Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs support global mobility, opening a door for securing a second passport. For some investors, business opportunities could be closer through the benefit of international travel. As a safety net, dual nationality could be your option by making the type of investment needed.
Through this guide, we will share the compiled list of the fastest citizenship by investment countries. Discovering what these countries offer and each program’s tax details, benefits, and investment types might enable you to go another way. Let us show you the alternative ways to choose where your global footprint expands.
Overview: Citizenship by Investment Countries
Year by year, the number of countries that offer immigrant investor programs is increasing. The potential of investing in and getting European citizenship in an EU country or a Caribbean country is appealing.
The numerous and diverse investment options lie behind these citizenship programs. Some include property investment, government bonds, development funds, and stocks and shares. The eligibility criteria and investment requirements of countries vary and may bring different benefits to the table.
Dual citizenship in a foreign country will help you to contribute to the country’s economy through your financial investment. Unless you can claim birthright citizenship in a second country or have a spouse who is a citizen of the country with the quickest citizenship by marriage, citizenship programs will be the quickest method for you to obtain legal citizenship and enjoy the rights and privileges that come with it. Benefits may include lower taxes, wealth protection, and a higher standard of living.
Many countries provide citizenship by investment in a short period of time. However, some programs do better than others. Certain countries may grant you citizenship for as little as a month of investment. Others will make you wait for 7–10 years.
Reasons to Get a Second Citizenship
- Efficiency and Speed: Some programs can process applications in a short time frame. For instance, Vanuatu’s citizenship program processing is completed in one or two months. That is the fastest citizenship by investment program.
- Business and Investment Opportunities: Second citizenship can open up new business and investment opportunities. This can lead to understanding new markets and resources so investors can discover new economic environments.
- Global Mobility: A second passport generally offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. This can be particularly beneficial for you in case your current passports have significant travel restrictions.
- Tax Advantages: You can discover some countries offering favorable tax regimes as foreign investors. These can include no taxes on worldwide income, capital gains, or inheritance.
- Quality of Life: In some circ*mstances, second citizenship can provide access to better healthcare, education, and lifestyle opportunities. It is possible to consider it as a safety net in times of political instability or economic downturn in one’s home country.
- Family Security: Citizenship by investment programs often extends to the investor’s family, with the same benefits and security.
- No Requirement for Residency: Many citizenship by investment programs do not require investors to reside in the country. So, it is a convenient option for those who do not wish to relocate.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Second Citizenship by Investment
Step 1: Understand Dual Citizenship Benefits
Find more about the benefits of getting a second passport and nationality, such as increased access to opportunities for investment and improved movement throughout the world.
Step 2: Consider Family Reunification Options
In order to ensure that your family members can benefit from dual citizenship as well, consider enrolling them in your citizenship application.
Step 3: Access Full Citizenship Rights
Learn about all of your citizenship rights, such as the ability to travel, live, work, study, and receive healthcare anywhere in the EU, as well as the freedom to choose which EU nation to call home.
Step 4: Explore Business and Investment Opportunities
Examine the business and investment prospects that arise from obtaining second citizenship, as it grants entry to novel markets and economic settings.
Step 5: Submit your Residency & Citizenship Application
Examine the residency requirements of the different citizenship by investment programs; several of them allow you to keep your existing way of life without requiring you to dwell in the nation. Having all the required documents, submit your application.
Main Documents for Citizenship by Investment Programs
Identity Documents: Copies in color of all identity cards, and documents.
Driver’s License: A copy of the license in color.
Documents related to military service and discharge: Color copies of any relevant military service and discharge paperwork, if applicable.
Name Change Documents: Color copies of any documents attesting to a name change are necessary if one has occurred (apart from marriage).
Funds Document Source: Color scanned copy of the funding source documentation.
The Top 7 Fastest Citizenship by Investment
Countries offer citizenship by investment programs, and these top 7 are among the fastest ones.
Antigua and Barbuda
Getting Antigua Barbuda citizenship by investment entitles you to an Antigua and Barbuda passport. You also contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.
Antigua and Barbuda are islands in the Caribbean. It is home to one of the world’s most alluring and reasonably priced citizenship-by-investment programs. Since its 2013 inception, the initiative has drawn many international investors and stimulated the nation’s economy.
Requirement:
- Being of good character
- Having no criminal record
- Passing a thorough due diligence process
- Submitting various documents, including proof of identity and financial stability
- Ability to cover the cost of the Antigua and Barbuda passport, including application fees and due diligence charges
The processing time for citizenship applications: 3 – 6 months is usually within 3 – 6 months.
To maintain citizenship status: Spend a minimum of 5 days in the country within the first 5 years.
