Citizenship By Investment
A Guide To Citizenship By Investment
Citizenship by investment offers a solution for immigrant investors looking to expand their travel options and unlock greater opportunities in their personal and professional lives.
With the rise of globalization, the freedom to travel and communicate across borders has become more critical than ever. While passport holders from some countries enjoy the freedom to travel to over 187 destinations without stringent visa requirements, those from other nations may find their travel possibilities severely restricted, often limited to fewer than 35 countries.
Citizenship by investment programs, such as those offered by Malta, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda, can dramatically improve your global mobility, bridging the gap and offering you and your family unprecedented access to the world.
Citizenship by investment is on the rise globally for expats seeking to broaden their horizons.
What is Citizenship By Investment
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a distinguished program that allows individuals to acquire citizenship by making significant investments in a foreign country. This type of immigrant investor program has risen in popularity as more investors seek to expand their global footprint, enjoy visa-free access to numerous countries, and reap various business and familial benefits.
The process of obtaining dual citizenship through an investment program involves making a significant investment in the host country’s economy. The investment can take the form of a sustainable growth fund, a government fee, an approved real estate project, or other investment channels that meet the host country’s requirements. The amount of investment required varies depending on the country and the specific citizenship program in question.
In exchange for their investment, applicants and their families are granted citizenship and a second passport through a process that is generally more direct and expedited than traditional immigration routes. Depending on the host country’s regulations and the chosen investment pathway, this process can range from a few months to about a year.
Why Choose Citizenship By Investment Now?
Some of the top benefits include:
Freedom to Travel
Safety and Security
World-class Education
Tax Efficiency
Quality of Life
Business Opportunities
Which Countries Offer Citizenship By Investment Programs?
A range of countries worldwide extend their arms to investors via citizenship by investment (CBI) programs. Among the most recognized are Malta, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia. In most cases, residing in the country beforehand or proficiency in the local language is optional.
Here at Next Generation Equity, we offer the following CBI Programs:
Antigua and Barbuda
To qualify for Antigua & Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program, you must complete one of the four government-approved investments:
University of West Indies Fund (UWI)
- Invest USD 260,000 to the University of West Indies Fund (UWI). The minimum number of applicants for this investment is 6.
Business Investment
- Make an investment in an approved business totalling at least USD 1,500,000 for a single applicant, or invest a combined total of at least USD 5,000,000 with multiple applicants. Each applicant must contribute at least USD 400,000.
Purchase Government-Approved Property
- Purchase a government-approved property worth at least USD 300,000.
National Development Fund (NDF)
- Contribute USD 230,000 to the National Development Fund (NDF).
Dominica
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program offers potential investors two main routes to obtain citizenship in the beautiful Caribbean island nation.
Real Estate Investment
- The minimum investment required for this option is USD 200,000, and the property must be held for a minimum of three years.
Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
- This non-refundable donation supports the development of key sectors in the country, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The minimum investment for a single applicant is USD 200,000 or USD 250,000 for the main applicant and up to three qualifying dependents.
Grenada
The Grenada CBI offers potential foreign investors with two primary routes to obtain citizenship.
Government-Approved Real Estate Investment
- Investors must make a minimum investment of USD 270,000 and hold the property for at least five years.
Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF)
- The minimum investment is USD 235,000. This investment amount covers a single applicant, a single applicant with a spouse, or a family of four (not including parents, siblings, or grandparents under the age of 55). Including additional dependents will require an additional investment of USD 25,000-USD 75,000 depending on their age and relation to the applicant.
Malta
Obtaining Malta citizenship through investment, commonly referred to as the Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN), involves meeting the following three requirements.
Real Estate Investment
- Applicants must purchase a residential property in Malta with a minimum value of €700,000 (USD 738,124) or rent a property with a minimum annual rent of €16,000 (USD 16,871).
