Citizenship by Investment: Best Programs and Countries in 2025

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) allows wealthy individuals to acquire citizenship by making a substantial financial contribution to a country’s economy.

Investment options typically include real estate purchases, donations to national development funds, or business ventures.

These programs provide visa-free travel, access to international education and healthcare, and dual citizenship opportunities.

As investment migration evolves, Citizenship by Investment countries are increasingly integrating strategic sectors like tech and innovation, elevating CBI beyond simple capital generation.

New-generation Citizenship by Investment programs are no longer just about generating passive capital, as was uncovered through Global RCBI Report research by the Global Intelligence Unit.

Countries like Canada, Australia, and Singapore are placing a bigger emphasis on the tech industry, start-ups, and strategic sectors like AI and biotech. Human capital matters just as much as financial, providing an opportunity for investors to build their wealth through entrepreneurship via CBI programs.

Best Citizenship by Investment Countries in 2025

Choosing the right Citizenship by Investment program depends on factors such as your budget, mobility goals, family needs, and long-term lifestyle preferences.

Some countries offer fast-track approval with low investment thresholds, while others provide access to prestigious passports with strong global mobility. Below is an overview of the Citizenship by Investment programs currently available:

Caribbean

1. Antigua and Barbuda

Known for its affordability and inclusiveness, the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program offers multiple investment routes and one of the most family-friendly programs in the Caribbean.

2. Dominica

The long-standing and respected Dominica Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most cost-effective, requiring no physical residency or language tests.

3. Grenada

While the Caribbean hosts multiple CBI programs, Grenada’s citizenship by investment offers a unique advantage through its E-2 visa treaty with the United States, as well as visa-free access to China.

4. St Kitts and Nevis

The oldest CBI program globally, St Kitts and Nevis’ Citizenship by Investment is recognized for its stability, passport strength, and fast-track processing.

5. St Lucia

St Lucia’s citizenship by investment program combines competitive pricing with diverse investment options including real estate, bonds, and enterprise projects.

Europe

6. Austria

Austria’s citizenship by investment program is a highly selective program based on national interest, offering access to one of the world’s most powerful passports in the EU for significant economic contributors.

7. Malta

Malta’s citizenship by investment program provides a legitimate path to EU citizenship via a mix of donation, real estate, and residency, all under rigorous due diligence checks.

8. North Macedonia

A newer European option, the North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment program provides fast approval, straightforward requirements, and access to key markets in the Balkans.

Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

9. Egypt

Africa’s only official CBI program, the Egyptian citizenship by investment program offers strategic business and travel advantages in the Middle East and Africa region.

10. Jordan

In a region not known for readily granting citizenship in exchange for foreign investment, Jordan’s citizenship by investment sets itself apart by allowing individuals to obtain citizenship in a historically significant country. It offers a gateway for doing business in the Middle East.

11. Turkey

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program is a popular option due to its property-based route and geographic positioning between Europe and Asia. Investors enjoy visa-free access to over 120 countries.

Asia

12. Cambodia

Cambodia’s citizenship by investment is a low-cost and accessible option. The country’s low cost of living and the additional right to own land make gaining citizenship in Cambodia attractive. Cambodian citizenship provides visa-free travel access to ASEAN countries and select parts of Asia.

Oceania

13. Nauru

This island nation launched the Nauru Citizenship by Investment program under the Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Act. This program is designed to attract international investors to support sustainable development and climate resilience initiatives. It can also be an appealing option for those seeking anonymity in a peaceful, growing Pacific Island nation.

14. Vanuatu

Buying a passport in as little as one to two months might appear improbable. However, a quick processing time like this is possible if you make a direct investment as part of Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program.

Please note that recently visa-free access to the EU has been revoked for Vanuatu.

Types of Investment Options for Citizenship by Investment

1. Real estate investment

Purchase government-approved property with potential rental income, capital appreciation, and resale options. Some countries require holding the property for a specific number of years, while others offer more flexible terms. This option appeals to investors seeking both dual citizenship and a tangible asset.

2. Non-refundable contribution

Make a one-time donation to a national development fund, education fund, or government relief program. Though this route doesn’t offer a financial return, it is typically the fastest and most straightforward path to citizenship. Contributions support national priorities such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education. For example, the OECD has evaluated the role of such funds in boosting sustainable development initiatives.

3. Business investment

Invest in or establish a local business in the host country. Qualifying businesses often need to create jobs, meet specific revenue targets, or operate in designated economic sectors. This option is ideal for entrepreneurs or investors looking to actively participate in the local economy. Organizations like the World Bank often track business environment improvements that make these programs more attractive.

