For many immigrants, including Nigerians, Europe remains one of the top four global destinations for migration, offering opportunities for education, employment, and the prospect of long-term settlement.
A 2024 report from the EU’s migration‑policy platform estimates that over 260,000 Nigerians currently reside in the European Union, highlighting the continent’s growing appeal to those seeking new prospects abroad
For many, obtaining the citizenship of these countries is the ultimate goal, a milestone that promises greater security, mobility, and access to opportunities.
Yet, in some EU nations, achieving this goal is complicated by strict dual‑citizenship restrictions.
These rules prevent individuals from holding multiple nationalities, meaning that migrants may be required to renounce their original citizenship to acquire a new one. Dual‑citizenship restrictions are designed to ensure clear lines of allegiance and accountability, addressing concerns such as taxation, military service, and political rights.
In some nations, culture plays a role, as citizenship is closely tied to national identity and social cohesion, and allowing multiple nationalities is seen as potentially weakening that unity.
Understanding which countries enforce these restrictions and the limitations at stake is therefore crucial for anyone planning to migrate.
Here are the 12 EU countries that restrict or do not allow dual citizenship
Monaco generally does not allow dual citizenship, naturalisation as a Monegasque citizen requires that an applicant renounce any previous nationality.
The law aims to guarantee exclusive allegiance to Monaco rather than split national loyalties. For those seeking citizenship in Monaco through naturalisation, the process is stringent; one must have lived in Monaco for at least ten uninterrupted years after turning 18.
In addition, a successful applicant must formally relinquish any foreign nationality they hold. Naturalisation is not automatic, it is granted at the discretion of the country’s sovereign.