Financial Contribution
- Depending on the residency period, applicants need to pay a non-refundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund. For those applying after 36 months of residency, a €650,000 (USD 685,400) payment is required for the main applicant plus €50,000 (USD 52,723) for each additional dependent. In the case of applying after 12 months of residency, the contribution increases to €750,000 (USD 790,847) for the main applicant and €50,000 (USD 52,723) for each dependent.
Donation
- A mandatory donation of €10,000 (USD 10,544) to a registered non-governmental organization (NGO) or society within Malta.
Saint Kitts And Nevis
Applicants have several investment options to choose from when seeking Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship:
Real Estate Investment
- Purchasing a real estate project from an approved development or a private home, with a minimum value of USD 325,000 qualifies for the program. Alternatively, applicants can invest USD 325,000 into an approved development. The property or property investment must be held for at least seven years before it can be resold.
- Invest USD 250,000 to fund approved projects that benefit the nation, such as industry development or the construction of real estate development projects on state land. Another option includes the construction of development projects intended to be transferred to the state.
Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- Applicants must make a Sustainable Island State Contribution of USD 250,000 for a family of four. Each additional dependent under 18 years of age requires an additional USD 25,000 contribution, whilst additional dependents over the age of 18 requires an additional USD 50,000 contribution.
Saint Lucia
To qualify for the Saint Lucia citizenship by investment program, applicants must be at least 18 years of age, meet application requirements, and choose from one of the following four investment options:
Real Estate Investment
- Invest a minimum of USD 300,000 in high-end boutique properties or in luxury branded hotel and resort real estate developments. They must maintain the investment for a minimum of five years.
National Economic Fund (NEF) Donation
Make a non-refundable contribution to the Saint Lucia National Economic Fund. The minimum contribution is USD 240,000 for an applicant alone with up to 3 qualifying dependents. Adding dependents requires extra fees: USD 35,000 for a spouse, USD 25,000 for other qualifying dependents, USD 20,000 for dependents aged 18 and above, USD 10,000 for children aged 0-17, and USD 5,000 for infants under 12 months.
- Contribute a minimum of USD 3.5 million to a sanctioned enterprise initiative and establish a minimum of three long-term employment positions. As an alternative, applicants can contribute jointly a total of USD 6 million (with each individual investing at least USD 1 million) and generate no less than six permanent job opportunities. An applicant applying alone with 3 qualifying dependents must contribute only USD 250,000 to a qualifying project (with additional administrative fees).
Government Bond Investment
- Invest in non-interest-bearing government bonds with a minimum value of USD 300,000 and hold them for at least five years.
Turkey
To become eligible for the Turkish CBI Program, the main applicant must fulfill one or more of the following minimum investment requirements:
Real Estate Investment
- Acquire real estate property worth at least USD 400,000. The property must be held for at least 3 years.
Fixed Capital Investment
- Invest a minimum of USD 500,000 as a fixed capital contribution.
Job Creation
- Create employment opportunities for at least 50 people, as certified by the Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Services.
Deposit into a Turkish Bank
- Deposit at least USD 500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency or Turkish lira into a Turkish bank account.
Purchase Government Bonds
- Purchase a minimum of USD 500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency or Turkish lira of government bonds (and hold them for at least 3 years.
Invest in a Real Estate or Venture Capital Fund
- Invest at least USD 500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency or Turkish lira into a real estate investment fund or venture capital investment fund (and hold the investment for a minimum of 3 years).
Invest in the Private Pension System
- Allocate at least USD 500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency or Turkish lira into a private pension system with a minimum holding period of three years.
Vanuatu
To be eligible for citizenship by investment in Vanuatu, applicants must show proof of funds of at least USD 250,000 as well as fulfilling one of the below investment options:
Vanuatu Development Support Program (VDSP) Donation
- Donate at least USD 130,000 to the Vanuatu Development Support Program for a single applicant, or to add a spouse, the donation must increase to USD 150,000. Alternatively, to apply as a family of 3 it will cost USD 165,000, or as a family of 4, it will cost USD 180,000. Each dependent beyond this will require an additional donation of USD 10,000 each.
