First, there isn’t anything called the “best” citizenship; it is a relative term. However, it is possible to weigh out options and select the best-suited one for you!
Usually, obtaining a permanent residency status or gaining citizenship in a foreign country is quite a daunting task, if not impossible. Places like Austria require residents to live in the country continuously for a decade or so.
Germany is not far off, requiring individuals to live in the country for at least eight years. Not to mention all the bureaucracy that comes with it.
This article will outline all the available citizenship by investment programmes in the market.
Why are Citizenship by Investment Programmes popular?
Firstly, it is essential to start with the basics. What is citizenship by investment? As the name suggests – you obtain citizenship by investing. Citizenship by investment is a process where high-net-worth individuals can get second citizenship in a matter of months in exchange for an investment in or donation to the chosen country.
It would take you at least 20 years to get citizenship in certain countries. Residency, however, is relatively straightforward. As mentioned earlier, citizenship and naturalisation take time.
Long naturalisation timelines, language tests, physical residence requirements, taxes - the list goes on! This can be sorted through citizenship by investment.
Now, why are citizenship by investment programmes popular? For those who want a second passport, citizenship programmes offer the option through which wealthy persons can acquire second citizenship in a relatively quick time frame in exchange for investment.
Emerging world citizens are the primary investors in such programmes. The cost is greatly outweighed by increased travel benefits, adding value to their passport portfolio.
Citizenship by investment is also popular among business owners seeking new markets. This is especially true for tech entrepreneurs who earn immediate ROI and may need a second passport to continue their ventures.
Those earning six or seven-figure salaries may find that buying citizenship is the more accessible and cheaper route over time.
Many other factors come into play to determine what makes a citizenship programme the best.
Most people believe that the number of countries your passport allows you to visit defines the quality of the passport. However, most industry experts conclude that a passport is not characterised by its visa-free travel privileges alone.
So, what do most people look for in their second citizenship?
- Freedom to travel
- Security
- Profits
- World-class education
- Quality lifestyle
And so on. Having said this, you should examine all the benefits to find the best-fitting programme. The best citizenship by investment programme allows you to conserve capital while sensibly accomplishing your goals.
8 of the Best Citizenship by Investment Programmes
When looking for the ‘best’ citizenship by investment programme, Europe and the Caribbean have the ‘best of the best.’ Take a look at the available European and Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes, their benefits and where they are best!
Country |
Benefits |
Our Verdict |
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1. Malta Through the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment |
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Malta is a viable option with a lot of potentials. Besides the enviable geographic location of this small island, the quality of life that it offers is unparalleled. It is the best for visa-free access and EU living and working! |
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2. Turkey |
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Turkish citizenship is an interesting opportunity in terms of economic profitability. It is the best for investors who want to focus on real estate. |
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St. Kitts and Nevis launched the first citizenship by investment programme in the Caribbean in 1984. The country has the oldest programme, assuring you heritage and stability. |
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4. Dominica |
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Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment programme started in the 1990s. It is best for solo applicants or investors. |
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5. Grenada |
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With access to the United States, Russia, and China, the premium you would need to pay is justified. As a Caribbean contender, this merits consideration. |
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6. Antigua and Barbuda |
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The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment programme was launched in 2012. It is a good choice for applicants who want to apply with their families as its amount is the standard fare for Caribbean passports. |
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7. St. Lucia |
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St. Lucia is a worthy rival to Dominica, ever since it reduced its donation targeting the more value-conscious westerners searching for a second passport. It is also the best choice for individual investors. |
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8. Montenegro |
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Montenegro is located on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe. Its natural beauty is unparalleled and the programme is best for European Living! |
There are many factors to consider when choosing the best citizenship by investment programme. The first is the type of investment required. Some programmes require a real estate investment, while others may allow for less expensive portfolio investment. It is vital to ensure that you are comfortable with the investment required and have the financial means to invest.
The second factor to consider is the fees associated with the programme. Different programmes have different fee structures, so it is essential to compare them to find the best value.
Finally, it is also essential to consider the benefits offered by each programme. By taking all of these factors into account, you can be sure to choose the best citizenship by investment programme for your needs.
The Best Citizenship by Investment
List down your individual needs and wants as an investor, and imagine the life you want to live. Knowing where you want to travel freely and which businesses you want to venture into is also vital. Once you set your plans and goals, you can also identify which Citizenship by Investment programme is best for you!