In 2025, around 50,000 people and their families are expected to get citizenship by investment. One of the most popular ways to get this is by buying real estate. Many countries, especially in the Caribbean, such as Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Lucia, offer this program. These five countries give out nearly 90% of all real estate-based citizenships.
In Europe, Malta used to offer citizenship through real estate investment and was seen as the best option. But in early 2025, the program was closed after the EU said it didn’t follow its rules.
Now, Turkey (Türkiye) is one of the most popular choices. You can obtain a Turkish passport by investing $400,000 in real estate, and the process takes about 8 to 12 months.
In this guide, we’ll explain how the entire process works, which countries offer it, how much it costs, what concerns to keep in mind, and how to choose the right program for you.
What Is Citizenship by Real Estate Investment?
Citizenship by property investment is a legal way to get a second passport by buying property in a country that offers this option. It’s a part of the CBI – Citizenship by Investment programs. Instead of living in a country for many years to become a citizen, you can invest in real estate and get citizenship in 3 to 12 months.
Most countries set a minimum amount ($200,000 to $500,000) that you need to spend, and the property usually has to be approved by the government. This could be a house, an apartment, or part of a hotel or project. Some countries let you sell the property later and still keep your citizenship.
Why Invest in Real Estate for Citizenship
Real estate investment is one of the easiest and most popular ways to get a second citizenship. Here are 10 reasons why the program performs so well-
Visa-Free Travel Access
If you get a second passport through real estate investment, you can travel to many countries without needing a visa. Countries like Dominica, St. Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda give you visa-free access to over 140 to 150 countries, including the UK, Europe’s Schengen Zone, Singapore, and more. If your current passport doesn’t give you much access, this new one can give you more freedom.
Quick Application Process
Real estate citizenship programs are much quicker than regular immigration. Some programs approve you in just 3 to 6 months, like in the Caribbean. Others, like Turkey, take about 8 to 12 months. You don’t need to pass any tests, learn a new language, or wait for years. You just buy the approved property, submit your papers, and wait for approval.
Affordable Investment Options
You don’t need to be a millionaire to apply. In many countries, you can qualify with a $200,000 to $400,000 real estate purchase. For example, Dominica and St. Lucia start at just $200,000, and Turkey starts at $400,000. This is money you’re investing in real property, not a donation.
Property Can Be Sold
Most programs ask you to hold the property for 3 to 5 years. After that, you’re free to sell it if you want. Many people also choose to rent out their property during that time. In popular areas, this can give you a 2-4% yearly return. That means you’re not just buying a passport- you’re making a smart investment.
Citizenship for Family
Citizenship by real estate investment usually covers more than just one person. You can include your partner, children, and sometimes even your parents in one application. This means your whole family can get the same benefits- like visa-free travel, safety, better education, and healthcare. It’s a good way to make sure your loved ones have more freedom and security, too.
No Need to Live in the Country
Many people want citizenship but don’t want to move right away. The good news is that most real estate programs don’t require you to live there. You can apply, get approved, and live wherever you want. This is great for busy people- like business owners, remote job holders, or anyone who travels often. You can maintain your lifestyle, but enjoy the benefits of being a citizen in another country.
A Safe Backup Plan
A second citizenship gives you more than just travel freedom- it gives you a backup plan. If something goes wrong in your home country- like political problems, war, or financial troubles- you have another place to go. Real estate in a safe country also protects your money. You own something valuable in a stable location. Many families in 2025 choose this program to keep their future safe.
Potential Tax Advantages
Some countries with real estate citizenship programs have low or no taxes on income, inheritance, or capital gains, which means you can protect your wealth legally and pay less tax in the long run. Dominica, Antigua, and St. Kitts are all examples where people enjoy tax-friendly systems. For business owners and high-income individuals, this is a smart way to manage money.
High Global Demand
In 2025, more than 50,000 people gained citizenship through investment. Real estate is one of the top choices. Countries like Turkey, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Grenada have seen thousands of new investors each year. The demand is high because people want more freedom, a backup plan, and global opportunities. Many investors are from the US, China, the Middle East, and Africa, looking for a better future for their families.
Supports Economic Growth
When you invest in real estate, you’re not only helping yourself- you’re also helping the country. Your money supports local businesses, jobs, and tourism. In places like Dominica, real estate investments have helped reconstruct the economy after natural disasters.
How to Get Citizenship Through Property
Here’s a simple guide to help you see the full process from start to finish-
1. Decide What You Want and Fix Your Goal
Before choosing a program, think about your personal and financial goals. Are you looking for visa-free travel to Europe or Asia? Do you want to pay fewer taxes? Do you plan to move or just want a backup passport?
