Artur Saraiva
A golden passport, also known as Citizenship by Investment (CBI) or economic citizenship, grants second citizenship in exchange for a financial investment. These programs are typically aimed at investors, offering enhanced global mobility, financial flexibility, and a backup plan in times of political or economic instability.
While many expats aspire to obtain dual citizenship from countries with strong passports and stable economies, lengthy application processes and legal hurdles often stand in the way.
Fortunately, several golden passport countries offer streamlined paths to citizenship through investment, with programs ranging from real estate purchases to government fund contributions. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best options – from St Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean to Portugal in Europe – and highlight their key benefits.
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What is a Golden Passport?
A “golden passport” is a form of citizenship by investment, allowing individuals to acquire citizenship or residency in a country by making a significant financial contribution. This usually involves investing in real estate, government bonds, or making a donation to a national development fund.
The golden passport grants access to benefits such as visa-free travel to numerous countries, tax advantages, and the ability to live, work, and do business in the country offering the program. Countries that offer golden passports include Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Turkey, among others. Each program has its own requirements, such as minimum investment amounts and processing times, ranging from a few months to a few years.
Additionally, Global Citizen Solutions also has a new and improved Global Passport Index that evaluates a passport’s power based on its enhanced mobility, quality of life, and investment index. It is another useful tool for helping you choose the best and most beneficial passport.
17 Countries with Golden Passports 2025
1. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is a heavenly beach paradise in the Caribbean that provides powerful passport-related benefits to holders. The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program offers a passport providing visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel to 151 countries due to its high ranking on the Global Passport Index.
The country’s citizenship by investment scheme requires a minimum non-refundable donation of $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund, a minimum investment of $300,000 in government-approved real estate or a contribution to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund of $150,000 for a family of six or more, which includes one year of tuition at the UWI for one family member.
2. Austria
Austria is one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, and as such, the Austrian citizenship by investment program is among the most exclusive and expensive in the world.
While Austria does not operate a formal, publicly available CBI program, it offers citizenship under Section 10(6) of the Austrian Citizenship Act, which allows the government to grant citizenship by exception to individuals who make extraordinary contributions to the nation’s economic, cultural, or social interests.
To qualify, wealthy foreign investors typically must invest several million euros, often in the range of €3 million to €10 million, in impactful economic activities such as setting up high-growth businesses, funding export-driven enterprises, or creating substantial employment opportunities. Importantly, Austria does not accept passive investments like real estate or government bond purchases for this pathway.
While this route is sometimes informally referred to as the Austrian citizenship by investment program, it is extremely selective, with only a limited number of approvals granted each year. Moreover, Austria generally does not permit dual citizenship, meaning successful applicants are usually required to renounce their previous nationality to obtain an Austrian passport.
3. Dominica
Since 1993, the Caribbean island of Dominica has had a flexible investment scheme for foreign nationals interested in Dominica’s citizenship by investment and one of the Caribbean’s most powerful passports.
A Dominican passport is a fantastic choice for US expats looking for a stable life abroad. Their local currency is pegged to the US dollar, so foreign residents need not worry about currency value fluctuations.
Dominica’s passport benefits from no prior visa requirements for inter-Caribbean travel. Caribbean citizens can travel visa-free to all other nations in the Caribbean.
The citizenship scheme starts with a donation of $200,000 to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund. The second option is to purchase approved real estate worth $200,000, in addition to due diligence and administrative fees. The real estate must be held for at least three years.
4. Grenada
The Grenada citizenship by investment scheme allows investors to obtain second citizenship and Grenadian passports. Grenadian passport holders have access to visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel to more than 140 countries, including China and Russia.
Grenada is the only country in the West Indies that allows you to acquire the USA E-2 treaty investor visa through its citizenship through investment program.
One of the two investment pathways under the Grenada investment scheme is to donate $235,000 to the National Transformation Fund (NTF). The second way is to purchase government-approved property (i.e., hotels or spas) in the country with a value of at least $270,000. The purchase of property comes with the condition that you must maintain possession of the property for at least five years.
5. Jordan
Jordan doesn’t have a claim to the world’s most powerful passport or one on par with the United Arab Emirates passport. Still, Jordanian passport holders have access to visa waivers for several destinations in the Middle East and worldwide. There are a few investment plans that you can apply for to get a Jordan passport.
