11 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2025

Citizenship by Investment programs (CBI) allows investors and their families to obtain citizenship by making a significant financial investment in the country’s economy. This investment usually involves real estate purchases, contributions to government funds or a national development fund, or investment in a local business.

These programs provide the benefits of visa-free travel and favorable tax regimes but also contribute to the economic development of the host countries. Whether it’s the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean or the culturally rich landscapes of Europe, each program offers distinct advantages tailored to diverse investor preferences.

This guide will answer all questions about the best citizenship by investment programs, including:

• • What is Citizenship by Investment?
  • 11 Best Citizenship by Investment programs in 2025
  • Top Citizenship by Investment Programs Comparison
  • Investment Options for Citizenship by Investment
  • Benefits of Getting Citizenship by Investment
  • 10 Residency by Investment Programs: An Alternative to CBI 

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by investment (CBI) is the process of acquiring a second citizenship in exchange for a significant financial contribution that helps the country grow and develop.

Citizenship by investment programs is a mutually beneficial way for countries to attract foreign money and skilled people to help their economies grow.

A second passport through economic citizenship gives you dual citizenship, giving you legal status and rights in two countries.

11 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2025

1. Austria Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €3 million
• Time to citizenship: Citizenship is granted at the discretion of the government.
• Residency requirement: none

Austria’s citizenship by investment program has detailed and demanding eligibility criteria; however, it substantially benefits foreign nationals who successfully gain Austrian citizenship and EU passports.

To participate in Austria’s citizenship by investment program, a minimum value of €3 to 10 million in an Austrian business is required. Eligible companies must meet specific criteria, including creating jobs for Austrian citizens, growth potential, and a solid international reputation.

Key benefits of the Austria citizenship by investment program:

• European passport in an EU country
• The Austrian passport ranks the highest of all countries with citizenship by investment schemes.
• Visa-free travel and visa-on-arrival access to 181 countries worldwide
• One of the world’s safest countries, ranking fifth overall in the Global Peace Index

2. Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $230,000
• Time to citizenship: Four to five months
• Residency requirement: Five days

Antigua and Barbuda are two island nations that have offered the best Caribbean citizenship through investment. They are among those with the most affordable citizenship in CBI countries. Investors can acquire a second passport by contributing $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund (NDF).

Antigua and Barbuda have become top choices for acquiring citizenship by investment, offering a strategic location near the United States and affordable investment options.

Key benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program:

• The second highest ranking passport of CBI programs offering Caribbean passports
• Visa-on-arrival and visa-free travel privileges to 148 countries worldwide
• Multiple investment options, including a donation to the University of the West Indies Fund
• The most affordable citizenship program for a family of four, with a total investment of about $280,000, including passport fees

3. Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $200,000
• Time to citizenship: Six to nine months
• Residency requirement: None

Dominica is largely considered one of the best Caribbean programs granting citizenship through foreign direct investment. The investment requirement starts at $200,000 through a contribution to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund (EDF).

There is also the option of purchasing government-approved real estate for $200,000, which generally includes high-end tourist accommodation.

Key benefits of the Dominica citizenship by investment program:

• A $200,000 donation to the Economic Diversification Fund makes it the most affordable option for single applicants.
• Lowest real estate cost per square meter among Caribbean CBI countries.
• Including up to six family members in real estate investments requires no extra investment.
• No residency, visits, or interviews are needed for a second passport.
• Visa-on-arrival and visa-free travel to around 138 countries.

4. Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $235,000
• Time to citizenship: Nine months
• Residency requirement: None

Grenada has emerged as a strong option for obtaining a second passport in the Caribbean for numerous reasons. The country has made doing business simple, and its close ties with the United States make it a great choice for Americans and other nationalities. Investors can donate $235,000 to Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF).

Another route to obtaining a Grenada passport is by purchasing real estate in government-approved projects for $270,000 for shared ownership or $350,000 for sole ownership.

