Citizenship by investment (CBI) programs let you explore unique opportunities, opening doors to global mobility, security for your finances, and freedom. In 2025, some of the best citizenship by investment programs offer appealing advantages for investors aiming to obtain a second citizenship.
In this guide, we will explore the 14 best citizenship by investment (CBI) programs in 2025. You will get to examine citizenship through investment programs and learn about the criteria. You will also dig deeper into the investment options, processing times of the programs, and the benefits they offer.
What to Discover in This Guide?
What is Citizenship by Investment?
Citizenship itself is a concept that goes way back to ancient Greek towns and cities. There used to be citizenship for male property owners, and it was a privileged, not inclusive concept.
When it comes to today’s citizenship concept and citizenship by investment CBI program, it was St. Kitts and Nevis who first introduced the investment option in 1984. St. Kitts and Nevis set a precedent for other countries by including its 1984 Citizenship Act, one year after gaining its independence from the United Kingdom.
Sometimes, CBI programs can also be referred to as a Golden Visa. However, Golden Visa countries offer mostly residency by investment programs that aim to promote economic growth in a country through foreign direct investment. They are both similar programs in the end and offer various types of investment. Among them, Portugal Golden Visa program provides a path to citizenship after holding your investment for a certain period of time and passing the language test.
Citizenship by Investment programs are actually the process of getting a second citizenship and passport through investment in another country. So, what differentiates the CBI program is that investors are able to get citizenship status much faster than other traditional immigration processes and are able to use the benefits much earlier.
Benefits of Buying a Second Passport as a Plan B Investment
Certain benefits are available to dual citizens, including the right to live and work freely in two countries, buy property, and travel freely between the countries. Double taxation, though, can be one of the drawbacks of being a dual citizen.
Here are some of the reasons why investors are choosing to invest in a second citizenship.
1. Financial resilience
You can create an environment for risk diversification and wealth protection by investing in a foreign country and getting a second passport.
2. Political rights
As a dual citizen, you can participate fully in the political scene of the country in which you have citizenship. You can vote and make donations to the political candidates you support.
3. Property ownership
Owning a property in either your home country or a second country is a benefit. Remember that some countries may be strict. Otherwise, you can buy property in a country where you can buy a second citizenship.
4. Establishing an International Business
Investing in dual citizenship makes you a global citizen and allows you to internationalize your assets and money. Eventually, it results in wealth diversification. In many countries, political turbulence, economic turmoil, and financial uncertainty are motivating investors to seek new domestic and financial roots.
5. Traveling More, Spending Less Money
Dual citizenship has the potential to significantly broaden your travel opportunities. Almost all passports allow the holder to travel to certain countries based on international relations and diplomatic relationships between them. It involves having a second passport, but your travel options are significantly expanded. Therefore, the more passports you have, the more freely you can travel throughout the world.
6. Securing Your Future
We all have goals like constructing larger and brighter futures. However, political, economic, and socioeconomic issues in our own countries sometimes block our goals. Dual citizenship overcomes this problem and gives you the freedom, security, and peace of mind to choose your future. It might also provide access to strong healthcare systems, worldwide educational possibilities, safe and secure neighborhoods, public transit, and much more.
7. Providing A Better Education for Your Children
It is the nature of parents to wish to provide their children with the finest education possible. With a second passport, you can offer just this, knowing that your children can enjoy a world-class education in a safe and secure setting. You can enable this by opening the international doors, ensuring their futures and those of future generations are secure.
8. Passing Citizenship for Generations to Come
Your dual citizenship is guaranteed, and you will also be able to pass your dual citizenship down to future generations. Becoming a global citizen changes your life and future, offering many opportunities. Furthermore, acquiring a second passport opens doors worldwide, giving you choices on how you conduct business, how you travel, where you educate your children, and how you live life in general.
Investment Options to Obtain a Second Citizenship
Here are common investment types.
Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
Investing in real estate is a tempting concept for many people since it provides not only a place to call home but also the prospect of profitable future returns. Over the last decade, various investment programs have evolved to enable people to earn citizenship or permanent residency through property ownership, also known as real estate citizenship.
Several countries have implemented similar citizenship programs to encourage foreign investors and improve their economies.
Citizenship by Donation Investment
You can get citizenship or residence in many ways, including citizenship by donation. Certain countries, such as the state fund of government, allow for citizenship by gift. This quick investment option demands a minimum donation of $130,000. This investment option is often utilized for public welfare projects and disaster aid in smaller nations.