For example:
- Caribbean countries offer fast and low-cost citizenship with travel access to 140-150 countries.
- Turkey gives access to both the East and the West and is popular for its property value and big expat community.
2. Choose a Government-Approved Program and Licensed Advisor
You can’t apply directly in most cases. Every country with a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program wants you to apply through a licensed agent.
These advisors help you:
- Understand the steps and avoid mistakes
- Pick the right property from the approved list
- Prepare and send your documents
3. Select an Approved Real Estate Investment Program
Each program only accepts property from a list approved by the government. These include:
- Luxury apartments
- Villas or townhouses
- Shares in 5-star hotels or buildings
The least you can invest is $200,000 in places like Dominica or St. Lucia and $400,000 in Turkey. Some properties are for full ownership, others are part of hotel projects. You must keep the property for 3 to 5 years to keep your citizenship.
4. Sign a Purchase Agreement and Pay the Required Fees
After choosing the property, you will need to sign an agreement and send the money. This includes:
- The cost of the property
- Government application fees
- Fees for background checks (due diligence)
- Legal and service fees for your advisor
5. Submit Your Application
You need to collect documents such as:
- Passports and ID cards for all family members
- Police clearance from every country you have lived in for over 6 months
- Bank papers showing where your money came from
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Medical reports
Your advisor will send everything to the government, including proof of your property investment.
6. Government Due Diligence and Background Checks
After submitting your application, the government checks your background. They want to see:
- You have no criminal history
- Your money is from a legal source
- You are not a risk to the country
This part is very serious. If your documents are correct, this step usually takes:
- 1 to 3 months in Caribbean countries
- 3 to 6 months in Turkey and other places
7. Receive a Letter of Approval
If your background check goes well, you’ll get pre-approval (also called Approval in Principle). This means your application is approved, and you just need to finish a few more steps.
You may need to:
- Complete the rest of the property payment
- Finalize the property paperwork
- Pay the last government fees
8. Get Your Citizenship Certificate and Passport
Once all steps are done, you’ll get:
- A Citizenship Certificate or Naturalization Paper
- Your new passport
Some countries give it to you in person. Others send it through your advisor or an embassy. You are now a legal citizen of your chosen country, with all the rights and benefits.
9. Maintain Your Property and Citizenship
To keep your citizenship, you must:
- Hold the property for a few years, usually 3-5
- Do not sell or transfer it before the holding period ends
You don’t have to live there unless you want to. During this time, most people:
- Rent the property and earn money
- Use it as a vacation home
After the holding time ends, you can sell the property – your citizenship stays for life.
Top 7 Countries That Offer Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
In 2025, not every country will give citizenship just because you buy a property. Only a few selected nations have official and legal programs that allow this.
| Country | Investment | Holding Period | Processing Time | Visa-Free Access |
| Turkey | $400,000 | 3 years | 8–12 months | 110+ countries |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | $325,000 | 5-7 years | 4–6 months | 140+ countries |
| Dominica | $200,000 | 3 years | 4–6 months | 140+ countries |
| Grenada | $270,000 | 5 years | 4–6 months | 140+ countries |
| Antigua & Barbuda | $300,000 | 5 years | 4–6 months | 145+ countries |
| St. Lucia | $300,000 | 5 years | 3–6 months | 140+ countries |
| Egypt | $300,000 | 5 years | 6–8 months | 50+ countries |
1. Turkey (Türkiye)
Turkey has become one of the most popular choices for real estate-based citizenship. You need to invest at least $400,000 in property. The process takes about 8 to 12 months. You can buy an apartment, villa, or even multiple units. You don’t need to live in Turkey, and your citizenship will stay for life. Additionally, you will get visa-free access to over 110 countries, and you will become part of a country that connects both Europe and Asia.
Read More about Turkey Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
2. St. Kitts & Nevis
One of the oldest and most respected programs, St. Kitts & Nevis allows you to invest $325,000 in government-approved real estate. The property must be held for 5 to 7 years. The process is fast- usually done in 4 to 6 months. You will get visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone, the UK, and Singapore.
Read More about St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
3. Dominica
Dominica gives you one of the most affordable programs in the world. You can get citizenship by investing just $200,000 in real estate from approved projects. The process is smooth and takes about 3 to 5 months. You can also include your family. Visa-free travel includes over 140 countries, and there’s no need to visit or live in Dominica.
Read More about Dominica Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
4. Grenada
Grenada requires a real estate investment of at least $270,000 in a government-approved project. You must hold the property for 5 years. The process usually takes 4 to 6 months. Grenada’s passport gives you visa-free access to over 140 countries, including China and the Schengen Zone. It’s also the only Caribbean country with an E-2 Visa treaty with the US, which means you can apply for a US investor visa after becoming a citizen.
