Top 12 Countries with Citizenship by Investment Programs

Citizenship by investment (CBI) is a program offered by certain countries that allows foreign individuals to acquire citizenship by making a significant financial investment in the host country. 

In other words, individuals can essentially buy citizenship by contributing to the country’s economy through investments such as real estate purchases, business development, or donations to a national development fund.

The specific requirements and conditions for citizenship by investment vary from country to country, and the investment options can include:

1. Real Estate Investment: Purchasing property, often with a minimum value requirement.

2. Business or Investment: Making an investment in a local business or industry.

3. Donation to National Development Fund: Contributing a certain amount of money to a government-managed fund that supports national development projects.

4. Government Bonds or Securities: Investing in government-approved financial instruments.

Citizenship by investment programs is often seen as a way for countries to attract foreign direct investment, stimulate economic development, and generate revenue. 

However, they can also be controversial, as critics argue that selling citizenship in this manner may pose risks, such as potential abuse for money laundering or tax evasion.

Countries that offer citizenship by investment programs include several Caribbean nations, such as Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as other countries around the world. 

It’s important for individuals considering such programs to carefully research the specific requirements, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each program and to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.

As of current findings, there are currently 11 countries offering Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs that have passed Henley & Partners’ country due diligence. below are the countries and their regions.

Caribbean CBI countries

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominica
• Grenada
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Europe CBI countries

• Austria
• Malta
• North Macedonia

Other CBI countries

• Egypt
• Jordan
• Türkiye

These programs allow individuals to obtain citizenship in exchange for making a significant investment in the country, such as through real estate, government bonds, or businesses. The specific requirements and benefits vary from program to program.

Investment Amounts for Citizenship by Investment Programs

Here’s a breakdown of the minimum investment amounts required for the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in the countries mentioned above:

Country	Minimum Investment Amount
Antigua and Barbuda	Starting from USD 100,000 (Contribution to National Development Fund)
Austria	EUR 10 million (Government bonds or real estate)
Dominica	USD 200,000 (Real estate)
Grenada	Starting from USD 220,000 (Real estate)
Jordan	USD 1 million (Government bonds)
Malta	EUR 700,000 (Real estate)
North Macedonia	EUR 400,000 (Direct Investment)
Saint Kitts and Nevis	Starting from USD 400,000 (Real estate)
Saint Lucia	Starting from USD 200,000 (Real estate)
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	Starting from USD 220,000 (Real estate)
Türkiye	Starting from USD 400,000 (Real estate)
Egypt	USD 400,000 (Real estate)

It’s important to note that these are just the minimum investment amounts. Additional fees and processing costs may apply.

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program

Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is one of the most popular in the Caribbean. It offers a fast and efficient way to obtain citizenship for a single applicant or a family.

Investment Requirements:

# Minimum investment: USD 100,000

Investment options:

1. National Development Fund (NDF) contribution

2. Real estate purchase in an approved project

3. Contribution to an approved charitable organization

4. Investment in a business in Antigua and Barbuda

Processing Requirements:

• Application fee: USD 50,000
• Due diligence fees: Vary depending on the number of applicants
• Processing time: 3-4 months

Benefits of Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 152 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, and Canada
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Antigua and Barbuda
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax

Duration of Processing:

The processing time for the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program is typically 3-4 months from the time the application is submitted. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the application, CIB background checks and the due diligence process.

Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program

Dominica offers a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program with two main investment options:

1. Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) Contribution:

• Minimum investment: USD 100,000 (single applicant) or USD 200,000 (family of four)
• Processing fee: USD 50,000 per applicant
• Additional fees: Government levy and due diligence fees

2. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: USD 200,000 in government-approved real estate
• Processing fee: USD 50,000 per applicant
• Additional fees: Government levy, due diligence fees, and real estate closing costs

Benefits of Dominica Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 143 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, and Singapore
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Dominica
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
• Beautiful natural environment and relaxed Caribbean lifestyle

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 12 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Other CIB background checks

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Dominica CBI program is 3-4 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program

Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers a fast and efficient route to acquiring second citizenship. Here’s a breakdown of the key details:

Investment Options:

1. National Transformation Fund (NTF) Contribution:

• Minimum investment: USD 150,000 (single applicant) or USD 200,000 (family of four)
• Additional dependents: USD 25,000 per person
• Processing fee: USD 1,500

2. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: USD 220,000 in government-approved real estate projects
• Additional government fee: USD 50,000
• Processing fee: USD 1,500
• Five-year holding period required

Benefits of Grenada Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 144 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, and China
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Grenada
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
• Beautiful Caribbean island with stunning beaches and lush rainforests