Purchase Government Bonds
- Applicants have the option to purchase government bonds, with the amount varying based on the time the shares will be held. You can purchase shares worth USD 97,680 (AUD 150,000) and hold them for 3 years, purchase shares worth 110,704 (AUD 170,000) and hold them for 2.5 years, or purchase shares worth USD 117,216 (AUD 180,000) and hold them for just 2 years.
Vanuatu Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
- For a single applicant, with the potential addition of a spouse and child, the investment amount must be USD 155,000. Alternatively, for a family of 4, the donation required is only USD 150,000. Any additional dependents beyond this will require an extra donation of USD 25,000 per dependent. After 5 years, USD 50,000 of your donation becomes redeemable.
Real Estate Option Program (REO)
- Invest in one of the four Vanuatu Government Approved (VGA) Projects. The VGA projects are located in Pacific Springs, Narpow Point Coral Bay, FPF Rainbow City Project, or Milai.
Global Trend towards Citizenship by Investment
In recent years, the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) industry has witnessed a remarkable shift, becoming more accessible to a broader spectrum of investors, not just the traditionally affluent. This democratization of CBI programs is reflected in the increasing number of countries that have introduced more flexible and affordable options. According to the CBI Index published by the Financial Times’ PWM Magazine, there has been a significant increase in applications, with some programs seeing growth rates of up to 49% year-on-year.
Furthermore, the introduction of government bonds and real estate investment options has lowered entry barriers, making it feasible for middle-class investors to consider CBI as a viable means of gaining second citizenship, with the potential for a return on investment. This trend highlights a global movement towards more inclusive economic strategies, allowing a diverse range of individuals to access the benefits of global mobility and economic security.
You can obtain Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu in as little as 30 days—one of the fastest routes to second citizenship.
Who Does Second Citizenship Benefit The most?
Second citizenship presents substantial advantages to diverse individuals, each with unique objectives and needs, positioning them to leverage a multitude of opportunities unavailable with a single nationality. Essentially, the benefits reaped from acquiring second citizenship are significantly defined by one’s lifestyle, professional pursuits, and long-term goals.
Entrepreneurs
For entrepreneurs with international business ambitions, a second passport can be a game-changer. Citizenship by investment (CBI) programs reduce bureaucratic hurdles, lower taxes, and simplify business setup processes. For instance, the Turkish citizenship program permits investors to establish a business and employ 50 local workers as a pathway to gaining citizenship, thus facilitating easier market entry and business expansion.
High Net Worth Individuals
High net-worth individuals stand to gain immensely from second citizenship, particularly through CBI programs. By making sizeable donations or investing in pre-approved real estate, these individuals can acquire a new nationality, often resulting in substantial tax savings. For example, a $100,000 donation under some Caribbean programs can potentially save an investor millions in tax liabilities in their home country.
Frequent Travelers
Individuals who value global mobility are another group that benefits significantly from a second passport. Enhanced travel freedom allows holders to access numerous countries visa-free, including those in the Schengen Area and the UK. For example, Maltese citizenship not only facilitates movement within the EU but also aids in securing long-term visas to the USA.
Families
Professionals and families seeking enhanced living conditions also benefit from second citizenship, which can open doors to superior healthcare and education systems. Beyond these practical advantages, acquiring second citizenship affords families cultural exposure and language learning opportunities, furnishing children with invaluable life skills and enhancing their future career prospects in an increasingly interconnected world.
In conclusion, the appeal of second citizenship varies widely among individuals, but the common denominator for most is the pursuit of enhanced business opportunities, greater travel freedom, tax optimization, and an overall improved quality of life.
Furthermore, the introduction of government bonds and real estate investment options has lowered entry barriers, making it feasible for middle-class investors to consider CBI as a viable means of gaining second citizenship, with the potential for a return on investment. This trend highlights a global movement towards more inclusive economic strategies, allowing a diverse range of individuals to access the benefits of global mobility and economic security.
