In a world where international mobility is increasingly valued, the ability to travel without restrictions is a key factor in assessing a second passport’s usefulness.
In this context, the Spanish passport has been ranked the most powerful in Europe in 2025, according to the RIF Trust Passport Index. This recognition highlights not only the strength of Spain’s travel document, but also the growing importance of having a passport that facilitates seamless movement.
How Is Passport Power Measured?
Passport rankings, such as the one compiled by RIF Trust, assess a passport’s ability to provide access to different countries without requiring a visa.
According to the index, the Spanish passport allows:
- Visa-free travel to 126 countries
- Entry to 31 destinations with a visa on arrival
- Access to 26 countries via an electronic visa (eVisa)
These rankings take several factors into account, such as:
- Number of visa-free destinations – The more countries a passport grants access to without additional procedures, the higher its value.
- Visa-on-arrival and eVisa policies – These simplify entry into certain countries.
- Freedom of residence and work – EU passports grant holders the right to live, study, and work in any of the 27 EU member states.
Why Passport Rankings Matter
A passport’s ranking is not just a matter of prestige—it is a practical tool for travelers, entrepreneurs, and investors. A passport with broad mobility benefits provides:
- Greater ease for international business – High-ranking passports allow entrepreneurs and professionals to travel without bureaucratic barriers, making expansion and trade easier.
- Unrestricted access to education and employment – Holding an EU passport, like Spain’s, enables individuals to work and study anywhere in the bloc without special permits.
- Enhanced security and relocation options – In an uncertain global climate, having a passport that grants access to multiple countries is an invaluable strategic advantage.
A Second Passport: Luxury or Necessity?
In today’s global landscape, holding a second nationality is no longer just a luxury—it is a strategic necessity.
Changes in immigration policies, economic volatility, and geopolitical crises have led many individuals to seek alternative mobility and security options.
A second passport offers:
- Protection in times of crisis – The ability to relocate easily in the event of political or economic instability.
- Diversification of opportunities – Access to new job markets, education, and investment opportunities.
- Tax optimization – Some jurisdictions allow for more efficient tax planning through dual citizenship.
How to Obtain a Spanish Passport
1. Citizenship by Residency
The most common way to obtain a Spanish passport is through naturalization by residency. Applicants must legally and continuously reside in Spain for 10 years before applying for nationality.
However, for citizens of Ibero-American countries—such as Chileans—as well as those from Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and Sephardic Jews, the residency requirement is reduced to two years.
2. Citizenship Through the Democratic Memory Law
Individuals with Spanish ancestry—such as grandchildren or great-grandchildren of Spaniards born abroad—may apply for nationality under the Democratic Memory Law, commonly known as the Grandchildren’s Law.
This option is only available until October 2025.
3. Residency by Investment (Golden Visa)
The Golden Visa program grants residency in Spain in exchange for an investment—usually in real estate valued at a minimum of €500,000.
- While this does not grant direct citizenship, it allows for residency.
- As mentioned earlier, Latin Americans can apply for nationality after two years of residency.
This option is only available until April 2025.
AIM Global Helps You Secure Your Second Passport
In a world where freedom of movement is an increasingly valuable asset, understanding passport rankings and exploring second citizenship options has become a strategic necessity.
At AIM Global, our team of professionals is ready to help you find the best second passport solution.
Schedule a meeting with us today and start your projects of a future with greater mobility and stability!
