Canadian citizens looking to obtain European Union (EU) citizenship have several legal pathways, including ancestry, residency, naturalization, and investment programs. EU citizenship grants visa-free travel, work, and residency rights in 27 countries, making it an attractive option.
This guide explores the best ways Canadians can acquire EU nationality, along with the countries offering citizenship opportunities.
Many EU countries offer citizenship by descent if you have parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents from that country.
✅ Ireland – If you have an Irish parent or grandparent.
✅ Italy – If you have an Italian ancestor (no generational limit in some cases).
✅ Poland – If you have Polish ancestry (with conditions).
✅ Germany – If your ancestors were German citizens before World War II.
✅ Hungary – If you have Hungarian ancestry and can prove language proficiency.
Check eligibility here: Ireland Citizenship by Descent | Italy Citizenship by Descent
Canadian citizens can become EU citizens by living in an EU country for several years and applying for naturalization.
Portugal – 5 years of residency (one of the fastest in the EU).
Spain – 2 years for citizens of Latin American or former Spanish territories.
Belgium – 5 years of residency.
France – 5 years, or 2 years if you studied in France.
More info: Portugal Residency & Citizenship | French Citizenship Guide
Several EU countries allow Canadians to invest in real estate or businesses to fast-track permanent residency and citizenship.
Portugal – Golden Visa via a €500,000 investment (5-year path to citizenship).
Spain – Invest €500,000 in property (residency, then citizenship after 10 years).
Greece – Invest €250,000 in property (residency, then citizenship after 7 years).
Malta – Citizenship by investment (€750,000+ donation to the Maltese government).
Apply here: Portugal Golden Visa | Malta Citizenship Program
Some EU countries have fast-track pathways for Canadians due to historical ties.
Spain & Portugal – Only 2 years of residency required for Canadians with Latin American or Sephardic Jewish heritage.
Italy – No residency required for citizenship by descent.
Ireland – Irish grandparents allow direct citizenship registration without naturalization.
Canada allows dual citizenship, so you don’t need to renounce Canadian nationality when obtaining an EU passport.
However, some EU countries do not allow dual citizenship (e.g., Austria, the Netherlands). Check before applying!
More info: Canadian Dual Citizenship Rules
Canadian citizens have multiple options to acquire EU citizenship, whether through ancestry, residency, investment, or special nationality programs.
✔️ Check if you have European ancestry for the easiest path.
✔️ Consider residency programs like Portugal for a fast-track process.
✔️ Investment programs can offer quicker EU citizenship.