Investment Amount: The minimum investment is $230,000 for a single applicant. The amount increases slightly for families.
Benefits:
- Entry to more than 153 nations worldwide.
- One of the most alluring and reasonably priced citizenship-by-investment programs in the world.
- A large number of international investors stimulated the nation’s economy.
Grenada
Through the National Transformation Fund, this government effort enables individuals and families to participate in real estate projects that have been approved by the government or to make contributions to the growth of the nation. International investors find the program appealing because it makes acquiring a USA E-2 Treaty Investor Visa easier, grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to 148 countries, and has tax laws that do not impose inheritance or foreign income taxes.
Requirement: Completing all required documentation is necessary. The CBIC (Citizenship by Investment Committee) requirements must be adhered to in the paperwork.
Citizenship processing time: 1-2 months.
Amount of investment: The minimum donation is $235,000, which is required from investors to the National Transformation Fund.
Benefits:
- Grenadian passport holders have access to a number of countries, including popular locations inside the Schengen Area, without the need for a visa.
- Entry point to the USA becomes easier. Grenadian citizens are better suited to apply for the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa.
- There are no taxes on foreign wealth, income, or inheritance.
- Grenada citizenship by investment program does not require a continuous physical presence or permanent residency in the country, in contrast to certain other citizenship systems.
- For family inclusion, not all investors are eligible for the program. The application may include immediate family members, including a spouse, dependent children, and perhaps some dependent parents.
- Participants directly support the growth of the country’s economy by funding government-approved real estate projects.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Applicants for the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program can expect a simple application process.
Citizenship processing time: four to six weeks.
Investment amount: There are two ways for investors. They have the option of making a donation to the Sustainable Growth Fund or investing in real estate in St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Contributions to the Sustainable Growth Fund require a minimum of $250,000 from investors.
- The real estate option requires an individual to invest a minimum of $400,000.
Benefits:
- St. Kitts and Nevis has one of the quickest citizenship systems out there; citizenship is sometimes granted in a matter of months as opposed to years.
- There are no inheritance, wealth, or personal income taxes in the country, which is a beneficial tax regime with significant financial advantages.
- A variety of investment alternatives, including government funds and real estate, offer chances for financial success.
- The program makes it possible for family members to participate, guaranteeing that loved ones can profit as well.
- The program offers a safe and legal route to citizenship and is governed by well-established rules and regulations.
- Children who have access to foreign schools and high-quality education can look forward to a bright future.
Malta
As a European country, the Malta citizenship by investment program offers a highly valuable passport.
Citizenship processing time: Around one year
Investment amount: If an investor wishes to become a citizen of Malta, they must invest a minimum of €600,000 after completing 36 months of residency in Malta.
For the contribution to the National Development and Social Fund, applicants need to invest a minimum of €750 000, with an additional €50 000 for each dependent to apply for Malta citizenship after residing in Malta for a year.
Benefits:
- Maltese passport holders can enter several countries without a visa or with one upon arrival.
- Malta does not tax foreign wealth, income, or inheritance.
- Malta does not require a long-term physical presence or permanent stay in the nation, in contrast to several other citizenship processes.
Dominica
Requirement: The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program requires applicants to select a property among the government-approved projects. After selecting a property and making a reservation, applicants must submit their citizenship application.
Citizenship processing time: Between 3 to 6 months.
Investment amount: The donation option requires a minimum of $200,000.
Benefits:
- The program allows for the inclusion of your spouse, parents or grandparents over 55, and dependent children under the age of 30.
- Applicants can receive their passport within 3 to 6 months.
- Travel to 144 countries with your Dominica passport without an additional visa.
- Maintain your citizenship without any stay requirement.
Saint Lucia
The St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program necessitates that candidates be at least eighteen years old. For a contribution or other flexible alternatives in real estate and enterprise, they must invest a minimum of $240,000; this is something that a wide variety of investors can afford.
Citizenship processing time: Usually requires less than six months to complete.
Investment amount: or a contribution, the initial investment is merely $240,000.
Benefits:
- One application can include certain extended family members as well as dependents.
- St. Lucia has a range of citizenship options to suit your financial plan, whether you’re interested in real estate, business investments, or just making a donation.
- More than 140 countries allow entry without a visa or with a visa upon arrival for holders of a St. Lucian passport.
- The application procedure is very quick, usually taking three to six months to finish.
- You are free to come and go anytime you choose because there are no minimum stay requirements.
- Residents of St. Lucia enjoy advantageous tax laws.
Vanuatu
Requirement: You will need to be of good character and undergo the Vanuatu government’s full due diligence formalities.
Citizenship processing time: Between 30-60 days.
