11 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2024

Citizenship by Investment programs (CBI) allows investors and their families to obtain citizenship by making a significant financial investment in the country’s economy. This investment usually involves real estate purchases, contributions to government funds, or business investments.

These programs provide the benefits of visa-free travel and favorable tax regimes but also contribute to the economic development of the host countries. Whether it’s the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean or the culturally rich landscapes of Europe, each program offers distinct advantages tailored to diverse investor preferences.

This guide will answer all questions about the best citizenship by investment programs, including:

• What is citizenship by investment?
• What Challenges Can Citizenship by Investment Solve?
• 11 best citizenship by investment programs in 2024.
• Six Best Residency by Investment Programs
• Investment options for citizenship by investment

What is citizenship by investment?

Citizenship by investment (CBI) is the process of acquiring a second citizenship in exchange for a significant financial contribution that helps the country grow and develop.

CBI is a legal way for many countries to offer citizenship to investors and their families.

Citizenship by investment programs is a way for countries to attract foreign money and skilled people to help their economies grow. A second passport through CBI makes you a dual citizen, giving you legal status and rights in two countries.

Some benefits of getting a second passport through CBI include visa-free travel to hundreds of destinations, better access to global business opportunities, improved quality of life, asset protection, and essential services like world-class healthcare and education.

Benefits of Getting a Second Passport through Investment

Faster citizenship processing time: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are set apart by how fast you can gain citizenship. Unlike traditional immigration processes that may take years, CBI allows you to get citizenship status much quicker. This means you can immediately start using the benefits, like visa-free travel and tax advantages.

Freedom to travel: The ability to travel visa-free depends on the strength of the second passport you acquire. If it’s a strong passport, you can access many countries without needing a visa or with a visa-on-arrival, saving time and effort. This benefit makes it easier to explore the world and opens up more travel opportunities compared to weaker passports.

Improved quality of life: A second passport can give you access to healthcare, world class education, and safer living conditions in more stable countries. It allows you to live in a foreign country with a higher standard of living and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable lifestyle.

Economic advantages: Some countries with citizenship programs have low taxes or no taxes on certain income, which can save you money. An alternative citizenship also lets you open bank accounts or invest in other countries, which can protect your wealth and grow your savings.

Security and backup: A second passport gives you a safe option in a crisis in your home country. It provides you with a place to go and live peacefully if things go wrong. It’s like having a backup plan for you and your family.

Property ownership: A second passport often lets you buy property in your new country. You can own homes or invest in real estate without restrictions. This gives you more freedom to create a stable life or diversify your investments.

11 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2024.

1. Austria Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €3 million
• Time to citizenship: Citizenship is granted at the discretion of the government.
• Residency requirement: none

Austria’s citizenship by investment program has detailed and demanding eligibility criteria; however, it substantially benefits foreign nationals who successfully gain Austrian citizenship and EU passports. 

To participate in Austria’s citizenship by investment program, a minimum value of €3 to 10 million in an Austrian business is required. Eligible companies must meet specific criteria, including creating jobs for Austrian citizens, growth potential, and a solid international reputation. 

Key benefits of the Austria citizenship by investment program: 

• European passport in an EU country 
• The Austrian passport ranks the highest of all countries with citizenship by investment schemes. 
• Visa-free travel and visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries worldwide 
• One of the world’s safest countries, ranking fifth overall in the Global Peace Index 

2. Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $230,000
• Time to citizenship: Four to five months
• Residency requirement: Five days

For numerous reasons, Caribbean nations have been increasingly popular choices for acquiring citizenship by investment. Proximity to the United States and affordable investment options make Caribbean citizenship an obvious choice for American applicants of second citizenship initiatives. 

Antigua and Barbuda are two island nations that have offered the best Caribbean citizenship through investment. They are among those with the most affordable citizenship in CBI countries. Investors can acquire a second passport by contributing $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund (NDF). 

Key benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program: 

• A low starting investment amount of $230,000 
• The second highest ranking passport of CBI programs offering Caribbean passports 
• Visa-free travel privileges to 150 countries worldwide 
• Multiple investment options, including a donation to the University of the West Indies Fund 
• The most affordable citizenship program for a family of four, with a total investment of about $280,000, including passport fees 

3. Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $200,000
• Time to citizenship:  Three months
• Residency requirement: None

Dominica, a Caribbean nation, often flies under the radar in discussions about the broader influence of Caribbean nations worldwide. However, it’s largely considered one of the best Caribbean programs granting citizenship through foreign direct investment. The investment threshold starts at $200,000 through a contribution to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund (EDF). 