Key benefits of the Grenada citizenship by investment program:

• The only Caribbean country offering investors the chance to settle in the USA through the US E2 Visa program.
• Include immediate family, a dependent parent, or a sibling from a single qualifying property investment.
• Grenada is the least hurricane-prone Caribbean country.
• Visa-free access to 140 countries, including China and Russia.

5. Jordan Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $750,000
• Time to citizenship: three to six months
• Residency requirement: None

Jordan is the only Middle Eastern country with a citizenship-by-investment program, making it a unique choice for dual citizenship. It attracts international investors with its strategic location, rich Islamic culture, and the benefits of a second passport. The minimum investment is $750,000 in real estate.

Key benefits of the Jordan citizenship by investment program:

• The only country in the Middle East offering citizenship by investment.
• Prime for lucrative investments through the country’s Economic Modernization Vision.
• A country with one of the lowest levels of domestic, international, and organized conflict.
• The cheapest real estate by square meter of all countries offering citizenship programs.
• Visa-free travel to over 85 countries.

6. Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €600,000
• Time to citizenship:  12 to 36 months
• Residency requirement: None

Gaining citizenship by investment in EU countries has become increasingly appealing to foreign investors.

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program (CES) provides a path to citizenship in the EU in as little as 12 months from a non-refundable investment of €750,000, a real estate investment of €600,000 or a five-year lease agreement totaling €16,000 annually, and a charitable donation of €10,000.

Key benefits of the Maltese citizenship by investment program:

• The cheapest and fastest option to obtain European citizenship by naturalization
• Ranked in the top 30 countries on the Global Passport Index.
• Provides visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 172 countries worldwide.
• Freedom of movement throughout the European Union.

7. St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $250,000
• Time to citizenship: Four to six months
• Residency requirement: None

St Kitts and Nevis government’s citizenship by investment program has continuously improved over time. Investors can get a second passport by making a $250,000 contribution to the country’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)—formerly the Sustainable Growth Fund. Applicants can also choose between joint real estate investments or purchasing a single-family home.

Key benefits of the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program:

• Offers a wide range of real estate options, including commercial and residential.
• Highest Investment Index ranking in the Global Passport Index.
• Strongest Caribbean passport, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 160 countries.

8. St Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $240,000
• Time to citizenship:  10 to 12 months
• Residency requirement: None

St Lucia’s citizenship by investment program is highly regarded in the world of citizenship. With a small yet stable political environment and economy, the country provides a seamless application process for acquiring citizenship. St Lucia’s low minimum investment amount starts from donating $240,000 to the St Lucia National Economic Fund.

Key benefits of the St Lucia citizenship by investment program:

• Lower average cost per square meter for property investment compared to other Caribbean CBI countries.
• Quick processing time, with most applications completed within 10 to 12 months.
• Diverse investment options, including affordable real estate and refundable government bonds.
• No extra fees or investments to include immediate family members and dependents when investing in government bonds.
• Visa-on-arrival and visa- free travel to 142 countries.

9. Turkey Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $400,000
• Time to citizenship:  12 months
• Residency requirement: None

For those searching for the most cost-effective investment destinations, overlooking Turkey would be a missed opportunity. The country is a great choice for real estate investment and offers access to a skilled workforce at affordable rates, making it ideal for entrepreneurs. Starting a business or investing in real estate with a minimum of $400,000 can lead to Turkish citizenship.

Key benefits of the Turkey citizenship by investment program:

• No need to invest in government-approved real estate projects for the real estate investment option.
• One of two CBI countries offering a route to settle in the USA through the US E2 Visa Program.
• Access to skilled, affordable labor and a strategic location between Europe and Asia.
• The only CBI country in the top 20 economies in the world by GDP.
• Travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to 134 countries.

10. Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $130,000
• Time to citizenship: 60 days
• Residency requirement: None

Despite its geographical isolation, Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Scheme has gained significant interest from foreign nationals seeking second citizenship. The country’s minimal eligibility criteria and fast application process have led to increased capital investment from overseas and a growing number of applications for the Vanuatu CBI program. Investors have the sole option of donating $130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program.

