Comparison Overview of Citizenship by Investment
Put simply; citizenship is a social contract between the individual and the state to work together for mutual benefits. It is a symbiotic relationship, where the citizen accepts legal responsibility and, in return, the state becomes their home country, empowering them to fully participate and thrive in society.
Citizenship by investment programs, also known as economic citizenship programs, have become increasingly popular, with several countries now offering streamlined application processes. Each citizenship program will have specific criteria set forth by a government through which an individual can apply. In return, they obtain the nation’s citizenship by investing.
For example, real estate purchases, a capital transfer to a national bank account, or a deposit into an investment fund are the highlighted investment choices in some CBI countries. Other citizenship programs revolve around donating or contributing to a national development fund.
Considering not every program is the same, there is often confusion about which program legitimately provides direct economic citizenship in a new country versus residency by investment programs granting citizenship through naturalization further down the line.
Don’t worry; you can learn the differences between residency and citizenship by investment.
Key Factors to Consider When Comparing Citizenship by Investment Programs
With various citizenship by investment options available, the most suitable program for you depends on your individual goals and how well they resonate with the particular features offered by each option. Here are some factors to consider when comparing citizenship by investment programs:
Investment options
Investment options in CBI programs directly impact the financial implications and benefits for the applicant. Options, such as real estate, government bonds, or business ventures, require careful evaluation as these investment options are at the higher end of the capital required. The implications of potential returns on investment and the overall financial risk can affect the applicant’s standing as a global investor. Cheaper alternatives, like non-refundable contributions, bear no future financial obligations and primarily serve as a straightforward method of acquiring second citizenship.
Additionally, investment options influence the applicant’s ability to align their investment strategy with their financial goals and preferences. Some applicants may prioritize security and seek low-risk investments, while others might be more interested in higher potential returns and are willing to take on greater risk.
Tax planning
Individuals’ financial well-being and long-term wealth management hugely depend on their tax payments. Citizenship programs have varying tax implications, including income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. Engaging in comprehensive tax planning allows applicants to assess how each program aligns with their financial situation and objectives.
By understanding the tax laws and tax benefits of the target country and how they interact with the applicant’s current tax residency, individuals can make informed decisions to optimize their tax burden and preserve their wealth. Strategic tax optimization can result in considerable savings, increased investment returns, and enhanced financial security, making it a crucial factor in selecting the most suitable program.
Enhanced mobility
A big bone to pick for many international travelers is the requirement to obtain visas to visit numerous countries worldwide. The Global Passport Index demonstrates how each citizenship program has its visa-free travel privileges and restrictions. Assessing the visa-free access offered by different citizenship programs will make all the difference when seeking seamless travel experiences for leisure or business purposes.
Gaining insight into the visa requirements and travel limitations of potential target countries allows applicants to make informed decisions that align with their travel preferences and global lifestyle. Moreover, travel freedom is pivotal in facilitating business opportunities and expanding hassle-free international ventures.
Citizenship insurance
At the top of the list of considerations for many CBI applicants is citizenship insurance, also referred to as dual citizenship. It serves as a fallback against unforeseen political, economic, or social changes in the applicant’s home country. Citizenship insurance refers to the additional layer of security and peace of mind that comes with obtaining second citizenship, ensuring that in the event of any adverse circumstances or political upheavals in one country of citizenship, the individual retains the right to live, work, and seek assistance in the other.
Family security
Acquiring second citizenship through investing often involves a long-term commitment, and the decision can significantly impact the lives of spouses, children, and other financial dependents. Considering family security entails evaluating the extent to which each program offers benefits and protections for the entire family unit, including dependent children, elderly parents, or unmarried partners as well as future generations. Assessing factors like access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and social security for family members is vital, as it directly affects their quality of life and prospects.
Citizenship Planning
Let’s face it; only some have the need or finances to seek citizenship through economic citizenship programs. Citizenship planning takes time, money, resources, and effort. However, the rewards surpass the challenges, mainly if you are among the less privileged passport holders. This includes several advantages, such as reducing your tax obligations, overseas consular assistance, asset protection, and an insurance policy for you and your family.
