Many view obtaining multiple citizenships as a complicated process due to the lengthy procedures and specific requirements involved. Here are the primary pathways to acquiring a second citizenship: Naturalization: The most common and time-consuming route to second citizenship. It involves residing in a country for a set number of years before becoming eligible to apply for citizenship under the host country’s laws. Citizenship by Marriage: This pathway allows individuals to gain citizenship by marrying a citizen of a specific country. In most cases, applicants can either apply directly or first obtain a residence permit and then naturalize as citizens. Citizenship by Descent: A straightforward but exclusive option for those with ancestral ties to countries like Austria, Ireland, Italy, Poland, or Portugal. While this pathway can be simple for eligible applicants, proving ancestry often involves navigating complex documentation requirements. Exceptional Citizenship: A rare form of citizenship granted to individuals for extraordinary contributions or achievements. For example, Tom Hanks received Greek citizenship for his charitable work in the country. Citizenship by Investment (CBI): The fastest and simplest route to a second passport. Many countries offer citizenship in exchange for economic investment, providing a quick and efficient pathway to a new nationality for applicants and their eligible family members. Each pathway comes with unique conditions, offering options for people from diverse backgrounds to achieve dual citizenship.

The concept of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) has roots in ancient history, with the Roman Republic being the first to formalize it as a path to citizenship. Those who contributed to the Roman economy under specific conditions were granted citizenship, along with all the associated rights—a concept that continues to be relevant today. Today, many countries offer CBI programs, allowing individuals to obtain citizenship and a passport through economic contributions. By investing in a nation, individuals fulfill a key civic duty, earning the right to be considered a citizen. In return, they are expected to abide by the law and respect the rights of others. These countries conduct thorough due diligence to ensure the integrity of their CBI programs. Countries like Grenada, Malta, St. Lucia, and Turkey offer CBI programs that not only provide citizenship but also grant the right to vote in elections. The passports obtained through these programs also facilitate travel to destinations such as European Union countries and the United States.

Economic citizenship offers substantial benefits to the countries that grant it, providing governments with significant foreign direct investment that can be used to foster national development. For instance, the Commonwealth of Dominica channels funds from its CBI program into projects like affordable housing for its citizens. Additionally, these funds support the development of the country’s international airport, a project that will enhance both the local quality of life and the nation’s economic growth.

CBI programs vary across countries, but the most common investment options generally fall into five main categories: Donations or Contributions Many countries offer citizenship to individuals who donate a specified amount to the nation’s economy. This is often the simplest and least expensive route, with donations starting as low as $100,000 in some countries. However, donations are non-refundable. These contributions are typically directed to official government funds used for national development. In certain cases, governments may create temporary funds for emergency purposes, such as the St. Kitts and Nevis Hurricane Relief Fund, which offered a reduced donation amount in response to rebuilding efforts following a devastating hurricane season. Real Estate Investments Real estate is a popular investment option for obtaining citizenship. Many countries offer the choice of purchasing property or investing in luxury resort shares. Real estate investments can be cost-effective over time, as investors can resell their property after a mandatory holding period, or potentially generate income by renting it out or earning dividends. This option is particularly appealing for larger families. Government Bonds/Securities Some countries allow investors to purchase government bonds or securities in exchange for citizenship. Government bonds are generally considered low-risk but offer minimal returns. Private securities are riskier but can provide higher returns. Hybrid Investments This option, unique to Malta’s CBI program, requires applicants to invest in multiple routes. Typically, this involves both a real estate investment and a donation to the government. Establishing a Business/Job Creation Certain countries offer citizenship to individuals who establish a business within their borders. Requirements may include investing a set amount of capital or creating a specified number of jobs, which must be maintained for a certain number of years.

Many countries around the world offer their own version of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, providing a pathway to economic citizenship. While the underlying concept remains the same, the specific requirements and procedures vary from one country to another. In general, applicants must: Have a clean criminal record Provide proof of the source of their funds for investment Submit a complete application Make an approved investment Be at least 18 years old Countries like Malta and Antigua and Barbuda are unique in requiring physical residency as part of their CBI programs. In contrast, other CBI nations, such as Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Turkey, and Vanuatu, do not mandate permanent residency for economic citizens.