Citizenship by Investment (CBI) offers a powerful opportunity: global mobility, financial security, and a legal second passport. But where there’s money and urgency, there are also scams.
Every year, hundreds of investors fall victim to fake agents, fraudulent developers, and unlicensed intermediaries promising “guaranteed passports” or “fast-tracked citizenship” — only to vanish with the money.
This guide reveals how CBI scams work, real warning signs to watch out for, and how to safely navigate the process so you protect your investment, your identity, and your family’s future.
What Are CBI Scams?
CBI scams are fraudulent schemes where individuals or companies pose as legitimate agents, brokers, or advisors in order to:
- Steal your investment funds
- Charge you for non-existent services
- Sell fake documents or forged passports
- Disappear after receiving upfront payment
These scams often target high-net-worth individuals seeking urgent travel freedom, business access, or geopolitical safety — and they’re especially common online and in unregulated markets.
Why Are People Vulnerable?
CBI scams often work because:
- The process is complex and unfamiliar
- Programs vary widely across countries
- Legitimate agents charge high fees, making “cheaper” offers attractive
- Urgency (e.g., travel restrictions, political instability) makes people rush
And since most CBI applicants are based outside the country where the passport is issued, verifying legitimacy is harder without expert support.
Common Types of CBI Scams
Let’s break down the most common forms of CBI-related fraud so you can spot them early.
1. Fake Government Websites and Emails
Scammers create professional-looking websites that mimic official immigration agencies or ministries. These often use domains like:
- .govt.com
- .org.cn.gov
- Or even .gov.uk.citizenship.services
They may also email using spoofed addresses (e.g., info@gov.mt), complete with fake seals and “urgent processing notices.”
Red Flag: If a website asks for wire transfers to personal bank accounts or crypto wallets — run.
2. Unlicensed Agents
In many countries, only licensed firms can submit CBI applications. Scammers posing as “consultants” or “representatives” may charge fees for forms and promises but cannot legally submit anything.
Red Flag: Anyone who avoids contracts, refuses to provide registration info, or pressures you to pay quickly is likely unlicensed.
3. Real Estate Scams in CBI Programs
Some CBI programs (like Turkey, Antigua, and Saint Lucia) offer citizenship through real estate investment. Fraudsters exploit this by:
- Promoting non-approved developments
- Overcharging for worthless properties
- Falsifying ownership documents
- Pocketing the funds without delivering the property
Red Flag: If a developer can’t show approval from the country’s official CBI unit, don’t invest.
4. Guaranteed Passport in 2 Weeks
Many scams advertise “fast-track” or “guaranteed” passports in 7–14 days, often without due diligence. That’s simply not possible.
All legitimate CBI programs require:
- Document verification
- Background checks
- Investment proof
- 1–6 months of processing
Red Flag: Anyone offering a passport faster than the official program timeline is almost certainly lying.
5. Fake Passports and Forged Documents
Some scammers go as far as selling fake passports or certificates of citizenship. These may look convincing but are:
- Not in any government database
- Invalid for travel
- Grounds for arrest or deportation
In one infamous case, hundreds of people purchased forged “Caribbean passports” — only to be denied entry at international borders.
Red Flag: Never receive or accept documents without full legal processing through official government channels.
Real Case Study: The Cyprus Real Estate Trap
Before Cyprus shut down its CBI program in 2020, it became a hotspot for fraudulent developers. Investors were sold overpriced properties that were:
- Not approved by the government
- Poorly constructed or unfinished
- Linked to bribery and political corruption
Many applicants never received their passports, and the scandal led to criminal investigations.
Lesson: Even in legitimate programs, working with the wrong people can cost you your money — and your reputation.
How to Avoid CBI Scams (Step-by-Step)
Here’s exactly how to protect yourself and your investment.
Step 1: Use Only Licensed Agents
Every legal CBI program has a list of approved agents or authorized promoters. These agents are vetted by the government and legally allowed to file your application.
How to verify:
- Visit the official CBI unit website of the country (e.g., Dominica, Saint Kitts)
- Check for the agent’s license number
- Ask for proof in writing
Tip: Use global firms with a long track record, client testimonials, and verified media presence.
Step 2: Always Sign a Written Contract
Professional agents will never proceed without a detailed contract covering:
- Scope of services
- Legal responsibilities
- Payment breakdown
- Refund or withdrawal clauses
Never work with someone who avoids contracts, especially if they ask for crypto or cash-only payments.
Step 3: Verify Program Status on Government Sites
Before choosing any CBI program, make sure it:
- Is still active and accepting applicants
- Has not been suspended or under investigation
- Offers real benefits listed in official legal documents
Countries with active CBI programs in 2025 include:
- Dominica
- Saint Lucia
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Grenada
- Turkey
- Vanuatu
- Malta
Step 4: Don’t Skip Due Diligence
Legitimate programs perform deep checks on your background, finances, and criminal history. This protects both you and the reputation of the passport.
If your agent says they can “skip background checks” or “push the application through,” it’s a scam.
Step 5: Get Legal Opinion Before Investing
Especially for real estate-based programs, hire a local independent lawyer to:
- Check title ownership
- Confirm government approval
- Ensure your name is registered on the deed
Never rely solely on the developer or agent’s word — get neutral third-party verification.
How to Report a CBI Scam
If you suspect you’ve been targeted or scammed:
- Report to the CBI Unit in the country involved
- Contact local law enforcement
- File a complaint with Interpol or regional fraud offices
- Share your experience in global expat and investor forums to warn others
Most importantly, act quickly — funds transferred overseas become harder to recover by the day.
Why Some Scams Look So Real
Many scammers use psychological tactics and tech to fool even experienced investors:
- Professional websites mimicking real CBI portals
- Fake testimonials and doctored news articles
- Stolen logos from law firms and government agencies
- “Too good to be true” pricing and urgent time-limited offers
The best defense is knowledge and patience. Take your time, cross-reference everything, and speak with licensed experts.
Common Myths That Scammers Exploit
Myth #1: “I don’t need a lawyer; the agent handles everything.”
Reality: Licensed legal oversight is the only way to verify your rights.
Myth #2: “The faster I act, the better the deal.”
Reality: Speed is often used to pressure you into skipping due diligence.
Myth #3: “If they advertise online, they must be legit.”
Reality: Anyone can run social media ads or build a sleek website.
Red Flags Checklist
Use this checklist when reviewing any CBI offer or agent:
- Agent refuses to share their government license
- Payment is requested via crypto, personal bank, or Western Union
- No contract or terms and conditions
- Website domain does not match official government domains
- The offer includes “guaranteed approval” or “no background check”
- Pressure to act fast with “limited-time” discounts
- Claims of issuing a passport in less than 4 weeks
- Unverified testimonials or fake reviews
- No physical office or business registration
If two or more of these apply — walk away.
Final Thoughts
Getting second citizenship through investment can transform your life — but it also comes with risk if you choose the wrong partner.
In 2025, the CBI industry continues to grow, and with that comes a wave of scammers and shady actors preying on hopeful investors.
But now, you’re armed with the knowledge to protect yourself.
- Only work with licensed agents
- Get everything in writing
- Verify programs on official government websites
- Don’t trust promises that sound too good to be true
- Hire independent legal counsel
Your second passport is too valuable to leave to chance. Done right, it’s one of the best investments you’ll ever make.
Want a safe, verified path to second citizenship?
Visit SolandWorld — our expert legal team helps you avoid scams and find the best CBI programs backed by government approval.
