Looking to secure a second passport quickly? The fastest Citizenship by Investment programs in 2025 make it possible to obtain citizenship and a new passport in a matter of months, sometimes in as little as 60 days.
These programs are designed specifically to cater to high-net-worth individuals seeking the fastest passport to get legally, offering streamlined due diligence, clear investment requirements, and minimal or no residency obligations.
While traditional naturalization can take years, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs provide an accelerated path in exchange for a qualifying investment (such as a donation or real estate purchase). Investors gain global mobility, asset diversification, and security, with many programs allowing family inclusion under one application so that it extends to dependents.
In this guide, we compare the fastest Citizenship by Investment countries, covering processing timelines, minimum investment thresholds, and visa-free access benefits. You’ll also learn how these programs differ between the Caribbean and Europe, and what to expect at each stage of the application.
What is Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a legal process that allows eligible foreign investors to obtain citizenship and a second passport by making a qualifying financial contribution to a country. This is usually through a non-refundable donation, government-approved real estate investment, or national development fund contribution.
Unlike traditional naturalization, which often requires years of residency, language tests, or cultural integration, CBI programs offer a fast-tracked, predictable pathway, often taking as little as 2 to 6 months, depending on the country.
Once approved, successful applicants gain full citizenship rights, including the ability to live, work, study, and travel with their new second passport, along with potential tax planning and asset protection advantages.
What Fastest Citizenship by Investment Really Means
When we talk about the fastest Citizenship by Investment programs, we’re referring to the timeframe between submitting a complete application and receiving official approval, not the total time until the physical passport is in hand.
Several factors determine processing speed, and understanding these helps investors choose the most realistic fast-track option.
1. Type of investment route
- Non-refundable donations to government funds are usually the quickest because they involve fewer legal steps.
- Real estate or bond investments often take longer due to property evaluations and registration procedures.
2. Government due diligence process
Each applicant undergoes thorough background and source-of-funds checks. Programs like St. Kitts & Nevis and Dominica have earned a reputation for efficient yet rigorous vetting, ensuring legitimacy without unnecessary delay.
3. Residency and documentation requirements
Some countries, such as Antigua & Barbuda, require a brief physical visit (5 days in 5 years), while others like Vanuatu and St. Lucia have no residency obligations. Having all documents apostilled, translated, and error-free significantly reduces waiting times.
4. Government processing timelines
Approval periods for the fastest programs range from 1 – 6 months.
- Vanuatu: 1 – 2 months
- Dominica & St. Kitts & Nevis: 3 – 6 months
- Grenada and, Antigua & Barbuda: 6 – 9 months
- St. Lucia: 12 – 15 months
Top 7 Fastest Citizenship by Investment Countries List in 2025
The current fastest citizenship by investment programs include Vanuatu (1 – 3 months), St. Kitts and Nevis (3 – 6 months), Antigua and Barbuda (4 – 6 months), Dominica (3 – 6 months), Grenada (4 – 6 months), and Turkey (3 – 6 months). These programs are especially popular among global investors seeking accelerated second citizenship, enhanced global mobility, and visa-free access to key regions such as Europe, the UK, and Asia.
However, while processing times are often marketed as “fast-track” or “express,” real timelines can vary. As Laura Madrid, Research Lead at the Global Intelligence Unit (GIU), notes, “CBI programs may advertise rapid processing, but the true timeline depends on due diligence reviews, government efficiency, and how complete and well-prepared the application is.”
Below, we compare the 7 fastest citizenship by investment countries in 2025, ranked by processing speed, investment requirements, global mobility ratings, and family eligibility options.
01/ Vanuatu: The world’s fastest Citizenship by Investment program
- Processing time: Approximately 1 – 2 months (for submission of a complete file).
- Minimum investment: From USD $130,000 donation to the Development Support Program (DSP) fund
- Investment route: Non-refundable donation route only (fastest option).
- Family eligibility: Spouse, dependent children, and sometimes parents.
- Residency requirement: None, the application can be handled remotely.
- Visa-free access: 118 countries/territories.
Details and highlights:
- Because the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program uses only a citizenship by donation route and has no residency requirement, Vanuatu is typically the fastest citizenship by investment program globally. It is ideal for applicants whose main priority is speed and ease of process.
- The lack of a real estate option keeps the legal and transactional complexity lower. Since there are less property registrations, there is less risk of valuations being delayed.
- Vanuatu is a member of the Commonwealth and offers networking benefits for citizenship-holders.
- Note that in December 2024 the EU revoked the visa-free travel agreement for Vanuatu citing concerns with its investor-citizenship scheme. This may affect future travel mobility.
- Because its mobility score is lower than some Caribbean alternatives (118 destinations vs 140+ elsewhere), Vanuatu is best for speed rather than ultimate passport power.
02/ Dominica: Most affordable fast-track passport option
- Processing time: Approximately 3 – 6 months for donation route.
- Minimum investment: Around USD $200,000 donation to the Dominica Economic Diversification Fund (EDF).
