Though the road might be extremely difficult, seeking permanent residency or citizenship in a foreign country offers most people great chance. Many individuals wish to move for a more powerful passport, stability, or better employment opportunities. Still, immigration rules can be difficult and getting citizenship is not easy in several countries.
Although some nations set rigorous standards, therefore delaying and complicating naturalization, others provide simpler routes for very learned experts and investors. Five countries with among the most difficult citizenship application processes follow here.
1. USA
Obtaining permanent residency (a green card) and eventual citizenship in the United State of America is a challenging process with strict criteria and long wait times.
Although there are lottery and asylum routes, most people get a green card by means of work or family sponsorship. To seek citizenship, people have to:
Have a green card for at least five years.
Take an English and civics examination.
Promise allegiance to the United States in an oath. Constitution.
Although double citizenship is permitted, the arduous procedure and stringent qualifications define US. dual citizens in practice. one of the most difficult things to get is citizenship.
2. Austria
One of Europe’s most disciplined citizenship processes is that of Austria. Those from out of town staying longer than six months have to get a resident visa. Additionally compelled are those considering a stay of more than two years to sign an Integration Agreement, which calls for their German language proficiency to be better and shows their capacity for Austro-Hungarian society’s participation.
Usually, naturalization in Austria calls for ten years of uninterrupted residence, so prospective candidates have to show integration into Austrian society, fluency in German, and financial stability. Dual citizenship is seldom given so the process is even more difficult.
3. Japan
Particularly difficult is attaining Japanese residency, which Japan is renowned for its strict immigration laws. The process calls for thorough documentation, background investigations, and evidence of good character.
Applied candidates must:
Be Japanese living at least five years.
Show economic steadiness.
Get the Minister of Justice’s permission.
As Japan prohibits dual citizenship, forsake all other citizenships.
With several administrative obstacles along the way, the process might span years. Getting a permanent resident visa is even long and complex.
4. Switzerland
One of the most demanding and intricate naturalization procedures is that of Switzerland. Although standards vary by canton and municipality, immigrants must have been living in the country for at least five years to get permanent residency.
Even more difficult to acquire is citizenship. Applicants must be chosen by:
Lived in Switzerland for at least a decade.
Show complete assimilation into Swiss culture including knowledge of regional customs and languages.
Pass an interview and background check if only to be convinced they don’t present a security threat
Switzerland does permit dual citizenship, but its decentralized approach makes becoming national especially challenging, unlike some other nations on this list.
5. Germany
Those applying for permanent residency and citizenship must fulfill Germany’s rigorous criteria. Permanent residency may be challenging to get should an applicant not be from another EU country.
One must do the following to be a German citizen:
Reside in the country for at minimum eight years (or seven if they pass an integration exam).
Show German language competence.
Comprehend the politics and society of Germany.
Show financial stability, including national pension system contributions.
Renounce any extra nationality since dual citizenship is usually not permitted in Germany.
