Artur Saraiva
Looking for the quickest way to secure a second passport? Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs provide a fast-track route to dual citizenship, enhanced global mobility, and visa-free travel, often with no residency requirement.
Unlike traditional naturalization, these programs focus on investment and streamlined due diligence, making them ideal for those seeking instant citizenship countries or expedited timelines.
In this guide, we reveal the fastest citizenship by investment programs in 2025, comparing processing times, minimum investment amounts, and key benefits such as family inclusion and favorable tax regimes.
Ready to discover which countries offer the fastest route to a second passport? Let’s dive in.
What is citizenship by investment and why does speed matter?
Citizenship by Investment (CBI), also known as economic citizenship, is a process whereby individuals acquire second citizenship by making an investment in a country’s economy, such as a donation to government bonds, a real estate purchase, or business investments.
Unlike citizenship by naturalization, which often requires residency, language tests, and cultural integration, economic citizenship programs streamline the path to nationality, allowing applicants to bypass lengthy timelines.
Why is speed so critical? According to the Global Intelligence Unit’s (GIU) 2025 Global RCBI Report, demand for fast-track citizenship programs has surged by over 900% among U.S. applicants since 2019, driven by concerns over political risk, taxation, and travel restrictions. As one GIU expert notes, “Mobility is a hedge against risk. Alternative citizenships give high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) the power to move assets, people, and operations when crises hit.”
For investors, the many benefits of obtaining a second passport quickly are clear:
- Global mobility: Immediate visa-free travel to 100+ countries.
- Dual citizenship: Security and diversification of personal and financial risk.
- Tax advantages: Access to countries with favorable tax structures, such as no capital gains or inheritance taxes.
This shift underscores why the fastest citizenship by investment programs have become a core wealth-planning tool for globally mobile investors.
Factors That Affect Processing Time
Not all citizenship by investment programs move at the same pace. Here are the key variables influencing processing time:
- Completeness of application: Incomplete or inaccurate submissions are the top cause of delays. GIU data emphasizes that fully compliant applications can cut timelines by 30%.
- Due diligence checks: Rigorous background screenings are non-negotiable. As GIU experts highlight, “Investment migration isn’t a loophole – it’s a regulated process where due diligence ensures integrity and global trust.” These checks align with global standards like the OECD’s Investment Migration Guidelines, which emphasize transparency and risk prevention.
- Government workload and program capacity: High application volumes can slow approvals, especially in popular programs like St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Residency requirements: Programs with no physical stay requirement (for example, Caribbean CBI programs) are inherently faster than those requiring residence or cultural integration.
When combined, these factors determine whether you secure a passport in 1 to 3 months or over 12 months, making program selection crucial for those prioritizing speed.
8 Countries With the Fastest Citizenship by Investment Programs
The fastest citizenship by investment (CBI) programs in 2025 include Vanuatu (1 to 3 months), St. Kitts and Nevis (3 to 4 months), Antigua and Barbuda (3 to 4 months), Dominica (3 to 6 months), Grenada (3 to 6 months), and Turkey (3 to 6 months). These programs are favored by global investors seeking accelerated second citizenship, visa-free travel, and enhanced global mobility.
As Laura Madrid, Research Lead at the Global Intelligence Unit, explains, “While many Citizenship by Investment programs promote rapid processing, actual timelines depend on due diligence, government capacity, and application completeness.”
Below is a comparison and overviews of 8 citizenship by investment countries offering the fastest citizenship by investment in 2025, ranked by speed, investment options, and benefits.
