A citizenship by investment (CBI) country offers foreign nationals the opportunity to obtain a second passport by making a qualifying economic contribution. These programs are highly attractive for expats, investors, and high-net-worth individuals who want to improve their global mobility, financial planning, and family security. By acquiring a second citizenship, individuals gain access to visa-free travel, favorable tax regimes, and a backup plan in case of political or economic instability in their home country. Today, many countries across the Caribbean, Europe, and other regions offer these programs. While each one has its own rules, the process generally involves an investment in real estate, a government donation, or a capital transfer. Successful applicants often extend the benefits to their spouses, children, and dependent parents.
How citizenship by investment programs work
A CBI program allows you to acquire citizenship in exchange for an economic investment.
Typical investment routes include:
- Government donation: A non-refundable contribution to a national development or economic diversification fund
- Real estate purchase: Buying approved properties, often with a minimum holding period of 3–5 years before resale
- Business or enterprise investment: Supporting job creation or strategic industries in the host country
- Government bonds or capital transfer: Placing funds in state-approved accounts for a fixed term
Most countries also require:
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of legal funds
- Health and background checks
- In some cases, brief residency or a physical visit
Once approved, citizenship is permanent, and the investor can live, work, and travel freely according to the new nationality’s rights.
Benefits of a second citizenship
A second passport offers both personal and professional advantages. The main reasons investors choose CBI programs include:
- Global mobility: Visa-free access to Schengen Area, the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, and in some cases 190+ destinations
- Tax and financial planning: Many CBI countries are low-tax or tax-free for foreign-sourced income, capital gains, and inheritance
- Family security: Citizenship is passed to spouses, children, and sometimes parents, providing education and healthcare opportunities abroad
- Business and investment opportunities: Easier company incorporation, banking, and access to new markets; some countries, like Grenada, allow applicants to apply for the US E-2 Investor Visa
Top CBI countries
St Kitts and Nevis
St Kitts and Nevis is the oldest and most reputable CBI program, established in 1984. Investment starts at $150,000 for a government donation or $200,000 for real estate. It offers visa-free access to over 160 countries, including the UK and Schengen Area. Processing typically takes 3–6 months, with no residency requirement. This country is considered the gold standard for Caribbean citizenship due to its stable economy and strong passport.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is known for its affordable entry point and family-friendly approach. Minimum investment starts at $100,000 donation or $200,000 real estate. Applicants must spend 5 days in the country within 5 years to maintain their passport. The program offers visa-free access to 150+ countries and is especially suitable for large families, as dependent children and parents can be included at a low cost.
Dominica
The Commonwealth of Dominica is famous for its low cost and efficient processing. Investors can contribute $100,000 to the government fund or buy real estate worth $200,000. This passport grants visa-free access to 140+ countries, including China, which is a unique advantage. With an approval time of around 3 months, it is one of the fastest CBI programs worldwide.
Grenada
Grenada is unique because it has an E-2 Visa treaty with the US, allowing its citizens to apply for a business visa in the United States. The minimum donation is $150,000, and the real estate option requires $220,000. It offers visa-free travel to 140+ destinations, including China and Russia, and is ideal for entrepreneurs and frequent travelers.
Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia launched its program in 2016 and quickly became competitive. It allows donations, real estate purchases, or government bond investments. The passport provides visa-free access to 145+ countries, and applications are typically approved in 3–4 months. Families appreciate the flexibility of including dependents, while investors enjoy low maintenance requirements.
Vanuatu
Located in the South Pacific, Vanuatu offers one of the fastest citizenship approvals in the world. A $130,000 donation for a single applicant is sufficient, and approval is often completed in 2 months. The passport offers 130+ visa-free destinations and is popular for tax planning, offshore banking, and global mobility.
Malta
Malta is one of the most prestigious CBI options in the world. It requires a combination of donation (€700,000+), real estate, and bonds, with a processing time of 12–14 months. Maltese citizenship provides full EU rights, visa-free travel to 180+ destinations, and the right to live and work anywhere in the European Union. Due to its rigorous due diligence, Malta is considered a premium option for wealthy investors.
Portugal
Although technically a residency-by-investment program, Portugal is among the most popular routes to citizenship. Investors can acquire residency with a real estate investment from €280,000 or capital transfer. Citizenship is possible after 5 years of residency, even with minimal time spent in the country. Portugal offers visa-free travel to 190+ countries, a high quality of life, and EU market access.
Turkey
Turkey is a fast-track CBI country that bridges Europe and Asia. Applicants can qualify with a real estate purchase of $400,000 or a bank deposit. The Turkish passport provides 110+ visa-free destinations, and citizens may later pursue E-2 US Visa eligibility via treaty countries. Processing takes 3–6 months, making it ideal for investors seeking speed and business opportunities.
Jordan and Egypt
Both Jordan and Egypt focus on regional investors. Jordan requires an investment of $750,000+ in banks or businesses, while Egypt allows citizenship with a $250,000 deposit or donation. These passports provide limited visa-free travel, but they are strategic for local business expansion and residency purposes.
Summary table of top CBI countries
| Country | Investment Options | Minimum Investment | Visa-Free Destinations | Processing Time |
| St Kitts and Nevis | Donation or real estate | $150,000 / $200,000 | 160+ | 3–6 months |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Donation or real estate | $100,000 / $200,000 | 150+ | 3–4 months |
| Dominica | Donation or real estate | $100,000 / $200,000 | 140+ | 3 months |
| Grenada | Donation or real estate | $150,000 / $220,000 | 140+ | 4–6 months |
| Saint Lucia | Donation or real estate | $100,000 / $300,000 | 145+ | 3–4 months |
| Vanuatu | Donation | $130,000 | 130+ | 2 months |
| Malta | Donation + real estate + bonds | €700,000+ | 180+ | 12–14 months |
| Portugal (Golden Visa) | Real estate, capital transfer, or job creation | €280,000+ | 190+ (EU travel) | 6–12 months (res.) |
| Turkey | Real estate or capital investment | $400,000+ | 110+ | 3–6 months |
| Jordan | Bank deposit or business investment | $750,000+ | 50+ | 12 months |
| Egypt | Bank deposit or government donation | $250,000+ | 50+ | 6–12 months |
Conclusion
Choosing the right citizenship by investment country depends on your budget, mobility goals, family needs, and tax strategy. Caribbean programs are best for fast and affordable solutions, while European programs provide prestige and EU access. A second citizenship is not just a passport but a long-term investment in global freedom, security, and opportunity.
