Fastest Citizenship by Marriage in Europe: Do You Get It Automatically?

For many Bangladeshis dreaming of settling abroad, marriage often feels like the quickest way to secure a future in another country. The idea of marrying a foreign national and instantly becoming a citizen is appealing, but how true is this? Can you really get automatic citizenship through marriage, or is the reality more complex?

The short answer is: marriage does not usually grant automatic citizenship. Instead, it can shorten the path to residency and eventually citizenship. Some countries offer faster naturalization timelines for spouses, but requirements still apply.

This guide explains how citizenship by marriage works, highlights the fastest European countries for spouses, and provides important insights for Bangladeshis considering this route.

Is Citizenship Automatic After Marriage?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that marrying a foreigner instantly makes you a citizen of their country. In practice, most governments require:

• Legal marriage registration recognized by that country

• Residency period (living in the country for a specific number of years)

• Integration tests such as language exams or knowledge of culture

• Good character checks (no criminal background or fraud history)

Marriage makes you eligible for a spousal visa or residence permit, which later leads to permanent residency and then citizenship. A few countries outside Europe, like Argentina and Brazil, offer faster citizenship timelines for spouses, but even there, it is not automatic the moment you marry.

Fastest Citizenship by Marriage in Europe

Bangladeshi nationals often look to Europe for long-term settlement, whether through work visas, study, or marriage. While no European country grants instant citizenship, several offer shorter timelines for naturalization through marriage. Here are the most notable examples:

Spain

• Spouses of Spanish citizens can apply for citizenship after just 1 year of residence.

• This is one of the fastest European timelines.

• Applicants must:

  • Live legally in Spain for 12 months

  • Be married and cohabiting with their Spanish spouse

  • Pass basic Spanish language and integration requirements

France

• Requires 4 years of marriage if living abroad or 3 years if living together in France.

• The applicant must demonstrate integration into French society and knowledge of the French language.

• Faster than the standard 5-year naturalization for most foreigners.

Portugal

• Spouses of Portuguese citizens can apply after 3 years of marriage or civil union.

• Residency in Portugal is not always mandatory if the couple has a strong connection to Portugal.

• This flexibility makes Portugal attractive for Bangladeshis married to Portuguese citizens abroad.

Germany

• Marriage alone is not enough; spouses must complete 2 years of marriage and 3 years of residence in Germany.

• A German language test and integration exam are required.

• While not the fastest, Germany is popular for its strong economy and career opportunities.

Sweden

• Offers a straightforward process: spouses can apply after 3 years of marriage and 2 years of living together.

• No mandatory language or culture exam, making it more accessible than Germany or France.

Switzerland

• Facilitated naturalization allows foreign spouses to apply after 3 years of marriage and 5 years of residence.

• If living abroad, it is possible to apply after 6 years of marriage, provided there are close ties to Switzerland.

Luxembourg

• Foreign spouses may apply for citizenship after 3 years of marriage if they have lived together in Luxembourg.

• Known for flexibility, it even allows certain cases for spouses living abroad.

Liechtenstein

• Though not part of the EU, it has unique rules:

  • Requires 10 years of total residence.

  • After marriage, the years count double, so effectively 5 years are required.

• Very strict with integration requirements.

Countries Outside Europe Offering Faster Options

Some Latin American nations are far more generous when it comes to citizenship by marriage, though they may be less appealing for Bangladeshis focused on Europe. Still, they are worth mentioning:

• Argentina: Marriage allows an almost immediate citizenship application, with cases processed in as little as 8 months. No residency or language test is required.

• Brazil: Foreign spouses can apply after 1 year of residence.

• Peru: Citizenship can be granted after 2 years of marriage and residence.

These timelines are significantly faster than in Europe, but moving to South America may not align with every Bangladeshi’s migration goals.

Quick Comparison Table

Source: Daily Jugantor

Key Considerations for Bangladeshis

When exploring citizenship by marriage, Bangladeshis should keep the following in mind:

1. Marriage is not a shortcut: While it can reduce waiting times, citizenship still requires legal processes.

2. Residency matters: Most European countries demand at least some years of living together in the country.

3. Language and integration: Tests are common in France, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg, while Sweden is more lenient.

4. Genuine marriage requirement: Authorities investigate for fraudulent marriages. A marriage must be legally valid and genuine.

5. Dual citizenship: Bangladesh allows dual citizenship only with certain countries. Before applying abroad, check if you can retain your Bangladeshi nationality.

6. Legal assistance: Immigration laws change often; professional advice ensures you do not miss crucial details.

বিয়ে করলেই নাগরিকত্ব পাবেন যেসব দেশে বাংলা নিউজ

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I become a citizen automatically after marriage?
No. Marriage typically provides the right to apply for residency, which may lead to citizenship after fulfilling residence and integration requirements.

Which European country offers the fastest citizenship by marriage?
Spain is the fastest, with just 1 year of residency required for foreign spouses. Sweden is also attractive due to its relatively simple requirements.

Can I apply for citizenship while living outside Europe with my spouse?
In some cases, yes. Countries like Switzerland and Luxembourg allow facilitated naturalization even if the couple lives abroad, provided there are strong connections to the country.

Is language always required?
Not always. Sweden, for example, does not have a mandatory language requirement, while countries like France and Germany do.

Conclusion

For Bangladeshis considering marriage as a path to settlement abroad, it is important to understand that citizenship is not automatic. While a marriage can make the journey quicker, each country sets its own rules regarding residency, integration, and eligibility.

In Europe, Spain stands out as the fastest route with just 1 year of residency. Sweden, Portugal, and France also provide relatively short timelines. For those willing to explore beyond Europe, Argentina and Brazil offer some of the quickest citizenship-by-marriage options worldwide.

The best strategy is to carefully evaluate your target country, understand its legal requirements, and plan your marriage and migration journey realistically. Marriage may open doors, but it is still just the beginning of the pathway toward citizenship and permanent settlement abroad.