Citizenship planning and expanding your investment portfolio in a globalized world is paramount and should not be understated. Obtaining second citizenship can be extremely rewarding, opening up countless opportunities. However, getting the wrong citizenship can cost you.
If you plan well and analyze the particulars outlined in each program, a passport by investment offers safety, infinite financial possibilities, and greater freedom. Some key questions to bear in mind before you even begin to consider which citizenship by investment program you should pursue are the following:
- What am I looking to get out of my investment?
- How much money do I want to invest in acquiring citizenship?
- Are financial dependents restricted to a spouse and children?
- Do I care more about obtaining a powerful passport, or am I okay with a reasonably average-ranking passport that provides other perks? #
- Do I want to relocate to the country I invest in?
- How much time can I set aside to dedicate to the business investment application?
- Do I want to do this on my own or enlist the help of a qualified migration specialist?
These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself when comparing citizenship programs. It is also worth thinking about the benefits to family members. Having the answers to these questions will ultimately help you decide which citizenship by investment scheme to go for.
A residency by investment program may also be better suited to you, so research the residency by investment options available. An important piece of advice is to take your time. If you ever feel conceded, conflicted, or undecided, research all the possibilities and, if needed, ask a qualified industry expert.
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique global citizenship and residence advisory firm providing citizenship and residency solutions to international clients. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Citizenship by Investment Countries
Here are some countries with popular citizenship by investment programs:
- Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
- Austria Citizenship by Investment
- Cambodia citizenship by investment
- Dominica Citizenship by Investment
- Egypt citizenship by investment
- Grenada Citizenship by Investment
- Jordan Citizenship by Investment
- Malta Citizenship by Naturalization
- Moldova citizenship by investment
- North Macedonia citizenship by investment
- St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
- St Lucia Citizenship by Investment
- Turkey Citizenship by Investment
- Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment
Check out our curated citizenship by investment list and guide for more information.
Requirements for Citizenship by Investment Programs
Countries that offer citizenship through investing each have different requirements that foreign investors must fulfill to acquire citizenship. For example, some programs request medical exams, which require candidates to prove they are in good health; others do not.
The vast majority of countries do, however, demand the following:
- That you are over 18 years old
- That you have a clean criminal background
- That you have a good character
- That your investment funds come from a legal source
How do the investment requirements vary among different citizenship by investment programs?
Transfer of funds or purchasing government bonds
A transfer of funds, purchasing government bonds, or a bank deposit is one of the fastest ways to become a citizen through investing. The benefit of government bonds and bank deposits is that if your application is unsuccessful, your money is refunded.
Real estate investment
Purchasing property can, in some cases, be more costly and involve more paperwork and bureaucracy. However, at the same time, depending on which country you choose to invest in, an investment in real estate can bring considerable returns.
Donation
You can acquire a second passport in exchange for a charitable qualifying donation to an economic development fund. This is the cheapest and fastest option to obtain a new citizenship. However, the contributions are non-refundable and provide no investment returns.
Establishing a business
Several citizenship by investment programs provide dual citizenship to investors who create new businesses or invest in existing companies in the country. This could entail investing a minimum amount into the business or creating jobs for citizens and residents.
How to choose the top citizenship by investment program
Your choice of citizenship by investment program will depend entirely on your circumstances and objectives. However, some investment programs are more popular than others. We’ve compiled a comparison table for citizenship by investment broken down into relevant categories of some of the most successful programs for you to compare.
