Passport-by-investment programs have gained popularity among individuals seeking alternative citizenship options for various reasons. These programs allow individuals to acquire citizenship and a second passport by significantly investing in a foreign country. This article will explore the top countries where you can obtain a visa by investment.
Malta
Malta is an ideal choice if you’re seeking access to a thriving island nation in Europe. offers two main pathways:
- Malta’s Golden Visa (Permanent Residency): Under this option, applicants must fulfill a three-tier framework:
- Make a total contribution of €40,000, including a non-refundable administrative deposit of €10,000.
- Purchase real estate valued at a minimum of €350,000 (or €300,000 in certain regions).
- Pay €58,000 to the government, additional fees for dependents, and a donation to a registered local NGO.
- Citizenship By Investment: Investors can secure Maltese citizenship through the Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalization Program by obtaining residency for 1 or 3 years, followed by a citizenship application. Requirements include various investment options and residency in Malta until citizenship criteria are met.
Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa program is popular among individuals seeking residency in southern Europe. Applicants can obtain a residency permit by investing a minimum of €500,000 in real estate. Additional investment options include public debt securities, shares in Spanish companies, deposits in Spanish financial institutions, or starting a business.
Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa program stands out for its flexibility and absence of mandatory residency requirements. Investors can maintain residency by spending just seven days per year in Portugal. Investment opportunities include real estate, private equity funds, job creation, support for artistic production, and capital transfer to research institutions.
Latvia
For those seeking affordable long-term residency in Europe, Latvia’s Golden Visa program offers two pathways:
- A €50,000 donation to a Latvian business employing up to 50 workers.
- A €250,000 real estate investment in key Latvian cities.
Hungary
Hungary presents an enticing opportunity for residency attainment through property investment. This unique initiative allows individuals to secure a temporary residence permit by investing in residential properties valued at a minimum of HUF 56 million (approximately €155,000).
Under this program, the primary applicant and their eligible immediate family members are subject to an application fee of €60,000. Additionally, supplementary family members, including parents, parents-in-law, and children above 18 who are still pursuing education, necessitate an additional fee of €10,000 each.
Turkey
As a transcontinental country bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey is renowned for its rich historical heritage, diverse cultural tapestry, and breathtaking natural landscapes. It presents a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western influences, characterized by ancient historical marvels, vibrant urban centers, and a captivating array of traditions.
The Turkish citizenship by investment program offers a range of investment avenues. To qualify for citizenship, the primary applicant must fulfill one of the specified investment criteria:
- Real estate investment totaling USD 400,000.
- Bank deposit amounting to at least USD 500,000.
- Investment in fund shares worth USD 500,000.
- Fixed capital investment of USD 500,000.
- Purchase of government bonds valued at a minimum of USD 500,000.
- Creation of employment opportunities for at least 50 individuals.
Cyprus
Cyprus is strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia, making it a highly accessible European Union member state for those seeking Cypriot residency.
Investors must commit a minimum of €300,000 to one of four investment options under the fast-track pathway or opt for the slower Category F pathway.
Greece
Greece’s Permanent Residency and Citizenship program offers an affordable route to permanent residency through real estate investment. Investors can obtain permanent residency by investing €250,000 in residential or commercial property in Greece.
Grenada
Grenada’s citizenship by investment program is known for its speed and benefits. Applicants can secure citizenship through donations or real estate investments, with options tailored to individual preferences.
Dominica
The Commonwealth of Dominica offers citizenship through donations or real estate investments. Applicants can choose between contributing to the Economic Diversification Fund or investing in government-approved real estate.
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis offers a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, providing several pathways for investors to obtain full citizenship through economic contributions for themselves and their families.
The program offers two primary options: investing in approved real estate developments or making a non-refundable donation to the Sustainable Island State Contribution Fund (SISC).
- Sustainable Island State Contribution Fund:
- $250,000 for a single applicant.
- $300,000 for a single applicant and a spouse.
- $350,000 for a single applicant, a spouse, and one or two dependents.
- $350,000 for a single applicant and two or three dependents.
- $50,000 for each additional dependent under 18.
- $75,000 for each other dependent above 18.
- Real Estate Investment:
- Investment of at least $400,000 in an Approved Development Property, plus government fees.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda also provides an attractive Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, allowing individuals to acquire citizenship within approximately 3 to 4 months from the date of application.
Citizens enjoy the full rights of a CARICOM member nation and can avail of specific benefits offered by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program, such as eligibility for a 10-year, multiple-entry visa to the U.S.A.
Applicants with substantial personal net worth can achieve citizenship by selecting from several available options:
- National Development Fund (NDF) Donation:
- Family of 4: $100,000 donation / $30,000 processing fee.
- Family of 5 or more: $125,000 / $30,000 processing fee / $15,000 additional processing fees for each person beyond 4.
- Real Estate Investment:
- Co-invest ($200,000) in government-approved real estate projects and hold the investment for at least five years.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Program, established in 2015, offers numerous benefits to its citizens, including a relaxed lifestyle, tropical climate, and access to direct flights to various destinations.
The program provides multiple investment options, including contributions to St. Lucia’s National Economic Fund, real estate investments in government-approved properties, National Action Bonds, and participation in enterprise projects.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s Golden Visa program, a citizenship-by-investment initiative, enables individuals to obtain Vanuatu citizenship by making a significant financial contribution to the country’s Capital Investment Immigration Plan.
Investment amounts required vary depending on the composition of the applicant’s family, with additional fees for each dependent included in the application, along with charges for passport applications and due diligence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a passport by investment is a strategic move that opens doors to opportunities. The top countries outlined in this article provide diverse options for investors seeking a second passport. Whether for business expansion, enhanced travel privileges, or geopolitical diversification, the allure of these programs is undeniable.
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