In today’s globalized world, second citizenship is no longer a luxury reserved for the ultra-wealthy — it’s a strategic asset. Whether it’s for tax planning, global mobility, security, or access to better education and healthcare, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are increasingly popular among entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and high-net-worth individuals.
But how much do you really need to invest? Let’s explore the most affordable citizenship by investment programs, ranked from cheapest to most expensive, factoring in investment amount, timeline, and other key perks.
1. Vanuatu – From $130,000
- Minimum Investment: $130,000 (Donation to National Fund)
- Processing Time: 2–4 months
- Family Inclusion: Yes (additional fees apply)
- Visa-Free Travel: 130+ countries including UK, Russia, Singapore
Why It Ranks #1
Vanuatu is currently the most affordable and fastest CBI program on the market. With no residency requirements and a streamlined process that can be completed in just a few months, it’s ideal for those who want quick mobility.
Pros
- Low minimum threshold
- Fast approval
- No visit required
Cons
- Limited visa-free access to the EU
- No real estate investment option available
2. Dominica – From $200,000
- Minimum Investment: $200,000 (Donation)
- Processing Time: 6–9 months
- Visa-Free Travel: 145+ countries including UK and EU Schengen Area
Dominica has long been a popular destination for budget-conscious global citizens. Its donation path is one of the most affordable options for individuals.
Pros
- Solid passport strength
- Low investment amount
- Family-friendly
Cons
- No EU residency or work rights
- Long-term value depends on geopolitical factors
3. Antigua & Barbuda – From $230,000
- Minimum Investment: $230,000 (Donation for individual)
- Real Estate Option: From $270,000 (refundable after 5 years)
- Processing Time: 6–9 months
This Caribbean island nation offers great value, especially for families. The real estate option provides a pathway to recoup your investment.
Pros
- Great for families (up to 4 included)
- Travel to 150+ countries
- No wealth, inheritance, or income taxes
Cons
- Must spend at least 5 days in the country within 5 years
4. Saint Lucia – From $240,000
- Minimum Investment: $240,000 (Donation)
- Real Estate Option: $300,000
- Processing Time: 6–9 months
Saint Lucia’s program is flexible and often seen as a rising star in the CBI market.
Pros
- Visa-free to Schengen, UK, and more
- Low processing fees compared to others
Cons
- Fewer real estate projects approved for investment
5. Grenada – From $235,000
- Minimum Investment: $235,000 (Donation)
- Real Estate Option: $270,000 (refundable after 5 years)
- Processing Time: 6–9 months
Grenada stands out because it’s the only Caribbean country with visa-free access to China and an E-2 Treaty with the USA, allowing investors to apply for a U.S. investor visa.
Pros
- E-2 Visa pathway to the U.S.
- Visa-free travel to 145+ countries
Cons
- Real estate investments are pricier than in Dominica
6. Saint Kitts & Nevis – From $250,000
- Minimum Investment: $250,000 (Donation)
- Real Estate Option: $325,000 (7-year holding)
- Processing Time: 6–9 months
One of the oldest CBI programs in the world, Saint Kitts offers stable governance and one of the strongest passports in the Caribbean.
Pros
- Long-running, well-established program
- Family inclusion
Cons
- Real estate option has a long holding period
7. Egypt – From $250,000
- Minimum Investment: $250,000 (Real estate)
- Processing Time: ~10 months
Egypt is a newcomer in the CBI scene, providing an affordable option in the MENA region. Its CBI program is more focused on physical investment than donation.
Pros
- Strategic MENA location
- Passport allows for decent regional travel
Cons
- Limited global mobility compared to Caribbean passports
8. Turkey – From $400,000
- Minimum Investment: $400,000 (Real estate)
- Processing Time: 6–10 months
- Holding Period: 3 years minimum
Turkey’s program is straightforward and offers a full citizenship (not just residency) with a real estate investment. Ideal for those interested in Middle Eastern or European access.
Pros
- Access to Turkey’s strong economy and strategic location
- Investment in real estate can be rented or sold later
Cons
- No visa-free access to Schengen Area
9. Malta – From €600,000
- Minimum Contribution: €600,000 (National Development & Social Fund)
- Processing Time: 12–36 months
- Passport Strength: Among the top 10 globally
Malta offers one of the strongest EU passports, but it comes at a premium. It’s not the cheapest in raw cost, but delivers the most value if you’re after European citizenship.
Pros
- EU citizenship with full rights
- Visa-free access to 180+ countries
Cons
- High cost and lengthy due diligence
Special Mentions: Low-Cost EU Residency (Pathway to Citizenship)
While not technically “citizenship by investment,” several EU countries offer residency by investment that leads to citizenship after 5–8 years. These can often be a cheaper long-term strategy for obtaining EU citizenship.
Hungary – From €250,000 (Funds)
- Citizenship possible after 8 years
- No residency requirement
Greece – From €250,000 (Real Estate)
- Citizenship after 7 years
- Schengen access + optional residence
Cyprus – From €300,000 (Real Estate)
- PR immediately, citizenship after 7 years
These options require longer timelines and often living in the country — but they offer full EU citizenship at a lower total cost than Malta.
Final Rankings (Cheapest First – 2025 Edition)
| Rank | Country | Min. Investment | Type | Passport Benefits |
| 1 | Vanuatu | $130,000 | Donation | Visa-free to 130+ countries |
| 2 | Dominica | $200,000 | Donation | Visa-free to UK, Schengen |
| 3 | Antigua & Barbuda | $230,000 | Donation/Real Estate | Family-friendly, UK access |
| 4 | Saint Lucia | $240,000 | Donation/Real Estate | Low fees, solid mobility |
| 5 | Grenada | $235,000 | Donation/Real Estate | E-2 Visa to USA option |
| 6 | Saint Kitts & Nevis | $250,000 | Donation/Real Estate | Oldest program, strong passport |
| 7 | Egypt | $250,000 | Real Estate | MENA access, affordable entry |
| 8 | Turkey | $400,000 | Real Estate | Fast-track citizenship |
| 9 | Malta | €600,000 | Donation/Real Estate | Full EU citizenship |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right citizenship by investment program depends on your goals:
- If you want fast and cheap access to a second passport, look to Vanuatu or Dominica.
- If you’re thinking long-term EU integration, Greece, Cyprus, and Hungary are smart.
- Want strong mobility and stability? Consider Malta or Turkey.
In a world where borders are increasingly political, a second passport is your freedom card — for you and your family.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today.