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 12 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Grenada CBI program is 3-4 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program

The St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is the oldest and longest-running program in the world. Here are the key details:

Investment Options:

1. Sustainable Growth Fund (SISC):

• Minimum investment: USD 150,000 (single applicant) or USD 200,000 (family of four)
• Additional dependents: USD 25,000 per person
• Processing fee: USD 50,000

2. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: USD 400,000 in government-approved real estate projects
• Government fee: USD 35,000
• Processing fee: USD 50,000
• Seven-year holding period required

Benefits of St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 155 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, and Canada
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in St. Kitts and Nevis
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
• Two beautiful islands with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and rich history

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 12 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Mandatory interview with an authorized representative of the CIU.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the St. Kitts and Nevis CBI program is 4-6 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program

Here are the details of the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment program:

Investment Options:

1. National Economic Fund (NEF) Contribution:

• Minimum investment: USD 100,000 (single applicant) or USD 150,000 (family of four)
• Additional dependents: USD 25,000 per person
• Processing fee: USD 50,000

2. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: USD 200,000 in government-approved real estate projects
• Five-year holding period required
• Government fee: USD 35,000
• Processing fee: USD 50,000

3. Government Bonds:

• Minimum investment: USD 250,000
• Five-year holding period required
• Government fee: USD 35,000
• Processing fee: USD 50,000

Benefits of Saint Lucia Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 144 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, and Singapore
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Saint Lucia
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
• Beautiful Caribbean island with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes
• Efficient processing times and due diligence

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Saint Lucia CBI program is 3-4 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Citizenship by Investment Program

Investment Options:

1. Real Estate:

• Minimum investment: USD $220,000 in a government-approved real estate project
• Holding period: 5 years
• Government fees: USD $50,000

2. National Economic Fund (NEF):

• Minimum contribution: USD $150,000 (single applicant) or USD $200,000 (family of four)
• Government fees: USD $50,000

Benefits of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 152 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen countries, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
• Access to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and its economic benefits.
• Strong and stable economy with low taxes.
• Beautiful islands with stunning beaches and lush rainforests.
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents.
• Right to live, work, and study in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals.

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Personal interview with CIU officials may be required.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the SVG CBI program is 4-6 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for their chosen option.

Austria Citizenship by Investment Program

Investment Options:

1. Direct Investment:

• Minimum investment: EUR 10 million in a business that creates at least 10 new jobs in Austria.

2. Government Development Fund Contribution:

• Minimum investment: EUR 3 million
• Additional government fee: EUR 100,000

Benefits of Austrian Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 189 countries, including the EU Schengen countries, Canada, and Hong Kong
• Strong and stable economy with high living standards
• Excellent education and healthcare systems
• Beautiful alpine scenery and rich cultural heritage
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Austria
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Austrian government.
• A business plan and financial projections must be submitted for direct investment options.
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• German language proficiency test may be required (depending on individual circumstances).
• Personal interview with Austrian government officials.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Austrian Citizenship by Investment program is 24-36 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Other CIB background checks

Malta Citizenship by Investment Program

Here’s a breakdown of the details for obtaining Maltese citizenship through investment:

Investment Options:

1. National Development and Social Fund (NDSF) Contribution:

• Option 1: €600,000 (3-year residency requirement)
• Option 2: €750,000 (1-year residency requirement)
• Additional dependents: €50,000 per person
• Government fees: €7,500 (main applicant) + €5,000 (dependents)

2. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: €700,000 in government-approved real estate (5-year holding period)
• Government fees: €7,500 (main applicant) + €5,000 (dependents)

Benefits of Maltese Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 188 countries, including the EU Schengen countries, Canada, and the United States
• Strong economy with low taxes and high quality of life
• Excellent healthcare and education systems
• Beautiful Mediterranean island with stunning beaches and rich history
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Malta
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Community Malta Agency (CMA).
• A business plan and financial projections may be required for certain investment options.
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Personal interview with CMA officials.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Malta Citizenship by Investment program is 12-18 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the residency requirements for their chosen investment option.

