Portugal has emerged as the leading choice for Americans looking to obtain a second passport, outperforming Italy, Ireland, Spain, Malta and several other European nations.
With a growing number of U.S. citizens prioritising international mobility and long-term lifestyle security, interest in dual citizenship continues to rise. A Gallup Poll conducted in November 2025 revealed that one in five Americans would consider leaving the United States permanently.
At the same time, research from YouGov found that 7% of Americans already hold dual citizenship, while an additional 17% have explored the possibility.
This increasing demand is reflected in a new 2026 report from the World Digital Foundation, which ranked Portugal as the number one dual citizenship destination globally for U.S. passport holders.
How the rankings were compiled
The study identified five standout countries based on the overall advantages of holding dual citizenship alongside a U.S. passport.
Each country was assessed against seven key criteria: tax treatment, passport strength, speed of the process, geopolitical and reputational safety, long-term quality of life and desirability, and benefits for family inclusion. Scores were awarded out of a possible 70 points.
Portugal achieved the highest overall score, largely due to its strong performance in long-term liveability, safety and family appeal.
Ireland secured second place, followed by Italy in third, where its cultural draw was offset by slower procedures and bureaucratic hurdles. Canada ranked highly as a stable, family-focused option, while Malta placed fifth amid growing scrutiny of its citizenship programmes at EU level.
Why Portugal took first place
Portugal’s leading position reflects a rare balance of stability, quality of life and enduring appeal. Although other countries performed well in specific areas, Portugal distinguished itself through strengths that are considered resilient even if future policies or incentives evolve.
“Citizenship decisions are no longer just about tax efficiency or visa-free travel,” said Danielle Moxey, Research Representative at the World Digital Foundation. “Families are asking whether a country will still be desirable, safe, and offer a high-quality lifestyle.”
The country scored particularly strongly for family integration, cultural richness and global connectivity, underpinned by a strong international reputation, low crime levels and an open, welcoming society.
While favourable tax structures and a robust passport contribute to its attractiveness, Portugal’s long-term appeal is driven primarily by inherent lifestyle factors rather than policy-led incentives.
“Portugal stands out because its value doesn’t collapse if incentives change,” Moxey added. “Its culture, safety, and reputation are unique, valuable assets.”
The appeal of Portugal’s Golden Visa
For many high-net-worth Americans, the most common route to Portuguese citizenship is the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme. Introduced in 2012, the scheme has granted residency to more than 12,000 primary investors and over 20,000 family members.
During this period, it has generated an estimated €54 billion for the Portuguese economy, with every €1 invested delivering roughly €6 in wider economic impact.
The Golden Visa is currently available through an investment of €500,000 into one or more qualifying alternative investment funds.
With a minimum stay requirement of just seven days per year, the programme offers a clear pathway towards permanent residency and, ultimately, dual EU citizenship.
Click here to explore the full benefits and requirements of the Golden Visa in 2026.
Portugal permits dual citizenship and has a long-established double taxation treaty with the United States, helping to reduce the risk of double taxation while providing a transparent, rules-based route to EU citizenship via naturalisation.
Beyond legal and fiscal considerations, investors are also attracted by Portugal’s broader lifestyle advantages, including high-quality healthcare, strong education systems, political stability, excellent international transport links, a mild climate and a healthy, balanced way of life.
For those considering Portugal’s Golden Visa or longer-term residency and citizenship options, Portugal Pathways offers tailored guidance. A no-obligation discovery call can help clarify how Portugal may align with your family, lifestyle and investment objectives for 2026 and beyond.
The report concludes that although tax efficiency and passport power remain relevant, long-term desirability, reputational security and family liveability have become the decisive factors.
“The most resilient citizenship strategies are rooted in countries people genuinely want to live in,” Moxey said. “Portugal exemplifies that shift.”
About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on estate planning, wealth management, Golden Visa and tax optimisation, including post-NHR / IFICI tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, money transfers and bespoke relocation and luxury real estate solutions to enhance life and investment in Portugal
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.