The lowest option is worth $750,000, and you must invest in a project capable of creating at least ten local jobs outside the country’s capital. If you want to invest within the capital, this amount increases to $1 million.
Alternatively, you can place a $1 million deposit at the Central Bank of Jordan or purchase $1 million in treasury bonds, both with required holding periods. A third option involves buying $1.5 million in company shares held for at least three years.
Interested in obtaining a second passport? Get in touch with our team of specialists today!
6. Malta
Maltese passports are highly ranked on the passport index and provide visa-free entry to the United Kingdom and access to many of the world’s top travel destinations. The enhanced mobility of the Maltese passport has gained it its 28th ranking on our Global Passport Index.
Even though the granting of a passport in Malta has become more selective and thorough due to the popularity of the program in recent years and pressure from the European Commission, it is still preferred by many expats.
Therefore, it is possible to gain citizenship through Malta citizenship by investment, also known as Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (CES).
Two options are available to acquire citizenship through CES:
- Citizenship in one year with an investment of at least €750,000 in the national development fund.
- Citizenship in three years with an investment of at least €600,000 in the national development fund.
You must also purchase property for €700,000 or sign a lease agreement worth €16,000 annually, and make a philanthropic donation of €10,000 towards registered sports, culture, scientific research, the welfare of animals, or a Community Malta Agency (CMA) approved artistic non-governmental organization or society.
7. Moldova
Foreign investors previously had the option of a non-refundable contribution of €100,000 to obtain a passport in Moldova. However, the program was officially suspended and is no longer active as of 2025.
Please note that Moldova is still in the application phase for membership in the European Union, but the country has signed agreements with the EU, including an Association Agreement and a Security and Defence Partnership. Therefore, the Moldovan passport doesn’t offer the same level of access as EU passports, such as visa-free entry to the United Kingdom and the US.<
Still, the Moldovan passport offers visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 130 countries, including access to countries with stringent visa restrictions like the United Arab Emirates.
8. North Macedonia
Another Balkan country that formed part of the former state of Yugoslavia, North Macedonia has seen a remarkable resurgence over the last 30 years.
Although currently not a member state of the European Union, if you opt to apply for the North Macedonia citizenship by investment program, you can acquire a North Macedonia passport and enjoy travel freedom with visa-free access and visa-on-arrival travel to over 130 countries worldwide. You can also add your spouse and children under 18 to your passport application.
This country provides the investment option of €200,000 in a government-approved fund. You can also buy citizenship by investing €400,000 to set up a new venture, which will require creating at least ten local jobs.
9. St Kitts and Nevis
The St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program is one of the oldest investment schemes. St Kitts and Nevis have another of the Caribbean’s most powerful passports, as holders have access to over 150 countries visa-free.
Moreover, applying for this scheme does not require language proficiency or residence permit mandates, making it even more appealing for English-speaking overseas investors. For those looking to move for tax purposes, St Kitts and Nevis offers tax-saving incentives, such as no income tax and only a small contribution to the local Social Security Board (SSB).
There are two kinds of qualifying investment plans: You can contribute $250,000 to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) or purchase property shares worth $400,000. These investments will entail specific due diligence and government processing fees.
10. Turkey
The Turkish passport includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 126 countries. Turkish citizenship by investment is diverse and provides expats with several ways to obtain it.
To obtain Turkish citizenship and a passport, you can buy properties in the country worth $400,000 and hold the investment for at least three years. Other qualifying investments include employing 50 Turkish citizens in any venture in Turkey’s commercial sector or contributing through capital transfer investments of $500,000 or more.
The best part about the Turkish citizenship by investment program is that it can help you obtain a USA residency permit through the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa program.
11. Vanuatu
Obtaining a Vanuatu passport is an increasingly popular choice among foreign investors. The primary benefit of the Vanuatu citizenship by investment program is that investors can obtain a second passport within two months of making the required investment.
Obtaining citizenship is possible through just one investment of a financial contribution worth $130,000 to the country’s government fund. Additional government fees apply for dependents and due diligence checks.
