Top 10 countries to gain citizenship by investment (2024)

Citizenship by investment programs has become an increasingly popular way for high-net-worth individuals to acquire a second citizenship. These programs provide individuals with the opportunity to invest in a country’s economy in exchange for citizenship and access to all the benefits and rights that come with it. 

In this article, we will explore the top 10 countries to gain citizenship by investment.

Note: You can check requirements and apply for a visa via iVisa.

Top countries issuing citizenship by investment

S/N	Country	Region
1.	Dominica	Caribbean
2.	Portugal	European Union
3.	Saint Kitts and Nevis	Caribbean
4.	Saint Lucia	Caribbean
5.	Antigua and Barbuda	Caribbean
6.	Turkey	European Union
7.	Grenada	Caribbean
8.	Spain	European Union
9.	Vanuatu	Oceania
10.	Greece	European Union

1. Dominica

Dominica is a small island nation located in the Caribbean, known for its pristine natural beauty and friendly people. Dominica’s citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable programs available, making it a popular choice for high-net-worth individuals seeking a second passport.

One of the key advantages of Dominica’s citizenship by investment program is its affordability. The program requires an investment of $100,000 in a government fund or $200,000 in real estate, making it one of the most cost-effective options available. Additionally, the program offers visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the United Kingdom and Schengen Area.

Dominica’s citizenship by investment program has equally been recognized for its commitment to sustainability. The government’s Economic Diversification Fund supports a range of sustainable development initiatives, including renewable energy, eco-tourism, and education. As a result, investors can feel confident that their investment is contributing to the long-term development of the country.

2. Portugal

Portugal’s citizenship by investment program is highly regarded for its low residency requirements and access to the European Union. The program requires an investment of €350,000 ($372,767.50) in real estate or €500,000 ($532,525) in a capital investment fund, making it one of the most expensive options available. One of the key advantages of Portugal’s citizenship by investment program is its access to the European Union. Portuguese citizenship provides individuals with the right to live, work, and study in any EU country. This can be a significant advantage for individuals seeking greater freedom of movement within Europe. 

Portugal’s citizenship by investment program also offers a variety of investment options, including real estate, venture capital, and research and development. This flexibility allows investors to tailor their investments to their specific needs and interests.

3. Saint Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the oldest and most established citizenship by investment programs, and its passport is highly valued. The program requires a minimum investment of $150,000 in the Sustainable Growth Fund or $200,000 in real estate. One of the key advantages of St. Kitts and Nevis’ citizenship by investment program is its reputation.

The country’s passport is highly regarded and provides visa-free travel to over 160 countries, including the United Kingdom and Schengen Area. St. Kitts and Nevis’ citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate, government bonds, and donations to the Sustainable Growth Fund. This flexibility allows investors to tailor their investments to their specific needs and interests. Additionally, the program has a streamlined application process, with approvals typically granted within four to six months.

4. Saint Lucia

St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program is known for its fast processing times and flexible investment options. The program requires a minimum investment of $100,000 in the National Economic Fund or $300,000 in real estate.

One of the key advantages of St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program is its fast processing times. The government has streamlined the application process to ensure that approvals are granted within four to six months.

This can be a significant advantage for individuals who need to obtain a second passport quickly. St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate, government bonds, and donations to the National Economic Fund. This flexibility allows investors to tailor their investments to their specific needs and interests.

5. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program is known for its affordable pricing and visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including the United Kingdom and Schengen Area. The program requires a minimum investment of $100,000 in the National Development Fund or $200,000 in real estate. One of the key advantages of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program is its affordability.

The program offers one of the lowest investment requirements available, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking a second passport on a budget. Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate, government bonds, and donations to the National Development Fund. Additionally, the government has made significant investments in the country’s infrastructure and tourism industry, making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity.

6. Turkey

Turkey’s citizenship by investment program is known for its accessibility and affordable pricing. The program requires an investment of $250,000 in real estate or a $500,000 deposit in a Turkish bank. One of the key advantages of Turkey’s citizenship by investment program is its accessibility. The country has a large and growing economy, with a strategic location between Europe and Asia.

Additionally, Turkish citizenship provides individuals with visa-free travel to over 110 countries, including Japan and Singapore. Turkey’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate, government bonds, and investments in Turkish companies. The government has made significant investments in infrastructure and transportation, making it an attractive destination for foreign investors. Additionally, the program offers a fast-track option for investors who wish to obtain citizenship in a shorter period.

7. Grenada

Grenada’s citizenship by investment program is known for its E-2 visa treaty with the United States, which allows investors to reside and work in the US. The program requires a minimum investment of $150,000 in the National Transformation Fund or $220,000 in real estate.

One of the key advantages of Grenada’s citizenship by investment program is its E-2 visa treaty with the United States. This allows Grenadian citizens to obtain a visa to work and reside in the United States, making it an attractive option for investors seeking to expand their business into the US market. Grenada’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate, government bonds, and donations to the National Transformation Fund. Additionally, the country’s stunning natural beauty and growing tourism industry make it an attractive investment opportunity.

8. Spain

Spain’s citizenship by investment program is known for its access to the European Union and the Schengen Area. The program requires a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate. One of the key advantages of Spain’s citizenship by investment program is its access to the European Union and the Schengen Area.

Spanish citizenship provides individuals with the ability to live, work, and travel freely throughout the EU, making it an attractive option for investors seeking to expand their business in Europe. Spain’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate and government bonds. The country’s warm climate, rich culture, and stunning beaches make it a popular tourist destination and a potentially lucrative investment opportunity.

9. Vanuatu

Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program is known for its low investment requirements and visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the United Kingdom and Schengen Area. The program requires a minimum investment of $130,000 in the government fund.

One of the key advantages of Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program is its low investment requirements. The program offers one of the lowest investment requirements available, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking a second passport on a budget. Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment program also offers visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the United Kingdom and the Schengen Area. The country’s natural beauty and growing tourism industry make it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity.

10. Greece

Greece’s citizenship by investment program is known for its access to the European Union and the Schengen Area. The program requires a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate. One of the key advantages of Greece’s citizenship by investment program is its access to the European Union and the Schengen Area.

Greek citizenship provides individuals with the ability to live, work, and travel freely throughout the EU, making it an attractive option for investors seeking to expand their business in Europe. Greece’s citizenship by investment program also offers a range of investment options, including real estate and government bonds. The country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches make it a popular tourist destination and a potentially lucrative investment opportunity. Additionally, the government has implemented a range of incentives to attract foreign investors, including tax breaks and fast-track processing for citizenship applications.

Conclusion

Investing in a citizenship-by-investment program can be an attractive option for those seeking greater freedom of movement, security, and financial benefits. Each of the top 10 countries we have highlighted in this article offers unique advantages, from tax benefits to visa-free travel.

However, it is essential to do thorough research and seek professional guidance before making any investment decisions. By carefully considering the options and weighing the pros and cons, individuals can make an informed decision about which citizenship by-investment program is right for them.