Read More about Grenada Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
5. Antigua & Barbuda
With a minimum real estate investment of $300,000, Antigua & Barbuda offers another great option. You’ll need to hold the property for at least 5 years. The process takes 4 to 6 months, and you must spend just 5 days in the country within the first 5 years. You’ll enjoy visa-free travel to more than 150 countries, and families with many dependents often choose this program because of its cost-effectiveness.
Read More about Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
6. St. Lucia
In St. Lucia, you can get citizenship by buying real estate worth at least $300,000. The property must be approved by the government, and you need to keep it for at least 5 years. The application takes about 3 to 6 months. You can include your husband or wife, children, and sometimes even your parents. With a St. Lucian passport, you can travel to over 140 countries without a visa.
Read More about St. Lucia Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
7. Egypt
Egypt recently joined the list of countries that offer citizenship by real estate investment. To apply, you need to invest at least $300,000 in property that the government approves. This can be a house, apartment, or business space. You must keep the property for at least 5 years. The whole process usually takes 6 to 8 months. Egypt is in a great location- it connects Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, which makes it a good choice for many investors in the region.
Read More about Egypt Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
Risks and Challenges You Should Know
Getting citizenship by real estate investment sounds easy, but there are some issues you need to watch out for. Here are the most common risks and challenges you should know before you start.
Low-Quality Properties
In some countries, property prices are made higher just because they qualify for citizenship. You might pay more than the real value. Also, some real estate projects are not in good places or never get finished. If the place stays empty, you won’t earn rent or profit.
Delays in Application Processing
Some programs say they are fast, but delays still happen. The government might ask for more documents or take more time to check your background. Rules can change while you wait. For example, Malta stopped its program in 2025 after pressure from the EU.
Unlicensed or Fake Agents
You have to apply through a licensed agent, but not all agents are honest. Some people pretend to be real advisors and promise fast approval or easy shortcuts. If you pick the wrong person, you could lose everything. Always check if the agent is approved by the government and has good feedback from real clients.
Changing Laws and Policies
These programs can change quickly. A country might increase the minimum investment, add new rules, or stop the program without warning. This happened with Malta. If you start at the wrong time, you may not be able to finish. So it’s important to move quickly once you decide- but also carefully.
Resale Limitations
Most programs say you have to keep the property for 3 to 5 years. If you sell it early, your citizenship could be cancelled. Also, it might not be easy to sell later. Some properties are in places with low demand or are part of hotel projects that not many people want to buy.
Weak Passport Power
Not all passports give the same travel access. For example, Egypt’s passport only gives access to about 50 countries. But Dominica or Grenada gives access to 140 or more. If travel freedom is your goal, make sure the passport you choose opens the doors you need.
How to Choose the Right Program for You
The best program depends on what you want to achieve, how much money you can spend, and your family’s needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Know Why You Want a Second Citizenship
If you want to travel easily, some passports let you visit over 150 countries without a visa, including places like Europe’s Schengen area, the UK, and Singapore. For example, Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis offer this.
If you want to pay less tax, some countries like Antigua and Dominica have no taxes on wealth or inheritance, which can save you money. If safety is important, Turkey is a good choice because it’s a stable country, ranked 139th out of 163 in global safety in 2024.
If you want to make money from your property, Turkey’s real estate prices went up about 15% in 2023, and Grenada offers rental income between 3% and 5%. Lastly, if you have family, make sure the program covers them too and gives them citizenship for life.
Know How Much Money You Need To Spend
The cost to join these programs changes a lot. Some Caribbean countries start at $200,000, but Turkey asks for at least $400,000. Besides the price of the property, you will need to pay extra fees like government charges, background checks, lawyer fees, and agent fees. These can add 15% to 20% more.
For example, in St. Kitts & Nevis, government fees alone can be $50,000 or more. Also, keep in mind currency changes – the Turkish Lira has gone up and down by 20% against the US dollar in recent years. You usually must keep the property for 3 to 5 years before you can sell it.
Check Family Rules
If you want to include your family, check who can join. Some programs allow your spouse, kids under 18, grown-up children up to 25, and sometimes parents. Antigua & Barbuda is good for big families because it lets you add more people for a reasonable cost. Also, some countries make it easier for families to apply and get approved.
Compare Passport Power
The strength of your new passport is very important if you want to travel freely. Grenada’s passport is special because it lets you visit China without a visa and also allows you to apply for a special US investor visa called the E-2 visa. Turkey’s passport gives you visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to about 110 countries, including Japan and South Korea, but it doesn’t cover the Schengen countries without a visa.
