Second Passport by Investment: The Best Programs in 2024

Getting a second passport by investment means obtaining it through a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, where individuals can acquire citizenship in a country by making a financial investment. This usually involves contributing to government funds, investing in real estate, or supporting local businesses. In exchange for this investment, applicants receive citizenship, which includes a second passport, offering benefits like visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to new business or personal opportunities.

In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of a second passport, how to get an additional passport through investment, and the best countries to add to your citizenship. Here is what to expect:

• What is a second passport by investment?
• 15 best countries for a second passport by investment
• Benefits of a second passport through investment
• Common types of investments
• Second passport by investment application process
• How long does it take to get a second passport by investment?

What is a second passport by investment?

A second passport by investment lets people get citizenship in another country by making a big financial contribution, such as buying real estate, investing in business, or donating to a national development fund.

Countries with these programs want to attract foreign money to help their economies. In exchange, they give investors and their families citizenship, including a passport.

This second passport offers benefits like the right to live, work, and study in the country, visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, and possible tax benefits.

The process involves background checks, financial review, and sometimes a residency requirement. Popular countries for these programs include St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Malta. These programs attract those who want more global mobility, business opportunities, or a secure place to live, offering a faster path to citizenship than traditional naturalization.

Benefits of a Second Passport Through Investment

The main benefits of a second passport include enhanced family safety, financial stability, and easier global travel. It offers security by providing your family with a backup plan in a stable country.

Here are some key benefits of holding a second passport:

Increased global mobility

A second passport can offer visa-free access to numerous countries, reducing the hassle and constraints of obtaining visas. This is particularly valuable for citizens from countries with less powerful passports.

Enhanced safety and security

In times of political unrest, economic instability, or other crises in one’s home country, a second passport provides an option for safe haven. It acts as an insurance policy, allowing individuals and their families to relocate or travel freely without being tied to the circumstances of a single country.

Business opportunities

A second passport can open up new business opportunities, including access to favorable markets, investment options, and financial services that might not be available to citizens of other countries. It can also facilitate easier international banking and the establishment of businesses in foreign countries.

Tax optimization

Holding a second passport can offer tax advantages depending on the countries involved. Some individuals may benefit from more favorable tax regimes or the ability to manage tax liabilities more efficiently through residency in a country with more advantageous tax laws.

Cultural and educational experiences

A second citizenship often comes with the right to live, work, and study in another country, offering rich cultural experiences and access to world-class education and healthcare systems.

Family benefits

Many citizenship by investment or residency programs allow applicants to include family, ensuring that the benefits of a second passport extend to spouses, children, and sometimes even parents and siblings.

Estate planning and inheritance

A second passport can simplify estate planning and inheritance matters, particularly in cases involving assets or properties in multiple countries. It can also provide heirs with broader opportunities and rights.

Personal freedom

A second passport represents personal freedom. It offers the ability to choose where to live, work, and travel, independent of the limitations or obligations imposed by a single nationality.

Have a backup plan

A plan b passport gives you a solid backup plan and added security in times of instability. Even if you do not wish to relocate, you can choose a citizenship by investment program with a low physical residency requirement and high returns.

15 Best Countries for a Second Passport by Investment

A second passport through investment provides the chance to acquire one of the world’s most valuable travel documents. With tools like Global Citizen Solutions’ Global Passport Index,(GPI) individuals can explore a passport’s true strength by assessing its access to various countries, investment opportunities, and impact on quality of life.

Here are 12 countries to consider when planning to get a second passport by investment:

1. Austria 

Austria offers a unique and highly selective Austrian citizenship by investment program. 

Austria’s investment program requires a substantial €2 to 10 million investment in a business that creates jobs, shows growth potential, and has a strong international reputation.

This program offers the opportunity to obtain an Austrian passport, one of the highest-ranking EU passports, in the 15th position on the GPI. The passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 174 countries. Austria is also considered one of the safest and most stable countries, which is an attractive option for those who value security with their new citizenship.

2. Antigua and Barbuda 

Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program grants a second passport by investment with a $230,000 donation to the National Development Fund (NDF). This provides visa-free travel to 150 countries and the second-highest-ranking passport in the Caribbean.

Investors can also contribute to the University of the West Indies Fund, which offers unique benefits, including a fully paid year of tuition for one dependent at the University of the West Indies. This also grants citizenship to the investor and their eligible dependents.

3. Dominica

Dominica citizenship by investment allows individuals to obtain a second passport by making a financial investment in the country. There are two main investment options: a donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), starting at $200,000, or a real estate investment in government-approved properties, also starting at $200,000.

