European Countries that offer Citizenship by Investment

Discover top European nations for Citizenship by Investment. Gain a second passport in these EU countries through investment.

Citizenship by investment, or economic citizenship, is a fascinating avenue to acquire a second citizenship or nationality in another country simply by investing in that nation’s economic growth. Traditionally, Caribbean countries have been the go-to destinations for citizenship by investment. However, with the ongoing global pandemic, European countries have also opened their doors to this option. Let’s delve into the top 5 European countries offering citizenship by investment:

5. Greece

Greece, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, is also a leading travel destination. With a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and abundant educational opportunities, it’s no wonder Greece is a top choice.

The Greece Golden Visa Program stands out as one of the most affordable residence-by-investment programs providing access to Europe. Successful applicants and their families can enjoy visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area within a mere two months of applying. Here’s the kicker: You don’t even need to reside in Greece immediately. You can secure a residence permit within 2 months of your application. Moreover, this permit extends to your entire family, including your spouse, children under 21 years, and parents. If that’s not enough, you can apply for Greek citizenship after just 7 years of residence.

To qualify for this golden opportunity, you can opt for one of the following:

• Real estate investment of 250,000 Euros (approximately Rs. 2.20 crore) plus additional taxes.
• Enter into a 10-year lease agreement with an approved hotel accommodation.
• Invest 400,000 euros (around Rs. 3.52 crore) in a company established or registered in Greece.

4. Malta

Malta, a picturesque South European island nation, is renowned for its high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and lucrative business prospects. With Maltese citizenship, you gain the right to live and work in Malta or anywhere within the European Union. What’s more, you enjoy visa-free access or visa-on-arrival to a whopping 186 nations worldwide.

To embark on this citizenship journey, you’ll need to fulfill some residency requirements:

• Reside in Malta for a minimum of 36 months before applying.
• Invest at least 600,000 euros (approximately Rs. 5.28 crore) in a government national development fund.
• Purchase real estate valued at a minimum of 700,000 euros (approximately Rs. 6.16 crore) for a duration of five years.
• Make a charitable donation of at least EUR 10,000 (around 8.80 lakh or aat laakh assi hazaar) to a registered non-governmental organization.
• Commit to a 5-year rental lease for property with an annual rent of at least 16,000 euros.

3. Austria

Austria, often considered one of the most developed and beautiful countries globally, boasts a great quality of life, stunning natural attractions, and favorable weather. It’s a place where living is a true pleasure.

What sets Austria apart is its unique citizenship by investment program. It’s the only developed nation worldwide that offers citizenship by investment while granting you an EU passport without requiring you to reside in the country. With Austrian citizenship, you gain the freedom to live and work anywhere within the European Union. Moreover, an Austrian passport ranks as the 5th most powerful globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a staggering 189 countries, including the United States.

To embark on this Austrian journey, you’ll need to make a significant investment:

• Minimum investment of 3 million euros (approximately Rs. 26.41 crore or chabbis crore baasat lakh) into the government development fund.
• Alternatively, you can invest $10 million (around Rs. 88.05 crore or Athaasi crore paanch lakh) directly into a business venture.
• The application process typically spans 24 to 36 months.

With Austrian citizenship, not only do you secure these benefits for yourself, but you also open the door for future generations in your family.

Additionally, Austria offers a residence permit by investment. This permit, initially issued for one year, can be renewed without hassles. To qualify for an Austrian residence permit, you must deposit 40,000 euros or an estimated Rs. 35 lakh, with the exact amount varying based on your family size. Holding an Austrian residence permit allows you to move freely within Austria and the rest of the European Union. After 10 years of legal residence, and under certain circumstances, even after six years, you can apply for Austrian citizenship.

 

2. Montenegro

Nestled in South-East Europe, Montenegro is a coastal gem perched along the Adriatic Sea. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, mountainous terrain, pristine coastline, and Mediterranean climate, this nation is home to a relatively small population of under 700,000 people.

What makes Montenegro’s citizenship by investment program particularly enticing is its imminent accession to the European Union, expected by 2025. This presents a golden opportunity to become a part of a country poised to join the EU, all at a considerably lower cost compared to other European nations.

Acquiring Montenegrin citizenship offers you visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 124 destinations, including Europe’s Schengen Area, Russia, the UK, and Turkey. To qualify for Montenegro’s Citizenship by Investment program, you have two options:

1. Invest EUR 450,000 (approximately Rs. 3.96 crore)  in real estate projects in the capital, Podgorica, or coastal areas.
2. Invest EUR 250,000 (about Rs. 2.20 crore)  in real estate projects located in northern or central Montenegro, excluding Podgorica.

The application process typically takes around 3 months from submission. While Montenegro does not generally allow dual citizenship, an exception is made for individuals seeking citizenship through investment. It’s worth noting that Montenegro’s citizenship by investment offer expired on December 31, 2021.

 

1. Turkey

Turkey, a land renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and culinary treasures, has always held a special allure for travelers and food enthusiasts alike. This enchanting country seamlessly blends European and Asian traditions, offering a unique fusion of experiences, from bustling markets to exotic adventures. With its Mediterranean climate, high standard of living, and breathtaking scenery, Turkey stands out as one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.

In January 2017, Turkey introduced the Citizenship-by-Investment Program to invigorate its real estate sector and further bolster its economy through foreign direct investment. This program opens doors to an array of opportunities. Holding a Turkish passport grants you visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 111 countries, including sought-after destinations like Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. Moreover, this citizenship extends to your entire family, ensuring a brighter future for your loved ones.

For entrepreneurs, Turkey offers the potential to obtain an E-2 Investor Visa in the United States, valid for a renewable five-year period. This visa allows you to reside and conduct business activities in the United States, presenting a pathway to expand your ventures in a dynamic market.

To qualify for Turkish citizenship through investment, the primary applicant must meet one of the following investment criteria:

• Invest a minimum of USD 250,000 (approximately Rs. 1.86 crore or ek crore cheyaasi lakh) in real estate.
• Allocate at least USD 500,000 (around Rs. 3.72 crore or teen crore bahatar lakh) into government bonds.
• Deposit a minimum of USD 500,000 (roughly Rs. 3.72 crore or teen crore bahatar lakh) into a Turkish bank account.
• Invest a minimum of USD 500,000 (about Rs. 3.72 crore or teen crore bahatar lakh) in fixed capital contributions.
• Channel at least USD 500,000 (around Rs. 3.72 crore or teen crore bahatar lakh) into shares of a venture capital investment fund or real estate fund.
• Create employment opportunities for a minimum of 50 individuals, as authorized by the Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Services.

The application process typically spans six to nine months, from initial submission to approval, offering a relatively swift path to acquiring Turkish citizenship through investment.