Citizenship Investment (CBI) programmes have grown in popularity in recent years due to the benefits they offer investors and their families. At their core, these schemes provide citizenship in return for an investment in the country.
A Citizenship by Investment programme provides investors with alternative citizenship from in the country they are investing in.
This usually leads to them obtaining a 2nd passport from that country too.
The investment then gives investors and their families the right to travel freely to multiple destinations and to settle indefinitely in another country.
CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT
Citizenship by investment (CBI) is a pathway for foreign nationals and their families to obtain citizenship rights in another country through qualifying financial investments. Also known as investor visas, these programmes typically offer foreign investors a wide range of benefits and allow them to secure a second passport.
St. Kitts and Nevis launched the world’s first CBI programme in 1984. The scheme continues to this day, making it both the world’s oldest and longest-running CBI programme.
Over the years, the demand for CBI programmes has increased as people look for a secure plan B and greater global mobility. This has prompted more countries to introduce similar programmes. Today, numerous countries around the world offer citizenship by investment schemes.
BENEFITS OF CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT
Visa-Free Travel:
One of the primary citizenship benefits is the enhanced global mobility it provides. Passport holders gain visa-free access to more destinations. This makes travelling for business or pleasure more of a seamless experience.
ULTIMATE ‘PLAN B’:
CBI schemes can offer applicants and their families greater security and stability. A second citizenship provides a safe haven and an alternative residence option, ensuring a secure environment for your family’s future.
SOCIAL BENEFITS:
Becoming a citizen in another country opens the door to several social benefits. For example, you can access the healthcare and education system in the host country. This often applies to both the investor and their family.
TAX BENEFITS:
Having dual citizenship can help investors reduce their tax burden. Some countries have a more favourable tax system. This means citizens do not pay income tax, capital gains, wealth or inheritance tax on worldwide income or assets.