There is also the option of purchasing government-approved real estate for $200,000, which generally includes high-end tourist accommodation. 

Key benefits of the Dominica citizenship by investment program: 

• A $200,000 donation to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund means it offers the cheapest total investment, including government fees, for single CBI applicants. 
• The lowest qualifying investment in government-approved property of CBI countries, with a minimum investment amount of $200,000 
• The lowest cost per square meter for real estate of all five Caribbean CBI countries 
• There are no additional investment requirements to include up to six family members when investing in real estate. 
• No residency requirements or the need to visit the country or attend interviews to obtain a second passport 

4. Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $235,000
• Time to citizenship: Nine months
• Residency requirement: None

For numerous reasons, Grenada has emerged as a strong option for obtaining a second passport in the Caribbean. A progressive government has facilitated the ease of doing business in the country, and its political ties with the United States make it the ideal citizenship program for both Americans and foreign nationals from other countries. Investors can contribute to economic development by donating $235,000 to the country’s National Transformation Fund (NTF).  

Another route to obtaining a Grenada passport is purchasing real estate in government-approved projects for $270,000 for shared ownership or $350,000 for sole ownership. 

Key benefits of the Grenada citizenship by investment program: 

• The only Caribbean country offering foreign investors the chance to settle in the USA through the US E2 Visa program 
• Include immediate family, a dependent parent or sibling from a single qualifying property investment 
• Situated outside the hurricane belt, the country has recorded just four hurricanes in its entire history, solidifying it as the least vulnerable to hurricanes of all Caribbean countries offering citizenship by investment programs. 
• Visa-free access to 147 countries, including China and Russia 

5. Jordan Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $750,000
• Time to citizenship: three to six months
• Residency requirement: None

Jordan is the only Middle Eastern nation that offers citizenship through an investment program, making it a unique option for  dual citizenship. This characteristic makes the country a magnet for international investors seeking a valuable second passport and the opportunity to tap into its strategic location while immersing themselves in a vibrant Islamic culture. The minimum investment is a real estate purchase of $750,000. 

Key benefits of the Jordan citizenship by investment program: 

• The only country in the Middle East offering citizenship by investment 
• Prime for lucrative investments through the country’s Economic Modernization Vision 
• A country with one of the lowest levels of domestic, international, and organized conflict 
• The cheapest real estate by square meter of all countries offering citizenship programs 

6. Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €600,000
• Time to citizenship:  12 to 36 months
• Residency requirement: None

Gaining citizenship by investment in EU countries has become increasingly appealing to foreign investors.

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program (CES) provides a path to citizenship in the EU in as little as 12 months from a non-refundable investment of €750,000, a real estate investment of €600,000 or a five-year lease agreement totaling €16,000 annually, and a charitable donation of €10,000. 

Key benefits of the Maltese citizenship by investment program: 

• The cheapest and fastest option to obtain European citizenship by naturalization 
• Ranked in the top 30 countries on the Global Passport Index, providing visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to 172 countries worldwide 
• The number one country promoting LGBTQ rights in 2023, according to ILGA-Europe 
• Freedom of movement throughout the European Union 

7. St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Four to six months
• Residency requirement: None

Since its introduction in 1984, the St Kitts and Nevis government’s citizenship program has been a continuous development and improvement model. The process for acquiring second citizenship and a second passport is well-refined.

Several investment options are available, starting with contributing $250,000 to the country’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)—formerly the Sustainable Growth Fund. Investors can choose between joint real estate investments or purchasing a single-family home. 

Key benefits of the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program:  

• Ranked as the number one Caribbean country to acquire citizenship by investment in the 2023 CBI Index Report 
• There is a varied range of real estate to choose from, including commercial and residential real estate 
• The best Caribbean CBI country for investment, with the highest Investment Index ranking in the Global Passport Index 
• The strongest Caribbean passport obtainable through citizenship by investment, providing visa-free travel and visa-on-arrival access to 153 countries worldwide 

8. St Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $240,000
• Time to citizenship:  10 to 12 months
• Residency requirement: None

St Lucia’s citizenship by investment program is highly regarded in the world of citizenship. With a small yet stable political environment and economy, the country provides a seamless application process for acquiring citizenship. The country offers numerous investment options, including real estate investment. 

