Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs allow individuals to obtain citizenship in a country by making a financial investment, such as purchasing real estate, contributing to government funds, or investing in local businesses. In exchange, applicants receive citizenship, including a passport, which grants them benefits like visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to new business opportunities.

Investment programs have become more popular as countries rely on foreign investment to strengthen their economies. Each Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has different requirements and benefits. Therefore, when comparing these programs, key factors to consider include investment amounts, processing times, tax advantages, and each program’s unique selling points. These elements are crucial in selecting the right program for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the leading CBI programs and highlight essential factors to help you make an informed decision.

Here’s more of what we’ll cover below:

What is citizenship by investment?

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Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs allow individuals to gain citizenship by making a financial investment, such as buying real estate, contributing to government funds, or investing in local businesses.

These programs offer an easy and straightforward path to citizenship and a potential second passport, which comes with benefits like visa-free travel, tax perks, and new business opportunities.

Citizenship by investment programs were designed to attract foreign investment and drive economic growth in the host countries. Many countries, particularly smaller or resource-limited ones, use CBI programs to raise government revenue and promote long-term economic development.
Not all passports are the same. Some are stronger and more desirable than others, so it’s important to compare their benefits and choose what suits you best. The same applies to citizenship programs, as each country sets its own rules for who can apply.
Since investment programs vary, it can sometimes be confusing. Some offer direct citizenship through investment, while others grant residency first, requiring you to live there before becoming a citizen. This is why comparing citizenship programs and what they offer is essential.

The Benefits of Citizenship by Investment

Citizenship by investment programs offer several benefits to individuals and families. Here are some of the key advantages:

  • Travel freedom: Many citizenship by investment programs provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, which can be particularly valuable for individuals from countries with more restrictive passports.
  • Business opportunities: Citizenship in a different country can provide better business opportunities, including easier access to international markets and better business environments.
  • Tax benefits: Some countries offer favorable tax regimes for new citizens who move to their country, which can benefit personal and corporate tax planning.
  • Personal security: Acquiring citizenship in a politically stable country can provide a safe haven in times of political unrest or instability in one’s home country. Some individuals seek citizenship by investment to ensure personal and family safety, particularly in regions with high crime rates or social unrest.
  • Quality of life: Many countries offering citizenship by investment have high standards of living, great healthcare, and top-tier educational institutions. These benefits can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals and their families, providing access to better services and a cleaner, more organized living environment.
  • Global mobility: Citizenship by investment often comes with the right to reside not only in the new country but sometimes in neighboring countries or regions as well. For instance, EU citizenship allows residency in any EU member state. This can be particularly advantageous for those seeking flexibility in their living arrangements and the ability to relocate as needed.
  • Financial flexibility: Citizenship in a new country offers easier access to international banking and investment opportunities, helping manage and grow assets. Diversifying holdings across different countries also provides a strategy for asset protection.
  • Family inclusion: Most citizenship by investment programs allow the main applicant to include family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents or siblings. This ensures the whole family enjoys better travel freedom, security, and quality of life.

Citizenship by Investment Comparison Table

When choosing a Citizenship by Investment program, the investment amount is often the first consideration. However, factors like processing time, tax advantages, dual citizenship options, and time to citizenship also play a crucial role. Passport strength is another key factor, and Global Citizen Solutions’ Global Passport Index ranks passports based on mobility, investment appeal, and quality of life, helping investors make informed decisions about obtaining a second passport.
To simplify the comparison, we’ve created a table that highlights key features of the most successful CBI programs.

Country

Minimum Investment

Time until Citizenship

Taxes Advantages

Visa-free Access

GPI Ranking

Dual Citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda

$230,000 donation $300,000 real estate

Six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Tax breaks on qualifying companies’ profits for up to 20 years

102 countries


51st


Yes

Austria

€2 million


24 to 36 months

No inheritance or wealth tax

125 countries

15th


No

Nauru

$105,000


Three to four months

No personal income, inheritance or wealth tax


89 countries

95th


Yes

Dominica

$200,000 (donations) $200,000 (real estate)


Six to nine months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

88 countries


78th

Yes

Egypt

$250,000


Six to nine months

No inheritance or wealth tax

23 countries

133rd


Yes

Grenada

$270,000 (donation) $236,000 (real estae)