12. Cyprus
Cyprus has one of Europe’s most popular Golden Visa programs and has facilitated the growth of a large expat community. It’s possible to obtain a residency permit through the Cyprus Golden Visa program with a qualifying investment of €300,000 in Cypriot commercial or residential property.
An annual income of €30,000 is also required to apply, with additional amounts required per dependent. This income can be in various forms, such as wages, pensions, rental income, or dividends.
You can apply for citizenship after seven years of holding the residency permit, provided you meet all legal residency and integration requirements.
13. Greece
The Greece Golden Visa has allowed many expats worldwide to benefit from the country’s Mediterranean lifestyle. Although Greece doesn’t offer a citizenship by investment scheme, the Golden Visa enables you to maintain residency long enough to qualify for EU citizenship granted by the Greek government.
The Greek Golden Visa starts with a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate (or €500,000 – €800,000 for designated high-value areas). It also provides alternative investment routes, such as purchasing government bonds or making a bank deposit in a Greek financial institution.
Upon acquiring Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residency, you’ll be eligible for one of the strongest passports in the world, providing visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel to over 170 countries.
14. Portugal
The Portugal Golden Visa program is a five-year residency by investment opportunity for non-EU nationals who want to live, work, and study in the country. The intention is to attract foreign investment into Portugal.
With a Portuguese passport, you gain access to all 27 European Union nations and enjoy visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries worldwide, making it one of the world’s most powerful passports.
The minimum investment requirement for the Portugal Golden Visa is now €250,000, with qualifying options including investments in scientific research, support for the arts, and job creation. Note that real estate investments are no longer eligible.
You can apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship by holding your investment for at least five years and fulfilling language and integration requirements.
15. Latvia
The Latvia Golden Visa program is designed for non-EU citizens looking for a gateway to Europe. It appeals to investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals by offering residency along with benefits like access to the Schengen Zone for convenient travel across Europe.
The program stands out for its relatively low investment threshold, requiring only €50,000 in a capital company or, alternatively, €250,000 in real estate. It also allows applicants to include eligible dependents, and once citizenship is achieved, it can be inherited by children and future generations, making it an appealing long-term option.
16. Hungary
The Hungarian Golden Visa Program, also called the Guest Investor Program (GIP), was relaunched on July 1, 2024. This initiative allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to secure long-term residency in Hungary through investment. It aims to grow the economy while offering investors and their families access to the European Union (EU) and Schengen Area. The program is particularly appealing for its flexibility, requiring no minimum stay and granting a renewable 10-year residency permit.
The program offers applicants less financial risk because investors first must be approved before making the investment. To qualify, investors must contribute €250,000 to a state-approved real estate investment fund, and residency permits are typically issued within 21 days of the application appointment.
17. Serbia
The Serbian Residency by Investment program offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain residency in Serbia by purchasing real estate. It is an attractive option for those looking to live or work in the country. Applicants can purchase various properties, including apartments, houses, or commercial buildings, without restrictions on price or location.<
What sets this program apart is its flexibility, as there are no minimum investment requirements. Additionally, it provides easier access to travel within the European Union, which can be especially beneficial for business owners operating in Serbia. However, foreigners from countries without reciprocity agreements with Serbia may need to establish a legal entity before purchasing property.
Benefits of a Golden Passport
Benefits for investors
For international clients, acquiring a golden passport ensures not only increased global mobility but also personal and financial security.
The ability to obtain dual citizenship through CBI programs allows investors to legally maintain citizenship in more than one country, opening doors for future relocation, international business, and inheritance planning.
These benefits make golden passports especially attractive to HNWIs seeking long-term strategic advantages.
Visa-free travel: Holders of a golden passport often gain access to many visa-free destinations, making international travel easier and more convenient.
Residency and citizenship: The option to have residency through Golden Visa programs provides a pathway to live, work, or study in a country without requiring immediate relocation, allowing investors to maintain their primary residence elsewhere. This is ideal for those looking for mobility and flexibility. On the other hand, citizenship by investment programs cater to individuals looking for a more permanent and stable solution.
Economic opportunities: Having a Golden passport as a second passport gives access to new markets for business, tax benefits, and the ability to diversify investments across multiple countries.
Family inclusion: A huge advantage is that many programs allow dependents, such as spouses and children, to be included in the application, extending the benefits to the entire family.
