As the globalisation of the world continues to expand, more and more Australians seek second passports to unblock different kinds of opportunity for them and their families. 

This trend has seen a continued rise with even more Aussies becoming dual citizens now than ever. But the question on every other person’s lips is why? 

Whether it is a second passport from Canada, any of the Caribbean countries, or European countries like Portugal and Ireland. 

Aussies are taking that second passport to enjoy global job opportunities, cultural connections especially as Australia seems to be a distance from the rest of the world, and even to secure their futures.

Have you ever wondered what holding a second passport unlocks for you? Then you’re at the right place as we’ll highlight some of the reasons why Aussies are securing dual citizenships and how you too can take advantage of this opportunity. 

What’s Driving The Trend?

Australians keep getting second passports that opens them to the rest of the world with a noticeable increase since 2020 and the primary driver behind this is the Dual Citizenship Act enacted on April 4, 2002 which allowed Aussies to hold dual passports. 

Prior to this, Australians who got a second passport would have to forfeit their Australian citizenship. 

Since then, Aussies driven by both practical and personal reasons have explored dual citizenship options in many countries. 

With globalisation also playing a big role as Australians are chasing careers, lifestyle, and education abroad. The increase post-COVID is due to the natural instincts to explore the world after being restricted to a certain area for a while. 

With the rise of platforms like My Heritage and Ancestor Records helping people know more about their lineage, Aussies are seeking those cultural ties by tracking citizenships in those countries. 

5 Key Reasons Aussies Are Going Dual 

Now to the question on everybody’s lips. Why are Aussies exploring dual citizenship? Here are some of the primary reasons why holding a second passport has become unimportant to Australians:

1. Unlocking Global Careers

Younger Aussies looking to expand their careers take advantage of the endless opportunities a second passport brings. Instead of being limited to only global roles and Australian roles, they can shop from a larger pool like the American and European job markets by holding a passport from a country in that region. 

This is especially common with creative talents and those in tech, among others. A software engineer with a Portuguese second passport can land a role in Spain. 

2. Travel And Lifestyle Perks

While Australia has a relatively strong passport in terms of visa-free access to many countries, it still possesses some limitations which the right second passport can unlock. 

If your lifestyle involves lots of travel whether for business, or leisure, you can make it a lot less stressful by securing the right second passport. Escape the hassle and long border protocols, save time, and get visa-free access to even more countries. The two passports when combined gives you so much access.  

3. Family And Legacy

Sometimes it's all for the kids. Parents can seek that second passport so their kids can get better education or residency in another country. In this case, family legacy is on the line and the decision is based on this.

4. Cultural Reconnection

With many heritage checking sites available right now including Australian centric options like the National Library of Australia, many Aussies are tracing their lineage. 

Those who trace this to other countries tend to want a connection to their roots. The need for a cultural connection leads them to seek a second passport. 

5. Future-Proofing For Uncertainty

After COVID, many Aussies started to see the need for a Plan B amid the economic and geopolitical shifts in the world. The UK for example has seen a 6% increase in citizenship applications in 2024, a record increase, with more people looking for second options. 

Australians are not left behind, as people want to secure their future in the event of any uncertainty.

Challenges And Considerations

A second passport as an Australian comes with many benefits but also some challenges. It is vital to consider all these before making a decision. Here are the challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

Paperworks

There are lots of documents that are required to complete a citizenship application which can be a challenge for most people put together. This is why it is helpful to seek the help of migration agents. 

Requirements

Some of the requirements before getting citizenship can be quite the challenge. With some countries like Italy requiring language proficiency tests before citizenship is granted. 

While countries Portugal and Spain do not have straightforward citizenship programs, you would be required to go through their residency programs. Thankfully, there are reputed consultants such as Global Residence Index that can guide you through the process. 

Cost

It usually costs a significant amount to obtain a second passport, especially when it is through citizenship by investment. So you have to consider the cost implication and be sure you can comfortably cover this before starting the process. 

You can also choose the country that best suits your budget as they all have varying costs. 

Timeline

While citizenship applications in countries like Saint Kitts and Nevis take around two months, those from countries that first require residency like Portugal can take 5 to 10 years. Consider this before making a decision.

Obligations

Obligations in your two countries vary so you want to know what is required of you. From tax to military service. Countries like the US require you to file tax returns even if you’re living in Australia.

How To Start Your Journey

With all the requirements out of the way, here is a simple guide to starting your journey to a second citizenship as an Australian:

• Research Eligibility

The research stage involves checking which countries are available to you to secure a second passport as an Australian citizen. Start by tracing your ancestry to see if you qualify for any. Other channels that can give you a route to citizenship include marriage, investment, or residency. 

Also confirm if these countries support dual citizenships so you don’t have to renounce your Aussie citizenship.

• Contact Embassies or Migration Agents

After doing your research, it is time to reach out to the appropriate embassies or a professional migration agent like Global Residence Index to help you with the process. 

• Gather Documents

Documents required vary depending on the country but things like proof of income, birth certificate, current passport, marriage or divorce certificate, among others. Managing the paperworks becomes easier if the process is handled by a migration agent. 

• Budget

Ensure you have the money required for the process. From passport and registration cost to consultation fees.

Dual citizenship is not a way to dilute your Australian identity but enriching, helping you export your culture to different parts of the world. 

Aussies are securing a second passport so they can connect with their cultural heritage, explore global opportunities, travel the world with few restrictions, and secure their futures.

You too can take advantage of this opportunity presented by the Australian government in 2002 that made it possible for Aussies to hold two passports. 

Depending on the country you choose, you can get that second passport in months. While many shy away from the application process due to the paperwork and follow-up required, the whole process gets easier when handled by a professional migration agents.