Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer high-net-worth individuals and families a secure, and legally recognized pathway to acquire second citizenship. These programs, provide a unique opportunity to gain access to visa-free travel, favorable tax regimes, and business opportunities in thriving global markets.
Through significant investments in real estate, government bonds, or business ventures, investors are granted full citizenship rights, allowing them to live, work, and study in their chosen country . Whether you’re seeking enhanced global mobility, wealth diversification for your family’s future, Citizenship by Investment is the key .
Countries like St. Kitts & Nevis, Malta, and Portugal are among the leading destinations offering CBI programs. Avail benefits such as visa-free access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area, tax incentives, and lifestyle advantages . Speak with one of our golden visa experts at Fast Passport in Toronto.
$130,000+
4+ months
3 years
Investment amount
Passport obtaining period
Return of the investment
Citizenship by Investment Countries List 2024
01.
Cyprus offers visa-free access to over 160 countries, including the Schengen Area and Canada, making it a prime choice for those seeking global mobility. As an EU member state, Cyprus provides unparalleled tax optimization opportunities for businesses and individuals, with no inheritance tax and low corporate tax rates. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus offers a safe, stable environment, ideal for investors looking for a secure European haven.
02.
North Macedonia provides foreign investors with the opportunity to acquire citizenship in this strategically located, upper-middle-income country in Southeastern Europe. For an investment of EUR 200,000 into government-approved projects, applicants can secure full citizenship, offering access to visa-free travel across a range of countries, along with the benefits of residing in a fast-growing European economy.
03.
St. Lucia offers citizenship starting from USD 240,000, providing access to visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area and the UK. Investors also have the opportunity to apply for a 10-year visitor visa to the United States. With no taxes on foreign income, dividends, or capital gains, St. Lucia’s CBI program is an attractive option for those seeking global mobility and tax optimization.
04.
Portugal’s residence permit is acquired through Portugal Golden Visa program. It is a five-year investment-based residence route for non-EU nationals.
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Malta offers two independent yet complementary routes for Permanent Residency & Citizenship. The Malta Permanent Residence Program yields a straightforward permanent residency for those who wish to make Malta their home.
08.
Most affordable and competitive Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in the Caribbean. Starting investment of USD 100,000. secure full citizenship, which includes visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries. A unique advantage of Antigua & Barbuda’s program is its E-2 visa treaty with the United States
09.
The Citizenship-by-Investment program in Dominica was established in 1993, offering individuals and their families irrevocable second citizenship and passport in just four to six months.
10.
Grenada
Grenada provides the only citizenship by investment program with the option to apply for E-2 USA ‘Investor Visa’ to reside in the USA. At the same time only Grenada’s Passport offers visa-free access to China.
11.
Saint Kitts & Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis introduced their first citizenship by investment program in 1984, not only allowing investors to acquire a citizenship, but also to obtain it under irrevocable pretenses.
12.
USA Investor Visa
13.
Costa Rica citizenship is an ideal option to live abroad and is also a great place to invest. The country is a favorable destination for foreign investments.Moving to Costa Rica is possible – and with us,
Applicant? Interested in any of these economic citizenship programs. Carefully review the options at hand and make the best investment decision with our help..
What is Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is an immigrant invetor program. These programs are government-approved initiatives that allow individuals to acquire citizenship in exchange for a financial investment in a country’s economy. These programs offer a fast-tracked route to obtaining a second passport, enabling investors to enjoy the benefits of dual citizenship without long residency requirements. Unlike naturalization processes that can take years, CBI programs grant citizenship within months, making them attractive for high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility, economic security, and access to international markets.
Countries like St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, and Cyprus are known for their well-structured CBI programs, providing not only legal residency but also the potential for visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including access to the Schengen Area
Common Investment Types in Citizenship by Investment Programs
CBI programs offer a range of investment options that appeal to individuals with different financial goals. Some of the most common investment types include:
Real Estate Investments: Many countries allow investors to acquire citizenship through the purchase of government-approved real estate properties. This option is popular for those seeking return on investment through property appreciation or rental income. Countries like St. Lucia and Cyprus offer this option as a part of their CBI programs
Government Bonds or Donations: Another popular route is making a donation to a national development fund or purchasing government bonds. These investments directly contribute to national development and are often the most straightforward way to obtain citizenship. For instance, Antigua & Barbuda allows a donation starting at USD 100,000
Business Investments: Certain countries like Malta and North Macedonia offer CBI programs that encourage business investment, either through creating jobs or investing in government-approved business ventures
. This option is particularly appealing to those looking to establish or expand their business presence in Europe or the Caribbean.
How to Choose a Country for Obtaining a Second Passport?
Choosing the right country for a second passport depends on personal and financial goals. When evaluating options, potential investors should consider the following factors:
Global Mobility: One of the key reasons for pursuing CBI is to enhance global mobility. Look for countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a large number of destinations, such as Cyprus, which grants access to over 160 countries, or Antigua & Barbuda, which offers access to over 150 countries .
Tax Benefits: Different countries offer varying degrees of tax advantages, such as no taxes on foreign income, capital gains, or inheritance. Countries like St. Kitts & Nevis and St. Lucia are particularly attractive to individuals looking for tax optimization .
Residency Requirements: Some programs require minimal or no residency in the country to maintain citizenship. For instance, Antigua & Barbuda requires only five days of residency over five years, making it ideal for individuals who do not wish to relocate .