Investment in Government Bonds
Looking into the reasons why bonds, we can say it is because many high-net-worth individuals dislike the thought of donating money as an investment option. Plus, they do not want to have to deal with purchasing costly real estate or even managing reasonably priced property to get residency and citizenship via investment. For such investors, investing in bonds is the next best alternative.
Top 14 Countries That Offer Citizenship by Investment
Below, we compiled the list of the best citizenship by investment countries.
1. Dominica Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
- Minimum investment for donation: $200,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $200,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 6-9 months
As one of the best Caribbean citizenship programs, Dominica’s CBI allows investors to receive citizenship in exchange for investing in the country. If you choose to donate, it starts at $200,000. If you choose to make a real estate investment, it is worth a minimum of $200,000 to buy a property.
You can sell your real estate purchase with a minimum value of USD 200,000 after three years on the open market. Plus, you can sell it after five years to a new citizen by an investment investor.
Obtaining citizenship is a streamlined naturalization process that investors benefit from. You can get Dominican citizenship in just two years of residency. When compared, the standard period would be seen for years. The program has a favorable environment for individual investors and corporations. As a Dominican passport holder, you will not be subject to inheritance, capital gains, or wealth tax. If you decide to reside outside the country after getting citizenship by investment, you will not be liable to pay taxes on foreign income.
2. St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
- Minimum investment for donation: $240,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $300,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 12–15 months
St Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program grants citizenship to investors who make significant financial investments in this country. There are many options, including real estate, business enterprise investments, or donations to the National Economic Fund of St. Lucia.
To get citizenship in St. Lucia, you need to invest USD 300,000 in real estate for a 5-year period. You can invest in shares or a fully titled property. You have the option to arrange your finances for real estate investment through local banks.
As an applicant for the CBI program, you need to make a payment of $240,000 into the National Economic Fund. Plus, dual citizenship is still possible, so you can keep your first and second citizenship privileges. St Lucia passport is ranked 32nd, with visa-free travel access to 148 countries.
Eventually, applicants of the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program need to make a significant economic contribution to the country. Following this, the applicants become subject to the application process and the due diligence checks.
3. St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment: Fastest Citizenship to Buy
There are multiple steps to take to qualify for the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program. You can choose to invest a minimum of $250,000 in the Sustainable Growth Fund, or $325,000 in government-approved real estate.
This Caribbean citizenship program is the only initiative that provides a fast track to citizenship. In addition, upon submission, you must pay a due diligence cost. The application is submitted through an Imperial & Legal agent who is permanently based in St. Kitts and Nevis. The timeframe is around 4 to 6 months, making it the fastest Caribbean Citizenship by Investment program.
Non-nationals can buy real estate on the sister islands of St Kitts and Nevis by applying for an Alien Landholding License (ALHL). They can also buy real estate in St Kitts-approved regions as part of the country’s citizenship by investment program.
As one of the easiest countries to get citizenship, St Kitts and Nevis has an extremely permissive tax regime, just like many Caribbean countries. You can enjoy a kind of paradise on the islands, as there is no income tax, inheritance tax, gift tax, duty, capital gains tax, or corporate tax. This implies that the money you earn, inherit, or invest stays right in your pocket.
4. Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CBI): Best for E-2 Visa Access
- Minimum investment for donation: $235,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $350,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 9–12 months
The Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program has no minimum net worth requirement, and a $235,000 investment is sufficient for a single applicant or a family of four to get Grenadian citizenship. It is important to remember that there is a distinct benefit of Grenadian citizenship. Grenadian citizens are the only Caribbean nationals who can settle in the United States using the US E-2 Visa, which is a non-immigrant visa.
The Grenada citizenship program requires a minimum donation of $235,000 or a property purchase starting at $350,000. Additionally, there will also be additional due diligence fees associated with the application procedure.
Grenada has no special drawback. However, all citizenship by investment programs come at a significant expense. In addition to the investment amount, you must pay legal costs and other government fees as well. The investment amount for Grenadian citizenship begins at $235,000, plus other costs of getting a second citizenship. Grenada permits citizens, residents, and foreigners to buy property within the country.
