Frequent Asked Questions
What is residency and citizenship by real estate investment?
Residency and Citizenship by Real Estate Investment means you can obtain the right to live or even become a citizen in a country by purchasing property there. For example, in Turkey, buying real estate worth at least USD 400,000 and keeping it for 3 years makes you eligible for citizenship.
How does real estate investment help me get a second passport?
By investing in real estate through a country’s Citizenship by Investment program, you may qualify for a second passport. Once you purchase approved property and pass government due diligence, you can be granted citizenship and receive that country’s passport. Countries like Turkey, Dominica, St. Lucia, and Grenada offer this option.
Which countries offer citizenship and residency through real estate investment?
Citizenship by real estate investment – You can become a citizen by buying property in certain countries, such as
- Turkey: USD 400,000
- Dominica: USD 200,000
- St. Lucia: USD 300,000
- Grenada: USD 270,000
- Antigua & Barbuda: USD 300,000
Residency by real estate investment – Some countries give you the right to live there if you buy property. Examples include:
- Greece: from €250,000 in selected properties
- Cyprus: €300,000
- UAE (Dubai): AED 2 million
- Hungary: USD 250,000
What is the minimum investment required for citizenship and residency through real estate?
The amount depends on the country:
- Citizenship: Dominica requires USD 200,000 in approved property, St. Lucia requires USD 300,000, Grenada requires USD 270,000, and Turkey requires USD 400,000.
- Residency: Greece starts at €250,000 in specific projects or areas, while Dubai (UAE) needs AED 2 million (about USD 550,000).
Can I buy any property, or does it need to be government-approved?
You cannot buy just any property. Most programs require you to purchase government-approved real estate or properties that meet specific rules, such as minimum value, location, and a required holding period.
For example, in Turkey, the property deed must state that you will not sell it for 3 years.
How long does the process take to get residency and citizenship through real estate?
Citizenship: The Caribbean programs usually take 3–6 months, depending on the country. In Turkey, it usually takes 8–12 months after you buy the property and complete all checks.
Residency: Greece usually takes about 3 months, and the UAE (Dubai) takes around 2–3 weeks from the time you submit your application.
Do I need to live in the country after getting residency or citizenship?
Not always. Many citizenship programs, such as those in Turkey and the Caribbean, do not require you to live in the country. Some residency programs may ask you to visit once a year, but full-time living is usually not required.
Can my family also get citizenship or residency through my investment?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included. Some programs also allow dependent parents. Each country has its own age limits for children and separate fees for family members.
Do I need to pay property taxes or maintain the property?
Yes. Like any property owner, you must pay local property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. The amounts depend on the country, the city, and the type of property you buy.
Can I sell the property after getting citizenship or residency?
Yes, but only after the minimum holding period. For example:
- Turkey: You must keep the property for at least 3 years.
- Dominica: You can sell after 3 years on the open market, or after 5 years if you sell it to another investor who also wants to apply for citizenship.
Is rental income from investment properties allowed?
Yes. In most countries, you can rent out your property and earn rental income while still keeping your residency or citizenship status. This is common in Caribbean programs and also in places like Greece and Dubai.
Can I finance the property with a loan, or must it be paid in full?
Most programs require that the investment amount come from your own money. Some countries allow local bank mortgages, but usually, the full minimum value must be from your equity. For example, in Dubai, the property must be worth AED 2 million, even if part of it is mortgaged.
Is real estate investment for citizenship refundable if my application is denied?
Usually not. Real estate investments are generally not refundable if your citizenship application is denied, since you are purchasing actual property. Donations (in programs that offer them) are also non-refundable. This is why thorough due diligence and pre-approval checks are essential before applying.
In practice, the property remains yours as an asset you can keep, rent, or later resell, but the government fees and application costs are non-refundable.
What are the main benefits of residency and citizenship by real estate investment?
- Visit countries without a visa
- Access quality education and medical care
- Start and run businesses easily in stable countries
- Real estate gives a secure asset in safe countries
- Some countries have low personal or business taxes
- Live in countries with stable governments and a good quality of life
- Your family can get the same benefits and security
How do I choose the right country and property for investment?
It depends on your goals:
- If you want a second passport quickly, Turkey or Caribbean countries are good choices.
- If you want residency to live, work, or run a business, Greece or Dubai are popular options.
Contact WeRWealthy to get expert advice and help in picking the best country and property for your investment.