In this article, we take a look at the 5 easiest countries to get citizenship as an American. If you want to check out our detailed analysis on saving up for retirement and gaining citizenship in other countries, you may go to 15 Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship as an American.
5. Ecuador
Insider Monkey Score: 6
US citizens can easily gain citizenship in Ecuador. They can do this by applying for the Ecuador Retirement Visa, also called Jubilado or 60-III pensioner visa. While there are 13 residential visa options for gaining citizenship in the country, the retirement visa is by far the most common one employed by foreign retirees. The country mandates a minimum pension or income of $1,275 a month to reside in the country, plus an additional private health insurance is also required, amongst other necessary documentation. Upon successful approval of the visa application, applicants can stay in the country for a period of two years. After two years, the visa can be renewed or converted into a permanent visa as well. Applicants need to reside for at least four years to be granted citizenship.
4. Malta
Insider Monkey Score: 7
One of the easiest countries to get citizenship in Europe is Malta. Owing to its affordable living costs, rich heritage, and Mediterranean climate, Malta is a sought-after retirement destination. The retirement residence program for the country is called the Malta Retirement Program, or the MRP. Applicants who intend to retire to the country need to obtain a residence permit first. They must also be at least 55 years of age. A minimum annual income of at least €12,700 ($13,500) needs to come from a pension. Other residence options that Americans can use include the Global Residence Program, Permanent Residence Program and the Exceptional Investor Naturalization. Applicants can apply for citizenship after living for a period of five years in the country.
3. Peru
Insider Monkey Score: 8
Those who want to settle in Peru for its low cost of living, beautiful nature, and friendly people can do so by applying for the Rentista Visa. Applicants can apply for this retirement visa if they have a monthly income of at least $1,000. While the retirement visa is granted to successful applicants for an indefinite period, they will lose it if they stay out of the country longer than six months in a year. Peruvian citizenship can be obtained by living within its territory for at least two years.
2. Panama
Insider Monkey Score: 8
Plenty of places are ideal retirement destinations in Panama, and Americans can easily start living there by applying for the Panama Retirement Visa (Pensionado program). The retirement residence visa requires applicants to demonstrate a monthly minimum income of $1,000. Moreover, they must be at least 18 years of age, and have necessary documentation to proceed with the visa process. The retirement visa offers many benefits and discounts to retirees, such as discounts on hospital bills, energy bills, airline tickets, and more. Applicants who have had residency in Panama for five consecutive years are eligible for citizenship.
1. Portugal
Insider Monkey Score: 9
Portugal, also known as the gateway to Europe, is one of the easiest ways an American can gain citizenship in another country. The Portugal D-7 visa is through which applicants can gain citizenship in the country. To acquire the visa, an applicant must have a proof of income outside of Portugal of no less than €760 per month, or around $811. A retiree can apply for Portugal citizenship after five years of residency.
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