Key benefits of the Vanuatu Citizenship by investment program:

• The fastest CBI program in the world, with citizenship granted in just 60 days.
• No personal income tax on local or worldwide earnings.
• Option to pay an annual fee between $300 and $1,000 for a 20-year corporate tax exemption.

11. North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €200,000
• Time to citizenship:  six to 12 months
• Residency requirement: None

North Macedonia citizenship by investment provides the cheapest route to European citizenship. Its citizenship program schemes start with a minimum investment of €200,000 in a private investment fund established in the country. While its CBI program grants citizenship in Europe, it doesn’t come with freedom of movement in the European Union as a non-EU member.

Key benefits of the North Macedonia CBI program

• Affordable investment options with lower requirements compared to other similar programs.
• Access to visa-on-arrival or visa-free travel to over 140 countries.
• Attractive tax incentives for business owners and investors.

Top Citizenship by Investment Programs Comparison

Choosing the best citizenship by investment program and the country to have a second passport is not only determined by the investment requirements but there are many factors to consider, like the quality of life, enhanced mobility, and more. Global Citizen Solutions has a comprehensive Global Passport Index to help cover all bases when selecting an investment scheme.

Investment Options for Citizenship by Investment

The variety of immigrant investor programs that lead to citizenship is undeniable. Therefore, there is a comprehensive citizenship by investment comparison to help make the decision process easier. However, every program has different investment options, but the standard ones include:

Bank deposits

Some countries offer citizenship for depositing money in a national bank. It’s a low-risk way to invest, and the money can earn interest. After a set time, it may be refunded, depending on the rules. This is a popular, safe investment option.

Real estate investment

Real estate is a popular option in many countries, including luxury homes, apartments, or offices. Investors can benefit from property value growth and rental income.

Business investment

Starting a new enterprise or funding an existing business supports job creation and economic growth. Countries may favor sectors like technology, tourism, or manufacturing to boost specific industries.

Job creation

Another route is to create a set number of jobs for local citizens. This investment directly reduces unemployment and helps grow the local economy.

Government bonds

Buying government bonds is a low-risk investment where you lend money to the government for regular interest payments. The money is locked in for a few years but is usually refundable after that period. These government bonds are secure, backed by the government, and a reliable way to protect your capital.

Government donation

Contributing to a national development fund is a fast option. The money goes towards public projects like infrastructure, healthcare, or education, helping the country’s growth.

Benefits of Getting Citizenship by Investment

The most prominent advantage of citizenship by investment programs is their ability to enhance the global mobility of individuals from countries with limited visa-free travel options according to the Global Intelligence Unit’s “The Transformation of Citizenship” report.

Here are further benefits of CBI programs:

1. Fast citizenship processing time: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are set apart by how fast you can gain citizenship. Unlike traditional immigration processes that may take years, Citizenship by investment allows you to get citizenship status much quicker. This means you can immediately start using the benefits, like visa-free travel and tax advantages.

2. Freedom to travel: If you acquire a strong second passport, you will be able to access many countries without needing a visa or with a visa-on-arrival, saving time and effort. This benefit makes it easier to explore the world and opens up more travel opportunities compared to weaker passports.

3. Improved quality of life: A second passport can give you access to healthcare, world class education, and safer living conditions in more stable countries. It allows you to live in a foreign country with a higher standard of living and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable lifestyle.

4. Economic advantages: Some countries with citizenship programs have low taxes or no taxes on certain income, which can save you money. An alternative citizenship also lets you open bank accounts or invest in other countries, which can protect your wealth and grow your savings.

5. Security and backup: A second passport gives you a safe option in a crisis in your home country. It provides you with a place to go and live peacefully if things go wrong. It’s like having a backup plan for you and your family.

6. Property ownership: A second passport by investment often lets you buy property in your new country. You can own homes or invest in real estate without restrictions. This gives you more freedom to create a stable life or diversify your investments.

Alternative to CBI: Top 10 Residency by Investment Programs

1.  Portugal Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: Seven days a year for five years

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is a two-year residency by investment initiative that provides foreign nationals and their family members with a renewable residence permit in exchange for a minimum qualifying investment in its economy.

