What is Citizenship by Investment?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a legal pathway offered by selected countries that allows foreign investors to acquire citizenship and a second passport in exchange for a qualifying economic contribution. This may include a government donation, real estate purchase, investment in national development funds, or approved business ventures.
Unlike traditional naturalization, which often requires years of residency, language tests, or cultural integration, Citizenship by Investment offers a faster route. Most programs allow successful applicants to obtain citizenship in three to twelve months, without the need for relocation or physical residence in the host country.
These programs are designed to attract high-net-worth investors seeking greater global travel mobility, tax planning opportunities, enhanced security, access to better education, healthcare, and an improved quality of life.
In return, host governments use these investments to strengthen their economies, fund development projects, reduce debt, and create long-term national prosperity.
A Citizenship by Investment programme typically provides:
✔ Full citizenship for life, often with dual citizenship rights.
✔ A valid passport offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to major global destinations.
✔ The ability to live, work, and study in the host country (and in some cases, in wider regions like the European Union or Schengen Area).
✔ Family eligibility, allowing spouses, dependent children, and sometimes parents or siblings to be included.
Quick Comparison: Citizenship by Investment Programs
| Country | Minimum investment | Processing time | Visa-free access | Family eligibility | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antigua & Barbuda | $100K (donation) OR $200K real estate | 4–6 months | 101 countries | Yes, generous (spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings) | Best for large families with a University Fund option |
| Dominica | $100K (donation) OR $200K real estate | 6–9 months | 88 countries | Yes, spouse, dependents up to 30, senior parents | Most affordable and reputable CBI program |
| Grenada | $150K donation OR $220K+ real estate | 6–9 months | 94 countries | Yes, includes siblings | Only CBI with U.S. E-2 Visa eligibility |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | $250K donation OR $400K real estate | 4–6 months | 101 countries | Yes | Oldest CBI program, offers fast-track processing |
| St. Lucia | $100K donation OR $200K real estate OR $300K bonds | 10–12 months | 93 countries | Yes | Most flexible when it comes to investment options: bonds, donation, or real estate |
| Austria | €2M+ (exceptional contribution) | 24–36 months | 126 countries | Yes, immediate dependents | Exclusive EU passport but highly selective and not open to mass applicants |
| North Macedonia | €200K donation | 3–5 months | 79 countries | Yes, immediate family | Fast-track European citizenship option |
| Egypt | $250K+ donation, real estate, or bank deposit | 6–9 months | 21 countries | Yes, spouse & children under 21 | Africa’s only operational CBI, set in a strategic location |
| Jordan | $750K donation, real estate, or bonds | 3–6 months | 22 countries | Yes, immediate family | Business gateway to Middle East |
| Turkey | $400K real estate OR $500K deposit/bonds | 3–6 months | 70 countries | Yes, spouse & children | Best real estate-based CBI. Strategic Eurasian hub |
| Cambodia | ~$245K donation or business investment | 3–6 months | 23 countries | Yes | Access to ASEAN market. Land ownership possible |
| Nauru | $105K donation | 3–4 months | 42 countries | Yes, spouse & minor children | Pacific island citizenship with privacy and climate resilience |
| Vanuatu | $130K donation | 1–2 months | 46 countries | Yes | Fastest CBI program globally with full processing in weeks |
Best Citizenship by Investment Countries in 2025
Choosing the right Citizenship by Investment program depends on factors such as your budget, mobility goals, family needs, and long-term lifestyle preferences.
Caribbean nations like St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Antigua & Barbuda remain popular for their affordability and fast processing. These countries also rank highly in Global Citizen Solutions’ 2025 Global Passport Index for mobility and tax efficiency, with St. Kitts & Nevis offering visa-free access to over 150 destinations. Meanwhile, Turkey offers stronger mobility rights and ranks competitively in the Global Passport Index, particularly for its Investment Index score.
Some countries with Citizenship by Investment offer fast-track approval with low investment thresholds, while others provide access to prestigious passports with strong global mobility. Here’s a Citizenship by Investment countries list to help you make the best decision for your needs:
Caribbean
🇦🇬 1. Antigua & Barbuda
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $100,000 donation (NDF) • USD $200,000–$400,000 real estate • USD $150,000 University of West Indies Fund (for families of 6+) |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate • Business investment • University of West Indies Fund |
| Processing time | 4 – 6 months |
| Visa-free countries | 101 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouses, children up to 30, parents/grandparents and siblings (unmarried) |
Why choose Antigua & Barbuda?
One of the most family-friendly and affordable CBI programs, Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment offers a generous definition of dependents and lower incremental fees for larger families. It also provides a unique University Fund contribution option for bigger households (families of 6 and up). No residency is required, other than a short 5-day visit in a five year period.
