Citizenship by Investment Programs

What is citizenship by investment?

Citizenship by investment (CBI) is a legal process that allows individuals and their families to obtain a second citizenship and passport by making a qualifying investment in a country. Eligible investments typically include a non-refundable government donation, a real estate purchase in an approved development, or an investment in an approved fund. A second passport grants visa-free travel to additional countries, potential tax advantages, and a secure alternative residence for your family. Unlike residency by investment, CBI grants full citizenship immediately upon approval with no requirement to live in the country.

Which is the cheapest citizenship by investment program in 2026?

The most affordable citizenship by investment programs in 2026 include the Nauru citizenship program from USD 90,000 — currently the world's most affordable CBI program — the Vanuatu DSP from USD 130,000, the Vanuatu CIIP from USD 150,000, and both Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda (Nonsuch Bay Resort) from USD 200,000. Nauru offers visa-free access to over 89 countries including the UK, UAE, Singapore and Hong Kong, and allows up to four generations in a single application.

Which citizenship by investment program has the fastest processing time?

The fastest citizenship by investment programs in 2026 are the Vanuatu CIIP (1–2 months), the Vanuatu DSP (2–3 months), and Nauru (3–4 months). Caribbean programs including Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia typically take between 4 and 10 months depending on the program and investment route.

Which citizenship by investment programs allow access to the United States E-2 visa?

Grenada and Egypt are the two citizenship by investment countries that have an E-2 Treaty with the United States. After obtaining citizenship in either country, you can apply for a US E-2 investor visa, which allows you to live and work in the United States through a qualifying business investment. The Grenada CBI program is particularly popular for this reason, as it is one of the most affordable routes to US E-2 visa eligibility for nationals of non-treaty countries.

Can my family be included in a citizenship by investment application?

Yes. All Caribbean citizenship by investment programs allow inclusion of a spouse and dependent children at no additional investment cost, though government processing fees may apply per dependent. Many programs also extend eligibility to dependent parents, grandparents, and siblings. The Nauru program is particularly generous, allowing up to four generations to be included in a single application. The exact definition of eligible dependants varies by country and program.

What is the difference between citizenship by investment and residency by investment?

Citizenship by investment (CBI) grants a full second passport and citizenship rights immediately upon approval, with no requirement to live in the country. Residency by investment (RBI) grants the right to live in a country but does not immediately grant citizenship — most RBI programs offer a citizenship pathway after 5–10 years of legal residence. CBI programs reach full citizenship faster but typically require a higher minimum investment, while RBI programs are often more affordable and better suited to investors who want to relocate or access EU residency rights.

Is dual citizenship allowed with citizenship by investment?

Most citizenship by investment countries permit dual citizenship, including all Caribbean programs — Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia — as well as Vanuatu, Nauru, Türkiye, and Egypt. However, your home country may have its own restrictions on holding dual citizenship, so it is important to verify your home country's rules before applying.