Look at the Real Estate Market
Turkey’s property prices went up 15% in 2023, and in cities like Istanbul, rental income can be between 4% and 6% per year. Caribbean islands depend on tourists, and rental income usually ranges from 2% to 4%, but it can be seasonal. Choose places with good locations and demand so you can sell or rent the property easily later.
Know Residency Rules
Some countries don’t make you live there at all. Dominica and St. Lucia ask for zero visits, perfect for busy people who travel a lot. Antigua & Barbuda asks you to stay just five days in five years. Check these rules carefully so your lifestyle doesn’t get interrupted.
Think About the Future
Your citizenship lasts forever, so think long-term. Will the passport still be strong? Will the property value stay good? Some countries ask you to hold your property for five years before selling, so make sure you can sell it when the time comes without problems.
Look for Extra Benefits
Some programs give more than just citizenship. Turkey, for example, is part of a trade agreement with the European Union, which helps businesses. Grenada’s passport lets you apply for the US E-2 visa, which is great if you want to invest or work in the US. Also, good healthcare and schools are important if you plan to move with your family.
Common Myths About Citizenship by Investment
There are many wrong ideas about citizenship by investment that can confuse or worry people who want to apply. It’s important to know the truth so you can make a good choice. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths.
One common myth is that citizenship by investment is a “quick fix” or an easy way to get a passport without any real work. It’s not an instant passport or a way to skip immigration laws.
Another myth is that you must live in the country where you buy property to get citizenship. The truth is, most countries that offer citizenship by real estate do not ask you to live there.
Some people think that citizenship by investment is only for very rich people. But in many countries like Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, and St. Lucia, you can start with as little as $200,000.
Another wrong idea is that once you get citizenship, you can sell the property right away and still keep the passport. In reality, most countries want you to keep the property for a few years – usually 3 to 5 years – before selling it.
Some think that citizenship by investment programs are illegal or shady. But these programs are completely legal and controlled by governments. They check all applicants carefully to make sure they have no criminal records and that their money is from legal sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are citizenship by investment countries?
Citizenship by investment countries are places where you can get a second passport by setting money into their economy, usually by buying property. Some of the top countries in 2025 are Turkey, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
2. What is a golden visa?
A golden visa is a way to live in a country by investing money, usually in real estate or business. It gives you the right to stay, and in some countries, you can apply for citizenship later. But it’s not the same as citizenship by investment.
3. Which country offers the cheapest citizenship by investment?
The cheapest citizenship-by-investment programs are in the Caribbean. Dominica lets you invest just $200,000 in real estate to apply.
4. Does buying a property in the USA give you residency?
No, buying property in the USA does not give you residency. You can own a home, but to live in the U.S., you need a visa or a green card. There are investor visa options like EB-5, but they need more than just buying property.
5. What are the best countries for dual citizenship?
Turkey, Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Grenada all allow dual citizenship. These countries give good travel access and let you keep your first passport while adding a second one.
6. What is the cheapest passport to buy?
The cheapest passport to buy through real estate investment is from Dominica or St. Lucia. Both start at $200,000 or $300,000 and give you visa-free access to over 140 countries.
7. What are the best countries for real estate investment?
Turkey is great because property prices are going up, and it connects Europe and Asia. In the Caribbean, countries like Grenada and St. Kitts & Nevis also offer good options with steady rental income.
8. What are the best countries to get citizenship?
The best countries to get citizenship by investment are Turkey, Dominica, St. Lucia, and Grenada. They offer fast processing, strong passports, and include family members in the application.
9. What is residency by real estate investment?
Residency by real estate investment means you will get the right to live in a country by buying property. Some places offer only residency, while others may let you apply for citizenship later.
10. Can you get Portugal citizenship by real estate?
No, you can’t get Portuguese citizenship by real estate anymore. The program stopped in 2025. Portugal still gives a golden visa for living there, but not direct citizenship through property.
11. Which country gives citizenship by buying property?
Several countries give citizenship if you buy property. These include Turkey, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, and Egypt. You need to buy approved real estate and keep it for 3-7 years, depending on the country.
Final Thoughts
Getting a second passport by purchasing property is a smart way to protect your future. It gives you more freedom to travel, better options for your family, and a safe backup plan if things go wrong in your home country.
But choosing the right country and property is very important. There are rules, risks, and a lot of small details you need to know. That’s why it helps to have expert support.
At WeRWealthy, we make the entire process easy for you. We help you pick the right country, find the best property, and take care of all the paperwork. If you’re thinking about getting citizenship through real estate, talk to us.