Nine months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

94 countries


71st

Yes

Jordan

$750,000

Three to six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

21 countries


139th

Yes

Malta

€600,000


12 months

No capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes

123 countries

28th


Yes

St. Kitts and Nevis

$250,000 (Donation) $325,000 (real estate)


Four to six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

108 countries


45th


Yes

St. Lucia


$240,000 (Donation) $300,000 (real estate)

10 to 12 months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Annual fee tax regime for corporations

93 countries


70th

Yes

Turkey

$400,000

Three to four months

No worldwide income or wealth taxes

71 countries

92th

Yes

Vanuatu

$130,000

Two months

Zero taxes

46 countries

112th

Yes

Investment options and cost

Country

Minimum

Investment [Single Applicant]

Minimum

Investment [Family of Four]

Type of

Investment

Application

Fees

Family Fees

(Per Dependent)

Income/Savings

Requirements

Antigua and Barbuda

$230,000


$230,000



Contribution to state fund, Real estate investment, Donation to University of the West Indies Fund, Business investment

Application Fee

- $30,000 for a family of up to four. 

Due diligence fee

- $2,000 to $7,500 per applicant

+$10,000 for each additional applicant

None

Austria

€2 million

Contribution to government fund, Investment in a joint venture, Venture capital investment, Invest in an innovative business or industry considered "first priority"

€800

€800 

None

Cambodia


$245,000

Government contribution, Real estate investment

$85,000

$5,000 

None

Dominica

$200,000 


 $250,000 


Government contribution, Real estate investment

Application Fee

- $1,000 per application

Due diligence fee

- $4,000 to $7,500 per applicant

 $4,000 due diligence fee for each family member aged 16 or over. 

None

Egypt

$250,000


Government contribution, Real estate investment, Bank deposit, Business investment

$10,000

$10,000

None

Grenada

$235,000 

$235,000 

Government contribution, Real estate investment

Application Fee

- $2,000 to $3,000 per application

Due diligence fee

- $5,000 per applicant


$5,000 due diligence fee for each family member aged 17 and over

None

Jordan

$750,000


Real estate investment, Purchase treasury bonds, Bank deposit, Purchase company shares, Investment project with job creation

Not listed

Not listed

None

Malta

€600,000 


Government contribution, donation, and real estate purchase or lease

€15,000 due diligence fees 

€10,000 per dependent aged 13 or over 

None

Moldova

€100,000


Government contribution

€46,000

€41,000 to €46,000

None

North Macedonia

€200,000 


Investment in a private equity fund, Business investment with job creation

€20,000

€10,000 to €20,000

None

St. Kitts and Nevis

$250,000

$250,000

Government contribution, Real estate investment, Investment in Public Benefit Projects

Application Fee

- $500 per application

Due diligence fee

- $7,500 to $10,000 per applicant

$7,500 due diligence fee for each family member

None

St. Lucia

$240,000

$240,000

Government contribution, Real estate investment, Business Investment

Application Fee

- $2,000 for a family of up to four

- +$1,000 for each additional applicant

Due diligence fee

- $5,000 to $8,000 per applicant

Application fee: 

- +$1,000 for each additional applicant



None

Turkey

$400,000


Government contribution, Real estate investment, Purchase government bonds, Capital investment, Business investment with job creation

$2,000

$1,500

None

Vanuatu

$130,000 

$130,000 

Government contribution

$5,000 due diligence fee 

$5,000 due diligence fee

$250,000

Required documentation and prerequisites

Country

Character

Requirements

Mandatory

Visit

Stay

Requirement

Minimum

Investment

Period

Language

Proficiency

Requirement 

Antigua and Barbuda

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Provide bank statements and employer references, Not from a prohibited country

No

Five days within five years

Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

Austria

Over 18, A non-EU national, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country, Proof of business track record, Pass a citizenship test

Yes

Yes

Not listed

Yes

Cambodia

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country, Pass a citizenship test


Yes

No

Five Years

No

Dominica

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

three years (not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

Egypt

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

Yes

No

Three years (Not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

Grenada

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

Jordan

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds

No

No

Three Years

No

Malta

Over 18, A non-EU national, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds, Not from a prohibited country

Yes

No

Five Years

No

Moldova

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not have been denied entry to a Moldova visa-free country