Investment options and cost
Country | Minimum Investment | Type of Investment | Application Fees | Family Fees (Per Dependent) | Income/Savings Requirements |
 Antigua and Barbuda | $100,000 | Contribution to state fund, Real estate investment, Donation to University of the West Indies Fund, Business investment | $37,500 | $2,000 to $7,500 ($0 for children under 12) | None |
 Austria | €2 million | Contribution to government fund, Investment in a joint venture, Venture capital investment, Invest in an innovative business or industry considered "first priority" | €800 | €800 | None |
 Cambodia | $245,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment | $85,000 | $5,000 | None |
 Dominica | $100,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment | $9,250 | $55,000 (spouse), $90,000 (family of four) (No due diligence fee for children 16 and under) | None |
 Egypt | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Bank deposit, Business investment | $10,000 | $10,000 | None |
 Grenada | $150,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment | $8,000 | $72,000 (family of four) (No due diligence fee for children 16 and under) | None |
 Jordan | $750,000 | Real estate investment, Purchase treasury bonds, Bank deposit, Purchase company shares, Investment project with job creation | Not listed | Not listed | None |
 Malta | €690,000 | Government contribution, donation, and real estate purchase or lease | €31,000 | €12,000 to €27,000 | None |
 Moldova | €100,000 | Government contribution | €46,000 | €41,000 to €46,000 | None |
 North Macedonia | €200,000 | Investment in a private equity fund, Business investment with job creation | €20,000 | €10,000 to €20,000 | None |
 St. Kitts and Nevis | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Investment in Public Benefit Projects | $7,500 | $29,000 (spouse), $49,000 to $57,000 (family of four) (No due diligence fee for children 15 and under) | None |
 St. Lucia | $100,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Business Investment | $9,500 | $46,000 (spouse), $58,000 to $68,000 (family of four) (No due diligence fee for children 15 and under) | None |
 Turkey | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Purchase government bonds, Capital investment, Business investment with job creation | $2,000 | $1,500 | None |
 Vanuatu | $130,000 | Government contribution | $5,500 | $25,500 (spouse) plus $20,500 per child | $250,000 |
Required documentation and prerequisites
Country | Character Requirements | Mandatory Visit | Stay Requirement | Minimum Investment Period | Language Proficiency Requirement |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Provide bank statements and employer references, Not from a prohibited country | No | Five days within five years | Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| Austria | Over 18, A non-EU national, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country, Proof of business track record, Pass a citizenship test | Yes | Yes | Not listed | Yes |
| Cambodia | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country, Pass a citizenship test | Yes | No | Five Years | No |
| Dominica | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | hree years (not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| Egypt | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | Yes | No | Three years (Not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| Grenada | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| Jordan | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds | No | No | Three Years | No |
| Malta | Over 18, A non-EU national, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds, Not from a prohibited country | Yes | No | Five Years | No |
| Moldova | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not have been denied entry to a Moldova visa-free country | Yes | No | N/A | No |
| North Macedonia | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds | Yes | No | N/A | No |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| St. Lucia | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment) | No |
| Turkey | Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | Three Years | No |
| Vanuatu | Over 18 and under 65, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country | No | No | N/A | No |
Details and benefits
Country | Time until Citizenship | Taxes Advantages | Visa-free Access | GPI Ranking | Dual Citizenship |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Tax breaks on qualifying companies’ profits for up to 20 years | 150 countries | 59th | Yes |
| Austria | 24 to 36 months | No inheritance or wealth tax | 174 countries | 19th | No |
| Cambodia | Three to four months | No inheritance or wealth tax | 88 countries | 151st | Yes |
| Dominica | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 146 countries | 78th | Yes |
| Egypt | Six to nine months | No inheritance or wealth tax | 82 countries | 142nd | Yes |
| Grenada | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 147 countries | 74th | Yes |
| Jordan | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 81 countries | 145th | Yes |
| Malta | 12 months | No capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes | 172 countries | 34th | Yes |
| Moldova | Three to four months | N/A | 130 countries | 81st | Yes |