Security and lifestyle: It offers a backup Plan B passport for political stability, better healthcare, education, or a higher quality of life.
Benefits for host countries
On the government side, host countries benefit from increased foreign direct investment (FDI), infrastructure development, and job creation.
These programs often align with national priorities in tourism, housing, and economic diversification. Immigration consultants, law firms, and financial advisors are typically involved in structuring these offerings and guiding applicants through the complex legal and financial process.
How to Get a Golden Passport
As highlighted, obtaining a golden passport involves participating in either a Golden Visa program or a Citizenship by Investment program. Here’s how you can secure one:
1. Choose a country
Select a country that offers a Golden Visa or CBI program. Popular choices include Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Portugal.
2. Meet investment requirements
Fulfill the financial criteria, which vary by country:
- Golden Visas require real estate purchases, government bonds, or job creation, often starting from €250,000.
- CBI programs require direct donations to a government fund or real estate investments, usually starting from $200,000.
3. Application process
Submit necessary documents, including proof of funds, clean criminal record, and investment plans.
For Golden Visas, residency permits are issued first, with citizenship possible after meeting certain criteria (e.g., years of residence). For CBI, citizenship is granted directly upon approval of your application and completion of the investment.
4. Wait for approval
Processing times range from 2 months for nations like Vanuatu to three years for countries like Malta.
5. Enjoy the benefits
Once approved, you gain visa-free travel, enhanced global mobility, and other rights tied to your new citizenship or residency.
Investment Options for Golden Passports
Typical qualifying investments for golden passports include:
- real estate investment
- donations to a government fund
- purchase of government bonds or securities
- business investment that leads to job creation
- bank deposits
- philanthropic contributions to approved charitable causes.
These investment routes are often developed in coordination with real estate developers, vetted by due diligence firms, and managed in part by financial institutions or wealth managers on behalf of their clients.
Comparison: Golden Visa vs. Golden Passport
Program Type | What It Offers | Common Investment Routes |
Golden Passport | Citizenship by Investment (CBI) which means direct citizenship and a passport. | Real estate, donations, business, bonds |
Golden Visa | Residency by Investment (RBI) which leads to temporary or permanent residence and opens up a path to citizenship. | Real estate, capital transfer, job creation |
Both are types of immigrant investor programs. Golden passports offer a faster route to dual citizenship while golden visas are ideal for those who wish to live in a country before applying for naturalization. Both are widely used by international investors, HNWIs, and, can be guided by immigration advisors and legal professionals.
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 Golden Passports
Which countries have golden passports?
Countries offering golden passports or citizenship by investment include Caribbean nations like Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada, as well as European countries such as Malta and Austria.
What are golden passports for?
Golden passports allow investors to gain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment. This provides freedom to live, work, and travel internationally.
Which EU country has the cheapest Golden Visa?
Portugal offers one of the most affordable Golden Visa programs with investment options starting at €250,000.
Which country has the best Golden Visa?
Portugal and Malta are often considered to have the best Golden Visa programs due to low investment thresholds, strong passport benefits, and EU access.
Can people work in the country where they have Golden passports?
Yes. A golden passport grants full citizenship rights, including the right to live and work in the issuing country.
Can people travel freely within the EU with Golden passports?
If the passport is from an EU country, it allows visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. Caribbean passports also provide access to the EU but with limited durations.
How long do golden passports last?
Golden passports grant lifetime citizenship, provided the investor meets the program’s conditions and maintains good legal standing.
Are golden passports legal?
Yes, they are legal in the countries that offer them, although they are often subject to international scrutiny and EU policy discussions.
Can family be included in the golden passport application?
Yes, most programs allow you to include spouses, children, and sometimes parents or siblings under the same investment.
What is the fastest golden passport program?
Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis offer some of the fastest citizenship by investment programs, with processing times as short as 3 to 6 months.
Do golden passport holders pay taxes in the new country?
Tax obligations vary. Some countries do not tax non-residents, while others offer favorable tax schemes for new citizens.
Are golden passports good for visa-free travel?
Yes. Golden passports often provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 100 to 180 countries, depending on the issuing country.
Can you lose a golden passport?
Yes. If you misrepresent information, engage in criminal activity, or fail to meet program conditions, your citizenship can be revoked.