Yes

No

N/A

No

North Macedonia

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Proof of adequate funds

Yes

No

N/A

No

St. Kitts and Nevis

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

St. Lucia

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

Five years (not applicable for cheapest investment)

No

Turkey

Over 18, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

Three Years

No

Vanuatu

Over 18 and under 65, Good health, Clean criminal record, Not from a prohibited country

No

No

N/A

No

Details and benefits

Country

Time until Citizenship

Taxes Advantages

Visa-free Access

GPI Ranking

Dual Citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda

Six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Tax breaks on qualifying companies’ profits for up to 20 years

150 countries

59th

Yes

Austria

24 to 36 months

No inheritance or wealth tax

174 countries

19th

No

Cambodia

Three to four months

No inheritance or wealth tax

88 countries

151st

Yes

Dominica

Six to nine months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

146 countries

78th

Yes

Egypt

Six to nine months

No inheritance or wealth tax

82 countries

142nd

Yes

Grenada

Nine months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

147 countries

74th

Yes

Jordan

Three to six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

81 countries

145th

Yes

Malta

12 months

No capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes

172 countries

34th

Yes

Moldova

Three to four months

N/A

130 countries

81st

Yes

North Macedonia

Two to five months

A flat ten percent tax rate

139 countries

79th

Yes

St. Kitts and Nevis

Four to six months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes

153 countries

53rd

Yes

St. Lucia

10 to 12 months

No capital gains, inheritance, wealth, or worldwide income taxes, Annual fee tax regime for corporations

148 countries

75th

Yes

Turkey

Three to four months

No worldwide income or wealth taxes

129 countries

94th

Yes

Vanuatu

Two months

Zero taxes

112 countries

102nd

Yes

Unique selling point

Country

USP

Antigua and Barbuda

Cheapest CBI program for a family of four, with a total investment of $230,000 to $245,000

Austria

Safest CBI country, ranking fifth overall in the Global Peace Index 

Cambodia

Three to four months - No inheritance or wealth tax - 88 countries - 151st - Yes

Dominica

Cheapest CBI program for a single applicant, with a total investment of $110,000


Egypt

The only African CBI program

Grenada

Only Caribbean CBI country offering the change to settle in the USA through the US E-2 Visa Program 

Jordan

The cheapest real estate by square meter of all countries offering citizenship programs 

Malta

The cheapest and fastest EU citizenship program 

Moldova

The cheapest European citizenship program for a single applicant and family

North Macedonia

The lowest income tax of any European country offering CBI, with a flat tax rate of ten percent 

St. Kitts and Nevis

The highest ranking CBI Caribbean passport of Caribbean countries on the Global Passport Index

St. Lucia

Among the lowest minimum investment required in real estate at $200,000 with a cheap real estate market compared to other Caribbean CBI countries 

Turkey

No prerequisites for investing in pre-approved real estate, and lower cost of living than the rest of Europe 

Vanuatu

The fastest CBI program available with passports issued within 60 days, and no additional fees for fast-track processing 

Take a look at our St. Lucia Citizenship Ultimate Guide by local experts

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Requirements for Citizenship by Investment Programs

Countries that offer citizenship through investment each have different requirements that foreign investors must fulfill. However, some key regulations are common across most programs. One of the most important is having a clean criminal record, as applicants must pass rigorous due diligence checks to ensure they pose no security risk.

Other key requirements that countries require include:

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  • Many programs require applicants to undergo a medical exam to prove they are in good health (although some do not).
  • Applicants must meet a minimum investment threshold.
  • Proof of financial stability is often required.
  • The investment must be legitimate and verifiable.

Investment Options for CBI Programs

Citizenship by investment programs offers a range of investment options, allowing individuals to secure a second passport by making strategic financial commitments. These investment options are designed to align with the country’s economic goals, allowing investors to contribute to areas such as real estate development, job creation, infrastructure, or national development funds.

Here are some common types of investments available in citizenship and residence programs around the world:

  • Transfer of Funds or Purchasing Government Bonds
    One of the fastest ways to become a citizen through investing is to transfer funds, purchase government bonds, or make a bank deposit. The benefit of government bonds and bank deposits is that if your application is unsuccessful, your money is refunded.
  • Real Estate Investment
    Purchasing real estate can, in some cases, be more costly and involve more paperwork and bureaucracy. However, depending on the country you choose to invest in, an investment in real estate can bring considerable returns.
  • Donation
    You can acquire a second passport in exchange for a charitable qualifying donation to an economic development fund. This is the cheapest and fastest option to obtain new citizenship. However, the contributions are non-refundable and do not provide investment returns.
  • Establishing a Business
    Several citizenship by investment programs provide dual citizenship to investors who create new businesses or invest in existing companies in the country. This could entail investing a minimum amount into the business or creating jobs for citizens and residents.

