Citizenship can be revoked at any time
Key Challenge: Bhutan’s policies are designed to protect national values and limit foreign influence.
Comparative Table: Citizenship Requirements by Country
| Country | Years of Residency | Language Requirement | Dual Citizenship Allowed? | Unique Barrier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | 5+ | Yes (Japanese) | No | Renounce previous citizenship |
| Switzerland | 10+ | Yes | Yes (with limitations) | Local community approval required |
| Austria | 10+ | Yes (German) | No | Only special cases allowed |
| Germany | 8+ | Yes (German) | Limited | Bureaucracy and integration |
| Qatar | 25+ | Yes (Arabic) | No | Citizenship rarely granted |
| UAE | By invitation | Yes (Arabic) | No | Must be highly skilled |
| Liechtenstein | 30+ | Yes (German) | No | Public vote for approval |
| Saudi Arabia | Skilled only | Yes (Arabic) | No | Cultural restrictions |
| China | Very rare | Optional | No | Nearly impossible to naturalize |
| Bhutan | 20+ | Yes (Dzongkha) | No | Citizenship can be revoked |
Factors That Make Citizenship Hard to Get
When we say a country is one of the hardest countries to get citizenship in 2025, we look at several key factors:
- Length of Residency: The longer you need to stay before applying, the harder it becomes.
- Language and Culture Tests: Mastering a new language and adapting to local customs is not easy.
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Countries that don’t allow dual citizenship force applicants to give up their original nationality.
- Government Discretion: In places like UAE or Qatar, citizenship is given based on the government’s decision, not standard criteria.
- Public Opinion: In countries like Switzerland, local citizens can block applications.
Final Thoughts
For many, becoming a citizen of another country is a dream—whether for better opportunities, safety, or a new life. However, for the countries listed above, that dream is far from easy to achieve. From strict residency requirements to cultural expectations, these nations have built strong barriers to entry.
As of 2025, the global landscape shows that immigration policies are tightening, not relaxing, making it even more challenging. Whether you are planning to apply or are just curious, knowing which are the hardest countries to get citizenship in 2025 can help set realistic expectations.
Tip: If you’re considering applying for citizenship in any of these countries, it’s wise to consult with a local immigration expert and understand all legal requirements in detail.