🇩🇲 2. Dominica
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $100,000 donation • USD $200,000 real estate |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate |
| Processing time | 6 – 9 months (mandatory virtual interview) |
| Visa-free countries | 88 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, children under 30 and parents/grandparents 65+ |
Why choose Dominica?
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most affordable, reputable, and well-established globally, with strong due diligence, efficient processing, and no residency or language requirements. It is ideal for single applicants and small families looking for cost-effective second citizenship.
🇬🇩 3. Grenada
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $150,000 donation • USD $220,000 real estate (plus $50k govt fees) |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate |
| Processing time | 6 – 9 months |
| Visa-Free countries | 94 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, children under 30, parents, grandparents and unmarried siblings |
Why choose Grenada?
Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program stands apart thanks to its eligibility for the U.S. E2 Visa for Investors, which allows residency in the United States through business investment. It is the only Caribbean CBI country offering visa-free access to China, making it attractive to global entrepreneurs.
🇰🇳 4. St. Kitts & Nevis
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $250,000 donation • USD $400,000 real estate |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate |
| Processing time | 4 – 6 months (fast-track available) |
| Visa-free countries | 101 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, children, parents and siblings (with conditions) |
Why choose St. Kitts & Nevis?
The St Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment is the oldest program (established 1984), known for fast processing, strong passport power, and excellent global reputation. Offers accelerated processing in as little as 60 days. Suitable for investors seeking long-term stability and global recognition.
🇱🇨 5. St. Lucia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $100,000 donation • USD $200,000 real estate • USD $300,000 government bonds • USD $3.5M enterprise investment |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate • Government bonds • Enterprise |
| Processing time | 10 – 12 months |
| Visa-free countries | 93 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, children, parents and siblings (conditions apply) |
Why choose St. Lucia?
St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment program offers the most diverse investment options, including government bonds (fully refundable after holding period). Ideal for investors seeking flexibility, government-backed routes, and lower-risk investments.
Europe
🇦🇹 6. Austria (Discretionary Citizenship)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • €2 million+ |
| Investment options | • Major economic/business investment |
| Processing time | 24 – 36 months |
| Visa-free countries | 126 countries (one of the strongest EU passports) |
| Family eligibility | Limited, sometimes spouse and minor children |
Why choose Austria?
Austria does not have a traditional CBI program, but grants citizenship to individuals who make exceptional economic contributions or investments of national interest. The Austrian passport offers EU citizenship, exceptional reputation, and powerful global access.
🇲🇰 7. North Macedonia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • €200,000 donation |
| Investment options | • Donation to Development Fund |
| Processing time | 2 – 5 months |
| Visa-free countries | 79 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, but only immediate dependents |
Why choose North Macedonia?
A rapidly rising option in Europe, North Macedonia offers fast processing, lower costs compared to EU countries, and access to European market mobility, including E-2 treaty benefits with the United States. North Macedonia’s CBI program provides fast approval, straightforward requirements, and access to key markets in the Balkans.
Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
🇪🇬 8. Egypt
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $250,000 |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate • Bank deposit • Business investment |
| Processing time | 6 – 9 months |
| Visa-free countries | 21 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse and children under 21 |
Why choose Egypt?
Egypt’s Citizenship by Investment program is the only one of its kind in Africa, with affordable entry, strategic geographic location, and growing business potential in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) trade region.
🇯🇴 9. Jordan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • $750,000+ |
| Investment options | • Real estate • Government bonds • Business investment |
| Processing time | 3 – 6 months |
| Visa-free countries | 22 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, minor children and parents |
Why choose Jordan?
One of the few Middle Eastern countries to offer direct citizenship through investment, Jordan’s Citizenship by Investment appeals to investors seeking MENA business access, diversified investment, and cultural legacy.
🇹🇷 10. Turkey
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $400,000 |
| Investment options | • Real estate |
| Processing time | 3 – 6 months |
| Visa-free countries | 70 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse and dependent children |
Why choose Turkey?
The Turkey Citizenship by Investment program offers a real estate-based route, access to both Europe and Asia, and strong business appeal. Popular among investors seeking lifestyle benefits, strategic location, and property rental returns.
Asia
🇰🇭 11. Cambodia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • Around USD $245,000 donation or business |
| Investment options | • Donation • Business establishment |
| Processing time | 3 – 6 months |
| Visa-free countries | 23 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse and minor children |
Why choose Cambodia?
One of Asia’s most accessible routes, Cambodia’s Citizenship by Investment program offers land ownership rights, low tax exposure, and proximity to ASEAN markets, ideal for entrepreneurs and Asia-focused investors.
Oceania
🇳🇷 12. Nauru
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $105,000 donation |
| Investment options | • Nauru Treasury Fund |
| Processing time | 3 – 4 months |
| Visa-free countries | 42 countries |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse and children |
Why choose Nauru?