Golden Visa Programs: An Alternative to CBI

Are you not eligible for Citizenship by Investment? No worries, a residency by investment program might be a great alternative to CBI.

The difference between both programs is that, through residency by investment, instead of being granted full citizenship right away, you’ll obtain a residence permit through investment first. They can eventually lead to citizenship through naturalization after a certain amount of time, provided that you fulfill the investment and residence requirements first.

In Europe, residence programs are known as Golden Visa Programs.

Golden Visa Programs

Here are some of the most attractive residency by investment schemes and Golden Visas in the world. The primary differences between these residence programs are the investment requirement, length of residency, processing time, and residency requirements.

1. Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa investment amount starts at €250,000. Currently, the program’s investment options are:

  • Invest a minimum of €250,000 in preserving Portugal’s historical sites.
  • Invest at least €500,000 in qualifying Portuguese investment funds.
  • Establish a business that creates at least 10 jobs for local residents.
  • Set up a business that creates a minimum of 5 full-time jobs for Portuguese citizens.

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 18 or in full-time education, and dependent parents of the applicant and spouse under 65. There is a residency requirement of seven days per year, and applicants can apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.

2. Greece Golden Visa

The Greece Golden Visa is a permanent visa investment program starting at €250,000 and offers several investment options, including:

  • Minimum of €800,000 real estate investment for regions including the entire Administrative Region of Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with populations exceeding 3,100 people
  • Minimum of €400,000 real estate investment for the rest of Greece
  • Investment threshold of €250,000 for properties which have been converted from commercial to residential use
  • Real estate investment threshold of €250,000 for properties of historical or cultural significance that the investor has fully restored or reconstructed
  • Capital contribution to an investment fund (minimum of €800,000)
  • Purchasing government bonds (minimum of €800,000)

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 21, and dependent parents and grandparents of the applicant and spouse. There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.

3. Malta Permanent Residence Program

The Malta Residency by Investment, also known as the Malta Permanent Residence Program, is an investment program starting at €110,000. Other options include:

  •  A minimum investment of €300,000 (for properties in the south of Malta or Gozo) or €350,000 (for properties in other areas).
  •  A contribution of at least €150,000 in government bonds, held for at least 5 years.
  • A €30,000 contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF).
  •  Applicants are required to make a financial investment in Malta, typically including the bond and real estate investments mentioned above.

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, children under 18 or over 18 if largely dependent, and dependent parents and grandparents of the applicant and spouse.

There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.

4. Spain Golden Visa

The Spain Golden Visa is an investment program starting at €500,000 and offers several investment options, including:

  •  A minimum investment of €2 million in Spanish public debt securities.
  •  At least €1 million in a Spanish business or company.
  •  A minimum deposit of €1 million in a Spanish bank.

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 18 and over 18 if financially dependent, and dependent parents.

There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after ten years of residency.

5. Italy Golden Visa

The Italy Golden Visa is an investment program starting at €250,000 and offers several investment options, including:

  •  A minimum donation of €1 million to a charity or project that benefits Italy.
  •  A minimum investment of €2 million in Italian government bonds.
  • At least €500,000 in an Italian startup or business.
  • A minimum of €500,000 is invested in a company based in Italy.

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, children under 18 and over 18 if financially dependent, and dependent parents.

There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after ten years of residency.

6. Cyprus Permanent Residence Program

The Cyprus Permanent Residence Program is an investment program granting a permanent residence permit through a €300,000 investment. Applicants have the option to:

  •  A minimum of €300,000 in property investment.
  • At least €300,000 in a Cyprus-approved investment fund.
  • A minimum of €300,000 is invested in Cypriot company shares that employ at least five people.

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse or legal partner, unmarried children under 18 or between 18 and 25 if in full-time education and financially dependent, and dependent parents of the applicant and spouse.