By weighing these factors, investors can find a country that best aligns with their personal needs, whether it’s for global mobility, tax optimization, or long-term security.
What Are The Key Benefits of Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer a strategic opportunity for individuals and families to secure global mobility, economic stability, and a safe, future-proof investment. By obtaining a second citizenship, applicants unlock several crucial benefits:
Visa-Free Travel: One of the core advantages of CBI programs is enhanced global mobility. Countries like St. Kitts & Nevis, Malta, and Cyprus grant visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including key global regions like the Schengen Area, UK, and Hong Kong. This can be a major benefit for investors looking to diversify their travel options or business interests .
Economic Security & Tax Optimization: CBI programs offer a secure gateway to countries with favorable tax regimes. For example, St. Lucia has no taxes on foreign income, capital gains, or inheritances, making it an ideal location for high-net-worth individuals looking to protect their wealth while diversifying their assets
. Many programs offer dual citizenship, enabling tax benefits without giving up citizenship in the applicant’s home country
Access to New Markets & Business Expansion: For entrepreneurs and investors, CBI programs can serve as a bridge to enter emerging and established markets. For example, Cyprus offers access to the European market, while countries like Antigua & Barbuda offer unique access to North American markets through their E-2 visa treaty with the United States
These programs not only provide enhanced travel flexibility but are strategically designed for wealth preservation and economic diversification, particularly for individuals from countries with volatile economies. They allow investors to protect their assets from political and financial instability, making CBI an invaluable wealth-management tool.
What Are The Requirements for Obtaining Citizenship by Investment
While Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are generally streamlined, specific requirements vary across countries. Here are some common and crucial criteria for investors to consider:
Minimum Investment Threshold: Each country sets its own financial requirements. For instance, Antigua & Barbuda requires a minimum donation of USD 100,000 to the National Development Fund, whereas North Macedonia requires an investment of EUR 200,000 in government-approved projects .
Due Diligence & Background Checks: Applicants must undergo extensive due diligence to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. This includes providing a clean criminal record and a verified source of funds. The due diligence process not only protects the integrity of the program but also ensures that only trustworthy individuals are granted citizenship .
Physical Residency Requirements: While some CBI programs have no physical presence requirement, others may require minimal residency. For example, Antigua & Barbuda mandates just five days of residence over five years to maintain citizenship . Conversely, Cyprus allows applicants to maintain citizenship without needing to physically reside in the country .
Informational Gain Angle: Many programs provide flexibility with residency, allowing applicants to retain their primary residence elsewhere while benefiting from the citizenship advantages. This aspect is crucial for globally mobile individuals who wish to maintain their businesses or lives in different regions but want the added security and benefits of a second passport.
How to Choose the Right Country for a Second Passport?
Selecting the ideal country for a second passport is a decision influenced by personal goals, financial considerations, and global mobility needs. Here’s how to evaluate your options:
Geopolitical and Economic Stability: Opt for countries with a history of political stability and strong economies. For example, Cyprus and Malta are part of the European Union, providing security within a robust EU framework. Additionally, countries like St. Kitts & Nevis are renowned for their stable political environments, making them a safe haven for wealth preservation .
Visa-Free Access and Global Reach: If global mobility is a priority, look for programs that provide wide-reaching visa-free access. For instance, Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program offers visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the Schengen Zone, the UK, and Canada .
Taxation and Wealth Management: For high-net-worth individuals, taxation policies are crucial. Programs like those in St. Lucia and Antigua & Barbuda offer favorable tax environments with no taxes on global income, capital gains, or wealth . If tax optimization is a key goal, these programs provide a compelling advantage.
Choosing the right country depends not only on the immediate benefits (like visa-free travel) but also on long-term considerations such as asset protection, wealth management, and future-proofing against geopolitical risks. High-net-worth individuals should assess both short-term mobility needs and long-term financial security when selecting their second passport.
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Frequently asked questions
Second citizenship allows individuals to hold passports from two or more countries, without bilateral agreements on dual nationality. Investors gain visa-free travel, tax optimization, and business opportunities across multiple regions, enhancing global mobility and securing financial stability for their families.
Countries like Vanuatu provide the fastest CBI process, offering citizenship in just 1-4 months. Caribbean nations such as St. Kitts & Nevis and Antigua & Barbuda also provide relatively quick pathways to citizenship, typically within 3-6 months depending on the investment route and due diligence.
Most CBI programs require a minimum financial investment (starting from $100,000), a clean criminal record, and a due diligence check. Investments can be made in real estate, government funds, or businesses. Physical residency is often not required, making these programs attractive for globally mobile individuals.
Yes, most CBI programs allow investors to include spouses, children, and sometimes parents in their application. Countries like Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica provide family-friendly options with cost-effective solutions for larger families, making them highly attractive for securing family future mobility.
Choosing the right country depends on your goals—consider visa-free travel, tax benefits, and investment options. For example, Malta offers EU access, while St. Lucia offers a tax haven with no global income tax. Look at factors like residency requirements, market access, and long-term economic stability.
Yes, countries like Turkey, St. Lucia, and Antigua & Barbuda allow citizenship through real estate investments. Investors can purchase government-approved properties starting from $200,000 to qualify, making it a viable option for those seeking a tangible investment along with citizenship.
