There are many countries in the world where it is difficult for foreigners to obtain citizenship, but there are several countries where this document is almost impossible to obtain. Learn more about the requirements, timelines and peculiarities of the naturalization process in these countries

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Nowadays, when many people dream of moving to another country and starting a new life, the process of obtaining citizenship can be a daunting challenge. Different countries have different requirements, timelines and criteria for granting citizenship, and some of them make it intentionally difficult.

However, despite the diversity of the world's legal systems, Jagran Josh draws attention to several countries where the process of obtaining citizenship is the most difficult. 

It is noted that there are several factors that lead to these countries being among the most difficult to obtain citizenship:

- requirements for long-term residence;

- language proficiency;

- cultural and religious factors.

Which countries are on this list?

Qatar

Qatar, located in the Persian Gulf and known for its enormous wealth based on the gas industry, is also known for its strict requirements for citizenship. 

To become a Qatari citizen, a foreigner must reside in the country continuously for a staggering 25 years. The prerequisites are knowledge of the Arabic language, clean behavior, and proof of sufficient financial resources to support oneself.

Moreover, according to the laws of Qatar, dual citizenship is not allowed in the country, which requires the abandonment of the original passport. An additional criterion is a probable conversion to Islam, which makes Qatar one of the most difficult countries in the world to obtain citizenship.

Vatican City

Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state on the planet, stands out for its small number of citizens, estimated at about 450 people. The reason for this limited population lies in the strict rules established for obtaining citizenship in this country. 

The Vatican grants citizenship only in three special cases: if a person is a cardinal residing inside the Vatican or Rome, if he holds a diplomatic post and represents the interests of the Holy See, or if his stay in the Vatican is related to his work in the Catholic Church. These highly specialized conditions make the Vatican one of the most difficult places on earth to obtain citizenship status.

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Liechtenstein

Situated between Austria and Switzerland, the wealthy microstate of Liechtenstein with a population of about 40,000 people has lengthy requirements for those seeking to become citizens.

According to a report presented by the Liechtenstein Institute, a scientific and research institution in Bendern, Gamprin, foreigners must live in the country for at least 30 years before they are allowed to apply for naturalization. 

However, this period can be reduced to 10 years by obtaining the approval of the local community or by marrying a Liechtenstein citizen. Marriage to a Liechtenstein citizen can also be an option, which will speed up the process and allow for citizenship to be available in five years. These stringent requirements make Liechtenstein one of the most difficult countries in the world for those who want to become a citizen.

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Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, a country with rich oil reserves and home to the holy sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina, has serious obstacles for those wishing to obtain its citizenship. Applicants must have lived on its territory for at least 10 years and have Arabic language skills.

In addition, the official website of the Saudi government specifies mandatory requirements: no criminal record and a subjective assessment of your "moral capacity." The final decision on citizenship applications is made by the Minister of Interior. It should also be borne in mind that Saudi Arabia does not recognize dual citizenship, which implies the abandonment of the original passport.

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Switzerland

Known for its beautiful scenery and high standard of living, Switzerland offers one of the most rigorous citizenship processes in Europe. Foreigners wishing to become Swiss citizens must have resided in Switzerland for at least 10 years and hold a C residence permit.

The main requirement is knowledge of one of the national languages of Switzerland, such as German, French, Italian or Rhaetorian. 

The official website of the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration states that the naturalization process involves several stages, including federal, cantonal and communal levels, and each of them has its own unique requirements. The commitment to meeting these strict criteria contributes to Switzerland's reputation as one of the most difficult countries in the world to obtain citizenship.

Japan

Japan, which has one of the most powerful passports in the world, sets strict requirements for the naturalization process. Foreigners designated by the Ministry of Justice of Japan are required to reside in the country continuously for at least five years and demonstrate "good behavior". 

The Citizenship Law, adopted in 1950, also emphasizes the importance of the ability to support oneself in Japan, and participation in organizations that seek to overthrow the Japanese government is ineligible for naturalization. 

It is important to note that Japan does not recognize dual citizenship, but language requirements are relatively lenient and limited to basic knowledge sufficient for everyday life. 

China

China, the world's most densely populated country, also places significant barriers to foreigners seeking citizenship. 

The Chinese Nationality Law, according to the Department of Immigration, provides limited avenues for foreigners to acquire citizenship, mostly through family ties or "other legal grounds." The law remains intentionally vague, which creates difficulties in managing the process. 

In addition, the law does not set a specific minimum period of residence. The complicated criteria for Chinese citizenship stop most foreigners from trying to acquire Chinese citizenship.

By the way, if you are interested in the rules for obtaining a residence permit and citizenship in other countries, as well as many other useful information, we recommend visiting the Visit World portal, which will help you in many ways.

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