Best passports in the world for 2026: analysis and citizenship opportunities with Visa Dan

The international consulting company Nomad Capitalist has published its ranking of the best passports in the world for 2026. The study covered 199 countries and clearly showed that European states continue to dominate in terms of citizenship quality. In this article, we examine which countries made the top list, the criteria used to assess passports, and the jurisdictions where Visa Dan helps clients obtain citizenship legally with full support.

Nomad Capitalist experts evaluated passports based on five key parameters:

1. Visa-free travel — the number of countries accessible without a visa or with visa on arrival.
2. Tax burden — the level and flexibility of taxation for citizens.
3. Permission for dual citizenship.
4. International reputation of the country.
5. Personal freedoms and civil rights.

Each criterion was scored, and the total points determined the final ranking of 199 positions, corresponding to the number of countries worldwide.

The list of leaders (presented without changes):

1. Malta
2. Greece
3. Ireland
4. Romania
5. Cyprus
6. Bulgaria
7. Czech Republic
8. Italy
9. New Zealand
10. Hungary

Most positions are held by EU countries, confirming the high value of European citizenship in terms of mobility and long-term stability.

• The United Kingdom ranked 35th, sharing the position with Canada and South Korea.
• Cyprus placed 26th, while the United States ranked only 43rd.
• Russia ranked 96th, Belarus 123rd, Ukraine 73rd, and Kazakhstan 114th.
• Afghanistan ranked last, in 199th place.

Citizenship by Investment in the RankingCountries with citizenship-by-investment programs ranked as follows:

• Saint Kitts and Nevis — 50
• Antigua and Barbuda — 60
• Grenada — 63
• Saint Lucia — 64
• Dominica — 69
• El Salvador — 73
• Turkey — 89
• Vanuatu — 97
• Egypt — 157
• São Tomé and Príncipe — 142

While the ranking includes dozens of countries, Visa Dan specializes in legal and proven citizenship programs in the following jurisdictions:

Citizenship with Visa Dan Support

• Mexico — citizenship by naturalization or through a mother’s lineage.
• Israel — repatriation under the Law of Return.
• Lithuania — restoration of citizenship for those with Lithuanian roots prior to June 15, 1940.
• Moldova — repatriation or naturalization through residence permits.
• Romania — restoration of citizenship by descent (one of the top-10 ranked countries).
• Turkey — citizenship through investment, marriage, or repatriation.
• Chile — citizenship through parents or naturalization.

We do not sell “passports based on promises.” All programs are grounded in current national legislation and are handled by qualified lawyers and migration specialists.

Citizenship of a strong country provides:

• freedom of movement and visa-free travel;
• tax flexibility and asset protection;
• access to education and healthcare;
• a Plan B against political and economic risks;
• new opportunities for business and family.

The Nomad Capitalist ranking once again confirms that a passport is not a formality, but a crucial tool for personal and financial security.

If you are considering obtaining a second citizenship in 2025–2026, it is essential to choose real, legally grounded programs rather than relying solely on attractive ranking positions.

Visa Dan supports clients at every stage — from eligibility analysis to passport issuance.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!