- Investment routes: Donation or approved real estate (latter route is slower due to registration process).
- Family eligibility: Spouse, dependent children, parents and sometimes grandparents.
- Residency requirement: None.
- Visa-free access: Over 140 destinations.
Details and highlights:
- Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program is one of the longest-standing in the Caribbean and, with the donation route, it remains one of the fastest for investors seeking a second passport in a straightforward structure.
- The minimum cost is relatively low among major programs, making it appealing for budget-sensitive HNWIs seeking speed as well as mobility.
- Its visa-free access is strong since it covers the Schengen Area, UK (subject to occasional changes), and many other areas.
- Because of simpler requirements and no residency, Dominica is often featured in fastest-CBI comparisons.
- Dominica offers an excellent balance of speed, cost and mobility.
03/ St. Kitts & Nevis: Oldest and premium fast-track passport
Processing time: Standard is about 4 – 6 months, plus an optional 60-day Accelerated Application Process (AAP) at an additional cost.
Minimum investment: From USD $250,000 donation (St. Kitts & Nevis Sustainable Island State Contribution). Other routes (such as real estate) are higher and slower.
Investment routes: Donation (fastest), approved real estate shares or approved private home and Public Benefit Option (PBO).
Family eligibility: Spouse, dependent children and parents.
Residency requirement: None.
Visa-free access: Around 150+ destinations.
Details and highlights:
- This St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment program is widely regarded as the most “premium” option because of its long-standing history, strong due-diligence reputation, and the 60-day AAP option for speedy processing.
- The donation route keeps processing time short compared to real estate or bond options.
- The high number of visa-free destinations provides strong mobility for investors and their families.
- For someone prioritising both speed and top-tier passport power, St. Kitts & Nevis is among the best.
- Note that while the 60-day route exists, full timelines depend on due diligence, document completeness and government load so always plan conservatively (for example, 3 – 4 months).
04/ Antigua & Barbuda: Best value for families
- Processing time: Approximately 4 – 8 months
- Minimum investment: Around USD $230,000 donation (UWI Fund) for four-member family (higher for larger families).
- Investment routes: Donation to either University of West Indies (UWI) Fund or National Development Fund (NDF), approved real estate and business investment.
- Family eligibility: Spouse, children, parents and grandparents.
- Residency requirement: 5 days in the first 5 years.
- Visa-free access: Around 150+ countries. Commonly cited among Caribbean CBI top tier for mobility.
Details and highlights:
- The 5-day residency requirement is minimal and manageable, making this program effectively “no significant physical stay” compared with most citizenship by naturalization routes.
- For families seeking a fast route for multiple dependents, and valuing mobility and cost efficiency, the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program is a strong option.
- Real estate route adds complexity (property search, registration and closing), which can extend timeline so the donation route remains fastest.
- Family has broad inclusion and the country has solid passport power. The trade-off for these advantages is a slightly longer timeline versus the absolute fastest such as Vanuatu and Dominica.
05/ Grenada: Only fast CBI with US E2 Visa treaty access
- Processing time: Approximately 6 – 9 months via donation route.
- Minimum investment: Around USD $235,000 donation (or higher for real estate route).
- Investment routes: Non-refundable donation or approved real estate.
- Family eligibility: Spouse, dependent children, unmarried siblings, parents and grandparents.
- Residency requirement: None.
- Visa-free access: Around 140+ destinations.
Details and highlights:
- The Grenada Citizenship by Investment is the only program that offers access to the US E2 visa (through Grenada citizenship) for qualifying investors, which makes it especially attractive for entrepreneurs.
- Although processing is slightly longer than the absolute fastest programs (3 – 6 months), the business and mobility benefits often offset the slightly longer timeline.
- The real estate route is attractive for those wanting potential capital recovery, but it adds processing time. The donation route remains the fastest path.
- For speed, business visa flexibility and mobility, Grenada is a strong contender.
06/ St. Lucia: Flexible investment options with solid mobility
- Processing time: Donation route often marketed as around 4 – 6+ months from complete file to approval but some sources note that it can be closer to 12 – 14 months.
- Minimum investment: From USD $240,000 donation (St Lucia National Economic Fund) or real estate, bonds, or enterprise investment (higher).
- Investment routes: Donation, government bonds, real estate and enterprise.
- Family eligibility: Spouse, dependent children and parents.
- Residency requirement: None.
- Visa-free access: 156 countries/territories.
Details and highlights:
- The multiple investment route options (donation, bonds, real estate, enterprise) give flexibility but can potentially increase the processing timeline depending on the route selected.
- No physical residency requirement is a major plus for investors who want to maintain a global footprint.
- The mobility score is very strong (156 destinations) making St. Lucia a top choice for those seeking global travel freedom.
- If the investor prioritises flexibility in investment rather than absolute minimal timeline, the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment program provides high value.
07/ Turkey: Real estate-based fast citizenship with US E2 access
- Processing time: Approximately 3 – 6 months from submission of a complete file.