Both options provide a path to citizenship with visa-free travel to over 150 countries. No residency requirements exist; applicants don’t need to visit or attend interviews. Tax residents benefit from Dominica’s territorial tax system, which doesn’t tax worldwide assets.

4. Grenada 

5. Jordan 

The Jordan citizenship by investment program offers dual citizenship opportunities in the Middle East. It requires a minimum investment of $750,000 in real estate. This program appeals to international investors due to Jordan’s strategic location, rich Islamic culture, and stable environment with low levels of conflict.

Jordan also promotes economic growth through its Economic Modernization Vision, a long-term strategic plan aimed at transforming the country’s economy to achieve sustainable growth and improve the standard of living for its citizens.

6. Malta

The Malta Citizenship by Investment program, also known as the Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (CES), offers a fast path to EU citizenship in as little as 12 months. It requires a real estate investment of €700,000 (or a five-year lease of at least €16,000 annually) and a charitable donation of €10,000.

This program stands out as the only citizenship-by-investment option in Europe. Malta’s passport offers visa-free access to 172 countries, providing exceptional global mobility and opportunities.

7. St Kitts and Nevis 

8. St Lucia

St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program offers various investment options, starting with a $240,000 donation to the National Economic Fund.

It provides visa-free travel to 153 countries and significant tax benefits, with no residency or visitation requirements. The process takes about 10 to 12 months, and government bond investments allow for the inclusion of immediate family members and dependents with no extra fees.

9. Turkey 

Turkey’s citizenship by investment program includes affordable options, such as real estate investments starting at $400,000 or establishing a business as a path to citizenship. This program provides access to a skilled workforce and a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, making it attractive for entrepreneurs and investors.

Key benefits include no requirement for government-approved real estate projects, a relatively low cost of living compared to other CBI countries, and visa-free travel to over 110 countries.

10. Vanuatu 

Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment provides one of the quickest routes to citizenship, requiring a $130,000 donation to the Vanuatu Development Support Program. As the world’s fastest CBI program, it grants citizenship within 60 days.

Additional benefits include zero personal income tax on local or global income, visa-free access to over 130 countries, and a serene lifestyle in a tropical paradise.

11. Portugal

The Portugal Golden Visa offers non-EU nationals residency by investment.  However, a Portuguese passport is obtained after meeting the five-year residency requirement and grants visa-free access to 27 EU nations and 174 countries globally, including the U.S., Canada, and much of Asia.

 

12. Spain

13. Serbia

Serbia’s residency by investment program allows individuals to secure residency through real estate purchases, with no minimum investment requirement.

Eligible properties include apartments, residential buildings, and business premises tied to active business ventures. Once the investment is approved, residency is granted, and applicants can start living and working in Serbia. After five years, a second passport is possible, offering visa-free entry to 88 countries and the chance to participate in business ventures in a foreign country.

14. Hungary

Hungary’s Golden Visa program offers non-EU and non-EEA citizens residency through investments such as €250,000in a real estate fund, €500,000 in residential real estate (from 2025), or a €1 million donation to higher education.

No minimum residency requirements exist, and applicants can begin business ventures immediately. Citizenship is available after eight years, providing visa-free entry to 122 countries and opportunities for economic growth in a stable foreign country.

15. Latvia

Latvia’s Golden Visa includes multiple investment options, such as €250,000 in property, €50,000 in a capital company, €280,000 in a bank deposit, or €250,000 in government bonds.

Applicants must live in Latvia at least once a year, and residency is granted after investment approval. Citizenship is available after ten years, with the possibility of granting a passport with visa-free entry in 119 countries. 

Common Types of Investments

Citizenship by investment programs provides a route to acquiring a second passport through various types of financial investments. Here are the common types of investments available when seeking second citizenship:

1. Real estate investment

Several countries offer citizenship in exchange for purchasing real estate. The required investment amount can vary significantly, and often, the property must be held for a specified period, usually around 3-5 years.

2. Government bonds

Some CBI programs allow investors to obtain citizenship by purchasing government bonds. These bonds must be held for a number of years without interest.

3. Business investment

Investing in local businesses or establishing a new business can also be a path to citizenship. This often involves creating jobs and contributing to the country’s economic development.

4. Donations to national development funds

Many programs require a direct contribution to a national development fund or similar government entity. These non-refundable donations fund public projects such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

5. Investment funds

Some countries, like Greece and Cyprus, offer second passports through investments in government-approved funds, which are used to support national economic development projects.

How can I get a second passport through investment?

