Citizenship by Investment: How to Choose the Right Programme for Your Family

In this article, we’re going to cover how:

1. Citizenship by investment (CBI) offers families and HNWIs greater freedom, security and global opportunities, making it a valuable part of international wealth planning.

2. Choosing the right CBI programme requires assessing your objectives, investment options, country reputation, processing times and inclusion of dependants.

3. Caribbean and European programmes each offer unique advantages, such as fast processing, EU access and multiple investment routes like real estate and government funds.

Why Citizenship by Investment Is Gaining Popularity

As global mobility becomes increasingly restricted and geopolitical uncertainty rises more and more, CBI programmes have grown in appeal among expat families in the UAE and beyond. A second passport can open doors to over 150 visa-free destinations, provide stable residency options and offer access to better healthcare, education and financial systems. For entrepreneurs and investors, it also means the freedom to operate globally without being tied to a single jurisdiction’s risks or regulations.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Citizenship by Investment Programme

Not all citizenship programmes are created equal. Choosing the right one for your family requires a strategic approach, aligning your financial goals, lifestyle preferences and long-term plans.

The first factor is personal objectives. Some investors prioritise travel freedom and global business access, while others focus on family security, quality education or future relocation options.

Next, evaluate investment requirements. Depending on your budget, you may choose between government donations (the fastest route), real estate investments (which can be resold after a few years) or purchasing government bonds and financial instruments.

Country reputation also matters. A passport from a politically stable and well-regarded nation will usually have better global access and fewer visa restrictions. Jurisdictions like St. Kitts & Nevis and Malta consistently rank high for passport strength.

Other considerations include processing time, residency obligations and whether dual citizenship is permitted. Families should also check if dependants, such as a spouse, children or parents, can be included under the same application.

Popular Citizenship by Investment Programmes in 2025

Caribbean Programmes

The Caribbean offers citizenship by investment options that require the smallest contributions. Nations like Dominica, St. Lucia and Grenada offer citizenship through government donations starting from around USD 100,000. These programmes are attractive for their fast processing (typically three to six months) and extensive visa-free access to Europe, Asia and the Americas.

St. Kitts & Nevis, one of the oldest and most respected programmes, also allows real estate investments that can be sold after seven years, making it a strong long-term value option.

European Programmes

For investors seeking EU access, Malta’s Individual Investor Programme is a leading choice, granting full European citizenship with visa-free travel across the Schengen zone. Alternatively, the Portugal Golden Visa offers residency with a pathway to citizenship, through real estate or investment funds, which appeals to those preferring a gradual route with lifestyle benefits.

Other Global Options

Beyond Europe and the Caribbean, Turkey, Jordan and North Macedonia have gained traction for their balance between affordability, strategic location and family inclusion options. Each comes with its own blend of benefits, from business access to cultural connectivity.

Investment Options Available

Most citizenship by investment countries offer multiple pathways:

• Government donations: A one-time contribution to a national development fund, ideal for speed and simplicity.

• Real estate investment: Purchase of approved property, offering both capital appreciation and resale opportunities.

• Government bonds or financial instruments: Lower risk but with longer lock-in periods.

• Business ventures: For entrepreneurs aiming to create jobs or contribute to local economies.

When evaluating these options, consider whether the investment offers short-term convenience or long-term value, especially if you plan to generate income or hold property.

Benefits of Second Citizenship for Families

Of course, a second passport opens you up to far more travel freedom. However, it also represents resilience and opportunity for your family’s future. Benefits include:

• Visa-free travel to hundreds of destinations.

• Access to world-class education and healthcare systems.

• Tax efficiency through access to favourable regimes.

• Wealth protection in politically stable jurisdictions.

• Legacy planning, ensuring future generations inherit stability and mobility.

Avoiding Pitfalls – The Importance of Due Diligence

With rising demand, the number of citizenship by investment companies has grown rapidly. The issue is, not all of them are trustworthy. Beware of offers that seem ‘too good to be true’, because they invariably are. Legitimate programmes undergo strict due diligence checks to verify applicants’ financial and personal backgrounds.

Always ensure the programme is recognised by the host government and that your advisor provides full transparency on fees, timelines and legal requirements. Working with a trusted wealth advisory firm, like GPS Advisers, ensures that your investment aligns with both regulatory standards and long-term family goals.

How GPS Advisers Can Help Your Family

At GPS Advisers, we guide clients through every stage of the citizenship journey, from selecting the right jurisdiction and investment type to managing documentation and due diligence. Our experts work with families across the world and globally to design personalised strategies that align with their lifestyle, mobility and legacy planning needs.

Whether you’re exploring Caribbean citizenship or a European residency pathway, we help you make a confident, compliant and informed decision.

Find a CBI Programme That Works For You and Your Family

Choosing the right citizenship by investment programme is one of the most impactful decisions you can make for your family’s future. With careful planning and expert guidance, it can unlock a world of opportunities, ensuring freedom, security and prosperity for generations to come.

Key takeaways:

• Second citizenship grants visa-free travel, education and healthcare access, tax efficiency and resilience for your family’s future generations.

• Due diligence is essential. Work only with reputable advisors and ensure your chosen CBI programme is recognised and regulatory compliant.

• Expert guidance simplifies selection and application, ensuring your investment in citizenship is secure, strategic and tailored to your family’s long-term goals.

Contact GPS Advisers today to discuss your family’s global citizenship strategy and begin building your pathway to a borderless future.

FAQs

1. What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by Investment allows individuals to obtain a second passport by making a qualifying investment, usually through real estate, government contributions or bonds, in a participating country.

2. What are the cheapest Citizenship by Investment programmes available?

Caribbean nations such as Dominica, St. Lucia and St. Kitts & Nevis offer some of the most affordable and efficient citizenship programmes, starting from around USD 100,000.

3. How long does the citizenship process take?

Most Caribbean programmes take three to six months, while European routes like Malta or Portugal can take up to one or two years, depending on residency requirements.

4. Can my family be included in the same application?

Yes. Most citizenship by investment countries allow you to include your spouse, children and sometimes parents or grandparents under one application.

5. Is Citizenship by Investment legal and safe?

Absolutely. When processed through authorised citizenship by investment companies and recognised government channels, these programmes are fully legal and internationally respected.