Artur Saraiva
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs allow individuals to obtain citizenship in a country by making a financial investment, such as purchasing real estate, contributing to government funds, or investing in local businesses. In exchange, applicants receive citizenship, including a passport, which grants them benefits like visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to new business opportunities.
Investment programs have become more popular as countries rely on foreign investment to strengthen their economies. Each Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has different requirements and benefits. Therefore, when comparing these programs, key factors to consider include investment amounts, processing times, tax advantages, and each program’s unique selling points. These elements are crucial in selecting the right program for your needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the leading CBI programs and highlight essential factors to help you make an informed decision.
Here’s more of what we’ll cover below:
What is citizenship by investment?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs allow individuals to gain citizenship by making a financial investment, such as buying real estate, contributing to government funds, or investing in local businesses.
These programs offer an easy and straightforward path to citizenship and a potential second passport, which comes with benefits like visa-free travel, tax perks, and new business opportunities.
Citizenship by investment programs were designed to attract foreign investment and drive economic growth in the host countries. Many countries, particularly smaller or resource-limited ones, use CBI programs to raise government revenue and promote long-term economic development.
Not all passports are the same. Some are stronger and more desirable than others, so it’s important to compare their benefits and choose what suits you best. The same applies to citizenship programs, as each country sets its own rules for who can apply.
Since investment programs vary, it can sometimes be confusing. Some offer direct citizenship through investment, while others grant residency first, requiring you to live there before becoming a citizen. This is why comparing citizenship programs and what they offer is essential.
The Benefits of Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship by investment programs offer several benefits to individuals and families. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Travel freedom: Many citizenship by investment programs provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, which can be particularly valuable for individuals from countries with more restrictive passports.
- Business opportunities: Citizenship in a different country can provide better business opportunities, including easier access to international markets and better business environments.
- Tax benefits: Some countries offer favorable tax regimes for new citizens who move to their country, which can benefit personal and corporate tax planning.
- Personal security: Acquiring citizenship in a politically stable country can provide a safe haven in times of political unrest or instability in one’s home country. Some individuals seek citizenship by investment to ensure personal and family safety, particularly in regions with high crime rates or social unrest.
- Quality of life: Many countries offering citizenship by investment have high standards of living, great healthcare, and top-tier educational institutions. These benefits can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals and their families, providing access to better services and a cleaner, more organized living environment.
- Global mobility: Citizenship by investment often comes with the right to reside not only in the new country but sometimes in neighboring countries or regions as well. For instance, EU citizenship allows residency in any EU member state. This can be particularly advantageous for those seeking flexibility in their living arrangements and the ability to relocate as needed.
- Financial flexibility: Citizenship in a new country offers easier access to international banking and investment opportunities, helping manage and grow assets. Diversifying holdings across different countries also provides a strategy for asset protection.
- Family inclusion: Most citizenship by investment programs allow the main applicant to include family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents or siblings. This ensures the whole family enjoys better travel freedom, security, and quality of life.
Citizenship by Investment Comparison Table
When choosing a Citizenship by Investment program, the investment amount is often the first consideration. However, factors like processing time, tax advantages, dual citizenship options, and time to citizenship also play a crucial role.
Passport strength is another key factor, and Global Citizen Solutions’ Global Passport Index ranks passports based on mobility, investment appeal, and quality of life, helping investors make informed decisions about obtaining a second passport.
To simplify the comparison, we’ve created a table that highlights key features of the most successful CBI programs.
