From US President Trump’s tariff frenzy to his deportation debacle, ever since he took office, the immigration applicants have been facing uncertain future. As stricter norms of visa application kick in, such as social media scrutiny in the US, aspirants and entrepreneurs are now looking for citizenship by investment or even e-residency.
However, securing a second passport through a Golden Visa or citizenship by investment program has become one of the most sought-after options for high-net-worth individuals around the world. This bilateral means of relocation allows foreign investors to obtain full citizenship in exchange. Be it Mukesh Ambani obtaining his Estonia e-residency to expand operations of Jio or investors making real estate purchases, government bonds, or direct investments in national development funds, the benefits are vast.
Here, we take a closer look at the 10 countries with the most expensive citizenship by investment programs, breaking down what applicants need to pay and what they gain in return.
- Malta
Extremely beneficial for foreign investors, a Maltese citizenship can cost up to $6.2 million (nearly Rs 54 crore), and offers visa-free travel to nearly 190 destinations. Promoting international business, Malta also gives access to countries that are part of the European Union.
- Turkey
The Turkey citizenship program was launched in January 2017, and requires a minimum contribution of $400,000 and freedom to travel to Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, among 107 others. A minimum investment of $500,000 is needed in fixed capital contributions, with significant deposits in Turkish bank accounts, government bonds, real estate, and a venture capital investment fund.
- Jordan
Jordan is a diverse and peaceful Arab country that needs an investment of over $400,000 with access to over 50 destinations. There are extended privileges for spouses, parents, and children.
- St. Kitts and Nevis
With an investment of $250,000, the St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship allows it through investment or direct contribution to the state. Being a member of the Commonwealth, the citizens will also have access to other countries with no minimum stay requirement.
- Egypt
North Africa’s culturally rich land, Egypt, is a strong tourist destination. Obtained within 6-9 months, Egypt’s Citizenship by Investment can be obtained in $250,000. Applicants can also purchase a property with a minimum value of $300,000 or make bank deposits of $500,000 in local currency.
- Antigua Barbuda
Started in 2012, Antigua Barbuda’s citizenship requires a minimum donation of $230,000 and offers access to an on-arrival visa to 150 destinations, including Europe’s Schengen Area.
- Grenada
Launched in August 2013, Grenada requires a minimum contribution of $235,000. This is the only Caribbean citizenship by investment program that holds an E-2 Investor Visa.
- Dominica
Offering access to 140 countries, a Dominican citizenship starts from $200,000, which does not require any physical residence. However, an oath of allegiance before an authorized notary is needed.
- Greece
Greece’s Residency by Investment offers individuals a minimum specialised real estate investment of $290,000. With visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area, the citizenship once granted remains valid for seven years.
- Cyprus
One of the cheapest methods to get visa-free travel, Cyprus’ Golden Visa, requires a minimum investment of over $340,000. Under this, a resident offers the right to live and study in Cyprus, but visa holders do not need physical residence to the matter.
Data Source: Henley & Partners
