5 Cheapest Citizenship by Investment

Citizenship by investment programs allows people to gain new citizenship or a passport by making significant financial contributions to a country. These programs aim to attract foreign money, boost economic growth, and diversify the economy. Investors can achieve citizenship faster than through traditional methods, which usually require long residency periods and complex procedures. By investing in areas like real estate, government bonds, or businesses, individuals can obtain citizenship more quickly.

In recent years, citizenship by investment programs has become more accessible and attractive. While they were once aimed only at the extremely wealthy, these programs now offer lower minimum investment amounts and more options. This change lets more people consider acquiring a second citizenship. As countries improve their programs to attract more foreign money, CBI programs are becoming more appealing for those looking for economic benefits and better global mobility. This article will discuss the five cheapest citizenship by investment available.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program lets people obtain citizenship through significant financial contributions. Started in 2012, this program is popular because of its appealing benefits and relatively simple process. Investors can choose from different options to fulfill the program’s requirements.

Investing in Antigua and Barbuda offers the benefit of gaining citizenship while also helping the country’s economic development. Contributions to the National Development Fund and real estate investments support tourism and other key sectors, boosting long-term economic stability and growth. The program’s flexible investment options let individuals pick the choice that fits their financial situation and personal preferences.

Minimum Investment Requirements

• National Development Fund (NDF): USD 100,000

This option involves a contribution to the National Development Fund, which supports various public and infrastructural projects in Antigua and Barbuda.

• Real Estate: USD 200,000

Investors can acquire property with a minimum value of USD 200,000. This real estate investment must be held for a specified period before it can be sold.

• Business Investment: USD 1.5 million

Alternatively, investors may contribute USD 1.5 million towards a business venture in Antigua and Barbuda. This investment should significantly impact the local economy by creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

Processing Time

The processing time for the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program typically ranges from four to five months. This timeframe includes the review of the application and the completion of necessary due diligence checks.

Benefits

• Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 150 countries, including key destinations such as the Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom.
• The country offers a favorable tax environment, with no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. This creates a financially advantageous situation for investors and their families.
• Antigua and Barbuda is known for its stable economy, attractive lifestyle, and picturesque environment. The country features beautiful beaches, a stable political climate, and a growing tourism industry, enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.

 

Dominica

Dominica’s citizenship by investment program offers a simple and affordable way to gain citizenship. Created to attract foreign investment, it features a straightforward process with a lower investment requirement than many other programs.

Dominica’s citizenship by investment program is known for being efficient and affordable. Its low minimum investment and quick processing make it an appealing choice for those looking for a budget-friendly citizenship option. Additionally, investments through the government fund help support the country’s development and stability by promoting economic diversity.

Minimum Investment Requirements

• Government Fund: USD 200,000

The primary investment option involves making a non-refundable contribution of USD 200,000 to Dominica’s Economic Diversification Fund. This fund supports various government-led projects and infrastructure development.

Processing Time

The processing time for Dominica’s citizenship by investment program is notably efficient, typically taking around three months. This brief timeframe includes the processing of applications and the completion of due diligence checks.

Benefits

• Dominica citizens benefit from visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations worldwide. This includes key locations such as the Schengen Area in Europe and Hong Kong.
• One of the significant advantages of Dominica’s program is that there are no residency requirements. Applicants are not obligated to live in Dominica before or after obtaining citizenship.
• Dominica is known for its welcoming and friendly population, along with a low crime rate. This contributes to a safe and pleasant living environment for new citizens.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program provides a flexible and appealing way to gain citizenship through various investment options. Launched in 2015, the program is aimed at investors who want both valuable citizenship and access to a beautiful Caribbean destination.

St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program provides appealing benefits and encourages investment through various economic opportunities. The country’s favorable investment climate and tax benefits make it a great choice for those looking to diversify their global portfolio while enjoying a Caribbean lifestyle. The program’s flexible investment options let investors choose the path that best fits their financial goals and preferences.

Minimum Investment Requirements

• National Economic Fund (NEF): USD 100,000

This option involves a contribution to the National Economic Fund, which supports national development projects and public services.