- Minimum investment: From USD $400,000 in government-approved real estate (with a 3-year holding requirement).
- Investment route: Purchase of qualifying real estate (most popular and fastest route). Alternative options include a USD $500,000 bank deposit, government bond purchase, or capital investment.
- Family eligibility: Spouse and dependent children under 18 (parents not usually eligible under the main application).
- Residency requirement: None. Applicants are not required to live in Turkey before or after citizenship approval.
- Visa-free access: 114+ visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations.
Details and highlights:
- Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment program is one of the fastest outside the Caribbean, issuing citizenship in as little as 3 – 6 months, provided that documents and property registration are handled efficiently.
- Unlike donation-only programs, the real estate investment option allows investors to retain an asset that may generate rental income or capital appreciation. Properties must be held for at least three years, after which they may be legally resold.
- A major advantage of Turkish citizenship is eligibility for the US E2 Investor Visa, allowing approved citizens to live and operate a business in the United States.
- Although Turkey’s passport offers moderate mobility compared to Caribbean CBI countries, it is strategically valuable for those seeking a mix of investment potential, relocation lifestyle benefits, and US business access.
- Because of its real asset ownership, strategic geographic position, and access to the US E2 visa pathway, Turkey is best suited for investors seeking more than just a fast passport, particularly those interested in business, lifestyle relocation, or long-term investment.
Summary
- Fastest overall: Vanuatu (1 – 2 months). Best if speed is primary goal and mobility requirement moderate.
- Best balance (speed, mobility and cost combined): Dominica (3 – 6 months) or St. Kitts & Nevis (4 – 6 months standard, or 60-day premium, fast-track route).
- Family and mobility focused: Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St. Lucia. Slightly longer timelines but strong mobility and broader family inclusion.
- Business relocation and lifestyle investment: Slightly longer processing times compared to the Caribbean, but offers real asset ownership, US E2 Visa eligibility, and strong business, lifestyle, and relocation potential.
Discover how to get a second passport and enjoy greater travel freedom, security, and flexibility for your future.
Comparison: Top Countries With the Fastest Citizenship by Investment Programs
| Country | Processing time | Fastest investment route | Minimum investment (from) | Residency requirement | Visa-free / Visa-on-arrival access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanuatu | 1–2 months | Donation (DSP) | US $130,000 | None | 118 countries |
| St Kitts & Nevis | 4–6 months (60-day accelerated option) | Donation (SISC) | US $250,000 | None | 167 countries |
| Dominica | 3–6 months | Donation (EDF) | US $200,000 | None | 140+ countries |
| Antigua & Barbuda | 4–8 months | Donation (NDF / UWI) | US $230,000 | 5 days in first 5 years | 150+ countries |
| Grenada | 6–9 months | Donation (NTF) | US $235,000 | None | 140+ countries |
| St Lucia | 6–9 months | Donation (NEF) | US $240,000 | None | 156 countries |
| Turkey | 3–6 months | Real estate purchase | US $400,000 | None | 114+ countries |
How do I apply for a Citizenship by Investment program?
While each country has its own application procedure, most fast-track Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs follow a similar process. Below is a clear step-by-step guide explaining how to apply.
Step 01/ Pre-screening and initial eligibility assessment
Before submitting your application, a licensed agent or government-approved representative evaluates your eligibility. This includes reviewing your background, nationality, financial records, and source-of-funds documentation.
Step 02/ Gather and legalize required documents
Applicants must collect and submit a complete set of documents such as:
| Common documents required | Notes |
|---|---|
| Certified passport copies | Valid for at least 6 months |
| Valid for at least 6 months | From country of residence and citizenship |
| Source-of-funds documentation | Bank statements, financial history |
| Birth/marriage certificates | May need translation and apostille |
| Medical certificate | Health and fitness confirmation |
All documents must be notarized, translated (if needed), certified, and apostilled according to legal standards.
Step 03/ Due diligence and government background checks
The government conducts strict Know-Your-Client (KYC) and due diligence screening using global security databases, including Interpol, Europol, and financial intelligence networks.
Enhanced checks may apply if your business or financial profile is complex.
Step 04/ Approval in Principle issued
Once due diligence is successfully completed, the government issues an Approval in Principle. This means your application is approved pending completion of the investment or donation payment.
Step 05/ Complete the investment or donation
You now finalize your chosen investment route:
| Investment route | Description |
|---|---|
| Description | Fastest and most straightforward |
| Real estate purchase | Retainable, usually with 3–5 year holding period |
| Business or bond route | Available in select countries (e.g., Turkey, St. Lucia) |
Step 06/ Citizenship Certificate Issued
After payment is verified, the government issues a Certificate of Naturalization or Registration, confirming legal citizenship.
Some countries may also require an oath of allegiance, which can often be completed remotely.
Step 07/ Passport Issuance and Delivery
Finally, you apply for your country’s passport. This is usually issued within 2–8 weeks and can be delivered via courier.
You now hold full citizenship rights, including global mobility, investment opportunities, and tax planning benefits.
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.