Country | Processing Time | Minimum Investment | Investment Type | Visa-Free Access | Residency Requirement |
Vanuatu | 1 to 3 months | $130,000 | Donation | 100+ countries | None |
St. Lucia | 3 to 4 months | $240,000 | Donation or Real Estate | 140+ countries | None |
St. Kitts and Nevis | 3 to 4 months | $250,000 | Donation or Real Estate | 150+ countries | None |
Dominica | 3 to 6 months | $200,000 | Donation or Real Estate | 140+ countries | None |
Grenada | 3 to 6 months | $235,000 | Donation or Real Estate | 140+ countries (incl. China) | None |
Antigua and Barbuda | 3 to 4 months | $230,000 | Donation or Real Estate | 150+ countries | 5 days in 5 years |
Malta | 12 to 36 months | €600,000 to €750,000 | Contribution and Property | 180+ countries | Yes (naturalization period) |
Jordan | 3 to 6 months | $750,000 | Multiple (Real Estate, Business) | Limited | None |
Turkey | 3 to 6 months | $400,000 | Real Estate / Other | 110+ countries | None |
1. Vanuatu
The fastest option
The Vanuatu citizenship by investment program is widely considered to be the fastest citizenship scheme in the world. Individuals typically receive their passports within one to three months of applying and making the non-refundable contribution of $130,000 to the country’s National Development Fund.
Vanuatu is also the only country in the South Pacific region providing a Commonwealth passport to foreign investors. Other benefits include the process being simplified and straightforward, with no need to visit the country when applying.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Contribution to the Development Support Program (DSP). - Clean criminal record. - Passing due diligence. - Submission of identity and financial documents. |
Processing Time | 1 - 3 months |
Minimum Investment | $130,000 |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to about 95 countries, including Singapore and Hong Kong. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency required. - Citizenship is lifelong. - Renew passport every 5–10 years. |
2. St Lucia
Flexible and affordable
The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program is one of the most popular programs in the Caribbean. The minimum donation is $100,000 to the country’s National Economic Fund (NEF), while real estate investment options start at $240,000.
St. Lucia offers another fast citizenship option, with the average turnaround from investment to receiving a second citizenship of three to six months. There are also no residency requirements to apply for a St. Lucia passport, and the country provides visa-free travel to 140+ destinations, including the Schengen Zone and the UK.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Contribution to the National Economic Fund, real estate, or government bonds - Clean criminal record. - Due diligence checks. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $100,000 (donation route) |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free access to 140+ countries, including Schengen Zone, UK, and Hong Kong. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency requirement. - Renew passport every 5–10 years. |
3. St Kitts and Nevis
The original and most trusted
St. Kitts and Nevis’s citizenship by investment program is one of the oldest and most reputable programs. Foreign nationals can obtain citizenship within three to six months, provided they make a minimum contribution of $250,000 to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) and pass due diligence checks.
Applicants can also make a government-approved real estate investment of at least $400,000 through joint ownership or $800,000 for a sole purchase to qualify. The program is administered by a separate Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) ensuring applications are well-managed and trustworthy.
The St. Kitts and Nevis passport remains the strongest among Caribbean nations, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 150 countries, including the EU and UK.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) donation or real estate investment. - Background checks. - Proof of funds. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $250,000 (donation route) |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free or visa-on-arrival to 150+ countries, including Schengen, UK, and Singapore. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency requirement. - Renew passport every 10 years. |
4. Dominica
Affordable and efficient
Dominica’s citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable and reputable in the Caribbean. In return for an economic contribution of $100,000 to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) or investing $200,000 in government-approved real estate projects, you can obtain a Dominica passport.
Applications are typically processed in 3 to 6 months, with no residency requirement to maintain citizenship. The Dominica passport grants visa-free travel to 140+ destinations, including the Schengen Area and the UK.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Economic Diversification Fund donation or real estate investment. - Clean criminal record. - Due diligence checks. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $100,000 (donation route) |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free access to 140+ countries, including the EU Schengen Zone and UK. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency required. - Renew passport every 5–10 years. |
5. Grenada
Unique U.S. E-2 Visa access
Grenada’s citizenship by investment program offers an attractive benefit: eligibility for the U.S. E2 Visa investor visa. The program processes applications in around 3 to 6 months and requires a minimum investment of $150,000 as a donation or a real estate investment starting at $220,000 (shared ownership).
