With increasing global mobility and investment-focused immigration policies, a growing number of Indians are securing citizenship from foreign countries through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. These schemes, available for ₹1 crore or less, offer an expedited pathway to a second passport—often with minimal residency requirements and no questions asked.
Here are nine countries where Indian citizens are actively investing for citizenship:
1. Dominica
Dominica offers a straightforward donation-based route starting at around ₹76 lakh. The program does not require physical residency, language tests, or interviews. Citizenship grants visa-free access to over 140 countries and includes tax benefits like exemption on foreign income.
2. St. Lucia
The St. Lucia CBI program requires a similar ₹76 lakh donation. Processing is swift—typically 3 to 5 months—and citizenship extends to immediate family members. The country is popular for its ease of access and lack of global income tax.
3. Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers one of the fastest CBI routes, with approval possible in just 60 days. A ₹80 lakh contribution to the country’s development fund is sufficient. Its passport enables visa-free access to over 100 countries, and it does not tax worldwide income.
4. Grenada
Grenada offers citizenship in exchange for a minimum ₹95 lakh donation or real estate investment. A unique advantage is access to the US E-2 visa treaty, allowing Grenadian citizens to establish businesses and live in the United States.
5. Antigua & Barbuda
Citizenship can be obtained for approximately ₹76 lakh through the National Development Fund. The program allows visa-free travel to more than 140 countries and requires just five days of residency over five years.
6. Turkey
Turkey’s program requires a real estate investment of ₹1 crore. It offers fast-track citizenship for families and access to the country’s booming economy and strategic location bordering Europe and Asia.
7. North Macedonia
With a minimum contribution of about ₹92 lakh, North Macedonia offers citizenship with relatively relaxed conditions. The country aspires to join the European Union, which could further enhance the value of its passport.
8. Moldova
Though currently paused in some cycles, Moldova previously offered a CBI scheme for about ₹92 lakh. It allowed visa-free access to over 120 countries and offered a low-cost European base for investors.
9. St. Kitts & Nevis
One of the oldest and most reputable CBI programs, St. Kitts requires a ₹92 lakh investment. The process is discreet, efficient, and includes visa-free travel to over 150 countries.
Important Note for Indian Citizens
India does not permit dual citizenship. Those applying for these programs must renounce their Indian citizenship upon acquiring foreign nationality. These schemes are primarily pursued by high-net-worth individuals for better global access, business flexibility, education options for children, and reduced tax exposure.
