These 10 Countries Will Grant You Citizenship If You Buy Property
Owning property abroad isn’t just about luxury villas and ocean views. It can be a fast track to a second passport and greater global mobility. It can be a ticket to a whole new nationality. While some nations offer straightforward citizenship-by-investment programs, others have more complex paths requiring residency first.
Whether you’re looking for a European escape, a Caribbean hideaway, or an investment in a growing economy, these 10 countries welcome foreign buyers with open arms, promising citizenship in return for real estate purchases.
Portugal
Portugal doesn’t offer immediate citizenship through property investment, its Golden Visa program is a well-trodden path to a second passport. By purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000 (or €280,000 in low-density areas), investors gain residency, which can lead to citizenship after five years, without needing to live there full-time.
Turkey
Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is one of the most popular in the world, according to Direct Citizenship. By purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000, investors can apply for citizenship, and the process is remarkably fast, often taking just a few months. With its strategic location between Europe and Asia, a vibrant culture, and a growing economy, Turkey is an attractive option for many.
Greece
Greece’s Golden Visa program grants residency to those who buy property worth at least €250,000, one of the lowest thresholds in Europe. After seven years of continuous residency, investors can apply for citizenship, gaining access to the EU and visa-free travel to over 180 countries. Plus, who wouldn’t want a home in the land of ancient mythology and stunning islands?
Spain
Spain also offers a Golden Visa program, requiring a minimum property investment of €500,000. While citizenship isn’t immediate, after ten years of residency, investors can apply for a Spanish passport. Given Spain’s rich history, world-class cuisine, and lively culture, it’s an appealing long-term option.
Dominica
This Caribbean island offers one of the cheapest citizenship-by-investment programs. By investing at least $200,000 in approved real estate projects, investors can obtain a Dominican passport in as little as three months. According to Visa Index, the country provides visa-free access to over 140 destinations, making it a great option for global travelers.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
One of the longest-running citizenship-by-investment programs, Saint Kitts and Nevis allows foreigners to gain a passport by purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000 (or $200,000 if held for seven years). Citizenship is typically processed within six months, and the passport offers visa-free travel to over 150 countries.
Antigua and Barbuda
For $200,000 in government-approved real estate, investors can qualify for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship-by-investment program. The passport allows visa-free travel to 150+ countries, and citizenship is granted in about four months. Plus, with its stunning beaches, it’s a dream location for anyone seeking a tropical escape.
Grenada
Grenada’s program requires a real estate purchase of at least $220,000, and citizenship can be obtained in about six months. What sets Grenada apart is its access to the U.S. E-2 visa program, which allows citizens to live and work in the United States: a perk not offered by most Caribbean CBI programs.
Malta
According to Schiff Sovereign, Malta’s CBI program is one of the most expensive but also one of the most powerful. A property purchase of at least €700,000 (or a rental commitment of €16,000 per year for five years) is required, along with other investments. Maltese citizenship grants access to the EU, making it an excellent choice for those looking to live, work, or study anywhere in Europe.
Montenegro
With a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate plus a €200,000 government donation, Montenegro’s citizenship-by-investment program provides a passport in under a year. Though not an EU member yet, Montenegro is on track for EU accession, which could increase the value of its passport in the future.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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