Grenada does not require a visa to visit for stays of up to 90 days. While a visa is not necessary, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your departure from the country. Moreover, Grenada is a tax-free country regarding capital gains and inheritance. The tax levied by Grenada’s inland revenue division on income only applies to global income for individuals.
5. Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment: Educational Benefits
- Minimum investment for donation: $230,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $300,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 6-9 months
The minimal investment for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is $230,000 for a donation to the National Development Fund. Real estate investments start at $200,000, while company investments require at least $1.5 million investment from a single investor. Additionally, through the West Indies Fund donation option, your children can benefit from a scholarship, making it the only Caribbean citizenship program that offers educational benefits.
You will need to prove the statement regarding the source of your funds to be invested there. Following the statement, you will be expected to present a sworn statement of support for each dependent, if you have any under 18, except the spouse.
The diverse economy places few limits on foreign investment in the country. In addition, there are no capital gains, wealth, gifts, inheritance, or global personal income taxes. So, this advantage makes this country suitable for CBI. Another benefit is that with dual citizenship, you are not compelled to surrender your present citizenship. Lastly, by holding an Antigua and Barbuda passport, you will benefit from global mobility with visa-free access to over 150 countries.
6. Turkey Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
- Minimum investment for donation: $500,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $400,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 3-4 months
You can invest at least USD 500,000 in fixed capital contributions to apply for a Turkey Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program. When you are making your investment, you may fund a Turkish bank account with at least USD 500,000, equivalent foreign cash, or Turkish Lira. Also, it is possible to invest a minimum of USD 500,000, equivalent in other currencies, or TRY in government bonds.
You can also buy a property in Turkey, with a minimum amount of $400,000. Purchasing the property allows the investor and their immediate family to seek Turkish citizenship. If you have a spouse and children under 18, they can be eligible to apply for citizenship with you as well. In addition, parents and children above the age of 18 can get a residency permit. You will be free to resell the property after three years of ownership.
Turkey allows dual citizenship, so it gives you an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of two countries, subject to the laws of your other country of citizenship. Plus, it is one of the E2 visa countries that can allow you to obtain an E2 Visa in America.
7. Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI): Best for European Citizenship
- Minimum investment for donation: €600,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: €700,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 12 to 36 months
As one of the citizenship by investment programs in Europe, the Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program requires a minimum investment of €600,000 if you stay in Malta for 36 months, or €750,000 after 12 months. You can buy a residential property in Malta for a minimum €700,000, which you need to keep for at least five years.
If you are an investor from the US, you can obtain Maltese citizenship, which is also a European citizenship, through naturalization in exchange for providing extraordinary services through direct investment. To qualify, you need to spend at least €600,000 to complete a stringent due diligence investigation while meeting other investment requirements.
You also get the right to live, work, study, and retire in any nation in the EU. Visa-free travel to 190 countries via a Maltese passport is a plus. Furthermore, access to top-tier healthcare and education, as well as a transparent and robust financial infrastructure, are among the benefits of living in Malta.
Malta has accepted dual and multiple citizenship since February 2000. According to Malta’s Constitution, dual or multiple citizenship is permissible in compliance with any legislation currently in force in Malta. Thus, under Maltese law, you will not be required to relinquish your original citizenship.
Retiring is among the reasons why investors consider Malta as an option. There is another option for retirees, the Malta Retirement Program (MRP), which is the primary means by which US retirees can relocate to Malta permanently. To acquire it, you must be at least 55 years old, have a retirement income, own or lease property in Malta, and have private health insurance.
8. Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI): Cheapest for Oceania Access
- Minimum investment for donation:$130,000 for single applicants
- Minimum investment for real estate: $200,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 1 to 2 months
Vanuatu established the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program to boost its economy and attract global investors. The country has subsequently established itself as a viable choice in the worldwide market for second citizenship. Moreover, there are no limitations for foreigners purchasing property.
According to our Passport Index evaluations, the Vanuatu passport ranks 45th in the world. It means that Vanuatu citizens can travel to 113 countries without a visa.
Vanuatu enables dual citizenship, which might be an essential consideration for many people. Furthermore, the official languages are English and French, so you may apply in any language, though you may need to send certain documents in English.
9. Austria Citizenship by Investment (CBI): Europe Access
- Minimum investment: around €10 million
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 2-3 years
Qualifying investments for Austria Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program typically range from €800,000 to €10 million. They can take the shape of a joint venture, a direct investment in an operating firm that generates considerable employment growth, or the introduction of science, research, or innovative technology to Austria. In addition, it might also contribute to an appropriate public initiative.
