Countries That Do Citizenship by Investment

St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis boasts the longest-running CBI program in the world, established in 1984. Investors can gain citizenship through a contribution to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) starting at $150,000 or through real estate investments starting at $200,000. The program is renowned for its quick processing times, often within 60 days, and allows visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom.

Dominica
Dominica offers one of the most affordable CBI programs, with contributions starting at $100,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund or real estate investments beginning at $200,000. The application process is streamlined, often taking about 3 months. Dominica is particularly attractive for its beautiful landscapes and commitment to sustainability, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious investors.

Grenada
Grenada’s CBI program stands out because it allows investors to apply for the E-2 Investor Visa for the United States. Citizenship can be obtained through a donation to the National Transformation Fund starting at $150,000 or through a real estate investment of at least $220,000. The program's processing time is approximately 4 months, and it offers visa-free access to over 140 countries.

Antigua and Barbuda
Investors in Antigua and Barbuda can secure citizenship by contributing $100,000 to the National Development Fund or investing in real estate starting at $200,000. The processing time is about 3 to 4 months. Notably, this program allows applicants to include their families, providing a pathway for children and dependent parents. The country is also known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture.

Turkey
Turkey's CBI program has become increasingly popular, allowing investors to acquire citizenship through a $400,000 real estate investment or a $500,000 bank deposit. The process can take as little as 3 months, and the program has the added benefit of Turkish citizenship granting access to visa-free travel to many countries, including the Schengen Area.

Portugal
Although not a traditional CBI program, Portugal's Golden Visa scheme allows investors to obtain residency through real estate purchases starting at €280,000. After five years of residency, investors can apply for citizenship. The program is particularly attractive due to its path to EU citizenship, offering extensive travel options and the ability to live and work anywhere in Europe.

Malta
Malta offers a comprehensive CBI program requiring an investment of at least €600,000 in property or a donation of €750,000 to the National Development Fund. The Maltese program includes stringent due diligence checks, ensuring a high level of security. The processing time typically spans about 12 to 14 months, and Malta is known for its rich history and favorable tax regime.

Vanuatu
The Vanuatu Citizenship Program is one of the quickest in the world, allowing investors to obtain citizenship within 1 to 2 months. The minimum investment is $130,000, which goes to the government’s development fund. Vanuatu is renowned for its natural beauty and offers visa-free access to about 130 countries.

Cyprus
Cyprus previously had a robust CBI program, but it was suspended in 2020. However, it still offers residency options through investments, primarily in real estate. Investors could previously gain citizenship by investing €2 million in property, but they must now pursue residency and follow a different pathway for citizenship.

Conclusion
Citizenship by investment programs offer unique opportunities for individuals seeking enhanced global mobility and security. While the investment requirements vary significantly across countries, the potential benefits are vast, including tax advantages, business opportunities, and lifestyle improvements. As the landscape of CBI evolves, prospective investors must stay informed about the best options that align with their goals and aspirations.