St Lucia’s low minimum investment amount starts from donating $240,000 to the St Lucia National Economic Fund. 

Key benefits of the St Lucia citizenship by investment program: 

• A much lower average cost per square meter for property investment than other countries offering CBI schemes in the Caribbean, including St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada 
• Although there is no fast-track option, applicants can still benefit from one of the industry’s quickest processing times, with most applications completed within 10 to 12 months. 
• Diverse investment options, including cheap real estate investment and refundable government bonds 
• No additional investments or admin fees to include immediate family members and other dependents when investing in government bonds 

9. Turkey Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $400,000
• Time to citizenship:  12 months
• Residency requirement: None

For those searching for the most cost-effective investment destinations, overlooking Turkey would be a missed opportunity. Not only is the country an excellent choice for investing in real estate, but its CBI program provides access to a highly skilled workforce at reasonable rates, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses. 

Moreover, starting a business is a viable route to Turkish citizenship, as well as real estate investment through a purchase worth at least $400,000. 

Key benefits of the Turkey citizenship by investment program: 

• There is no requirement to invest in government-approved real estate projects for the real estate investment option 
• One of two CBI countries providing a route to settle in the USA through the US E2 Visa Program 
• The lowest cost of living of all countries offering an investment citizenship program 
• Access to highly skilled and affordable labor, and strategically located between Europe and Asia 
• The only CBI country in the top 20 economies in the world by GDP 

10. Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: $130,000
• Time to citizenship:  60 days
• Residency requirement: None

Despite its geographical isolation, Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Scheme has gained significant interest from foreign nationals seeking second citizenship. The country’s minimal eligibility criteria and fast application process have led to increased capital investment from overseas and a growing number of applications for the Vanuatu CBI program. Investors have the sole option of donating $130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program. 

Key benefits of the Vanuatu citizenship by investment program: 

• The country has the fastest CBI program in the world, and it has a swift application process. You can obtain Vanuatu citizenship within just 60 days.
• Zero personal income tax on local and worldwide earnings 
• Option to pay an annual fee between $300 and $1000, granting tax exemption from corporate taxes for 20 years 

11. North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

• Minimum investment: €200,000
• Time to citizenship:  six to 12 months
• Residency requirement: None

The North Macedonia citizenship by investment program may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering investing in citizenship. Still, it’s the best European passport program in terms of affordability.

The country provides the cheapest route to European citizenship. North Macedonia’s citizenship program schemes start with a minimum investment of €200,000 in a private investment fund established in the country. While its CBI program grants citizenship in Europe, it doesn’t come with freedom of movement in the European Union as a non-EU member. 

Top Citizenship by Investment Programs Comparison

Choosing the best citizenship by investment program and the country to have a second passport is not only determined by the investment requirements but there are many factors to consider, like the quality of life, enhanced mobility, and more. Global Citizen Solutions has a comprehensive Global Passport Index to help cover all bases when selecting an investment scheme.

Residency by Investment Programs: An Alternative to CBI

1.  Portugal Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: Seven days a year for five years

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is a two-year residency by investment initiative that provides foreign nationals and their family members with a renewable residence permit in exchange for a minimum qualifying investment in its economy. 

While the Portugal Golden Visa doesn’t offer direct citizenship, it’s one of the most sought-after investor residence schemes in Europe, starting from a relatively low € 250,000 investment. Investors can renew their Golden Visa temporary permit, and after five years of legal residence in Portugal, they can apply to obtain permanent residency and citizenship by naturalization.

2. Greece Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Seven years
• Residency requirement: None

The Greece Golden Visa doesn’t offer a direct route to citizenship, but it can help investors who have spent 183 days each year for seven years become Greek citizens.

The minimum investment amount for high-demand regions is €800,000 and €400,000 for all other regions in Greece. Smaller investments of €250,000 are also available. Still, they only apply to commercial properties converted into residential ones and properties that hold cultural and historical significance and have been restored.

Investors keep renewable permanent residency status, provided they maintain their investment. After seven years of permanent residence, foreign nationals can apply for Greek citizenship by naturalization. 

3. Spain Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €500,000
• Time to citizenship:  10 years
• Residency requirement: Ten days a year for two years

Spain’s Golden Visa is another coveted option for those seeking citizenship in the European Union. Like Portugal, there is no direct route to citizenship by contributing to the country’s economic development, but ten years of residence provides eligibility for citizenship by naturalization. 

