Understanding Citizenship by Investment Programs
In today’s interconnected world, individuals with the necessary resources can easily acquire a new nationality. This has led to the rise of “citizenship by investment programs,” which are gaining popularity among international investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking to expand their residency options, secure a more stable future, or access better business opportunities.
Impact on Real Estate and Economic Consequences
The trend of acquiring nationality through property investment has not only transformed the real estate landscape in certain countries but has also sparked a debate on the ethics and economic implications of these policies. While some view these programs as a gateway to a more liberated life with fewer travel restrictions and greater access to international markets, others see them as a strategy that favors the wealthy and could exacerbate inequality in the countries offering them.
Growing Interest in Citizenship by Investment Programs
Despite criticism, interest in these initiatives continues to grow. People worldwide see these programs as a quick and efficient solution to overcome the limitations imposed by traditional immigration policies. Below, we outline some countries that offer this possibility.
Popular Countries Offering Citizenship by Investment Programs
1. Greece
Greece has maintained its ‘Golden Visa’ program, which allows investors and their families to obtain a five-year residence permit that enables travel throughout Europe. This can be achieved by investing a minimum of 250,000 euros in converting commercial properties into habitable spaces or renovating certain properties.
Alternatively, investors can purchase real estate with a minimum value of 800,000 euros or 400,000 euros, depending on the area. After residing in the country for seven years and paying taxes, investors can apply for citizenship.
2. Türkiye
Türkiye offers a similar program, requiring a minimum investment of 400,000 dollars in a property. Investors can obtain a Turkish passport within four to six months, allowing visa-free entry to around 137 countries. Spouses and children under 18 can also benefit from this program, with no minimum physical stay requirements to process the application.
3. Malta
Malta’s Individual Investor Program (IIP) is more complex, requiring a real estate investment of at least 350,000 dollars. Additionally, applicants must contribute 650,000 dollars to the country’s National Development and Social Fund and commit to residing on the islands for one year, providing evidence of this. Family members can also benefit from the program.
4. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda, a Caribbean island nation, offers a citizenship by investment program. The investment requirement is 300,000 dollars in real estate, or a single donation of 230,000 dollars to the National Development Fund. The processing period for nationality ranges from six to 12 months, and once obtained, the passport allows visa-free travel to up to 162 countries.