Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) Countries 2025

Citizenship by Investment (CBI), often referred to as Golden Passports, offers High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) the opportunity to acquire a Second Citizenship or a Second Passport by making financial investments in a host country. This process is also known as Passport by Investment or Economic Citizenship. For those interested in Dual Citizenship and global mobility, these programs provide a pathway to enhanced personal and financial freedom.
 

1. What is Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports) is a government-approved program that grants Citizenship to foreign nationals who make significant investments in a country. This may include investments in real estate, national development funds, or businesses. Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs aim to attract foreign capital and stimulate economic growth in host nations.
 

2. What are Golden Passports (Citizenship by Investment)?

 
Golden Passports (Citizenship by Investment) refer to Citizenships obtained through investment programs. These passports offer high-value benefits such as visa-free travel, tax advantages, and access to global markets. The term highlights the premium nature of these opportunities for investors.
 

3. What is Passport by Investment?

 
Passport by Investment is another term for Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports). It emphasizes the end benefit of these programs: acquiring a passport that grants the holder Citizenship rights and travel privileges in the issuing country.
 

4. What is Economic Citizenship?

 
Economic Citizenship describes Citizenship granted in exchange for economic contributions. Unlike traditional Citizenship pathways, this program focuses on an applicant's ability to support the host country's economy through investments.
 

5. What is a Second Passport or Second Citizenship?

 
A Second Passport or Second Citizenship is a legal document and status obtained by individuals in a country other than their birth or primary residence. It offers access to additional rights, including global mobility, dual residency, and new business opportunities.
 

6. What is Dual Citizenship, and how does it relate to Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
Dual Citizenship allows an individual to hold Citizenship in two or more countries simultaneously. Many Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs permit applicants to retain their original Citizenship, granting them the benefits of both countries, such as visa-free travel and expanded economic opportunities.
 

7. What are the key benefits of Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
The benefits of Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports) include:
 

• Visa-Free Travel: Access to 100+ countries, including the EU, UK, and Schengen Area.

• Enhanced Global Mobility: Freedom to travel without the hassle of visa applications.

• Tax Optimisation: Potential for favourable tax regimes in the host country.

• Wealth Preservation: Asset protection in stable and secure jurisdictions.

• Access to Education and Healthcare: Improved opportunities for family members.

• Security: A safety net for geopolitical or economic instability.

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8. Which countries offer Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs?

 
Prominent Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs include:
 

• Caribbean Nations: St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, St. Lucia

• European Countries: Malta

• Other Regions: Turkey, Vanuatu

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9. What are the investment requirements for Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs?

 
Investment requirements vary but typically include:
 

• Donations: Contributions to government funds, starting from USD 130,000.

• Real Estate: Purchasing approved properties, often starting at USD 200,000.

• Business Investments: Establishing or investing in local businesses.

• Bonds or Securities: Investing in government-backed financial instruments.

 

10. What is the processing time for Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
Processing times vary:
 

• Caribbean Programs: 3–12 months.

• Malta: 16–40 months for Citizenship.

• Turkey: As little as 3 months.

• Vanuatu: 1–2 months

 
Fast-tracking options may be available for additional fees.
 

11. Can family members be included in a Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) application?

 
Yes, most programs allow applicants to include immediate family members:
 

• Spouses.

• Dependent children (up to a specified age).

• Parents or grandparents (often with financial dependency).

 

12. Do Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs require physical residency?

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• No Residency Requirement: Caribbean nations, Vanuatu, Turkey.

• Minimal Stay: Malta requires short-term physical presence.

• Extended Stay: Some programs, like those in the EU, may necessitate a longer stay for full naturalisation benefits.

 

13. Are there any risks associated with Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) risks include:
 

• Reputation Risks: Some programs have faced scrutiny for inadequate vetting.

• Policy Changes: Programs may be modified or suspended.

• Financial Risks: Investments in real estate or businesses may not yield expected returns.

 

14. How does Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports) enhance global mobility?

 
A Second Passport from a Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) program provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries, reducing travel restrictions and facilitating international business and leisure trips.
 

15. Are Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs legal?

 
Yes, Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs are legal and operate under the framework of the host country’s laws. They are government-approved and regulated to ensure compliance and integrity.
 

16. Can I lose Citizenship obtained through a Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) program?

 
Yes, under certain circumstances, such as:
 

• Failure to meet program conditions (e.g. retaining investments for the required duration).

• Involvement in illegal activities or fraud.

• Revocation of the program by the host country.

 

17. How do governments benefit from Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs?

 
Governments leverage Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs to:
 

• Attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

• Fund national development projects.

• Create employment opportunities.

• Boost real estate and infrastructure development.

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18. Can I apply for a Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) program directly, or do I need an agent?

 
Applications must typically be submitted through licensed agents or government-approved intermediaries to ensure compliance with program requirements and facilitate due diligence processes.
 

19. How does Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports) differ from Residency by Investment (Golden Visas)?

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• Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports): Grants full Citizenship and a Passport, offering travel and voting rights.

• Residency by Investment (Golden Visas): Provides Residency status without full Citizenship; applicants must fulfil additional criteria to qualify for Naturalisation.

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20. How do I choose the best Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) program?

 
Key factors to consider include:
 

• Investment Amount: Choose a program within your financial capacity.

• Travel Benefits: Evaluate visa-free travel destinations.

• Processing Time: Consider how quickly you need the Citizenship.

• Family Inclusion: Check if family members can be added.

• Tax Policies: Ensure favourable tax regulations align with your goals.

 

21. What Due Diligence is conducted on Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) applicants?

 
Governments conduct rigorous checks, including:
 

• Criminal background verification.

• Source of Funds validation.

• Financial and personal history assessments.

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22. Can Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports) lead to Dual Citizenship?

 
Yes, many countries offering Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs permit Dual Citizenship, enabling applicants to retain their original Citizenship while enjoying the benefits of a new one.
 

23. Are there ethical concerns about Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passports)?

 
Critics argue that Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) programs:
 

• Prioritise wealth over merit.

• Risk misuse by individuals seeking to avoid legal obligations.

• May impact the national identity or security of the host country.

 
Governments address these concerns through strict vetting and program transparency.
 

24. How can I get started with a Citizenship by Investment (Golden Passport) program?

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1. Research: Explore programs that align with your goals.

2. Consult Experts: Seek guidance from certified agents or legal advisors.

3. Prepare Documents: Gather all required documentation, including proof of funds and identity.

4. Submit Application: Apply through a licensed intermediary.

5. Make the Investment: Fulfil the financial requirements of the program.

 
 
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Golden Passports offer unparalleled opportunities for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) seeking global mobility, security, and financial advantages. By selecting the right program and adhering to its requirements, investors can unlock significant benefits for themselves and their families.