The minimum investment required is €500,000, and investors can choose to invest in real estate or purchase government bonds. After five years, investors can apply for permanent residence permits, provided they maintain their investments and renew their visas. 

4. United States Immigrant Investor Visas

• Minimum investment: $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1,050,000 in other areas.
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: Six months in a year

The United States offers two investor visa programs for anyone seeking residence – the US-EB5 and E2 Visa. These two visa programs enable investors to receive legal residence status in the United States, provided they substantially contribute to the US economy. Both programs allow the main applicant’s immediate family to qualify for the same benefits they would reap, meaning they can all legally relocate to the United States.

Investing in the US EB5 and E2 Visa programs offers significant benefits, including securing a Green Card with full work privileges and the potential for stable investment returns. Both programs allow investors to include their families and grant children access to top-tier universities in the United States.

The EB5 Visa provides a pathway to US citizenship, requiring the holder to reside in the US for at least five years. In contrast, the E2 Visa targets investors expanding or starting businesses in the US.

Investment options include starting a business, creating at least ten full-time jobs, or investing in a qualifying enterprise. The E2 Visa requires a minimum investment starting at $100,000, while the EB5 Visa begins at $1.05 million, or $800,000, for investments in Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs).

5. Canada

• Minimum investment: No specific minimum investment, but you must secure support from a designated Canadian organization
• Time to citizenship:  Three years
• Residency requirement: Two out of five years

Canada doesn’t offer a straight route via a Citizenship by Investment program like the Caribbean countries do. However, it’s possible to achieve the same result by opting for a Canada Start-up Visa.

This residency by investment program was created to attract innovative entrepreneurs to start businesses in Canada. The program does not have a minimum investment requirement, but applicants must secure support from a designated Canadian organization. After three years as a lawful permanent resident, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.

Canada is renowned for its high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, strong economy, and diverse cultural landscape.

Meanwhile, the Canadian government has earned a reputation for welcoming immigrants, enabling many to attain permanent resident status and obtain Canadian citizenship. These factors make the nation’s citizenship by investment opportunities popular among foreign entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals worldwide.

6. United Arab Emirates Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: AED 2 million
• Time to citizenship:  No citizenship by residency is given in a few months
• Residency requirement: none

The United Arab Emirates Golden Visa is the only one in the Middle East that provides a unique opportunity for foreign investors and skilled professionals to obtain long-term residency. This exclusive program allows eligible individuals to secure residence for five to ten years by making qualifying investments in the UAE.

Regarding qualifying investments, the UAE government provides a unique set of eligibility criteria beyond direct investments for foreigners to qualify for their program. These include:

• Investing AED 2 million ($545,000) in real estate investment in designated zones
• Depositing AED 2 million into a bank account held with a UAE financial institution
• Operating an established business as a partner with a turnover of at least AED 100,000 (about $27,000)
• Receiving support from a UAE business incubator for an innovative business valued at least AED 500,000 (about $136,000)
• Being an outstanding specialized talent in specific fields, including sports, culture, healthcare, art, science, and engineering

7. Serbia Residency by Investment

• Minimum investment: No minimum investment
• Time to citizenship:  three years
• Residency requirement:183 days per year

The Serbian Residency by Investment is for those interested in acquiring residency in Serbia through real estate purchases. To qualify for residency through real estate acquisition in Serbia, a foreign national must first purchase a property within the country. This can include various real estate types, such as apartments, houses, or commercial properties.

One of the benefits that sets it apart from the rest of European immigrant investor programs is that there are no restrictions on the price or location of the property. The program also allows investors to travel in the European Union, meaning foreigners with businesses in Serbia may find it easier to do business in neighboring countries. It is important to note that foreigners from countries without a reciprocity agreement with Serbia may need to establish a legal entity to facilitate their purchase.

8. Latvia Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €50,000
• Time to citizenship:  Five years
• Residency requirement: No residency requirement

The Latvia Golden Visa program primarily targets non-EU citizens wishing to establish residency in Europe. It is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals who want residency and the benefits that come with it, such as access to the Schengen Zone for easy travel across multiple European countries.

The Latvia program is particularly attractive because it requires a minimum investment of just €50,000 in a capital company, but there is also the option of investing €250,000 in property. Residency status cannot be passed down to children, but the main applicant can add eligible dependents. However, citizenship can be passed down to children and future generations if the applicant becomes a citizen.