You are expected to show at least 10 years of continuous presence in Austria, with a minimum of five years as a permanent resident. Showing sufficient financial resources/secure income is also necessary, among other requirements, such as an adequate understanding of the German language.
10. Egypt Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
- Minimum investment: $250,000
- Minimum investment for real estate: $300,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 6-9 months
The minimum investment that candidates can make is a non-refundable $250,000 commitment to the Egyptian government. Other alternatives include a $350,000 investment in an existing or new company, which would be a $300,000 real estate investment or a $500,000 deposit into an Egyptian bank account.
11. Jordan Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
- Minimum investment: $750,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 3-9 months
To be eligible for the program, you are expected to spend at least $750,000 (USD) in real estate, tourism, or renewable energy. As an investor, you also need to satisfy certain conditions, such as passing background checks and proving adequate financial means.
12. Nauru Citizenship by Investment Program: Oceania Access
- Minimum investment: $105,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 3-4 months
Located in Oceania, Nauru has offered a citizenship by investment program since 2024, with key benefits including no residency requirements and dual citizenship opportunities. To qualify, you have to contribute to the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship program at least $105,000 to the country’s Treasury Fund. Plus, you can expect to pay the application, the due diligence, and the passport issuance fee.
Once you obtain your Nauru passport, you will have visa-free access to strategic destinations, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, the UAE, and the UK.
13. Cambodia Citizenship by Investment: Asia Access
- Minimum investment for donation: $245,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 3-4 months
The Cambodia Citizenship by Investment program is typically completed within 3 to 4 months. To qualify, you have to either contribute $245,000 directly to the Royal Government or invest a minimum of $305,000 into government-approved projects. However, becoming a Cambodian citizen can offer you fewer benefits when it comes to global mobility. You can only travel visa-free to 53 countries with a Cambodian passport.
14. North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment: Cheapest European Citizenship
- Minimum investment: $200,000
- Family Inclusion: Yes
- The Processing Time: 2 Years
North Macedonia offers a citizenship-by-investment program that allows investors to apply for citizenship without residency requirements. To qualify, you can either invest €200,000 in a government-approved private investment fund and hold it for at least 2 years, making it the cheapest citizenship by investment program in Europe.
You can also make a €400,000 direct investment in a new business that creates at least 10 local jobs. The process does not require language tests or a long stay in the country. However, the program has faced scrutiny from the EU due to concerns about security and oversight.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Citizenship by Investment Countries
Which countries offer citizenship for free?
Most countries do not offer citizenship for free to foreigners unless you qualify through birth, descent, or long-term naturalization. There are no countries that offer immediate citizenship to foreigners without cost or conditions such as residency, marriage, or ancestry.
Why citizenship by investment?
Citizenship by investment programs provide families with a second citizenship, which in turn gives them the right to travel freely to various countries and to reside in another country.
Who can obtain a passport by investment?
Anyone who is a non-EU citizen can obtain a passport by investment. Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs allow investors to acquire a second passport by making a significant financial contribution to a country.
What is the strongest passport in the world?
There are many strong passports in the world according to passport index, many of which are European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain (194 countries) Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, South Korea, Sweden (193 countries) Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190 countries) Australia, Portugal (191 countries).
Which country has the best citizenship benefits?
These are the top 5 countries to get citizenship: The United Kingdom, Australia, Finland, the United States, and Switzerland.
How much money is needed to invest in Canada to get citizenship?
The investment amount to buy Canadian citizenship typically ranges from $200,000 to $400,000. However, it depends on the province, location, and the nature of the business.
What is the golden visa for the USA?
The EB5 Visa can be considered the Golden Visa of the US.
How much should you invest in Germany to get citizenship?
There is no minimum investment amount that will qualify you for a German investment visa. However, you might need to invest at least €360,000.
Can you get Montenegro citizenship by Investment?
There used to be a Montenegro citizenship by investment program, but it is no longer available since December 31, 2022.
What are the other alternatives to citizenship by investment programs?
You can consider applying for European Golden Visa programs as they provide more security during global uncertainties. You can get a golden passport from countries like Portugal, Greece, Italy, and Hungary by making a sustainable investment. However, these programs are residency-by-investment programs, and they do not offer a path to citizenship.