| North Macedonia | Two to five months | A flat ten percent tax rate | 139 countries | 79th | Yes |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | Four months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 153 countries | 53rd | Yes |
| St. Lucia | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Annual fee tax regime for corporations | 148 countries | 75th | Yes |
| Turkey | Three to four months | No worldwide income or wealth taxes | 129 countries | 94th | Yes |
| Vanuatu | Two months | Zero taxes | 112 countries | 102nd | Yes |
Unique selling point
Country | USP |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Cheapest CBI program for a family of four, with a total investment of $145,000 to $153,000 |
| Austria | Safest CBI country, ranking fifth overall in the Global Peace Index |
| Cambodia | Three to four months - No inheritance or wealth tax - 88 countries - 151st - Yes |
| Dominica | Cheapest CBI program for a single applicant, with a total investment of $110,000 |
| Egypt | The only African CBI program |
| Grenada | Only Caribbean CBI country offering the change to settle in the USA through the US E-2 Visa Program |
| Jordan | The cheapest real estate by square meter of all countries offering citizenship programs |
| Malta | The cheapest and fastest EU citizenship program |
| Moldova | The cheapest European citizenship program for a single applicant and family |
| North Macedonia | The lowest income tax of any European country offering CBI, with a flat tax rate of ten percent |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | The highest ranking CBI Caribbean passport on the Global Passport Index |
| St. Lucia | Among the lowest minimum investment required in real estate at $200,000 with a cheap real estate market compared to other Caribbean CBI countries |
| Turkey | No prerequisites for investing in pre-approved real estate, and lower cost of living than the rest of Europe |
| Vanuatu | The fast CBI program available with passports issued within 60 days, and no additional fees for fast-track processing |
Best European Citizenship by Investment Programs
Malta citizenship by naturalization
Launched after the Malta citizenship by naturalization scheme came to an end, the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (CES), often inaccurately referred to as the Malta citizenship by investment program, provides non-EU nationals with a Maltese passport through naturalization and citizenship in a new country. Qualification requirements stipulate that the main applicant invests at least €600,000 or €750,000 in the country’s economic development. Additionally, the program requires a minimum real estate purchase of €700,000 or a five-year lease of at least €16,000 annually and a donation of €10,000.
Real estate investors are also required to pass stringent due diligence processes. Successful individuals become eligible for Malta citizenship by naturalization. They can qualify for a Malta passport, providing citizenship in an EU member country and the right to live, work, and study in Malta or anywhere else in the European Union.
Take a look at our Malta Citizenship Program Ultimate Guide
Best Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs
Are you looking for a new lifestyle or simply a second home? Caribbean citizenship (CBI) programs are highly rated because Caribbean countries offer the quickest, most straightforward, and cheapest citizenship programs to obtain second passports. While many Caribbean citizenship by investment programs exist, here are some of the most popular Caribbean citizenship programs to secure citizenship.
Check out our article: Which is the cheapest Caribbean Island to Live on?
Dominica citizenship by investment
The Caribbean island of Dominica offers one of the cheapest and fastest routes to get a passport by investment. Starting from $100,000, you and your immediate family can obtain passports in three to six months. Dominica’s passport ranking is 78th in the world, and the passport offers visa-free travel to over 140 destinations, with visa-free countries including those in Europe’s Schengen Area.
Take a look at our Dominica Citizenship Ultimate Guide by local experts
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment
The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program offers a second passport to qualifying investors of this Caribbean island. There are three investment options:
- Donating to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund
- Buying property
- Investing in a business
As with other Caribbean citizenship (CBI) programs, processing and due diligence fees apply to any type of investment. What makes Antigua and Barbuda attractive is it ranks as the safest country in the Caribbean for relocation. Also, it consists of 3 islands with crystal clear blue waters, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace of life. As a haven for sailing and scuba diving, Antigua and Barbuda remains a popular citizenship by investment option.
St. Lucia citizenship by investment
As a tropical Eastern Caribbean island with a high-earning population, exemplary safety records, and various landscapes to soak in, St. Lucia has everything, including a competitive investment citizenship program. The application process is straightforward and quick, with the overall process of citizenship taking just two to three months.