Country | Minimum Investment | Time until Citizenship | Taxes Advantages | Visa-free Access | GPI Ranking | Dual Citizenship |
 Antigua and Barbuda | $230,000 donation $300,000 real estate | Six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Tax breaks on qualifying companies’ profits for up to 20 years | 102 countries | 51st | Yes |
 Austria | €2 million | 24 to 36 months | No inheritance or wealth tax | 125 countries | 15th | No |
 Nauru | $105,000 | Three to four months | No personal income, inheritance or wealth tax | 89 countries | 95th | Yes |
 Dominica | $200,000 (donations) $200,000 (real estate) | Six to nine months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 88 countries | 78th | Yes |
 Egypt | $250,000 | Six to nine months | No inheritance or wealth tax | 23 countries | 133rd | Yes |
 Grenada | $270,000 (donation) $236,000 (real estae) | Nine months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 94 countries | 71st | Yes |
 Jordan | $750,000 | Three to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 21 countries | 139th | Yes |
 Malta | €600,000 | 12 months | No capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes | 123 countries | 28th | Yes |
 St. Kitts and Nevis | $250,000 (Donation) $325,000 (real estate) | Four to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 108 countries | 45th | Yes |
 St. Lucia | $240,000 (Donation) $300,000 (real estate) | 10 to 12 months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Annual fee tax regime for corporations | 93 countries | 70th | Yes |
 Turkey | $400,000 | Three to four months | No worldwide income or wealth taxes | 71 countries | 92th | Yes |
 Vanuatu | $130,000 | Two months | Zero taxes | 46 countries | 112th | Yes |
Investment options and cost
Country | Minimum Investment [Single Applicant] | Minimum Investment [Family of Four] | Type of Investment | Application Fees | Family Fees (Per Dependent) | Income/Savings Requirements |
Antigua and Barbuda | $230,000 | $230,000 | Contribution to state fund, Real estate investment, Donation to University of the West Indies Fund, Business investment | Application Fee - $30,000 for a family of up to four. Due diligence fee - $2,000 to $7,500 per applicant | +$10,000 for each additional applicant | 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 | $200,000 | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment | Application Fee - $1,000 per application Due diligence fee - $4,000 to $7,500 per applicant | $4,000 due diligence fee for each family member aged 16 or over. | None |
Egypt | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Bank deposit, Business investment | $10,000 | $10,000 | None | |
Grenada | $235,000 | $235,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment | Application Fee - $2,000 to $3,000 per application Due diligence fee - $5,000 per applicant | $5,000 due diligence fee for each family member aged 17 and over | 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 | €600,000 | Government contribution, donation, and real estate purchase or lease | €15,000 due diligence fees | €10,000 per dependent aged 13 or over | 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 | $250,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Investment in Public Benefit Projects | Application Fee - $500 per application Due diligence fee - $7,500 to $10,000 per applicant | $7,500 due diligence fee for each family member | None |
St. Lucia | $240,000 | $240,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Business Investment | Application Fee - $2,000 for a family of up to four - +$1,000 for each additional applicant Due diligence fee - $5,000 to $8,000 per applicant | Application fee: - +$1,000 for each additional applicant | None |
Turkey | $400,000 | Government contribution, Real estate investment, Purchase government bonds, Capital investment, Business investment with job creation | $2,000 | $1,500 | None | |
Vanuatu | $130,000 | $130,000 | Government contribution | $5,000 due diligence fee | $5,000 due diligence fee | $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 | three 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 | 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 | Six to nine 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 | Nine 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 to six months | No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes | 153 countries | 53rd | Yes |
St. Lucia | 10 to 12 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 $230,000 to $245,000 |
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 of Caribbean countries 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 fastest CBI program available with passports issued within 60 days, and no additional fees for fast-track processing |
Looking for an affordable, fast-track passport with global mobility? Discover why the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most competitive Caribbean options.
Requirements for Citizenship by Investment Programs
Countries that offer citizenship through investment each have different requirements that foreign investors must fulfill. However, some key regulations are common across most programs. One of the most important is having a clean criminal record, as applicants must pass rigorous due diligence checks to ensure they pose no security risk.
Other key requirements that countries require include:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Many programs require applicants to undergo a medical exam to prove they are in good health (although some do not).
- Applicants must meet a minimum investment threshold.
- Proof of financial stability is often required.
- The investment must be legitimate and verifiable.
Investment Options for CBI Programs
Citizenship by investment programs offers a range of investment options, allowing individuals to secure a second passport by making strategic financial commitments. These investment options are designed to align with the country’s economic goals, allowing investors to contribute to areas such as real estate development, job creation, infrastructure, or national development funds.
Here are some common types of investments available in citizenship and residence programs around the world:
- Transfer of funds or purchasing government bonds
One of the fastest ways to become a citizen through investing is to transfer funds, purchase government bonds, or make a bank deposit. The benefit of government bonds and bank deposits is that if your application is unsuccessful, your money is refunded. - Real estate investment
Purchasing real estate can, in some cases, be more costly and involve more paperwork and bureaucracy. However, depending on the 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 new citizenship. However, the contributions are non-refundable and do not provide 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.
Golden Visa Programs: An Alternative to CBI
Are you not eligible for Citizenship by Investment? No worries, a residency by investment program might be a great alternative to CBI.
The difference between both programs is that, through residency by investment, instead of being granted full citizenship right away, you’ll obtain a residence permit through investment first. They can eventually lead to citizenship through naturalization after a certain amount of time, provided that you fulfill the investment and residence requirements first.
In Europe, residence programs are known as Golden Visa Programs.
Golden Visa Programs
Here are some of the most attractive residency by investment schemes and Golden Visas in the world. The primary differences between these residence programs are the investment requirement, length of residency, processing time, and residency requirements.
1. Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa investment amount starts at €250,000. Currently, the program’s investment options are:
- Invest a minimum of €250,000 in preserving Portugal’s historical sites.
- Invest at least €500,000 in qualifying Portuguese investment funds.
- Establish a business that creates at least 10 jobs for local residents.
- Set up a business that creates a minimum of 5 full-time jobs for Portuguese citizens.
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 18 or in full-time education, and dependent parents of the applicant and spouse under 65. There is a residency requirement of seven days per year, and applicants can apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
⚠️ Portugal Nationality Law Changes 2025
A draft law published in June 2025 proposes major changes to Portugal’s nationality rules. The main change is increasing the residency requirement for citizenship from 5 to 10 years (7 years for CPLP nationals).
It's important to note that the draft proposal is only a set of recommendations, and there are a few more steps before it becomes law. To learn more, read Portugal Nationality Law Changes 2025
2. Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa is a permanent visa investment program starting at €250,000 and offers several investment options, including:
- Minimum of €800,000 real estate investment for regions including the entire Administrative Region of Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with populations exceeding 3,100 people
- Minimum of €400,000 real estate investment for the rest of Greece
- Investment threshold of €250,000 for properties which have been converted from commercial to residential use
- Real estate investment threshold of €250,000 for properties of historical or cultural significance that the investor has fully restored or reconstructed
- Capital contribution to an investment fund (minimum of €800,000)
- Purchasing government bonds (minimum of €800,000)
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 21, and dependent parents and grandparents of the applicant and spouse. There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.
3. Malta Permanent Residence Program
The Malta Residency by Investment, also known as the Malta Permanent Residence Program, is an investment program starting at €110,000. Other options include:
- A minimum investment of €300,000 (for properties in the south of Malta or Gozo) or €350,000 (for properties in other areas).
- A contribution of at least €150,000 in government bonds, held for at least 5 years.
- A €30,000 contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF).
- Applicants are required to make a financial investment in Malta, typically including the bond and real estate investments mentioned above.
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, children under 18 or over 18 if largely dependent, and dependent parents and grandparents of the applicant and spouse.
There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.
4. Italy Golden Visa
The Italy Golden Visa is an investment program starting at €250,000 and offers several investment options, including:
- A minimum donation of €1 million to a charity or project that benefits Italy.
- A minimum investment of €2 million in Italian government bonds.
- At least €500,000 in an Italian startup or business.
- A minimum of €500,000 is invested in a company based in Italy.
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, children under 18 and over 18 if financially dependent, and dependent parents.
There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after ten years of residency.
5. Cyprus Permanent Residence Program
The Cyprus Permanent Residence Program is an investment program granting a permanent residence permit through a €300,000 investment. Applicants have the option to:
- A minimum of €300,000 in property investment.
- At least €300,000 in a Cyprus-approved investment fund.
- A minimum of €300,000 is invested in Cypriot company shares that employ at least five people.
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 18 or between 18 and 25 if in full-time education and financially dependent, and dependent parents of the applicant and spouse.
There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.
6. Serbia’s residency by investment
Serbia’s residency by investment program offers residency in the country through real estate purchases with no investment requirement, but applicants can only buy certain types of real estate:
- Apartment
- residential building
- business premises and business buildings, if they perform business activities in.
The minimum stay requirement to maintain residency status in Serbia is 183 days per year, and the primary applicant may include family members.
7. Hungary Golden Visa
The Hungary Golden Visa allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency in Hungary through a minimum investment of €250,000, including:
- Invest €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund
- Invest €500,000 to purchase residential real estate. This investment option will only be available starting 1 January 2025.
- Donate €1 million as a non-refundable amount to a higher education institution.
There are no minimum stay requirements, which allows investors to reside outside Hungary while holding the permit. Applicants can also include family members.
8. Latvia Golden Visa
The Latvia Golden Visa program is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals with an investment starting at €50,000. Other options include:
- Minimum investment of €250,000 in property
- Invest €50,000 in a capital company with fewer than 50 employees and an annual budget under €10 million
- Deposit a minimum of €280,000 in a Latvian bank for at least five years
- Purchase government bonds for a minimum of €250,000.
Eligible applicants can include their spouse, children under 18, and dependents under 24 in education. Residency requires spending at least one day a year in Latvia, and after five years, applicants can apply for permanent residency or citizenship if further requirements are met.
9. UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term investment program starting at $545,000 for real estate investment. There is also the option of:
- Investing in a business
- Depositing funds in a national bank
- Paying taxes
Eligible candidates for the UAE Golden Visa include outstanding professionals in specific fields, such as medicine, innovation, engineering, and culture.
Applicants can include their spouse, children, parents, and domestic workers in their Golden Visa application. There is no residency requirement. UAE citizenship is typically granted through exceptional merit or 30 years of residency.
10. US EB-5 Visa Program
The US EB-5 Visa Program is an investment program leading to permanent residency (Green Card). Foreign nationals must invest at least $1.050 million in a business that creates ten full-time jobs or $800,000 if investing in a Targeted Employment Area (an area of high unemployment).
Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse and children under 21. Applicants are not permitted to spend more than 12 months abroad. They can remove conditional Green Card status after two years and apply for citizenship after five years of residency.
Golden Visa Programs Comparison
Country | Residency Type | Minimum Investment | Processing Time | Residency Requirements | Mandatory Holding Period |
 Portugal | Temporary | €250,000 | 9 to 12 months | Seven days annually | Five years |
 Greece | Permanent | €250,000 | 6 to 8 weeks | No | Five years |
 Malta | Permanent | €110,000 | 4 to 6 months | No | Five years |
 Italy | Temporary | €250,000 | 3 to 4 months | No | Five years |
 Cyprus | Permanent | €300,000 | 2 months | Visit every two years | Five years |
 United Arab Emirates | Temporary | $545,000 | 30 days | No | Five to ten years |
 United States | Temporary | $800,000 | 3 to 6 months | No more than 12 months abroad | Five years |
 Serbia | Temporary | No investment requirements | 30 days | 183 days per year | Three years |
 Latvia | Temporary | €50,000 | 2 to 4 months | Once a year | Five years |
 Hungary | Temporary | €250,000 | 90 days | No | Five years |
Prefer a path to residency with the option for future citizenship? Compare the best Golden Visa programs in Europe and beyond - ideal for investors seeking lifestyle, security, and long-term family benefits.
The Importance of Citizenship Planning
Citizenship by investment requires planning and resources but offers major benefits like lower taxes, consular support, and security for your family. The right program provides safety, freedom, and financial opportunities. Planning carefully ensures you maximize these advantages.
There are 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 investment for a business application?
- Do I want to do this on my own or enlist the help of a qualified migration specialist?
What am I looking to get out of my investment?These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself when comparing citizenship and residency programs. It is also worth thinking about the benefits to family members.
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.
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
What is citizenship by investment?
Citizenship by investment allows individuals to obtain a second passport by making a qualifying investment in a country’s economy.
Options include donations, real estate purchases, or business investments. Most programs allow you to include family members in the application.
Which is the best country for citizenship by investment?
The best country for citizenship by investment depends on your goals. Malta offers EU access and a strong passport. St. Kitts and Nevis and Saint Lucia are popular for their affordable, fast-track programs.
Consider passport strength, investment cost, and visa-free access when choosing the right option.
How long does it take to get citizenship by investment?
Most CBI programs are processed in 3 to 6 months, depending on the country and due diligence process.
Vanuatu offers one of the fastest timelines at around 60 days. Donation routes are typically quicker than real estate citizenship or business investments.
Which programs offer the highest investment returns?
Real estate investment CBI programs in countries like Turkey and Greece can offer solid returns, especially in high-demand rental markets.
Caribbean nations like Dominica and St Lucia also provide real estate options at lower entry points, with potential for capital appreciation.
Do you need to relocate to get citizenship?
No, most CBI programs do not require relocation. Citizenship is granted based on investment and due diligence, not physical residence. Some exceptions exist, so always check the specific program requirements.
Which countries offer the cheapest citizenship by investment program?
Island and Caribbean nations offer the cheapest citizenship by investment programs, while European programs tend to have higher investment thresholds. Nauru’s Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program is currently the cheapest with a $130,000 donation.
Do different citizenship by investment programs have language proficiency requirements?
Most citizenship by investment countries do not require language tests. Caribbean nations and Vanuatu have no such requirements. Austria, however, requires German fluency and cultural knowledge.
What are the processing times for citizenship by investment?
Processing times vary by country but usually range from 3 to 6 months. Fast-track options like Vanuatu can take less than 2 months. Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation or extended due diligence.
Does Portugal offer citizenship by investment?
Portugal does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Instead, investors can apply for residency through its Golden Visa program, and after five years, may become eligible for citizenship if they meet language and residency criteria.
What are the requirements for citizenship by investment programs?
Requirements include:
- A qualifying investment (starting at as little as $130,000)
- Passing due diligence checks
- A clean criminal record
- Meeting age and health criteria
Some programs may require interviews or minimal residence.
What are the benefits of citizenship by investment programs in the Caribbean compared to European programs?
Caribbean CBI programs offer lower investment thresholds (from $130,000), faster processing, and tax advantages. European programs like Malta’s offer EU citizenship, but require higher investment and longer timelines. Both provide global mobility, but benefits vary by region.
Is citizenship by investment a good idea?
Yes, CBI programs are ideal for those seeking visa-free travel, wealth protection, or a backup citizenship. They can offer tax advantages, family security, and global access. However, costs and long-term goals should be carefully evaluated.