Investment amount: Investors interested in Vanuatu citizenship must make a government donation of $130,000 for a family of up to four applicants.
Benefits:
- Applicants can receive their passport within 3 to 6 months.
- Travel to 143 countries with your Vanuatu passport without an additional visa.
- Maintain your citizenship without any stay requirement
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
Malta Citizenship by Investment
St Lucia Citizenship by Investment
Fastest Citizenship by Investment Programs: Comparison of Investment Options
| Country | Investment Options | Single Applicant | Family of 4 | Family of 5 or More |
| Antigua and Barbuda | National Development Fund | $230,000 | $$230,000 | $230,000 + $67,500 + $15,000/additional dependent |
| Real Estate Investment | $300,000 | $300,000 | $300,000 + $67,500 + $15,000/additional dependent | |
| Business Investment (Single Investor) | $1,500,000 | $1,500,000 | $1,500,000 + $67,500 + $15,000/additional dependent | |
| Business Investment (Joint Investment) | $400,000 (each investor) (total: $5,000,000) | $400,000 | $400,000 + $67,500 + $15,000/additional dependent | |
| University of the West Indies Fund | $260,000 | $260,000 | $260,000 + $15,000/additional dependent | |
| Grenada | National Transformation Fund | $235,000 (single) | $235,000 (up to 4) | n/a |
| Real Estate | $350,000 (single) | $350,000 (up to 4) | $440,000 (joint investment) | |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | Sustainable Growth Fund | $250,000 (single) | $250,000 (up to 4) | n/a |
| Malta | Investment + Residential Property | €600,000-€750,000 + €700,000 property | Varies | Varies |
| Dominica | Donation or Real Estate | $200,000 (donation) | $200,000 (real estate) | n/a |
| Saint Lucia | Donation, Real Estate, or Enterprise Projects | $240,000 (donation) | Varies | n/a |
| Vanuatu | Government Donation | $130,000 | $130,000 (up to 4) | n/a |
Conclusion
Programs for Fastest Citizenship by Investment provide a simplified way to obtain a new nationality through economic contributions. These initiatives have been put in place by nations all over the world, including a number of Caribbean countries, to draw foreign investment directly into their national development funds or real estate markets.
A second passport may be your getaway for future plans. In this article, we listed the countries offering the fastest citizenship by investment programs, with the waiting time changing between three months and a year. As each country is unique, what you expect can change.
We know that planning for your whole family will make you look for more details for each family member. You may prioritize education or maybe healthcare. We are also aware of your needs when it comes to business planning and how convenient it can be to have more access to global mobility. These are among the reasons why you may consider these programs.
We hope the article helped you step into the global community to start your new journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country is the fastest to obtain citizenship?
Vanuatu is the fastest country to obtain citizenship, with its citizenship program. The process can be completed in as little as one month. However, it’s worth noting that Argentina also has a relatively fast process, where citizenship could be granted in as short as two years.
What is the easiest country to get citizenship in Europe?
In Europe, Portugal is considered the easiest country to get citizenship. It offers one of the most affordable investment options for citizenship through Portugal Golden Visa. After you have five years of legal residency, you can apply for citizenship, which grants you an EU passport and the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU.
Which European country gives the fastest citizenship?
Malta is the European country that gives the fastest citizenship. Its citizenship by investment program is the fastest in Europe, allowing individuals to obtain Maltese citizenship in return for a significant financial contribution to the country.
What is the fastest citizenship in the world?
The fastest citizenship in the world can be obtained in Cape Verde. If you marry a local, you are granted instant citizenship. This is a unique case and not a common route for most people seeking citizenship.
Which country citizenship is most powerful?
The most powerful citizenship is held by Japan. The country grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 countries. This means Japanese citizens have the freedom to travel to many countries without the need for a visa.
What are the three most powerful passports?
The three most powerful passports are from Japan (193 countries), Singapore and South Korea (192 countries), and Germany and Spain (190 countries). These countries offer their citizens the most travel freedom, with access to a large number of countries without the need for a visa.
Does Turkey offer citizenship by Investment Program?
Yes, Turkey does offer a Citizenship by Investment Program.
The program was launched in 2017 to encourage and attract foreign direct investment in the Turkish economy and stimulate the real estate market.
To qualify for Turkish citizenship by investment, here are some of the investment routes available:
- Acquire at least $400,000 worth of real estate.
- Invest a minimum of $500,000 in fixed capital contributions.
- Deposit at least $500,000 into a Turkish bank account.
The Turkish passport provides visa-free access or visa on arrival to 126 destinations worldwide, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. However, visa-free travel is not possible in EU countries through a Turkish passport.
If you find this article insightful, you can also read our article to learn about the best citizenship by investment countries.
