Many expats dream of obtaining second or dual citizenship from countries with strong passports and stable economies. However, the long waiting period, complicated procedures, and excessive legal restrictions often make this dream seem unachievable.
Fortunately, there are golden passport countries where you get citizenship and powerful passports in exchange for investing in their economy.
From St Kitts and Nevis to Vanuatu to Portugal, there are many countries where you can participate in specific citizenship by investment or Golden Visa schemes and achieve your goal of a new life abroad.
This guide will have some of the best golden passport countries with attractive citizenship through investment programs and Golden Visa schemes that come with several benefits. Here is more of what we will cover:
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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.
18 Countries with Golden Passports 2024
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 150 countries due to its high ranking on the Global Passport Index.
The country’s citizenship by investment scheme requires a minimum donation of $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund and a real estate investment of $300,000. The program also allows investors to include four family members in the application.
2. Austria
Austria is one of the wealthiest European countries; consequently, the Austrian citizenship by investment program is quite costly. Apart from the multi-million dollar investment requirement, the citizenship scheme is very selective and can be complicated.
According to Austrian citizenship laws, this Austrian passport is granted to wealthy foreigners who can show extraordinary capabilities to invest in the country’s economy and thus contribute to its financial, cultural, and social prosperity. You must create job prospects by setting up a business or directly contributing to any national development fund.
The estimated investment ranges from €2 million for investments in government funds to €10 million for business investments. Note that although the European Commission allows Austria to grant these passports, Austria does not allow dual nationality for those who gain citizenship, so if you’re interested in becoming an Austrian citizen, you must relinquish any passports you currently hold.
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 Development Fund. The second option is to purchase any approved property worth $200,000 in addition to due diligence and administrative fees.
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.
Grenada is the only country in the West Indies that allows you to acquire the USA E2 treaty visa through its citizenship through an 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 a 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 any project capable of creating at least ten local jobs outside the country’s capital. If you want to invest within the capital, this amount will increase to $1 million.
Interested in obtaining a second passort? 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 Maltanese 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 €12,000 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 have the sole option of a non-refundable contribution of €100,000 to obtain a passport in Moldova. 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 other 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 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 any of its private funds. 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 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. Other qualifying investments include employing 50 Turkish citizens in any venture in Turkey’s commercial sector or contributing through capital transfer investments.
These investment options have to be held for at least three years. The best part about the Turkish citizenship by investment program is that it can help you obtain a USA residency permit through the E2 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.
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 €50,000 is also required to apply for the Cyprus Golden Visa. This can be in various forms of income, such as wages, pensions, rental income, or dividends.
You can apply for citizenship after seven years of holding the residency permit.
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 will enable you to maintain residency long enough to qualify for EU citizenship granted by the European parliament.
The Greek Golden Visa starts with a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate (or €800,000 for specific areas). It provides several alternative investments, such as purchasing government bonds or depositing into a Greek bank account.
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 worldwide.
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 the country.
With a Portuguese passport, you will access all 27 European Union nations and have 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 €250,000, and there are various investment options, such as investing in scientific research, donating to the arts, and creating jobs.
You can apply for a permanent residence permit or citizenship and a Portuguese passport by holding your investment for at least five years.
15. Spain
Spain has one of the most sought-after European Golden Visa programs for expats, and for good reason. The abundance of benefits it offers its residents are almost limitless. The Spain Golden Visa program is a residency by investment scheme allowing foreigners to enjoy legal residence in Spain in exchange for a qualifying investment.
You can obtain the Spain Golden Visa from investment options such as €500,000 in real estate or €1 million in shares or stock of a Spanish company.
If you maintain residency for ten years, you are eligible for naturalization and a passport. The Spanish passport ranks in the top 20 on our Global Passport Index, allowing visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries worldwide.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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
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.
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.
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 with some form of citizenship or residency by investment program are EU countries like Austria, Portugal, and Spain, and others like Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Jordan, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Turkey.
What are golden passports for?
Golden passports are generally acquired through investment schemes. They allow you to live and work in the country and potentially gain citizenship.
Which EU country has the cheapest Golden Visa?
The cheapest is Portugal’s Golden Visa, which requires an investment of €250,000.
Which country has the best Golden Visa?
Several countries offer Golden Visas, but Cyprus and Portugal’s Golden Visas are considered two of the best. The Portugal Golden Visa is the cheapest, with a minimum €250,000 in investment.
Can people work in the country where they have Golden passports?
People obtain Golden passports when they gain citizenship, meaning they have all the rights and freedoms of citizens, including the right to work, reside, and vote in the country.
Can people travel freely within the EU with Golden passports?
People can travel freely within the EU with Golden passports if it was issued by an EU country. Other Golden Visa schemes, such as those providing Caribbean passports like the St. Kitts and Nevis passport and Grenada passport, also allow holders to travel freely within the EU without a visa.
How long do golden passports last?
With Golden passports in 2024, you secure citizenship and the privilege of holding a passport for life as long as you fulfil the investment criteria.
Are golden passports legal?
While golden passports are legal under the laws of the countries that offer them, they face significant international scrutiny and ongoing debates about their ethical and security implications.
Can family be included in the golden passport application?
Yes, in many citizenship by investment programs, family can typically be included in an application. The specifics can vary from one country to another, but generally, these programs allow the main applicant to include dependents in their application.