Grenada’s passport allows visa-free travel to 145+ countries, including China, which is unique among Caribbean programs. There is no residency requirement, and citizenship is lifelong.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Contribution to the National Transformation Fund or real estate investment. - Proof of funds. - Clean criminal record. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $150,000 (donation route) |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free access to 145+ countries, including China; eligibility for U.S. E-2 visa. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency requirement. - Renew passport every 10 years. |
Discover how to get a second passport and enjoy greater travel freedom, security, and flexibility for your future.
6. Antigua and Barbuda
Family-friendly choice
Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program is another popular choice, especially for families. It’s among the most affordable citizenship programs, with a qualifying donation starting at $100,000 to the National Development Fund (NDF).
Investing at least $200,000 in approved property is another path to citizenship. The government processes applications in around three to six months, and only five days of residency within five years are required to maintain the passport. Antigua and Barbuda offers visa-free travel to over 150 destinations worldwide.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - National Development Fund donation, real estate, or business investment. - Clean criminal record. - Due diligence checks. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $100,000 (donation route) |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free travel to 150+ destinations, including Schengen and UK. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - Spend 5 days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first 5 years. - Renew passport every 10 years. |
7. Jordan
Strategic Middle Eastern option
The Jordan citizenship by investment program is the only fast-track citizenship option in the Middle East, with approval times ranging from 3 to 6 months.
Investors must contribute a minimum of $750,000 through investments in real estate, job-creating projects, or government bonds. While Jordan’s passport offers limited visa-free access (approximately 50 countries), it provides strategic business opportunities in the Middle East.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Investment in government bonds, property, or projects. - Clean criminal record. - Proof of funds. |
Processing Time | 3 - 6 months |
Minimum Investment | $750,000 |
Passport Benefits | Limited visa-free access (approx. 50 countries), including Egypt and Turkey. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency requirement. - Renew passport every 5 or 10 years. |
8. Turkey
Investment appeal
Turkey has been recognized as one of the most attractive citizenship by investment countries for a couple of reasons.
The Turkish government provides multiple investment options under its program, including real estate purchases, bank deposits, government bonds, or creating jobs for Turkish citizens.
The most common and cost-effective route for Turkey citizenship by investment is purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000. After meeting the full investment and compliance requirements, investors can expect to receive citizenship and a Turkish passport within six to eight months, due to increased demand and thorough due diligence.
Category | Details |
Key Requirements | - Real estate purchase or capital investment. - Proof of funds. - Due diligence checks. |
Processing Time | 6 - 8 months |
Minimum Investment | $400,000 |
Passport Benefits | Visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries, including Japan and Singapore. |
Maintaining Citizenship | - No residency requirement. - Renew passport every 10 years. |
Required Documents and Application Process for Citizenship by Investment
Before applying for one of the fastest citizenship by investment programs, applicants must prepare all the required documents and follow a structured application process to ensure compliance with program guidelines.
While the exact paperwork and steps vary by country, the requirements generally include proof of identity, a clean criminal record, and verified financial information to meet due diligence standards.
Required documents for Citizenship by Investment programs
In addition to meeting eligibility criteria, investors must submit all the required documents listed below. These documents demonstrate good character, lawful source of funds, and overall compliance:
- Valid passport (certified copy).
- Police clearance certificate from current and previous countries of residence (past 10 years).
- Proof of legitimate source of funds (for example, bank statements, tax returns, employment contracts, audited business financials, or inheritance documents).
- Bank reference letter.
- Medical certificate confirming good health.
- Proof of health insurance.
- Completed citizenship application forms.
- Investment agreement forms (for real estate or other qualifying assets).
- Passport-sized photographs meeting specified dimensions and background color.
- Receipts for government fees including application, due diligence, and processing charges.