A rare Pacific island citizenship option promoting climate resilience and privacy, Nauru’s Citizenship by Investment program appeals to investors seeking investment anonymity, offshore benefits, and peaceful relocation options.
🇻🇺 13. Vanuatu
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | • USD $130,000 donation |
| Investment options | • Donation • Real estate • Business |
| Processing time | 1 – 2 months (fastest globally) |
| Visa-free countries | 46 countries (EU access was recently suspended) |
| Family eligibility | Yes, spouse, children and dependent parents |
Why choose Vanuatu?
The fastest Citizenship by Investment program in the world, Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment is ideal for time-sensitive applicants. Recently impacted by EU mobility changes, it is popular for tax freedom, asset protection, and privacy advantages.
Types of Investment Options for Citizenship by Investment
1. Real estate investment
Purchase government-approved property with potential rental income, capital appreciation, and resale options. Some countries require holding the property for a specific number of years, while others offer more flexible terms. This option appeals to investors seeking both dual citizenship and a tangible asset.
2. Non-refundable contribution
Make a one-time donation to a national development fund, education fund, or government relief program. Though this route doesn’t offer a financial return, it is typically the fastest and most straightforward path to citizenship. Contributions support national priorities such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education. For example, the OECD has evaluated the role of such funds in boosting sustainable development initiatives.
3. Business investment
Invest in or establish a local business in the host country. Qualifying businesses often need to create jobs, meet specific revenue targets, or operate in designated economic sectors. This option is ideal for entrepreneurs or investors looking to actively participate in the local economy. Organizations like the World Bank often track business environment improvements that make these programs more attractive.
4. Government bonds
Purchase low-risk, government-issued bonds with a specified maturity period. These investments are usually refundable at the end of the term but may not yield interest. Suitable for investors who prefer state-backed financial instruments with minimal risk.
5. Bank deposit
Deposit a fixed amount in a national or approved financial institution for a specified term. The deposit is typically non-interest-bearing but is returned in full upon maturity. This route is seen as secure and passive, often favored in MENA-region programs.
Qualify for real estate citizenship and a second passport by investing in government-approved properties.
Benefits of Citizenship by Investment Programs
- Global mobility: A second passport by investment opens the door to visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel access to 100+ countries, including the EU, UK, or China (depending on the issuing country).
- Wealth and tax optimization: Citizenship by Investment can offer access to countries with low taxes or even no taxes on income, capital gains, or inheritance. This allows for strategic wealth protection and tax optimization.
- Family inclusion: Most programs allow for the inclusion of spouses, dependent children, and sometimes extended family, securing their future as well.
- Security and stability: Citizenship offers a legal right to reside in a more politically or economically stable environment – an ideal Plan B.
- Investment diversification: Real estate or business investments in other countries offer returns, hedge risk, and diversify your financial portfolio.
- Access to education and healthcare: Citizenship in some countries unlocks access to top-tier education and public or private healthcare systems.
- Full citizenship rights: In many countries, citizenship grants the right to vote, work, study, own property, and pass citizenship to future generations.
Why Countries Offer Citizenship by Investment
Governments offer Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs to attract foreign direct investment and support long-term national development. These programs are strategically designed to boost economies, create jobs, and strengthen global competitiveness.
Key reasons include:
1. Attract foreign direct investment (FDI)
CBI programs provide an immediate capital inflow through real estate investments, government bonds, development funds, or business ventures.
2. Promote economic growth and infrastructure development
Funds collected are often directed toward public infrastructure, tourism, healthcare, education, and sustainability projects.
3. Create jobs and stimulate local industries
Investment in real estate and business generates employment and supports sectors like construction, hospitality, and financial services.
4. Strengthen global partnerships
By welcoming high-net-worth individuals, governments gain access to international talent, business networks, and cross-border investment opportunities.
5. Improve fiscal resilience and diversify revenue
CBI income helps smaller nations, especially in the Caribbean, reduce dependence on tourism or natural resources and stabilize public finances.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.
- We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance.
- Our team has never had a case rejected. Our 100 percent approval rate sets us apart from our competitors and guarantees that you can expect a successful application.
- Our transparent pricing covers all the processes from opening your bank account, document certification, and legal due diligence to investment and submission. As there is one fee for the entire process, you can be confident that you will not face any hidden costs later.
- All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server. You can be safe knowing that your personal data is treated with the utmost security.
- Global Citizen Solutions provides an all-encompassing solution. Our support can continue even after you receive your passport. We offer additional services such as company incorporation, Trusts, and Foundations formation.
- The BeGlobal Onboarding System® allows you to access the status of your application every step of the way, something that sets us apart from our competitors.