You can obtain Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu in as little as 30 days—one of the fastest routes to second citizenship.
Processing Times For Citizenship By Investment
Selecting the right country for acquiring second citizenship is a decision that requires careful consideration of various factors that align with your personal and financial goals. Here are some key considerations to guide you in making an informed choice:
Prioritizing Global Mobility
One of the foremost considerations for many is the extent of travel freedom the second passport offers. Look for passports that allow visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a wide array of countries, including key business and travel destinations in the Schengen Area, North America, and Asia. We suggest considering Malta or Grenada, as both offer extensive visa-free travel options including to the Schengen Area, enhancing global mobility significantly.
Tax Optimization
Taxation policies can vary dramatically from one country to another. Some countries offer significant tax advantages to new citizens, including no taxation on worldwide income, inheritance, or wealth. For optimal tax benefits, consider Antigua and Barbuda or Saint Kitts and Nevis, both of which offer favorable tax regimes.
Investment Opportunities
Evaluate the economic environment of the potential host country. A good CBI program should open doors to lucrative investment opportunities in real estate, business ventures, and other sectors. Turkey’s dynamic economy offers diverse investment opportunities, especially in real estate and large-scale business ventures.
Political and Economic Stability
The stability of a country is crucial, as it affects not just safety and quality of life but also the security of your investments. Dominica and Saint Lucia are known for their stable political environments and prudent economic policies, making them attractive options for CBI.
Quality of Life
Consider what the country offers in terms of healthcare, education, and living standards. Countries that offer high-quality public services can enhance your family’s life significantly. Malta stands out for its high standards in healthcare and education, making it an excellent choice for families.
Ease of Process
The complexity and duration of the citizenship process can also be a deciding factor. Some countries offer more streamlined, faster processes than others. Vanuatu is renowned for its quick and straightforward citizenship process, often completed within 30 days.
Cultural and Social Fit
Cultural compatibility and the lifestyle offered by a country can greatly influence your experience as a resident. Grenada offers a vibrant culture with a welcoming community that makes it easy for new citizens to integrate.
Dual Citizenship
Not all countries allow dual citizenship, however, all of the countries that we provide Citizenship by Investment allow dual nationality.
In conclusion, choosing which country to acquire second citizenship in depends fundamentally on your goals for applying for citizenship by investment. Whether you’re seeking tax breaks, enhanced global mobility, or a safe and stable home, there is an ideal option for you. For detailed advice and up-to-date information, including family inclusion benefits and investment opportunities that suit your personal and financial objectives, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Next Generation Equity. Our experts are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring that your decision not only meets but exceeds your expectations for a better future.
Furthermore, the introduction of government bonds and real estate investment options has lowered entry barriers, making it feasible for middle-class investors to consider CBI as a viable means of gaining second citizenship, with the potential for a return on investment. This trend highlights a global movement towards more inclusive economic strategies, allowing a diverse range of individuals to access the benefits of global mobility and economic security.
You can obtain Citizenship by Investment in Vanuatu in as little as 30 days—one of the fastest routes to second citizenship.
Investment Options for Citizenship By Investment Programs
To secure citizenship by investment, interested individuals are required to make substantial economic contributions, which are then directed towards various sectors such as real estate, local businesses, and government bonds—each crucial in boosting the host country’s economy. Here are key investment options that provide a path to acquiring citizenship:
1. Charitable Contributions
One of the most straightforward ways to obtain citizenship is through making charitable donations. This option is often cost-effective as it does not require managing assets thereafter. However, it’s important to note that these financial contributions are non-refundable, apart from in Vanuatu, where USD 50,000 is refundable after 5 years.