While the Portugal Golden Visa program doesn’t offer direct citizenship, it’s one of the most sought-after investor residence schemes in Europe, starting from a relatively low €250,000 investment. Investors can renew their Golden Visa temporary permit, and after five years of legal residence in Portugal, they can apply to obtain permanent residency and citizenship by naturalization.

2. Greece Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Seven years
• Residency requirement: None

The Greece Golden Visa doesn’t offer a direct route to citizenship, but it can help investors who have spent 183 days each year for seven years become Greek citizens.

The minimum investment amount for high-demand regions is €800,000 and €400,000 for all other regions in Greece. Smaller investments of €250,000 are also available. But, they only apply to commercial properties converted into residential ones and properties that hold cultural and historical significance and have been restored. Investors can keep their renewable permanent residency status, provided they maintain their investment.

3. Spain Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €500,000
• Time to citizenship:  10 years
• Residency requirement: Ten days a year for two years

Spain’s Golden Visa program is a popular choice for those looking for economic citizenship in the European Union. While there is no direct path to citizenship through economic contributions, you can apply for citizenship through naturalization after living in Spain for ten years.

The minimum investment required is €500,000, and investors can choose to invest in real estate or purchase government bonds. After five years, investors can apply for permanent residence permits, provided they maintain their investments and renew their visas. However, this program will end on 3 April 2025.

4. United States Immigrant Investor Visas

• Minimum investment: $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 in other areas.
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: Six months in a year

The United States offers two investor visa programs for anyone seeking residence – the US-EB5 and E2 Visa. The two visa programs enable investors to receive legal residence status in the United States, provided they substantially contribute to the US economy. Both programs allow the main applicant’s immediate family to qualify for the same benefits, meaning they can all legally relocate to the United States.

Investing in the US EB5 and E2 Visa programs offers advantages, such as a Green Card with work rights and the chance for stable returns. The EB5 Visa leads to US citizenship after five years, while the E2 Visa is for those starting or expanding a business in the US.

For investment, you can start a business, create ten jobs, or invest in a qualified enterprise. The E2 Visa requires at least $100,000, and the EB5 Visa starts at $1.05 million or $800,000 in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs).

5. Canada Start-up Visa

• Minimum investment: No specific minimum investment, but you must secure support from a designated Canadian organization
• Time to citizenship:  Three years
• Residency requirement: Two out of five years

Canada doesn’t offer a straight route via a Citizenship by Investment program like the Caribbean countries do. However, you can achieve the same result by opting for a Canada Start-up Visa.

Canada’s residency by investment program targets innovative entrepreneurs who want to start businesses in the country. There is no minimum investment requirement, but applicants must secure support from a designated Canadian organization. You can apply for Canadian citizenship after three years as a permanent resident.

6. United Arab Emirates Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: AED 2 million
• Time to citizenship:  No citizenship by residency is given in a few months
• Residency requirement: none

The United Arab Emirates Golden Visa program is the only one in the Middle East that provides an opportunity for foreign investors and skilled professionals to obtain long-term residency. This exclusive program allows eligible individuals to secure residence for five to ten years by making qualifying investments in the UAE.

Regarding qualifying investments, the UAE government provides a unique set of eligibility criteria beyond direct investments for foreigners to qualify for their program. These include:

• Investing AED 2 million ($545,000) in real estate investment in designated zones.
• Depositing AED 2 million into a bank account held with a UAE financial institution.
• Operating an established business as a partner with a turnover of at least AED 100,000 (about $27,000).
• Receiving support from a UAE business incubator for an innovative business valued at least AED 500,000 (about $136,000).
• Being an outstanding specialized talent in specific fields, including sports, culture, healthcare, art, science, and engineering.

7. Serbia Residency by Investment

• Minimum investment: No minimum investment
• Time to citizenship:  three years
• Residency requirement:183 days per year

The Serbian Residency by Investment is for those interested in acquiring residency in Serbia through real estate purchases. A foreign national must first purchase a property within the country to qualify for residency. This can include various real estate types, such as apartments, houses, or commercial properties.