9. Hungary Golden Visa

• Minimum investment: €250,000
• Time to citizenship:  Six years
• Residency requirement: No residency requirement 

The Hungarian Golden Visa Program, officially known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP), was reintroduced on 1 July 2024. It aims to attract foreign investment to develop the economy while providing investors and their families access to the European Union (EU) and Schengen Area.

It gives investors a few investment options to choose from. This program is attractive because it grants investors a residency permit that is renewable after 10 years, with no minimum stay, making it flexible for interested applicants. 

To add to its appeal, the country offers a pretty low cost of living compared to other European countries. Applicants receive pre-approval before making the investment, which minimizes risk. A qualifying investment of only €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund is required. 

Investment Options for Citizenship by Investment

The variety of immigrant investor programs that lead to citizenship is undeniable. Therefore, there is a comprehensive citizenship by-investment comparison to help make the decision process easier.  

However, every program has different investment options, but the standard ones include:

Bank deposits

Some countries let investors qualify for citizenship by depositing a large amount of money into a national bank. This helps the country’s economy and is a simple, low-risk option. The money is kept in the bank for a set time and may earn interest. After this period, investors might be able to take their money back, depending on the program’s rules. This is a popular choice for those who want a safe way to invest while getting citizenship.

Real estate investment

Real estate is a popular option offered by many countries. Depending on the country’s program, this can include luxury homes, apartments, or even offices. Investors often benefit from potential property appreciation and rental income, making this an attractive long-term option.

Business investment

Starting a new enterprise or funding an existing business supports job creation and economic growth. Countries may favor sectors like technology, tourism, or manufacturing to boost specific industries.

Job creation

Another route is to create a set number of jobs for local citizens. This investment directly reduces unemployment and helps grow the local economy.

Government bonds

Buying government-issued bonds is a low-risk investment where you lend money to the government in exchange for regular interest payments. The funds are locked in for several years, but the initial investment is usually refundable after the holding period. These bonds are considered secure as they are backed by the government, making them a reliable option for preserving capital.

Government donation

Making a non-refundable contribution to a national development fund is one of the fastest options. These funds are used for public projects like infrastructure, healthcare, or education, allowing investors to contribute to the country’s long-term growth.

What challenges can citizenship by investment solve?

Applying for a citizenship by investment (CBI) program is a solution to various challenges a range of individuals face. First and foremost, these investment schemes provide a straightforward and expedited route to obtaining a new citizenship. But what challenges are addressed after obtaining citizenship by investment? 

Lack of mobility

One of the most appealing aspects of CBI programs is the right to obtain a second passport, allowing holders to gain visa-free access to countries that may not be available for visa-free travel with their current passport. 

Additionally, international collaborations and agreements, such as the European Union in Europe and MERCOSUR in South America, contribute to enhanced mobility index for citizenships of countries within these regions. These cross-border pacts grant citizens privileged access and extended stays in member countries, furthering the allure of a CBI program to obtain dual citizenship status. 

Limited investment options

A diverse investment route allows applicants to choose investments that suit their economic capabilities and goals. These options may include real estate, which provides investors a place of residence while qualifying for a second passport in citizenship by investment countries. Other options, like a capital contribution to a national development fund or government bonds, offer a cheap and straightforward route to CBI.

Slow second citizenship through naturalization

A fast and simple process makes it easy to get a second passport quickly. Citizenship by investment lets you secure one in just 2 to 6 months, unlike naturalization, which takes years. This is perfect for those needing quick access to dual citizenship benefits. By investing a set amount in a country’s economy, you can skip traditional steps and get a second passport in as little as 60 days.

Political instability

In recent years, the issue of political instability has become a significant concern for numerous individuals, and rising globalization has often led to a corresponding increase in political tension in various regions. A stable political environment and a reputable legal system are crucial factors when contemplating second citizenship through a CBI program.

Potential investors want to ensure that their social environment is secure and their newly obtained legal status remains resilient against sudden changes in government policies or instability.

Low investment returns

Preserving financial wealth is a top priority for every investor, and alongside dual citizenship, investment returns are equally crucial for applicants of CBI programs. Schemes that offer reasonable returns on investments provide added financial incentives besides those gained after receiving second citizenship. Furthermore, exploring investment opportunities beyond the qualifying ones is an important consideration, and acquiring citizenship increases the ease of doing business abroad. 