The requirements of this Caribbean island include a clean health record, paying government fees, and satisfying one of the following investments:
- Donating to the St. Lucia National Economic Fund
- Purchasing government bonds
- Investing in real estate projects
- Investment in enterprises
Take a look at our St. Lucia Citizenship Ultimate Guide by local experts
Citizenship by Investment versus Residency by Investment
There are two different investment routes to citizenship, which vary depending on the country of choice.
For example, you can get permanent residence cards in an EU country, eventually leading to EU citizenship after a minimum residency period. You can do this through investment residence programs, also known as Golden Visa programs. Golden Visas in the European Union allow you to obtain a higher-ranking second passport, albeit typically at a higher cost, with second passports granted after five years or more.
Golden Visas are not the same as citizenship by investment. It is a residence permit that can eventually lead to citizenship through naturalization, provided that you fulfill the investment and residence requirements first.
Golden Visa Europe Comparison
Portugal versus Spain Golden Visa
Spain and Portugal’s Golden Visa programs offer the best advantages by far for non-European nationals looking to invest and acquire European residency.
With golden beaches, enticing foods, and excellent weather, Spain and Portugal offer safe and stable lifestyles in the heart of Europe and straightforward ways to obtain temporary residence permits. However, key differences between the two programs exist, and it’s essential to know them.
Compared to the Spanish Golden Visa program, the main benefit of the Portuguese program is that you can qualify for a much lower investment amount, starting from €250,000. Many investors who obtain a Portuguese Golden Visa can acquire a European passport in just five years, whereas investors of Spain’s Golden Visa must wait ten years.
Another key difference is that the Spanish Golden Visa has no residency requirements (number of days required to spend in the country) to maintain residence. In contrast, Portugal requires that applicants spend seven days per year in the country for five years.
What Golden Visa to Pick? Compare our Spain versus Portugal Golden Visa programs
Portugal Golden Visa: The ideal choice for those looking to relocate to Europe
Portugal’s Golden Visa program (officially known as the “ARI” Autorização de Residência para Atividade de Investimento) is one of Europe’s most popular residence by investment schemes. This is primarily due to the high standard of living, stable economy, and governance, as well as the potential for high returns on investments.
Benefits of the Portuguese Golden Visa program:
- Freedom of movement across 26 European countries
- You can apply for a Portuguese passport after five years.
- You can obtain residence permits for your family with a single investment.
- You only need to spend seven days there per year to maintain residency.
- You can also take advantage of the non-habitual tax regime (which can entail substantial tax reductions or even total exemption over ten years).
- A range of different investment options are available, many of which are relatively inexpensive and can result in high returns.
Take a look at our Portugal Golden Visa Ultimate Guide by local experts
Portugal versus Greece Golden Visa
The Golden Visa Greece program has rivaled Portugal in recent years in terms of the most popular citizenship by investment programs in Europe. This is mainly due to similarities in pricing and eligibility requirements. There are, however, some key differences between the two countries.
The Portuguese real estate market has grown at a stable rate over the past few years, while the Greek real estate market is still experiencing a period of stagnation that began with the global financial crisis. Real estate markets are a prevalent route for residency and citizenship through investment.
The Greek program also requires that applicants spend 183 days per year in Greece for seven years to get a European passport. The Portuguese program only requires applicants to spend seven days per year in the country, and investors can obtain a European passport after just five years of residency.
Portuguese real estate outlook
Portuguese real estate prices are projected to continue growing in the coming years, presenting a much more stable and secure investment than purchasing Greek real estate. The Portuguese economy has also been bolstered by a surge in tourism and shored up by an increase in tech companies and startups in Lisbon.
Considering the widespread popularity of the Portugal Golden Visa, it is important to highlight that discussions have led to eliminating real estate as an investment option for the program, which is currently awaiting approval. Conversely, Greece continues to accept real estate purchases as an investment option for its program; however, the minimum investment of €250,000 will increase to €500,000 on 31 July 2023 for purchases in northern and central provinces, the South Athens Attica region, and the municipalities of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.
