Demand for second passports is increasing around the world as countries tighten citizenship rules. Credit: Tetiana Chernykova, Shutterstock
Not so long ago, most people gave little thought to having two passports. It sounded exotic, a little questionable, or just unnecessary. Today, it has become a quiet global obsession, not just among the super-rich.
From Europe to America, more people than ever are looking for a second citizenship. Some people want the freedom to live and work abroad. Some want easier travel, fewer visas, or just a backup plan in an increasingly unpredictable world. And while demand is rapidly increasing, governments are starting to pull the brakes.
According to CNN, it is impossible to know exactly how many people have multiple passports. Most countries do not require their citizens to declare additional nationalities. But all available numbers point in the same direction. This means that dual citizenship is becoming more common and increasing rapidly.
In the UK’s 2021 census, 2.1% of residents said they had dual nationality, double the number recorded just 10 years ago. In the United States, a recent YouGov survey found that around 6% of respondents already own more than one passport.
Why I suddenly needed a second passport
For some, the appeal is practical. Obtaining a second passport can shorten lines at airports, reduce pesky border questions, and ease access to certain countries. Even people who have no intention of moving abroad often like the idea of traveling “like a local”.
But the motivations are running deeper than convenience.
“A second passport has become Plan B,” explains Dominik Volek, head of private clients at Henley & Partners, a firm that advises individuals on residency and citizenship options. In 2025 alone, the consulting firm processed applications from clients of 91 different nationalities.
Volek himself is officially a South African, but also holds a Montenegrin passport, a Dubai golden visa and Singapore residency. “Look at the news,” he says. “The world is unstable and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.”
This idea extends beyond traditional migration hubs. Americans are currently the largest group seeking advice from Henley & Partners, while Brits remain firmly in the top five, a trend that has accelerated since Brexit ended free movement across Europe.
Demand is increasing but access is tight
The problem is timing. While interest in second passports grows, countries are quietly tightening their rules.
Last year, Italy passed a law limiting citizenship by descent to two generations. The new rules require applicants to prove that their most recent ancestor was born in Italy and held only Italian citizenship at the time of their death, a much stricter requirement than before.
Portugal is also considering tightening its naturalization rules, including extending the required period of stay from five to 10 years. Sweden and Poland have similarly announced plans to increase their country’s residency requirements.
Volek doesn’t mince words when advising clients who may qualify because of family ties. “If you are genetically eligible, apply now,” he says. “Rules will change, costs will go up and conditions will become more stringent.”
The end of the “golden passport” in Europe
Another big change is occurring at the European level, where authorities are cracking down on the so-called Golden Passport program, which allows people to obtain citizenship through investment.
Malta was forced to suspend the program in 2025 following pressure from the EU. Cyprus and Bulgaria had already done the same. Spain, Ireland and the UK had previously ended their own systems.
For many years, these programs have been the preferred option for wealthy individuals seeking a European passport. Today, they are almost a thing of the past.
The US is also discussing banning dual citizenship.
The tightening mood is not limited to Europe. In the United States, Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno has proposed a bill promoting “exclusive citizenship,” which would prohibit Americans from holding another nationality.
“If you want to be American, it’s all or nothing,” Moreno argued.
But legal experts are skeptical. Peter Spiro, a law professor at Temple University, points out that millions of Americans already have dual citizenship, including members of Donald Trump’s own family.
“That will never happen,” Spiro told CNN. “The reality is that it is politically impossible.”
Still, the proposal reflects broader changes. Governments may not ban dual citizenship completely, but they are becoming less comfortable with it.
A narrowing window in an uncertain world
The contradiction is remarkable. As more and more people seek flexibility, mobility, and safety, that door is slowly closing.
Citizenship by blood is restricted. Investment routes are disappearing. Naturalization takes time and requires more effort. Experts warn that opportunities that exist today may not be available tomorrow.
For those who qualify through family connections, the message is clear. If you wait, you may end up missing out entirely.
For others, the rush for second passports seems to say something big about the world we live in. Borders feel more political. Travel feels less guaranteed. My sense of stability feels fragile.
And in such situations, holding multiple passports is no longer a privilege or status. It’s important to keep your options open while there is still time.
