How to get investment citizenship?
There are several ways to obtain a legal status somewhere: by birth, marriage, or long-term residence in a state. Certain individuals can receive it for outstanding merits in sports, culture, and charity.
A particular type is citizenship by investment, currently available in only 14 jurisdictions worldwide. Multiple lands have legislative mechanisms allowing foreigners to become residents in exchange for a significant contribution to the development of culture or the economy. However, such cases are sporadic. In Ireland, Moldova, Belize, Cape Verde, Slovakia, and Seychelles, programs to attract foreign investors in exchange for citizenship were successful, but they are currently closed.
What is citizenship through contribution?
The procedure of changing citizenhood or getting a second one usually takes years and involves complex operations such as moving abroad, passing state exams, and learning a new language. Citizenship by investments programs is a unique mechanism developed by governments that allow one to receive an alternative passport without disturbing the usual rhythm of life.
A mandatory condition is placing a certain amount in the economy of the host state. The investor is granted citizen status faster than traditional immigration. It can be the acquisition of residential or commercial real estate for a certain sum of money, the establishment of a new business and the creation of jobs, and direct cash subsidies to state funds. But this doesn’t mean one can simply “purchase” any passport. The applicant must be fully compliant with legal requirements and have crystal-clear biography and legally acquired wealth.
Why do people invest in a second citizenship?
Another passport supplies its holder with significant opportunities, and it’s not just about visa-free travel. International entrepreneurs often obtain 2nd passports to distribute assets, register real estate, yachts, and ships overseas, and conduct certain activities.
In the context of globalization and economic wars, some entrepreneurs found themselves under sanctions, and their assets were blocked only because of their origin. Having a second passport allows you to establish a business or buy property in a jurisdiction free from persecution and encroachment by unscrupulous competitors.
The additional legal status is an integral part of the life of international freelance professionals who prefer not to live in a particular geographical area but to move around the world constantly. For owners of impressive earnings, this is also an opportunity to choose the most convenient jurisdiction for paying taxes and to be no longer considered a tax resident in their homeland.
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What are the benefits of dual citizenship?
A second ID grants its holder the opportunity to visit without a visa to almost 200 countries. This saves time on paperwork for international entrepreneurs constantly moving around the world. Countries with citizenship by investment are generally non-extradition jurisdictions known for their political and financial stability. Some people have reason to believe that they may be persecuted in their home country because of their commercial or political activities. Thus, legal status in another state creates a bridgehead of safety for oneself and their family in case of an emergency and a quick escape from a dangerous territory.
Another passport is an investment in the future of your children. As a rule, keeping a national ID while obtaining a foreign one and having two passes is possible. At birth, children will become citizens of two states, which, in turn, will open up wider horizons for them in getting an education, choosing a job, and planning a life.
Another possibility is the right to apply for an E-2 investor visa in the USA (this visa is not available to Russian, Belarusian, Chinese, or Indian ID holders).
Which states offer citizenship through investment programs?
In 2022, there are few jurisdictions where you can get another national ID. They are conditionally divided into two groups, European and Caribbean. In the CBI ranking, the top three are Dominica, Saint Kitts, and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Malta, Montenegro, Vanuatu, Egypt, North Macedonia, Turkey, Jordan, Austria, and Cambodia. A total of 14 countries have introduced a policy of issuing passports for investment. In another fifteen, you can acquire a residence permit for investment.
What are the requirements for obtaining a second passport?
It is forbidden to have dual citizenship In certain lands. Therefore, when obtaining a second passport, you sometimes need to give up the first one. If an investor wants to keep both, there are still many opportunities.
An essential requirement is the absence of criminal records or links with terrorist organisations. Before applying for citizenship by investment program, you must pass the due diligence check. If the commission has suspicions of money laundering or the illegal origin of capital, this may be a reason for refusal.
Why Fintech Harbor?
Our team of consultants keeps abreast of and monitors changes in investment programs. During the consultation, they will advise the best jurisdiction grounded on your needs. We will do our best to eliminate the risk of refusal and fines, warn you of all the issues, and help you prepare documents and fill in the gaps. We enjoy an impeccable reputation and cooperate directly with the governments providing immigration programs for capitalists.
FAQ
Terms to become a citizen through investment
Second foreign passports allow easy travel to many lands, including Schengen and Great Britain. The application process typically includes document submission without visiting the country in person. The fastest citizenship by investment programme is in Saint Kitts and Vanuatu.
The most popular destinations for investment citizenship
Antigua, Dominica, and Saint Lucia are the cheapest. You need to donate to the government fund only $100,000 and meet certain regulations. These countries are also very comfortable to live in. There is a developed infrastructure, a warm climate, and a measured pace of life. International banks operate here, and you can manage a global business or work on the Internet while living in a tropical paradise. The locals speak excellent English, so there is no need to learn a new language if you decide to move to this region. A favorable geographical position allows you to travel quickly to North and South America.
Documents to apply for a second passport
The general check for second citizenship by investment comes down to checking the bio and origin of the investor’s funds. You will need to present your national identification card, address, information about the business, professional biography, and proof of origin of funds. The list may vary depending on the jurisdiction. The governing agency is in a position to request extra papers if they have questions.
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