4. Government bonds

Purchase low-risk, government-issued bonds with a specified maturity period. These investments are usually refundable at the end of the term but may not yield interest. Suitable for investors who prefer state-backed financial instruments with minimal risk.

5. Bank deposit

Deposit a fixed amount in a national or approved financial institution for a specified term. The deposit is typically non-interest-bearing but is returned in full upon maturity. This route is seen as secure and passive, often favored in MENA-region programs.

Benefits of Citizenship by Investment Programs

• Global mobility: A second passport by investment opens the door to visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel access to 100+ countries, including the EU, UK, or China (depending on the issuing country).
• Wealth and tax optimization: Citizenship by Investment can offer access to countries with low taxes or even no taxes on income, capital gains, or inheritance. This allows for strategic wealth protection and tax optimization.
• Family inclusion: Most programs allow for the inclusion of spouses, dependent children, and sometimes extended family, securing their future as well.
• Security and stability: Citizenship offers a legal right to reside in a more politically or economically stable environment – an ideal Plan B.
• Investment diversification: Real estate or business investments in other countries offer returns, hedge risk, and diversify your financial portfolio.
• Access to education and healthcare: Citizenship in some countries unlocks access to top-tier education and public or private healthcare systems.
• Full citizenship rights: In many countries, citizenship grants the right to vote, work, study, own property, and pass citizenship to future generations.

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

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by investment (CBI) programs allow foreign investors to acquire citizenship in a country by making a significant financial contribution to its economy. These programs usually require investments in real estate, cultural projects, government bonds, or business ventures.

In exchange for the foreign direct investment, successful applicants and their families gain citizenship rights, such as living and working in the country, visa free travel, and tax benefits.

How does Citizenship by Investment work?

After selecting a suitable program, applicants choose their preferred investment route and submit documentation proving the legal source of funds. Governments conduct extensive due diligence, including background checks.

Upon approval, the investor and eligible family members receive full citizenship and a passport, usually within 3 to 12 months depending on the country.

Which countries offer Citizenship by Investment in 2025?

As of 2025, 14 countries offer legally recognized citizenship by investment programs. These include Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Malta, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, North Macedonia, Cambodia, Vanuatu, and Austria.

How much does Citizenship by Investment cost?

Costs vary significantly by country and investment type. A donation to a national fund may start at $100,000, while real estate or business investments can range from $200,000 to over €2 million.

What is the application process for Citizenship by Investment?

Eligible applicants choose a country and investment route (such as real estate or donation), submit documents and undergo a due diligence check. Once approved, the applicant makes the investment and receives citizenship.

Is Citizenship by Investment legal?

Yes, Citizenship by Investment is legal in countries that have enacted specific laws to offer such programs. These programs are recognized under domestic legislation and comply with international standards for due diligence and financial transparency.

What are the main benefits of Citizenship by Investment?

Key benefits include visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 100 countries, favorable tax regimes, asset protection, expanded business opportunities, and the ability to relocate for safety or lifestyle reasons. It also provides long-term security and generational wealth planning through family inclusion.

Are there risks involved in Citizenship by Investment?

Yes, potential risks include changes to program requirements, suspension or closure of programs, and reputational scrutiny.

Applicants who fail due diligence checks may be rejected, and in some cases, granted citizenship may be revoked due to fraud or non-compliance.

Do I have to live in the country to qualify for citizenship?

Most CBI programs do not require residency or physical presence, although a few, such as Malta’s, may require short visits or limited residency during the application process. Always check the latest residency rules for each country.

Can I include my family in my Citizenship by Investment application?

Yes, most CBI programs allow applicants to include immediate family members such as spouses and dependent children, and in some cases, parents, grandparents, or siblings. Each additional applicant incurs separate fees.

How long does the Citizenship by Investment process take?

Processing times range from 2 to 6 months for Caribbean programs to 12–18 months for European programs. The timeline may be affected by due diligence procedures, document verification, and government processing times.

Can my citizenship be taken away?

Yes, governments can revoke citizenship if it was obtained through fraudulent means or if the individual is later found to have failed background checks. Adhering to all program requirements ensures long-term security.

What is the difference between Citizenship by Investment and Residency by Investment?

Citizenship by Investment grants full citizenship rights and a passport immediately upon approval, while Residency by Investment (also known as a Golden Visa) offers legal residence and often a pathway to citizenship after several years of living in the country. Residency by Investment programs may require ongoing presence or renewal.

Can I finance or take a loan for my citizenship by investment?

No. Most citizenship by investment countries require applicants to use legally earned and fully liquid funds. Borrowed money, including bank loans or financing from third parties, is typically not accepted due to strict source-of-funds rules.