Serbia’s investor program stands out because there are no restrictions on property price or location. It also allows investors access to visa-free travel within the European Union, making it easier to do business in nearby countries. However, foreigners from countries without a reciprocity agreement may need to set up a legal entity to buy property.

8. Latvia Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €50,000
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: No residency requirement

The Latvia Golden Visa program primarily targets non-EU citizens wishing to establish residency in Europe. It is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals who want residency and the benefits that come with it, such as access to the Schengen Zone for easy visa-free travel across multiple European countries.

The Latvia program is particularly attractive because it requires a minimum investment of just €50,000 in a capital company, but there is also the option of investing €250,000 in property.

9. Hungary Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Six years
• Residency requirement: No residency requirement 

The Hungarian Golden Visa Program, officially known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP), was reintroduced on 1 July 2024. It aims to attract foreign investment to develop the economy while providing investors and their families access to the European Union (EU) and Schengen Area.

This program is attractive because it grants investors a residency permit that is renewable after 10 years and has no minimum stay.

The required investment is just €250,000 in a state-approved real estate fund, and applicants get pre-approval before investing, reducing risk.

10. Cyprus

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship: 7 years
• Residency requirement: None

The Cyprus Golden Visa offers permanent residency through a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate, withno residency requirement, meaning you don’t need to live in Cyprus to maintain your status.

While the visa doesn’t provide direct citizenship, you can apply for it after 7 years. The program also allows you to include your spouse, children, and dependent parents, giving your family the opportunity to benefit from Cyprus’ EU residency.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Citizenship by Investment Programs

Which citizenship by investment program has the fastest processing time?

The fastest citizenship to get is Vanuatu citizenship. Investors of the Vanuatu citizenship program can obtain second citizenship in the country within as little as 60 days of submitting a citizenship application.

St Kitts and Nevis is a close second with citizenship granted within four to six months.

What are the best low-cost citizenship by investment programs?

The most affordable citizenship by investment programs currently include Nauru, Vanuatu, and Dominica.

Nauru is the most affordable option with a minimum investment of only $105,000.

Where is the hardest to get citizenship?

Austrian citizenship through a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is considered to be one of the most difficult due to its rigorous application process and high investment requirements. The country only accepts investors on a case-by-case basis.

Which Caribbean country offers the greatest citizenship by investment?

St. Kitts and Nevis is often considered the best Caribbean country for Citizenship by Investment. The government offers a straightforward and efficient process.

It also provides flexible investment options, including a government fund contribution or real estate investment, with processing times as short as four to six months.

What is the top citizenship by investment option for tax benefits?

If you’re looking for tax-related benefits, it can help to invest in tax-free countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Vanuatu.

There also low-tax countries specifically for investors such as Greece and Portugal.

Which is the top citizenship by investment program with real estate investment?

When it comes to real estate investment for citizenship, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica and Grenada are the best options due to their low investment amounts, short processing times and prestigious passports.

What is the top citizenship by investment program for a single applicant?

Dominica and St. Lucia are the best citizenship by investment programs for a single applicant due to its low investment costs, quick processing times and no residency requirements.

What documents are required for a citizenship by investment application?

Citizenship by investment applications typically require a passport, birth certificate, police clearance, medical certificate, and proof of investment.

Additionally, you’ll need application forms, proof of assets, bank statements, and potentially other documents like CVs or business licenses, depending on the specific program.

What due diligence checks are involved in the citizenship by investment process?

Due diligence usually involves a comprehensive investigation to assess an applicant’s background, financial health, and reputation before granting citizenship.

This process aims to protect the host country’s security and reputation by only letting in reputable applicants.

Is there a citizenship by investment program in the USA?

The US doesn’t have a traditional Citizenship by Investment program, but it does offer the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. It allows investors and their families to obtain Green Cards and eventually citizenship by investing in job-creating enterprises.

Can I pass my citizenship by investment on to family members?

Yes, it is common for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs to allow for family members to be included in the application, often including spouses, children, and sometimes parents or siblings.

Many CBI programs allow the transfer of citizenship to future generations.