The present-day world is a turbulent place to live, and a second passport is a must rather than a luxury. HNWIs and whole families make this strategic move to have more freedom and security. There are a lot of citizenship-by-investment programs that make this path legal and efficient.
You can apply for a government-approved program and contribute to the country’s economy in return for a passport. Available options include purchasing real estate, donating to the economy, or investing in local businesses. The passport you obtain gives you all the rights that native-born citizens possess.
Let’s take a look at the most recommended countries for those who want to obtain a second passport.
The majority of programs allow for family members to be included in the application. That is, we are talking about a package deal that can offer long-term security for generations to come.
Second passport owners can take advantage of numerous benefits. Let’s take a look at each of them in detail.
1. Global Mobility
Many CBI programs grant visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 140+ countries, including the EU, UK, Hong Kong, and in some cases, China. That is, you can travel with more ease.
2. Tax Efficiency
Some CBI countries offer low- or zero-tax regimes. This can include no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and favorable personal/corporate tax rates.
3. Investment and Business Access
Citizenship grants access to real estate markets, banking services, and investment opportunities that are available to locals only. In certain cases, regional economic zones like the European Union or CARICOM may become accessible to you.
4. Security and Flexibility
In times of instability, a second passport through investment is nothing less than an emergency escape route (or a “Plan B”). You gain the right to live, work, or retire in another country, and you often receive high-quality healthcare and education as a bonus.
5. Family Future-Proofing
Most programs allow the inclusion of dependent family members. That means your children can study in international schools or top global universities while holding a secure citizenship elsewhere.
To obtain a second passport through investment, applicants must first select a country offering a CBI program, then fulfill one of several financial requirements. These typically include:
Donation to a national development fund (non-refundable)
Investment in government-approved real estate (usually held for 3–7 years)
Business creation (with job-creation requirements)
Government bonds or funds (returnable after a set period)
Applicants must also pass a strict due diligence process, which includes background checks, verification of source of funds, and sometimes a medical exam. Once approved, passports are issued with full citizenship rights.
While over a dozen countries offer CBI programs, the most reliable and popular options in 2025 are concentrated in the Caribbean, parts of Europe, and Oceania.
Dominica – Starting at $200,000, Dominica offers one of the most affordable programs with visa-free travel to 140+ countries. There’s no residency requirement, and processing takes 3–6 months.
St. Lucia – With multiple options including donations and real estate, St. Lucia’s program starts at $240,000. The passport grants access to the EU, UK, and beyond.
Grenada – From $235,000, Grenadian citizenship also gives access to the U.S. E-2 visa. Visa-free travel extends to 150+ countries.
Antigua & Barbuda – With a $230,000 minimum, this family-friendly program includes a minimal residency requirement (five days in five years) and offers broad dependent inclusion.
St. Kitts & Nevis – The first ever CBI program in the world. From $250,000, it now accepts crypto funding and has a 60-day fast-track option.
Malta – The only EU country with a direct CBI route, Malta’s program requires over €715,000 and formal residence for at least 12 months. It grants access to all EU rights and visa-free travel to 180+ countries.
Turkey – Turkey is popular for its real estate investment route. You will need to make a $400,000 investment, and you will have an opportunity to obtain a E-2 U.S. visa.
Vanuatu – The fastest processing globally, often under 60 days. Citizenship starts at $145,000 and includes visa-free access to 95+ countries.
Egypt and Jordan – These programs cater to investors with a Middle Eastern focus. Egypt offers fast and affordable access (from $250,000), while Jordan focuses on job-creating investments ($750,000+).
Nauru – An emerging player with a donation-based program starting at $130,000 and passport access to 89 countries.
Most programs require that applicants:
Be 18 years or older
Have no criminal history
Provide legal proof of the source of funds
Pass enhanced due diligence checks
Submit a complete documentation package (IDs, financial statements, medical and police clearances, etc.)
Some jurisdictions, such as Malta or St. Kitts, conduct extremely rigorous checks — making expert legal guidance all the more valuable.
Most countries offering CBI allow for dual or multiple citizenships. However, the laws of the country you originate from may differ. If you are a citizen of Egypt, for instance, you will need to provide notification of dual nationality. Jordan discourages dual citizenship unless you have obtained special approval.
You will need to study local laws thoroughly before you apply or delegate it to an expert.
What is the right citizenship-by-investment program for you? Well, you will need to balance cost, processing time, visa-free travel, and probably some other important aspects before you make a decision. A second passport can be a game-changer for all those who want to protect their families or expand their global access. And if you are planning relocation, a CBI program is an opportunity to do so with ease.
Our experienced advisors can help you make the most of your investment and choose a program you will benefit from in the long term.
True freedom is not just about where you live. It’s about where you can go.