2. Real Estate Investments
Many countries offer citizenship in return for investments in their real estate sector. While potentially lucrative, investors need to ensure they’re purchasing state-approved properties, which can be priced above market value and may incur additional government fees. It’s important to thoroughly research all of the property options prior to committing to the purchase. We also recommend you look at rental income taxes, stamp duty, and foreign ownership laws when choosing where you would like to buy property.
3. Hybrid Investments
Some countries employ a hybrid model, requiring individuals to make multiple investments across various sectors of their economy as a prerequisite for securing citizenship. For instance, to obtain citizenship by investment in Malta, applicants are required to make a combination of contributions that include a significant donation to the national development fund, investment in government-approved financial instruments, and a commitment to either purchase or lease property in Malta.
4. Banks, Bonds and Businesses Investments
Emerging options include depositing significant amounts in specified banks for set periods or purchasing government bonds, both subject to holding conditions before eligibility for citizenship. It’s crucial to evaluate the potential return on investment when selecting a country for citizenship by investment, as some programs may include terms that prohibit accruing interest on certain financial contributions, such as government bonds or bank deposits.
5. Investment Funds or Securities Purchase
Certain jurisdictions allow investors to buy securities or units within designated funds, providing another avenue towards citizenship by investment. This investment route typically involves contributing to funds that support a range of economic activities, from real estate developments to entrepreneurial ventures that drive innovation and job creation in the host country.
6. Business Setup and Job Creation
This method qualifies you after you set up business operations within the foreign nation generating local employment opportunities and overall economic growth. For this option, we recommend conducting a comprehensive market analysis and consulting with us at Next Generation for information on compliance with local business regulations. Additionally, consider the scalability and sustainability of the business to ensure it meets long-term profit and legal requirements for citizenship.
Choosing your form of investment and the country to invest in is a significant decision. At Next Generation Equity, our team of licensed agents are here to guide you through the various investment routes and help determine the best fit for you and your family’s needs.
Processing Times For Citizenship By Investment
The processing time for gaining your Citizenship by Investment will vary depending on the country you have applied for. Each country has its own unique requirements and procedures when vetting and approving citizenship for investors. Below are the average processing times for the countries that we offer Citizenship by Investment Programs for:
- Vanuatu: 1-4 months.
- Saint Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, and Antigua and Barbuda: 3-4 months.
- Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Turkey: 3-6 months.
- Malta: 12-36 months (depending on the investment option and fulfillment of residency requirements).
Citizenship By Investment Application Process
1. Choose the Country for Citizenship
Begin by selecting the country where you wish to gain citizenship. Each country offers unique benefits, such as visa-free travel, tax incentives, or business opportunities. For example, Malta provides EU citizenship, which allows free movement within the Schengen Area, while Grenada offers access to the US E-2 visa, which permits investors to operate a substantial business and reside in the US.
2. Sign the Necessary Agreement
Engage with a trusted service provider like Next Generation Equity, who will manage your application process. This involves signing an agreement of terms, detailing the fee structure, along with the responsibilities and services provided.
3. Gather All Necessary Documents
We will help you prepare a comprehensive dossier, including:
- Personal identification: Submit birth certificates, copies of passports and marriage certificates.
- Financial proof: Submit bank statements and proof of investment funds.
- Health records: Provide recent medical examinations and proof of health insurance may be required.
- Clean criminal record: Provide a police clearance certificate.
The specific documents required may vary by country. Dominica, for instance, mandates the submission of personal references and professional references in addition to standard documents. Malta requires evidence of genuine links to the country, such as proof of residency, involvement in community activities, or local connections.
It is essential that these documents are up-to-date to avoid delays.
4. Notarize Documents
Ensure that all your documents are authenticated, which may involve notarization or obtaining apostilles. Different countries have specific requirements. For example, Turkey requires notarized translations of all documents into Turkish, while Saint Lucia accepts documents in English but may require notarization depending on the document type.
5. Pay the Processing and Application Fees
The processing and application fees vary from each country’s citizenship by investment program, however, all processing and application fees are non-refundable. Most CBI programs will require additional fees for adding dependents.
