Concept
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is the acquisition of citizenship in exchange for an investment or non-refundable contribution, without a lengthy residence requirement. It is the fastest way to add a citizenship "flag": a passport in a few months, often without relocation.
The Caribbean Five
Classic CBI programs are offered by five Caribbean states: Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Lucia. A non-refundable contribution to a state fund starts from approximately US$200,000 (amounts and conditions are periodically revised), processing time is typically 4–8 months, and relocation is not required. In December 2025, the five countries established a unified regulator, ECCIRA, tightening due diligence and standards.
⚙️ CBI grants citizenship and a passport immediately, bypassing the residence permit stage. The flip side is the strictest compliance filter: source of funds is scrutinized very carefully.
Malta and EU Pressure
The only "golden passport" program in the EU—Malta's—has been closed: on 29 April 2025, the EU Court of Justice (case C-181/23) ruled it incompatible with EU law, and Malta switched to naturalization "for exceptional services." Caribbean passports also face risk: the EU is discussing suspension of visa-free Schengen access for CBI countries.
Why Families Choose This
A second passport means mobility (visa-free access), a backup option amid geopolitical risks, and sometimes a tax tool. Important to remember: new citizenship does not equal new tax residency—these are different flags. Choosing a program is a balance of price, passport reputation, and rigor of vetting.
💡 A passport portfolio is built for a purpose: mobility, security, access to a jurisdiction. CBI is the fastest route, but also the most "visible."
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute individual legal advice.
Key factual claims
- The only "golden passport" program in the EU—Malta's—has been closed: on 29 April 2025, the EU Court of Justice (case C-181/23) ruled it incompatible with EU law, and Malta switched to naturalization "for exceptional services."
- Related links: Malta Residence (GRP) · Portugal Golden Visa · Greece Golden Visa · Turkey Residence Permit and Citizenship · Second Passport and Plan B · EU Court of Justice, case C-181/23 · OECS CBI Standards.