There is no residency requirement. Applicants can remove conditional permanent residency after five years and apply for citizenship after seven years of residency.

7. Serbia’s residency by investment

Serbia’s residency by investment program offers residency in the country through real estate purchases with no investment requirement, but applicants can only buy certain types of real estate:

  • Apartment
  • residential building
  • business premises and business buildings, if they perform business activities in.

The minimum stay requirement to maintain residency status in Serbia is 183 days per year, and the primary applicant may include family members.

8. Hungary golden visa

The Hungary golden visa allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to obtain long-term residency in Hungary through a minimum investment of €250,000, including:

  • Invest €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund
  • Invest €500,000 to purchase residential real estate. This investment option will only be available starting 1 January 2025.
  • Donate €1 million as a non-refundable amount to a higher education institution.

There are no minimum stay requirements, which allows investors to reside outside Hungary while holding the permit. Applicants can also include family members.

9. Latvia Golden Visa

The Latvia Golden Visa program is ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals with an investment starting at €50,000. Other options include:

  • Minimum investment of €250,000 in property
  • Invest €50,000 in a capital company with fewer than 50 employees and an annual budget under €10 million
  • Deposit a minimum of €280,000 in a Latvian bank for at least five years
  • Purchase government bonds for a minimum of €250,000.

Eligible applicants can include their spouse, children under 18, and dependents under 24 in education. Residency requires spending at least one day a year in Latvia, and after five years, applicants can apply for permanent residency or citizenship if further requirements are met.

10. UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term investment program starting at $545,000 for real estate investment. There is also the option of:

  • Investing in a business
  • Depositing funds in a national bank
  • Paying taxes

Eligible candidates for the UAE Golden Visa include outstanding professionals in specific fields, such as medicine, innovation, engineering, and culture.

Applicants can include their spouse, children, parents, and domestic workers in their Golden Visa application. There is no residency requirement. UAE citizenship is typically granted through exceptional merit or 30 years of residency.

11. US EB-5 Visa Program

The US EB-5 Visa Program is an investment program leading to permanent residency (Green Card). Foreign nationals must invest at least $1.050 million in a business that creates ten full-time jobs or $800,000 if investing in a Targeted Employment Area (an area of high unemployment).

Eligible family members include the applicant’s spouse and children under 21. Applicants are not permitted to spend more than 12 months abroad. They can remove conditional Green Card status after two years and apply for citizenship after five years of residency.

Golden Visa Programs Comparison

Country

Residency Type

Minimum Investment

Processing Time

Residency Requirements

Mandatory Holding Period

Portugal

Temporary

€250,000

9 to 12 months

Seven days annually

Five years

Greece

Permanent

€250,000

6 to 8 weeks

No

Five years

Malta

Permanent

€110,000

4 to 6 months

No

Five years

Spain

Temporary

€500,000

30 days

No

Five years

Italy

Temporary

€250,000

3 to 4 months

No

Five years

Cyprus

Permanent

€300,000

2 months

Visit every two years

Five years

United Arab Emirates

Temporary

$545,000

30 days

No

Five to ten years

United States

Temporary

$800,000

3 to 6 months

No more than 12 months abroad

Five years

Serbia

Temporary

No investment requirements 

30 days

183 days per year

Three years

Latvia

Temporary

€50,000

2 to 4 months

Once a year

Five years

Hungary

Temporary

€250,000

90 days


No 

Five years

What Golden Visa to Pick? Compare on our Ultimate Golden Visa Guide

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The Importance of Citizenship Planning

Citizenship by investment requires planning and resources but offers major benefits like lower taxes, consular support, and security for your family. The right program provides safety, freedom, and financial opportunities. Planning carefully ensures you maximize these advantages.

There are some key questions to bear in mind before you even begin to consider which citizenship-by-investment program you should pursue are the following:

  • due diligence north macedonia irish citizenship by naturalisation process dual citizenship due diligence schengen area around the world pay taxes local businesses international law state funds saint kitts e 2 buy real estate low cost future generations live in the country buy citizenship certain amount new citizenship vanuatu passport first passport cheapest citizenship by investment international clients visa free access citizenship by investment options obtain citizenship grant citizenship obtain permanent residency investment passports require applicants investment threshold single investor direct route offer citizenship by investment country offers countries that offer citizenship get citizenship get a second passport other requirements real estate market north macedonia due diligence What am I looking to get out of my investment?
  • How much money do I want to invest in acquiring citizenship?
  • Are financial dependents restricted to a spouse and children?
  • Do I care more about obtaining a powerful passport, or am I okay with a reasonably average-ranking passport that provides other perks?
  • Do I want to relocate to the country I invest in?
  • How much time can I set aside to dedicate to the investment for a business application?
  • Do I want to do this on my own or enlist the help of a qualified migration specialist?