North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment Program

The North Macedonia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers a relatively new and affordable option for obtaining citizenship in Europe. Here are the details:

Investment Options:

1. Donation to the National Development Fund:

• Minimum investment: €200,000
• Processing fee: €50,000 (main applicant) + €20,000 (spouse) + €10,000 (dependent children)

2. Direct Investment:

• Minimum investment: €400,000 in a new business that creates at least 10 new jobs
• Processing fee: €50,000 (main applicant) + €20,000 (spouse) + €10,000 (dependent children)

Benefits of North Macedonian Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 127 countries, including the EU Schengen countries, China, and Japan
• Access to the European single market and freedom of movement within the EU
• Strong and growing economy with low taxes and business-friendly environment
• Beautiful natural landscapes with mountains, lakes, and historical sites
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in North Macedonia
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Agency for Foreign Investments and Export Promotion (AFIEP).
• A business plan and financial projections are required for the direct investment option.
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Personal interview with AFIEP officials.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the North Macedonia CBI program is 2-5 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for their chosen option.

Egypt Citizenship by Investment Program

Investment Options:

1. Donation to the CIU Account:

• Minimum investment: USD 250,000
• Government fees: USD 10,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

2. Real Estate Purchase:

• Minimum investment: USD 400,000 in a government-approved project
• Property must be held for five years
• Government fees: USD 10,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

3. Company Establishment:

• Minimum investment: USD 400,000 in a new company
• 40% ownership required
• Government fees: USD 10,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

4. Bank Deposit:

• Minimum deposit: USD 400,000
• Deposit must be held for five years
• Government fees: USD 10,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

Benefits of Egyptian Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 50 countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Iran
• Access to Africa’s largest market with a booming economy
• Strategic location connecting Africa, Europe, and Asia
• Rich history and cultural heritage
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Egypt
• No personal income tax for non-domiciled individuals

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Egyptian Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Personal interview with CIU officials is required for some applicants.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Egypt CBI program is 6-9 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for their chosen option.
• Other CIB background checks

Jordan Citizenship by Investment Program

Investment Options:

1. Treasury Bonds and Bank Deposits:

• Investment: USD 1 million in returnable treasury bonds for six years with interest determined by the Central Bank of Jordan.
• Processing fee: USD 50,000 per applicant.
• Additional government fees: USD 20,000 per applicant.

2. Company Shares:

• Investment: USD 1.5 million purchased in Jordanian companies, held for a minimum of three years.
• Processing fee: USD 50,000 per applicant.
• Additional government fees: USD 20,000 per applicant.

3. Small and Medium Enterprises:

• Investment: USD 750,000 in a project that creates at least 10 jobs for Jordanian citizens.
• Processing fee: USD 50,000 per applicant.
• Additional government fees: USD 20,000 per applicant.

Benefits of Jordanian Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 50 countries, including Hong Kong and Turkey.
• Access to a growing economy with a strategic location in the Middle East.
• Rich history and cultural heritage with stunning natural landscapes.
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents.
• Right to live, work, and study in Jordan.
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals.

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the Jordan Investment Commission (JIC).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.
• Personal interview with JIC officials is required for some applicants.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Jordan CBI program is 3-6 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for their chosen option.

Türkiye Citizenship by Investment Program

Investment Options:

1. Real Estate Investment:

• Minimum investment: USD 400,000 in government-approved real estate (held for 3 years)
• Government fees: USD 50,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

2. Bank Deposit:

• Minimum deposit: USD 500,000 (held for 3 years)
• Government fees: USD 50,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

3. Government Bonds:

• Minimum investment: USD 500,000 (held for 3 years)
• Government fees: USD 50,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

4. Investment Funds:

• Minimum investment: USD 500,000 in government-approved investment funds (held for 3 years)
• Government fees: USD 50,000
• Processing fees: Varied depending on the number of applicants

Benefits of Turkish Citizenship:

• Visa-free travel to over 117 countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Singapore
• Strong and growing economy with strategic location in the Middle East and Europe
• Beautiful landscapes with stunning beaches, mountains, and historical sites
• Rich culture and history dating back to ancient civilizations
• Citizenship for life for the applicant and their dependents
• Right to live, work, and study in Türkiye
• No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled individuals

Processing Requirements:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a strict due diligence process.
• Application forms, supporting documents, and fees must be submitted to the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (GDLRC).
• Medical examinations are required for all applicants over 16 years old.
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs) is required for all applicants.

Processing Duration:

The average processing time for the Türkiye CBI program is 2-5 months, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the due diligence process.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must demonstrate a clean criminal record and good standing in their community.
• Applicants must not have any outstanding tax debts or legal issues.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment requirement for their chosen option.

I hope this information is helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Please note: This information is not exhaustive and it is always recommended to consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance and assistance with the country’s CBI program. 

They can help you navigate the complex application process and ensure you meet all the requirements with the latest information on investment amounts, processing times, and eligibility requirements for each CBI program.

Remember, conducting thorough research and considering professional advice before applying for any CBI program is essential.

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