For global travellers, entrepreneurs, and investors, a second passport can be more than just a convenience; it’s a gateway to new opportunities. Citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes allow eligible individuals to obtain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying financial contribution. These programmes are popular among people seeking greater global mobility, tax advantages, or a safe alternative residence.
Below, we explore some of the most popular countries that currently offer citizenship by investment, their requirements, and the benefits they provide.
1. St Kitts and Nevis
The Caribbean nation of St Kitts and Nevis runs one of the oldest and most respected CBI programmes. Applicants can qualify by contributing to the Sustainable Island State Contribution Fund or by investing in approved real estate.
• Minimum investment: $250,000 (fund donation)
• Processing time: 4–6 months
• Key benefits: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, and Hong Kong.
2. Dominica
Dominica’s CBI programme is known for being one of the most affordable. The process is straightforward, making it popular among business travellers.
• Minimum investment: $200,000 (real estate) or $100,000 (Economic Diversification Fund donation)
• Processing time: 3–6 months
• Key benefits: Visa-free travel to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Zone and Singapore.
3. Grenada
Grenada offers citizenship through a government donation or real estate purchase. A unique advantage is that Grenadian citizens are eligible for the E-2 Investor Visa in the US, which allows residency for those who invest in a US business.
• Minimum investment: $150,000 (donation) or $220,000 (real estate)
• Processing time: 4–6 months
• Key benefits: Visa-free access to 140+ countries, plus the opportunity for US residency through the E-2 treaty.
4. St Lucia
St Lucia provides one of the most flexible CBI programmes, offering several routes, including donation, real estate, enterprise investment, or government bonds.
• Minimum investment: $100,000 (donation)
• Processing time: 3–6 months
• Key benefits: Visa-free access to over 140 destinations, including Europe’s Schengen states and the UK.
5. Antigua and Barbuda
This dual-island nation requires either a fund donation, real estate investment, or business investment. One unique condition is that new citizens must spend at least 5 days in the country within the first 5 years.
• Minimum investment: $100,000 (donation for a family of up to four) or $200,000 (real estate)
• Processing time: 4–6 months
• Key benefits: Visa-free travel to 150+ countries, including the Schengen Area and the UK.
6. Malta
Unlike the Caribbean programmes, Malta offers a path to European Union citizenship, making it highly desirable. Applicants must contribute to the national development fund, invest in property, and meet residency requirements.
• Minimum investment: Approx. €690,000+ (including donation, property, and fees)
• Processing time: 12–36 months
• Key benefits: EU citizenship, granting the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union, plus visa-free access to 180+ countries.
7. Turkey
Turkey’s programme has gained popularity due to its fast processing and relatively low investment threshold. Applicants usually qualify through real estate purchases.
• Minimum investment: $400,000 (real estate)
• Processing time: 3–6 months
• Key benefits: Turkish citizenship grants access to Turkey’s dynamic economy and eligibility to apply for an E-2 visa in the US.
Conclusion
Citizenship by investment isn’t just about travel; it’s about freedom, opportunity, and security. From the Caribbean’s affordability to Europe’s EU access, these programmes provide real paths to a second passport. Since rules change often, always seek professional advice to choose the program that best fits your needs.