Applicants must have no prior visa refusals, maintain transparent financial histories, and consent to background verification under strict privacy protocols.
How to apply for Citizenship by Investment: step-by-step
Although the exact process varies by country, the application process for fast-track citizenship programs generally follows these steps:
Step 1: Select the right program
Decide on your preferred country and investment route (donation, real estate, or business) based on your budget, desired processing time, and global mobility goals.
Step 2: Engage an authorized agent
Most countries require applicants to work through a licensed CBI agent to ensure compliance with local laws and international due diligence requirements.
Step 3: Gather all the required documents
Collect identity documents, criminal background checks, financial statements proving the lawful source of funds, and any supporting records for dependents (for example, birth or marriage certificates).
Step 4: Make the required investment
Transfer the necessary funds for your chosen option (government contribution, property purchase, or other qualifying investment) as specified by the program.
Step 5: Submit the citizenship application
Submit all required documentation along with proof of investment to the relevant government authority. Pay the application, due diligence, and processing fees at this stage.
Step 6: Undergo due diligence checks
Authorities conduct rigorous background checks to verify your eligibility. This stage is crucial and typically determines the processing timeline.
Step 7: Approval and passport issuance
Once approved, you’ll take an oath of allegiance (if required) and receive your second passport, often within 1–6 months for the fastest programs, such as those in Vanuatu or the Caribbean.
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 Fastest Citizenship by Investment
What is the fastest citizenship by investment program in 2025?
The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program is widely recognized as one of the fastest, with processing usually completed in about 1 to 4 months.
St. Lucia and St. Kitts and Nevis also offer relatively speedy approvals, typically taking around 6 months or slightly longer.
Which countries offer instant citizenship through investment?
While no country offers truly instant citizenship, Caribbean countries such as St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica offer expedited processing, usually between 3 to 6 months.
How quickly can I get a passport via citizenship by investment?
This is entirely dependent on the program you choose so you can receive a second passport in as little as 1 to 3 months (Vanuatu) or up to 36 months for European options like Malta.
Caribbean nations generally process applications within 3 to 6 months, making them a popular choice for those seeking quick timelines.
Which citizenship by investment programs grant passports in less than 6 months?
Several programs provide citizenship within 6 months, including:
- Vanuatu: 1 to 3 months
- St. Kitts and Nevis: 3 to 4 months
- Antigua and Barbuda: 3 to 4 months
- Dominica: 3 to 6 months
- St. Lucia: 3 to 4 months
Are there any citizenship by investment programs with no residency requirement?
Yes, most Caribbean programs and Vanuatu do not require applicants to reside in the country before or after approval.
This makes them attractive for investors who want the convenience of second passport without having to relocate.
Which European country offers the fastest citizenship by investment?
In Europe, Malta offers the fastest route to citizenship through its Naturalisation for Exceptional Services program, with a timeline of 12 to 36 months.
Although it is not as quick as Caribbean programs, it does provide access to the sought-after European Union region, allowing visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone and the right to live in any EU country.
Are there fast-track citizenship options without language or residency requirements?
Yes, most Caribbean programs and Vanuatu have no language tests and no mandatory residency requirements, making them ideal for those seeking quick, hassle-free citizenship.
How fast is St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment in 2025?
In 2025, St. Kitts and Nevis offers one of the fastest Caribbean CBI programs, with standard processing times of 90 to 120 days.
The program includes multiple investment routes and offers visa-free travel to over 150 countries.
Which CBI programs allow family inclusion?
Most citizenship by investment programs allow applicants to include spouses, dependent children, and sometimes parents or grandparents.
For example, programs in Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, and St. Lucia provide family-friendly packages for an additional contribution.
What factors can delay fast-track citizenship applications?
Delays usually occur due to incomplete documentation, extended due diligence checks, or government backlogs.
To avoid delays, work with a licensed CBI agent and ensure your application is accurate and complete.
