Second Citizenship and IT: How to Expand Access to International Contracts

In recent years, IT professionals have increasingly considered obtaining second citizenship as a tool to expand professional opportunities. In the context of global competition and the rise of remote work, holding the passport of another country can become the key to high-paying international contracts, simplified taxation, and the right to long-term residence abroad. In this article, we will explore how second citizenship helps IT professionals reach a new level and which countries offer the best conditions.

Before diving into the details, it’s important to understand the difference between second citizenship and dual citizenship, as these terms are often confused.

Second citizenship means holding a passport from another country, different from your primary nationality, without any special agreements between the states. It’s important to note that second citizenship and dual citizenship are not the same. Second citizenship is more of a flexible way to expand opportunities, while dual citizenship implies rights and obligations in both countries under formal agreements.

Dual citizenship requires a special agreement between two countries that mutually recognize and accept the rights and obligations of their citizens. This form of citizenship opens broader opportunities, including protection from deportation and the right to vote in both countries.
Citizenship rules vary depending on the country, so it’s worth taking the time to study the laws of your home country and the country where you plan to obtain second citizenship. This will help you avoid legal issues in the future.

• Access to International Marketplaces and Tenders

Some foreign platforms and clients work only with residents or citizens of certain countries. A passport from the EU, USA, or Caribbean states allows you to participate directly in tenders and competitions without intermediaries.

• Simplified Visa Regimes

Citizens of countries with high-ranking passports can enter dozens of countries visa-free to attend conferences, meet clients, or relocate their teams.

• Tax Advantages

A number of countries offer tax incentives for IT income or do not tax foreign-sourced earnings at all (e.g., UAE and others).

• Starting a Business Abroad

Second citizenship simplifies registering a company in another jurisdiction, opening accounts in international banks, and accessing payment systems that may be restricted for certain residents.

• Easier Travel

With a second country’s passport, you can travel to over 186 countries without a visa. This means international trips become much simpler, and document processing times are reduced significantly. For example, EU passport holders can freely move across all Schengen Zone countries.

• Career and Business Opportunities

Second citizenship opens new horizons for business. Many countries offer favorable conditions for starting companies and running entrepreneurial activities. This is especially relevant for those seeking to avoid bureaucracy and restrictions in their home country.

• Education and Social Benefits

Citizens of another country often gain access to free education, high-quality healthcare, and various social programs. This leads to a higher standard of living. For instance, students who are EU citizens can study at universities for reduced tuition fees.

• Ability to freely relocate your team
• Access to foreign investments and grants
• Participation in international startup accelerators
• Capital protection in a stable jurisdiction
• Expanding your client base without visa or banking restrictions

There are several popular ways to obtain second citizenship. Let’s look at each option in detail.

Repatriation is a special form of obtaining citizenship for people whose ancestors were citizens of a given country. This process is often less burdensome than standard naturalization, as it may not require long-term residence.

Who can qualify for citizenship through repatriation?

• Individuals whose ancestors were citizens of an EU country may be eligible if they can prove it with documents.
• Programs vary: Romania focuses on those who can prove a connection to historical territories, while Bulgaria offers a faster process.

Preparing documents is a crucial step. We recommend:

• Research your family tree: Find out which ancestors held citizenship in your target country.
• Consult lawyers: Professional help can greatly simplify the process, especially if documentation is complex.
• Gather documents early: Collecting required paperwork can take time, so start early. Ensure all documents are translated and notarized according to requirements.

This process requires living in a country for a certain period (usually 3–10 years) before applying for citizenship. Naturalization often includes learning the country’s language, history, and culture — which can be a rewarding experience.

Obtaining citizenship through marriage to a citizen of another country is one of the most common and relatively straightforward methods. However, the marriage must be genuine; otherwise, it can lead to legal issues.

Many countries offer programs where you can obtain second citizenship by investing — for example, in real estate or starting a business. These programs speed up the process but require significant financial resources.

Typical steps for obtaining citizenship through investment:

1. Consultation with a specialist: We recommend working with an investment immigration expert to assess your eligibility.
2. Choosing a program: Select the program that best fits your goals.
3. Document collection: Ensure you have all necessary paperwork, including financial statements and criminal record certificates.
4. Investment: Make the investment as required by the chosen program.
5. Citizenship approval: Once requirements are met, you receive your new passport.

Advantages:

• Legal residence abroad: Gaining residency or citizenship allows you to live and work in another country without restrictions.
• Visa-free travel: New passports open access to many countries without the need for visas — ideal for frequent business travelers.
• Investment in the future: Real estate markets in many countries are stable, providing a solid return on investment.

Despite its benefits, the process can be challenging. Some countries, like Germany, have strict limits on dual citizenship. However, many states offer programs for citizenship through investment or other means. Approach this carefully: study the programs and seek expert advice to make the right choice.

1. Study Country Requirements
2. Before choosing a country, carefully review its conditions and restrictions. Some require language proficiency or a specific investment level.
3. Consult with Professionals
4. We strongly recommend working with immigration lawyers and specialists who can guide you through all nuances and help you avoid pitfalls.
5. Assess Financial Capabilities
6. Be ready for expenses — program costs vary, and you should consider your long-term financial goals.
7. Explore Cultural Aspects
8. Understanding the culture of your target country will help you integrate faster. Be open to new experiences and willing to learn.

With this approach, you can make a well-informed choice that meets your personal and professional goals.

Second citizenship is not just about freedom of movement — it’s about expanding professional horizons. For IT specialists, it’s a strategic step that opens the door to international projects, financial tools, and new markets. You can choose the optimal program based on your goals, budget, and future plans.

If you find that second citizenship is too complex, there are alternatives. For example, obtaining a residence permit is another way to gain legal status abroad. It allows you to live, work, and engage in cultural exchange. In this case, it’s important to understand what advantages each country offers and what requirements apply to different categories of migrants.

Spain has long attracted digital nomads and investors through its residence permit program. Key features include:

• Digital nomads: The ability to obtain a visa with family reunification rights, making it ideal for those seeking to settle in Spain.
• Free education: Access to public schools for children — a big plus for families.
• Healthcare: High-quality medical services make Spain even more appealing for new residents.

Portugal offers several programs, such as D7 and D8, designed for comfortable living:

• Family inclusion: The ability to apply for the whole family makes this program attractive for those relocating together.
• Education and resources: Children can access free education, which is vital for families.

Poland is another attractive option for those seeking legalization:

• Karta Pobytu: After obtaining a work visa, migrants can easily get a residence card, granting access to education and healthcare.
• Fast processing: The process for obtaining residency is relatively simple compared to Western countries.

Obtaining permanent residency (PR) and citizenship is equally important. Many programs offer simplified procedures for those who already hold residency. For example:

• Spain: After several years of residence, you can apply for PR and later citizenship.
• Portugal: More flexible timelines for citizenship make it an attractive option for migrants.

A residence permit in Europe also offers numerous opportunities for IT professionals, with programs tailored to different categories. Before starting the process, conduct thorough research and consider all factors, including family needs.
With the right approach and careful planning, legalization in Europe can be a successful step toward a new life. Don’t forget the possibility of obtaining PR and citizenship, along with the social and economic benefits they bring.

Contact Visa Dan for a personal consultation — we will help you choose the right country and program, and guide you through every step of obtaining citizenship or residency that matches your needs and goals!

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Contact us! We will help you assess the prospects, understand the risks, and find the best solution for your situation.