Tax burdens

The countries with the top citizenship by investment programs offer attractive tax benefits, such as no or low-income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, is highly attractive to investors seeking to optimize their financial gains after securing investment citizenship.

Eligibility for family members

Family members of new citizens may need to meet some naturalization requirements, like living in the country for a certain amount of time. However, some of the best CBI programs allow investors to include family members in a citizenship application.

CBI programs that let you add your spouse, children, and sometimes parents or siblings are more attractive to those wanting a better future for their loved ones. However, including family members often comes with extra fees, which can increase the total investment needed for the program.

Subpar quality of life

Many individuals face a low quality of life in their home country due to a high cost of living, political instability, and underdeveloped infrastructure, among other factors.  Beyond financial gains, the desirability of new citizenship enhances the quality of life. Assessing the quality of life factors based on the Global Passport Index will determine where CBI countries rank in terms of education, healthcare, and overall standard of living. 

Flexibility

One of the main benefits of citizenship by investment is its flexibility. It allows you to choose the country that best suits your needs, whether it’s for business, travel, or personal reasons. With a second passport, you gain more freedom to live, work, or invest in different regions, while also enjoying visa-free access to multiple countries.

Key Takeaways

Citizenship by investment allows investors and their families to gain citizenship by making significant financial contributions, offering benefits like visa-free travel, global mobility, and better business opportunities.

Challenges CBI Solves:

• Provides high-ranking passports for easier travel.
• Opens access to global markets, healthcare, and education.
• Flexibility to choose which country aligns with your goals. 
• Allows for families to be included in the citizenship application. 

Top CBI Programs:

• Malta: EU passport with extensive travel access and citizenship in 12–36 months.
• Dominica: Affordable program with citizenship in three to four months.
• Vanuatu: Quick processing time of 60 days and low investment requirement of only $130,000.
• Portugal Golden Visa: This program offers residency with possible citizenship after five years of legal residency. It provides access to the Schengen zone, minimal residency requirements, and the flexibility of not needing to relocate immediately.

Investment options include real estate, government bonds, business investments, and donations.

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

Which citizenship is the fastest?

The fastest citizenship to get is Vanuatu citizenship. Investors of the Vanuatu citizenship program obtain second citizenship and Vanuatu passports with increased visa-free access within 60 days of submitting a citizenship application. St Kitts and Nevis grants citizenship within four to six months.

What is the cheapest citizenship by investment?

The cheapest citizenship program for a family of four is the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment scheme. Investors can secure citizenship for themselves, their spouse, and two financially dependent children by contributing to the Antigua and Barbuda government fund, which totals to about $250,000 to $300,000, including all application fees. 

Which EU citizenship is easiest to buy?

While buying citizenship is not possible in any EU country, Malta offers a citizenship by naturalization program, allowing foreign nationals who contribute to its economy to receive citizenship by naturalization within 12 to 36 months, depending on their investment. 

Where is the hardest to get citizenship?

Determining the hardest citizenship to obtain depends on various factors, including the specific citizenship laws, eligibility criteria, and the individual’s personal circumstances. Some countries have stricter requirements and more challenging pathways to citizenship. For example, countries like Oman and Saudi Arabia are known for having stringent naturalization processes and rigorous criteria for granting citizenship. 

These countries have long residency requirements, demand language proficiency and cultural integration, conduct extensive background checks, and have complex bureaucratic procedures. 

Where is the best place to buy citizenship?

The best places to buy citizenship through investment are St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Portugal, and Malta. These countries offer streamlined Citizenship by Investment programs with varying investment options and benefits, including visa-free travel and no residency requirements.

What is the best citizenship by investment program in 2024?

In 2024, the best Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are often considered to be those offered by Malta and St. Kitts and Nevis. Malta’s program grants EU citizenship with extensive travel and lifestyle benefits, while St. Kitts offers a faster, affordable path to Caribbean citizenship with global mobility. Both are highly regarded for security and investment value.

Which Caribbean country offers the best citizenship by investment?

St. Kitts and Nevis is often considered the best Caribbean country for Citizenship by Investment, offering a straightforward and efficient process with benefits like visa-free access to over 150 countries. It also provides flexible investment options, including a government fund contribution or real estate investment, with processing times as short as four to six months.

Which countries offer the best citizenship by investment programs?

The best citizenship by investment programs are offered by:

• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Turkey
• Malta

These are considered the best citizenship by investment countries because of their relatively fast processing times, visa-free travel benefits, and investment flexibility.