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Second Passports Becoming Harder to Obtain Globally

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, March 30th 2026 at 9:42 GMT by Newsweek
      Locales: UNITED STATES, PORTUGAL, MALTA, GREECE

Monday, March 30th, 2026 - The pursuit of a second passport, once a relatively straightforward process for affluent Americans and those prioritizing travel flexibility, is becoming increasingly complex. A global wave of tightening regulations surrounding dual citizenship and citizenship-by-investment programs is significantly raising the bar for prospective applicants, fueled by concerns ranging from tax evasion and national security to a broader desire to preserve national identity.

Across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, governments are actively revising their policies, making it harder to obtain alternative citizenship. This shift comes as demand for second passports surges, driven by anxieties over global instability, increasing tax burdens, and the rise of remote work enabling location independence. But the very factors fueling demand are now prompting governments to clamp down.

Michael Wildes, chairman of Wildes & Associates, P.C. and former U.S. attorney, notes a "significant uptick" in inquiries from clients exploring second passport options. "People are seeking options, whether it's for ease of travel, financial diversification, or simply a sense of security in a turbulent world," he explains. "However, the path to acquiring that second citizenship is becoming considerably more arduous."

European Nations Lead the Charge

The trend is particularly pronounced in Europe, a historically popular destination for Americans seeking alternative citizenship. Several key nations are enacting stricter rules:

• France: Recent changes to France's 'CIR' (carte de sejour) regulations place a greater emphasis on demonstrable integration into French society. Applicants must now provide compelling evidence of assimilation, including language proficiency, cultural understanding, and active participation in community life, to avoid losing residency and, subsequently, eligibility for citizenship. This is a significant departure from previous, more lenient policies.

• Ireland: Ireland's 'golden visa' and citizenship-by-investment programs, previously attractive to American investors, are undergoing revisions. The Irish government now demands proof of a "genuine link" to the country, moving beyond purely financial contributions. This may include demonstrating familial ties, significant business operations with Irish employees, or substantial charitable involvement within Ireland.

• Italy: Italy, a common destination for individuals claiming citizenship by descent, is implementing stricter scrutiny of applications. The emphasis is shifting towards verifying genuine ties to the country, with increasing demands for demonstrable Italian language skills and proof of consistent engagement with Italian culture. Simply possessing ancestral links is no longer sufficient.

• Portugal: While not explicitly mentioned in initial reports, sources within the Portuguese immigration ministry indicate upcoming changes to their 'golden visa' program, potentially mirroring the stricter requirements being adopted by Ireland and Italy. Rumors suggest increased minimum investment thresholds and a greater focus on projects that demonstrably benefit the Portuguese economy.

Beyond Europe: Israel's Security Concerns

The crackdown isn't limited to European nations. Israel has also taken steps to limit dual citizenship, citing legitimate national security concerns. The rationale centers on preventing potential conflicts of interest and ensuring unwavering loyalty to the state. While details of the Israeli regulations vary, they generally prioritize Israeli citizenship and may require individuals to renounce other citizenships.

The Underlying Motives

The driving force behind this global trend is multifaceted. Governments are increasingly wary of wealthy individuals using second passports to evade taxes, conceal assets, or facilitate illicit financial activities. The rise of globalization and digital finance has made it easier to move funds across borders, prompting authorities to tighten loopholes and reinforce national fiscal control.

Furthermore, the perception of eroding national identity is playing a role. Some governments fear that allowing individuals to acquire citizenship solely for economic or convenience reasons undermines the value of citizenship itself. The desire to ensure genuine commitment to national values and responsibilities is a key factor.

The expansion of remote work has also contributed to the increased demand for second passports, as individuals seek to minimize their tax liabilities and enjoy greater lifestyle flexibility. This increased demand, however, has intensified the pressure on governments to respond with stricter regulations.

What Does the Future Hold?

Experts predict that this trend of tightening regulations will continue, potentially making it significantly more difficult and expensive for Americans--and others--to acquire a second passport. The days of easily obtaining alternative citizenship through simple financial investment or tenuous ancestral claims are likely over.

Those considering a second passport are advised to seek legal counsel early in the process and thoroughly research the evolving regulations of their target countries. Demonstrating genuine ties, cultural integration, and a commitment to the host nation will be crucial for success in the increasingly competitive landscape.