Once you have figured out how to get multiple passports, here’s an overview of the 2nd passport by investment application process.

Step 1:  Select a licensed agent

As an investment migration firm, this is where we come in. We have the best legal experts to help guide you through the application process, ensure compliance with local laws, and help you choose the best options.

Step 2: Make the investment

Choose the investment route that best suits your situation and ensure the investment meets the minimum requirements for the chosen country.

Step 3: Submit required documents

•  Valid passport, birth certificate, and any national ID cards.
•  Bank statements, proof of income, and financial statements that verify your ability to make the required investment.
• Police clearance certificates or other documents verifying a clean criminal record.
•  Sometimes, a health certificate may be required to confirm you’re free from contagious diseases.
•  Documents showing your commitment to the investment (e.g., real estate contracts, proof of government fund contribution).
•  Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable) and proof of residency or address.

Step 4: Application review and processing

After submitting all documents and making the required investment, the government will review your application. This includes thorough due diligence checks, which can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the country.

Step 5: Receive citizenship and passport

Upon approval, you’ll receive a certificate of citizenship and can apply for your second passport. The passport will grant you visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to various countries, depending on the program chosen.

How long does it take to get a second passport by investment?

The time it takes to get citizenship through investment varies by country. Some programs process applications in just a few months, while others may take a few years. Here are the average processing times for countries offering citizenship by investment.

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 Second Citizenship By Investment

What is a secondary passport by investment?

A secondary passport by investment is a passport obtained by making a significant financial contribution to a country’s economy, such as investing in real estate, government bonds, or development funds. This process grants citizenship and provides benefits like global mobility, tax advantages, and security.

What's the best Secondary passport by investment in Europe?

Malta is often considered to be the best secondary passport by investment in Europe due to its strong global mobility, allowing visa-free access to over 180 countries, and the EU benefits it provides, such as the right to live and work across all EU nations.

What's the best second passport in the world by investment?

The best second passport by investment is offered through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs like those in St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, and Vanuatu, as they provide quick processing times and valuable passports with extensive visa-free access.

Why do people invest in a second citizenship?

People invest in a second citizenship for benefits like enhanced travel freedom, access to more investment opportunities, tax advantages, and increased personal security. It also offers a backup plan in case of political or economic instability in their home country.

What is the easiest country to get a second passport?

Vanuatu offers the fastest route to a second passport, granting citizenship in just 60 days through its citizenship by investment program. This is achieved with a donation of $130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program.

How can I invest in a second passport?

You can invest in a second passport through citizenship by investment (CBI) programs, where you make a financial contribution to a country’s economy, typically via a donation or real estate investment. Countries like Vanuatu, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Malta offer such programs, providing access to citizenship and a second passport in exchange for an investment.

Can you buy a second citizenship?

You can’t directly buy a second citizenship, but you can obtain it through investment in citizenship by investment (CBI) programs. These programs require you to make a financial contribution, such as donating to a national fund or investing in real estate, to qualify for citizenship.

Is it worth it investing in a second citizenship?

Yes, absolutely. If you have dual or multiple citizenships, you’ll have more freedom across the world.

How hard is it to get a second passport?

Obtaining a second passport can vary depending on factors like your current citizenship and the country you’re interested in. It can involve proving ancestry, investing in a country, or meeting residency requirements. While it’s not necessarily difficult, it often requires time, effort, and sometimes financial investment.

Where can I get a second passport?

You can get a second passport through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in countries like St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Turkey, and Malta. Other ways include citizenship by descent, where you inherit citizenship through your ancestry, citizenship by naturalization after living in a country for a certain period, or citizenship by marriage in some countries.

What is the minimum investment required to obtain a second passport?

The minimum investment required to obtain a second passport varies by country and program. Generally, it can range from $130,000 to $2 million, depending on the specific Citizenship by Investment program and the type of investment, such as real estate, government funds, or business investments.

How long does it take to obtain a second passport through investment?

Depending on the country, the processing time can range from a few months to over a year. Caribbean countries can process applications within 3- 12 months, whereas European countries may take longer, sometimes up to 12-36 months. This duration includes due diligence checks and processing of the investment and application.

Are there any residency requirements for maintaining the second passport?

Some Caribbean countries with Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, like St. Kitts and Nevis, do not have residency requirements for maintaining citizenship. However, countries like Antigua and Barbuda require applicants to spend 5 days within the first five years of obtaining citizenship.

Can my family members also get a second passport through my investment?

Yes, most programs allow you to add your family members to the application. When approved, they will have the same rights and benefits as the main applicant.