Take a look at our How to buy property in Portugal Ultimate Guide by local experts
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 Comparing Citizenship by Investment
Which is the best country for citizenship by investment?
The best country for citizenship by investment and the best passport depends entirely on your circumstances and intentions for you and your family. Turkish citizenship by investment could be the best option for investors seeking a cheap quality of life.
Caribbean countries like St. Lucia and Dominica offer the cheapest citizenship programs (CBI) with significant tax benefits that can reduce or eliminate taxes on capital gains, inheritance, and wealth. Malta’s naturalization program provides citizenship in the European Union and a Malta passport, offering extensive visa-free access. You must weigh the options and decide which program suits your circumstances and ambitions.
How long does it take to get citizenship by investment?
The length of the entire process for citizenship (CBI) programs depends on the country you apply to. Countries like Vanuatu will process applications within 60 days, whereas the general timeframe for most CBI programs is three to six months, provided that you fulfill the investment criteria and due diligence checks.
Which programs offer the highest investment returns?
Real estate purchases in countries in the European Union, such as Portugal and Greece, have offered high returns in the past, particularly on rental properties in popular vacation spots. Caribbean countries with low real estate prices, like Dominica and St. Lucia, present promising opportunities for substantial returns in the near future.
What is citizenship by investment?
Citizenship by investment is a process by which an individual obtains a second citizenship and a second passport by investing in the country’s economy. Depending on the country, there are usually specific requirements for the investments you can make and different benefits associated with the passport you acquire. Families can also benefit from the program, as an investor’s family can be included in the application.
Which countries offer citizenship by investment?
Some countries which offer the opportunity to obtain citizenship by investment are Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada. Countries such as Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Lucia offer fast citizenship through investment programs to obtain a second passport and enhanced visa-free access. Take St. Kitts and Nevis or Grenada as an example; After six months, you can secure a St. Kitts and Nevis passport or Grenada passport. So, if you want a quick route to economic citizenship and a second passport, St. Kitts and Nevis or other fast CBI programs may appeal to you.
While some countries do not have citizenship by investment programs, they may offer alternative investment routes to live in the country long-term and eventually acquire citizenship. Take the United States EB-5 and E-2 programs. Here, you can ultimately gain United States citizenship by naturalization.
You can learn more about the United States EB-5 Visa here.
You can learn more about the United States E-2 program here.
The United Kingdom also offers a pathway to expedited naturalization, which you can learn more about here. The United Kingdom provides its version of a “United Kingdom Golden Visa,” inviting high-net-worth investors to obtain residence in the United Kingdom with a substantial investment. Eventual citizenship by naturalization is possible in exchange for an investment into the country’s economic prosperity.
Another example is Hong Kong, which, although it does not have a investment citizenship (CBI) program, has various routes to residency for entrepreneurs, professionals, and talent.
Do you need to relocate to get citizenship by investment?
In the best countries that grant citizenship through investing, you do not have to relocate from your home country to obtain citizenship by investment. In other countries, you must spend a short time in the country each year to maintain residency, and the residency requirement varies for each program. Regardless, you and your family may need to travel to the country to supply biometrics (note that dependents under a certain age may be exempt).
Do different citizenship by investment programs have varying requirements regarding language proficiency or cultural integration?
Most CBI programs waive the necessity to demonstrate language proficiency or cultural integration. Austria’s program requires applicants pursuing citizenship by investing to be fluent in German and have knowledge of the country’s traditions and values. Caribbean nations offering CBI programs do not have language or cultural integration prerequisites.
What are the differences in the processing times for citizenship by investment applications?
The processing times for citizenship by investment can vary significantly depending on factors such as the efficiency of the government agency handling the application, bureaucratic processes, and the type of investment chosen. Non-refundable financial contributions to a state fund generally have the fastest processing times, in which investors can receive citizenship within two to six months.
Minimum investments in real estate or businesses generally have longer processing times due to the required legal procedures and processes following the investment.
