As global mobility becomes a top priority for Nigerian investors and professionals, new data for the 2026 fiscal year has identified the easiest pathways to a second passport. From “investment fast-tracks” in the Caribbean to “residency shortcuts” in South America, the landscape of global citizenship is shifting toward speed and affordability.
The latest findings, compiled by international mobility experts and immigration consultants, highlight that while traditional Western borders are tightening, several nations are “rolling out the red carpet” for new citizens.
For those with the financial capacity, “Citizenship by Investment” (CBI) remains the most direct route, bypassing years of residency.
Vanuatu (The Speed King): Remaining the world’s fastest, Vanuatu offers citizenship in as little as 2 to 3 months. With a minimum donation of $130,000, it is favored by those needing rapid global access without ever setting foot on the island.
Dominica (The Budget Choice): A long-standing favorite for Nigerians, Dominica’s program starts at $200,000. It is highly regarded for its “no physical residency” requirement and a passport that grants visa-free access to over 140 countries.
St. Kitts and Nevis: As the world’s oldest CBI program, it remains a “gold standard” for stability. Though the entry price rose recently to $250,000, it offers one of the most powerful passports in the Caribbean.
However, if you prefer to earn your citizenship through living in a country, these nations offer the shortest legal “clocks” in the world:
Argentina (2 Years): Unrivaled in speed, Argentina allows permanent residents to apply for citizenship after just two years of living in the country. It is widely considered the “fastest non-investment” route globally.
Peru (2 Years): Similar to Argentina, Peru offers a two-year path, provided the applicant passes a basic Spanish and history proficiency test.
Canada (3 Years): Despite recent changes to its immigration targets, Canada remains the most popular Western destination. Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after physically residing in the country for 1,095 days (3 years) out of a five-year period.
While most European Union countries require 10 years of residency, Portugal remains the outlier.
The 5-Year Strategy: Through its “Golden Visa” or the “D7/D8” digital nomad visas, you can apply for citizenship after 5 years.
The “7-Day” Rule: Remarkably, you only need to spend 7 days per year in Portugal to keep your residency active, making it the easiest “Plan B” for those who don’t want to relocate immediately.
2026 Comparison at a Glance
| Country | Method | Minimum Cost/Requirement | Timeline |
| Vanuatu | Investment | $130,000 | 60–90 Days |
| Dominica | Investment | $200,000 | 6 Months |
| Argentina | Residency | 2 Years Stay | 2 Years |
| Paraguay | Savings | $5,000 Deposit | 3 Years |
| Portugal | Visa | 5 Years (limited stay) | 5 Years |
Expert Advice: “Look Beyond the Passport”
Immigration analysts warn that while “ease” is important, applicants must consider tax implications and “passport power.” For instance, while a Vanuatu passport is fast, a Portuguese passport offers the “right to live and work anywhere in the EU,” a significantly higher value.