• Real Estate: USD 250,000

Investors may choose to purchase real estate with a minimum value of USD 250,000. This property must be held for at least five years before it can be sold.

• Government Bonds: USD 300,000

Alternatively, investors can opt to purchase government bonds with a minimum investment of USD 300,000. These bonds have a holding period of five years.

Processing Time

The processing time for St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program is approximately four months. This efficient timeframe encompasses the review of the application, due diligence checks, and the issuance of citizenship.

Benefits

• St. Lucia citizens can travel visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival to 138 countries. This includes access to the Schengen Area and other major international destinations.
• The country offers a favorable tax environment with no personal income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax. This provides significant financial benefits for new citizens.
• St. Lucia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush rainforests and pristine beaches. The island provides a high quality of life with a pleasant climate and a range of recreational opportunities.

Grenada

Grenada’s citizenship by investment program provides an appealing chance for investors to gain citizenship in a Caribbean country with valuable global benefits. The program aims to attract foreign investment and offers a variety of advantages to new citizens.

Grenada’s citizenship by investment program is notable for its unique benefits, including the E-2 Visa Treaty with the U.S., which offers extra opportunities for investors wanting to start businesses in the United States. The program’s affordable minimum investment and low additional costs also make it a practical choice for those seeking a cost-effective way to obtain Caribbean citizenship. Combined with Grenada’s beautiful landscapes and stable environment, these advantages make it an attractive option for potential investors.

Minimum Investment Requirements

• National Transformation Fund (NTF): USD 150,000

The most affordable option involves making a contribution of USD 150,000 to the National Transformation Fund. This fund supports projects aimed at enhancing the country’s infrastructure and public services.

• Real Estate: USD 220,000

Investors may also choose to invest in real estate with a minimum value of USD 220,000. This property must be held for a minimum of five years before it can be sold.

Processing Time

The processing time for Grenada’s citizenship by investment program is typically between four to six months. This duration covers the entire application process, including due diligence checks and the issuance of citizenship.

Benefits

• Grenada citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 145 countries. This includes significant destinations such as the Schengen Area and several major international cities.
• Grenada is one of the few Caribbean countries with an E-2 Investor Visa Treaty with the United States. This treaty allows Grenadian citizens to apply for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, which provides the opportunity to live and work in the United States.
• The country offers a favorable tax environment, with no personal income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax. This tax structure enhances the financial benefits for investors and their families.

North Macedonia

North Macedonia’s citizenship by investment program provides an appealing way to gain European citizenship at a relatively low cost. The program is designed to attract foreign investment and offers various benefits while supporting the country’s economic growth.

North Macedonia is the most cost-effective European option for citizenship by investment. With its low investment threshold and strong incentives, it’s an attractive choice for investors seeking European citizenship without a large financial commitment. The country’s strategic location in Southeast Europe and its growing economy also presents various opportunities. The combination of affordable investment requirements and the program’s benefits makes North Macedonia a practical choice for those wanting European citizenship with minimal investment.

Minimum Investment Requirements

• Investment Amount: EUR 200,000

The sole investment requirement for North Macedonia’s citizenship by investment program is EUR 200,000. This investment can be made in various approved projects or government funds, contributing directly to the country’s economic growth and development.

Processing Time

The processing time for North Macedonia’s citizenship by investment program typically ranges from two to five months. This timeline includes the assessment of the application, due diligence procedures, and the final issuance of citizenship.

Benefits

• North Macedonia offers its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 destinations. This includes access to the Schengen Area and other major international destinations, enhancing global mobility.
• North Macedonia provides a favorable tax climate with low personal income tax rates and beneficial conditions for investors. This tax environment supports financial planning and asset protection for new citizens.
• The country is known for its warm and hospitable culture, alongside its beautiful landscapes and scenic environments. North Macedonia’s natural beauty and friendly atmosphere contribute to a high quality of life.

Conclusion

The most affordable citizenship by investment programs offer great value for investors looking to diversify their portfolios, improve global mobility, and access favorable tax environments and high-quality living conditions. By choosing one of these programs, investors gain a second passport and unlock opportunities for personal, professional, and financial growth. Each program has unique benefits, allowing individuals to choose the one that best fits their goals and preferences.