6. Receive Preliminary Approval
7. Make Your Investment and Submit All Documents
Once you receive preliminary approval, proceed with making the required investment according to the guidelines of your chosen Citizenship by Investment program. This may involve purchasing real estate, making a contribution to a national development fund, or investing in government bonds, among other options. Ensure that all financial transactions are completed through legal channels and obtain official proof of investment, such as transaction receipts or title deeds. Submit all remaining documents.
Please note that some countries, such as Malta, require a minimum residency period before submission.
8. Provide Biometrics and Fingerprints (if required)
After your initial application and investment are processed, you may be required to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs. This step is crucial for further verifying your identity and completing your security checks. Depending on the country’s specific requirements, you might need to visit a designated consulate, embassy, or authorized service provider either in your country of residence or the country offering citizenship.
9. Attend an Interview (if required)
Some countries may require an interview or an oath-taking ceremony. For instance, Turkey and Malta require a residency period and an interview to finalize the process. All Caribbean programs have implemented a mandatory interview for all applicants aged 16 and above, and for Saint Lucia, this requirement is applicable only to the main applicant.
10. Receive Your Passport
After your application is approved, you will receive a passport. Depending on the country, you may need to visit in person to collect it, or it may be available at a consulate or via delivery to an address of your choice. Holders of a Vanuatu Citizenship Certificate must travel to Vanuatu to apply for their passports in person, while Caribbean programs offer more flexibility for applicants. The time-frame for receiving your citizenship (and passport) will vary by country. Vanuatu can provide your passport within 28 days of submission of your application, whereas other countries may take between 3-6 months.
11. Maintain Your Investment
After securing your citizenship, it’s crucial to maintain your investment for a minimum period as stipulated by the respective CBI program.
Some countries, such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, will require you to hold your real estate investments for 7 years. In comparison, some countries may have shorter minimum holding periods. For instance, several other Caribbean and European countries typically require a 3 to 5-year holding period for real estate investments.
Failure to maintain your investment for the required period can lead to the revocation of your citizenship and passport.
Benefits of Obtaining A Second Citizenship
Citizenship programs offer numerous benefits for individuals and their families, including:
1. Streamlined Process
Obtaining citizenship by investment offers a more streamlined process than traditional immigration processes. This type of economic citizenship program offers a quicker and more straightforward path to citizenship, with fewer requirements and government fees.
2. Visa-Free Travel
One of the most significant advantages of obtaining a second citizenship is the potential for visa-free travel to numerous countries, including those within the Schengen Area and the European Union. This can be invaluable for businesspeople looking to expand their operations internationally or families wishing to access educational opportunities in Western countries. Some programs can offer visa-free access to as many as 187 countries, greatly enhancing travel freedom.
3. Family Security
Citizenship by investment secures your future and your family by providing the rights to live, work, and study in the host country. Many programs allow the inclusion of immediate family members in the application, granting them the same benefits and protections under the new citizenship. Moreover, these programs typically do not require renunciation of your original nationality, allowing for dual citizenship and maintaining ties to your home country. Additionally, some programs offer the flexibility to maintain residency in your home country while still reaping the benefits of investment citizenship.
4. Real Estate Investment Opportunities
Many citizenship programs are tied to real estate investments, providing applicants with opportunities to invest in government-approved projects that can yield significant long-term returns. This not only helps in fulfilling the financial criteria of the citizenship application but also secures a tangible asset that can appreciate over time, contributing to financial security and stability.
5. Tax Advantages
Many countries offering CBI programs have favorable tax regimes that can significantly benefit investors. These may include no inheritance tax, no tax on worldwide income, or no capital gains tax, which can offer substantial savings and financial benefits. Such tax incentives make these programs attractive as they can help safeguard and enhance your wealth efficiently. This can be particularly appealing for high-net-worth individuals looking to optimize their tax liabilities while enjoying the lifestyle and security benefits that come with a second citizenship.