These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself when comparing citizenship and residency programs. It is also worth thinking about the benefits to family members.

An important piece of advice is to take your time. If you ever feel conceded, conflicted, or undecided, research all the possibilities and, if needed, ask a qualified industry expert.

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 Comparing Citizenship by Investment

Which is the best country for citizenship by investment?

The best country for citizenship by investment often depends on individual preferences and goals. However, countries like Malta, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Portugal are frequently highlighted due to their attractive investment options, strong passport benefits, and favorable living conditions. Each country offers unique advantages, so it’s essential to consider factors like travel freedom, tax implications, and lifestyle when choosing.

How long does it take to get citizenship by investment?

The length of the entire process for citizenship (CBI) programs depends on the country you apply to. The Vanuatu citizenship by investment program has an application processing time of 60 days, whereas the general timeframe for most CBI programs is three to six months, provided that you fulfill the foreign direct investment criteria and due diligence checks. The investment route you choose can also affect the length of the application process. Economic contributions to national developments are typically the fastest investments.

Which programs offer the highest investment returns?

Real estate purchases in countries in the European Union, such as Portugal and Greece, have offered high returns in the past, particularly on rental properties in popular vacation spots. Caribbean countries with low real estate prices, like Dominica and St. Lucia, present promising opportunities for substantial returns in the near future.

What is citizenship by investment?

Citizenship by investment is a process by which an individual obtains a second citizenship and a second passport by investing in the country’s economy. Depending on the country, there are usually specific requirements for the investments you can make and different benefits associated with the passport you acquire. Families can also benefit from the program, as an investor’s family can be included in the application.

Which countries offer citizenship by investment?

Countries that offer citizenship by investment include St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Malta, Portugal, Turkey, and Vanuatu. Each country has specific investment requirements, such as real estate purchases, government contributions, or business investments, providing pathways to citizenship for eligible applicants.

Do you need to relocate to get citizenship?

No, relocation is not always necessary to obtain citizenship through investment. Many citizenship by investment programs allow applicants to acquire citizenship by making financial contributions, such as real estate purchases or investments, without requiring them to live in the country. However, some programs may have residency requirements that must be fulfilled.

Do different citizenship by investment programs have language proficiency requirements?

Most CBI programs waive the necessity to demonstrate language proficiency or cultural integration. Austria’s program requires applicants pursuing citizenship by investing to be fluent in German and have knowledge of the country’s traditions and values. Caribbean nations offering CBI programs do not have language or cultural integration prerequisites.

What are the processing times for citizenship by investment?

Processing times for citizenship by investment programs vary by country. Typically, they range from 3 to 6 months. Factors such as the thoroughness of the application, due diligence, and government processing times influence the duration.

Does Portugal offer citizenship by investment?

Foreigners can obtain residency by investment in Portugal through the Golden Visa Program. The scheme allows non-EU nationals to get permanent residency status provided they make a significant investment in the country. After five years, they can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

What are the requirements for citizenship by investment programs?

Requirements for citizenship by investment programs include a minimum financial contribution (e.g., $100,000–$2 million) to a government fund, real estate, or business. Applicants must pass due diligence checks, provide proof of clean criminal records, and meet age and health criteria. Some programs may require residency or language skills.

What are the benefits of citizenship by investment programs in the Caribbean compared to European programs?

Caribbean citizenship by investment programs offer faster processing times (3–6 months) and lower costs ($100,000–$200,000). They provide visa-free access to over 140 countries and tax advantages. European programs, while more expensive (up to €2 million), grant access to the EU, enhanced global mobility, and robust residency rights.

Is citizenship by investment a good idea?

Citizenship by investment can be a good idea for those seeking global mobility, tax benefits, or a backup plan for political or economic instability. It provides visa-free travel, business opportunities, and enhanced lifestyle options. However, costs, due diligence, and individual goals should be carefully considered.

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