Meaning of Citizenship
A citizen is a person legally recognized by a country, with rights such as voting, working, and owning property, and duties to respect the nation’s laws. Traditionally, citizenship is obtained by birth, by naturalization (after residence), or through marriage.
In the 1980s, a new pathway emerged: Citizenship by Investment (CBI), also called economic citizenship.
What Is Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
Certain countries offer citizenship to high-net-worth applicants who make a qualifying investment. In return, investors often obtain a second passport, enhanced global mobility, and access to new markets. International investments via CBI have drawn growing interest worldwide.
Why Countries Offer CBI (Government Perspective)
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Funds public and private development (e.g., Vanuatu channels donations into national projects).
- Business & Jobs: Encourages entrepreneurs to set up companies and create employment.
- Population Strategy: Some countries (e.g., Moldova) use CBI to attract new residents and talent.
Investor Benefits
- Second passport & mobility: Often 100+ visa-free/VOA destinations, enabling faster travel and business access.
- Global opportunity: Expand markets and operations (e.g., Caribbean CBI opens regional and global gateways).
- Tax efficiency: Many programs reduce or exempt tax on foreign-sourced income; inheritance/wealth taxes may be minimal.
- Dual citizenship: Most CBI countries allow dual nationality.
- Family inclusion: Spouse and dependent children (and sometimes parents) can be added. Dominica’s framework even supports larger families under set conditions.
- Education & lifestyle: Malta connects investors to EU study/work options; island programs offer high-quality living environments.
Note: Benefits, destinations, and tax rules vary by country—always review the latest official program criteria.
Typical Eligibility & Documents
- Age: Usually 21+ for the main applicant.
- Clean background: Police clearance for all adults included.
- Medical fitness: Health certificates confirming good health.
- Source of funds: Documented, lawful origin of investment funds.
- Program compliance: Invest via approved routes and meet due-diligence requirements.
Main Investment Routes
- Real Estate: Pre-approved hotels/resorts/residential projects with a minimum hold period.
- Business/Enterprise: Invest as a passive or active partner, sometimes with job-creation targets.
- National Funds/Donations: Non-refundable contributions to government funds or sovereign projects.
Notable Mentions from This Guide
- Vanuatu — Citizenship by Investment: Straightforward donation pathway supporting national development.
- Moldova — CBI: Aimed at attracting investors; citizenship can enhance mobility and opportunity.
- Dominica — CBI: Family-friendly structures; celebrated as the “Nature Isle.”
- Malta — Investment Migration: Access to the EU ecosystem for living, studying, and working.
- Montenegro — CBI: Requires applying before the end of 2025, with approved real-estate options.
Work With Experts
With multiple programs and frequent updates, partnering with an experienced, licensed investment-migration advisor helps ensure program fit, documentation accuracy, and on-time submission.
To Know More About the Application Process and Your Eligibility
Please get in touch with our expert consultants at +91-9019-400-500 or email [email protected].
FAQs
question: "Is donation or real estate better for CBI?", answer: "Donations are simpler and faster but non-refundable. Real estate creates an asset with potential returns, but requires a hold period and exit planning." question: "Do I or my family need to live in the country?", answer: "Most CBI programs have no mandatory residence. Some may require an oath, brief visit, or future renewals—check specific program rules." question: "Who can I include in my application?", answer: "Generally a spouse and dependent children; some programs allow dependent parents/grandparents. Eligibility and fees vary by country." question: "How long does approval take?", answer: "With complete documents and clear due diligence, many CBI approvals complete in about 2–4 months, depending on the program and case specifics."