Benefits Of Citizenship By Investment Programs For The Host Nations
Countries typically introduce Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs to attract significant foreign direct investment. The funds raised through these programs are often channeled into local development projects, business growth, and job creation initiatives.
Additionally, CBI programs are effective in attracting global talent and expertise, which contributes to domestic economic prosperity. The influx of capital and wealth from foreign nationals not only supports local enterprises but also enhances social programs, ensuring sustained economic development and stability in the host nations.
The Difference Between Residency And Citizenship
Defining the difference between residency and citizenship can be confusing for some. Both ‘resident’ and ‘citizen’ are terms used to describe a person’s status in a country. However, they represent different concepts. Being a resident implies you can legally live and perhaps work in that country for a finite period while holding a passport from your home country. However, achieving citizenship provides extra privileges, like the right to vote and lifelong rights to reside and earn a living in a country.
Different Types Of Citizenship For Foreigners
Citizenship, as an idea, has morphed over centuries. The core idea persists – it’s a legal standing a person holds within a state. This state, however, isn’t necessarily their birthplace. Several common sorts of citizenship exist, namely jus sanguinis or “right of blood”, jus soli (citizenship achieved by birth location), jus matrimonii (citizenship via marriage), and naturalization.
Jus Sanguinis, Latin for “right of blood,” is one prevalent path to citizenship. As an example, if your parent or grandparent is already a citizen of a specific nation other than where you were born, you might be eligible for this type of citizenship. Think of countries like France, Greece, Romania, and Turkey, among others.
The jurisdiction you are born in defines jus soli, meaning “the right of soil.” Despite that, certain legal restrictions may apply in some jurisdictions. Nations, including Australia and New Zealand, follow this model. Other nations such as Canada, Greece, and Israel apply a combination of jus sanguinis and jus soli providing dual citizenship.
“Citizenship by marriage” or jus matrimonii has become increasingly accepted post World War II, where citizenship becomes a possibility after a certain period of wedlock.
Naturalization occurs when an individual has been in the country through proper channels for an extended amount of time, such as political asylum, which in turn leads to citizenship.
Last but not least, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) allows investors another possible way towards citizenship. Over a dozen of these programs currently exist, with the first launched by St Kitts & Nevis back in 1984.
Citizenship vs Residency Benefits Comparison
Benefits Citizens and Residents Both Enjoy:
- Social Benefits Access: Citizens and permanent residents have access to a range of social benefits, including comprehensive healthcare services. This ensures a high standard of living and support in times of need.
- Mobility Within the Nation: Both citizens and permanent residency cardholders enjoy the freedom to live, study, work, or operate businesses anywhere within the country. This mobility enhances personal and professional opportunities.
- Global Mobility: Citizens and residents often benefit from easier travel arrangements, such as visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to various countries, including those in the Schengen Zone. This is particularly advantageous for those looking to travel for business, leisure, or education.
Benefits Only Citizens Enjoy:
- Voting Rights: Only citizens have the right to vote in national elections and referendums, allowing them to influence government decisions and policies.
- Consular Access: Citizens have exclusive access to consular services overseas, providing crucial support in emergencies or legal matters while abroad.
- No Time Restrictions: Citizens can spend as much time as they wish either inside or outside the country without any restrictions, providing flexibility in personal and professional life.
- Permanent Security: Citizenship guarantees security in status and rights throughout a person’s life, unlike residency, which can be subject to conditions and changes.
- Intergenerational Security: Citizens have the ability to pass on their citizenship status to their children and grandchildren, ensuring long-term security and benefits for future generations.
Drawbacks of Only Having Residency:
- Visa Renewals: Residents must periodically renew their residence visas, which can be subject to government regulations and changes in policy.
- Conditional Status: Residency is often conditional on maintaining good health and a clean criminal record. Failure to meet these conditions can result in the loss of residency status.