Archive · 5 Nov 2025
Record 2.25 Lakh Indians Naturalized in OECD Countries in 2023
Imagine many people from India are moving to countries like the United States, Canada, and the UK.
These countries are part of a group called the OECD, which is like a club of rich and developed nations.
In 2023, a record number of over 2.25 lakh Indians became citizens of these OECD countries.
This is more than any other country's citizens.
It shows that more Indians are choosing to stay permanently in these countries.
Some people are doing this because it's becoming harder to get work visas, especially in the U.S. Having citizenship means they can live and work there more permanently and stably.
The OECD countries are popular because they offer good jobs, education, and a chance for a better future.
India has been the top country for new citizens in these nations for two years in a row.
A record 2.25 lakh Indians became citizens of OECD countries in 2023, the highest among all nationalities.
India has been the top source of new citizens for OECD member nations for two consecutive years.
The OECD is an alliance of 38 advanced and emerging economies known for prosperity and policy influence.
Indians are increasingly seeking citizenship for stability amidst tightening work visa regimes in advanced economies.
Key countries where Indians gained citizenship include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
- Who
- Indians
- What
- Acquired citizenship in OECD countries
- When
- 2023
- Where
- OECD countries (38 member nations including US, Canada, UK, Australia, and European countries)
- Why
- Seeking long-term opportunities, stability, and integration due to tightening visa restrictions and attractive prospects in advanced economies.
Focus on Citizenship & Stability
Focus on Broader Migration Drivers
Motivation for Citizenship
Focus on Citizenship & Stability
Tighter visa restrictions, particularly in the U.S. under the Trump administration, are pushing Indian professionals to seek permanent residency and citizenship for greater stability.
Focus on Broader Migration Drivers
While visa issues are a factor, the trend also reflects the attractiveness of OECD countries for skilled professionals, students, and entrepreneurs seeking long-term opportunities in leading economies.
Integration vs. Initial Move
Focus on Citizenship & Stability
The rise in naturalization rates indicates successful integration of Indians into OECD societies, signifying deeper global connectivity.
Focus on Broader Migration Drivers
The decision to seek citizenship is influenced by varying residency requirements, with countries like Canada and Australia having relatively shorter durations compared to some European nations with stricter benchmarks.
- Indians acquiring OECD citizenship (2023)
- 2.25 lakh
- India's rank in citizenship acquisition
- 1st among all nationalities for two consecutive years
- OECD member nations
- 38
- OECD founding year
- 1961
- Key countries for Indian naturalization
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia
