Investment migration isn’t a new concept, but it’s certainly gained traction in the last few years. More and more people find the idea of alternative citizenship alluring, especially in times of crisis. At the center of these interests is citizenship by investment (CBI), a concept that countries from across the world have adopted into government schemes.
Several countries run their versions of these citizenship by investment programs, which grant investors citizenship in exchange for significant contributions to the respective nation’s societal advancement, cultural development, or economic growth. Some of these citizenship programs provide a direct route to citizenship, while others require a naturalization period before a citizenship application.
In this article, you’ll learn about citizenship by investment schemes, the benefits of applying for them, and the list of countries offering them.
Which countries grant citizenship by investment?
Many countries worldwide offer citizenship by investment programs, including but not limited to Spain, Portugal, Malta, Greece, Vanuatu, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Dominica, among others.
Generally, you can apply for direct citizenship by investment programs, which grant citizenship within a few months in exchange for a foreign direct investment, usually in approved real estate projects. Alternatively, you can apply for a Golden Visa program – or a residency by investment scheme – upon which a second passport is provided after a set number of years.
Depending on the citizenship program, immigrant investors may benefit from the following:
- Visa-free access to over 140 nations worldwide
- Tax planning opportunities with exemptions and reductions on capital gains tax, income tax, and inheritance tax, among others
- Access to world-class healthcare
- Family reunification
What kind of people apply for alternative citizenship?
It’s a common myth to think that only wealthy individuals and successful investors can apply for CBI. Anyone can apply, provided that the program criteria are met – including holding a clean criminal record, and meeting the minimum investment requirement.
Whether you’re a business owner, novel investor, digital entrepreneur, or just a regular person with a global mindset, consider applying for an EU CBI scheme or a Caribbean economic citizenship scheme to acquire new citizenship for you and your family.
Why do people invest in CBI schemes?
It’s easy to understand the appeal of citizenship by investment programs. You can get a second passport in as little as four months in exchange for investing a lump sum of money in the form of:
- Bond investment
- Capital investment
- Joint investment
- Real estate investment
- Job creation
- Purchase of government bonds
- Donations to a sustainable growth fund, development funds, the national economic fund, or otherwise
Moreover, you gain access to various benefits, including visa-free travel, friendly tax schemes, a lucrative return on your investment, and the chance to own a second home in an exotic country.
How do countries benefit from CBI schemes?
Countries interested in increasing capital and bringing wealth across borders to pay for social programs and keep their economies afloat will hugely benefit from CBI programs.
Citizenship by Investment Countries List 2022
With the help of this list, you’ll get a complete picture of the countries offering CBI schemes, including European Union member states, and Caribbean nations, among other countries. Note that we work with only a curated selection of these citizenship-by-investment programs. Check out the list of countries we work with.
