Melissa Antone – Director of Global Operations, International Creative Capital
Published 21/2/2026
Money, talent, and opportunity move faster than ever these days. Governments know it, and they’re fighting hard to attract global investors. One way they’re doing it. Citizenship by Investment programs basically offer some cash or assets, and you get a passport or long-term residency.
Investment migration isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a real part of global economic policy now. Governments need capital. Investors want freedom, security, and more choices not just for themselves, but for their families too. At first, it sounds like everyone wins.
By 2026, over a hundred countries will offer some kind of residency or citizenship by investment.
Some are giant economies trying out new ideas. Others are small countries hoping foreign money will help the national budget. But don’t be fooled by the sheer number most of these programs never really get off the ground.
Here’s a straight-shooting look at the countries actually doing something in this space, ranked by size, economic power, and global relevance. More importantly, here’s what investors should really pay attention to.
Even though more than 100 countries have “investment pathways,” only 30 to 40 programs actually matter. These are the ones you hear about, the ones international investors trust. Why? They offer clear rules, reliable timelines, global recognition, and a solid track record. The rest? Some exist only on paper. Some are so risky or poorly run that serious investors just look elsewhere.
That’s why, for investors, quality beats quantity every time.
Two Main Types of Investment Migration
Most of these programs fit into two main categories.
Golden Visas (Residency by Investment)
These let you live and sometimes work in a new country. Usually, you can work your way to permanent residency or citizenship through the regular process. Golden Visas attract people who want flexibility, more options in life, or maybe just a backup plan. They’re not for anyone looking for instant nationality.
Golden Passports (Citizenship by Investment)
This is the express lane direct citizenship and a passport, often in just a few months, and usually without needing to live there. People choose these for fast, easy global mobility. But lately, these programs are getting a lot more political and regulatory heat.
Let’s break down a few notable cases:
1. Argentina –Testing the Waters
Argentina’s the heavyweight in this group. In 2025, the government approved a plan to launch a citizenship-by-investment system, complete with its own agency. But the details how much you’ll need to invest, how long it’ll take are still up in the air. But the move is clear: big emerging economies want to find smart ways to draw in money, entrepreneurs, and talent from around the world.
2. Nigeria – Africa’s Economic Giant Steps Up
Nigeria’s lower house passed a citizenship-by-investment bill in 2025. That’s huge for Africa’s biggest economy. The Senate still needs to approve it, but the fact that it’s on the table shows how much interest there is in using investment migration as a growth tool. If this goes through, Nigeria could set the standard for investor citizenship in Africa. Still, politics have to line up first.
3. Albania – Europe’s Hopes Run into EU Walls
Albania built most of the framework for a CBI program, hoping to become Europe’s next hotspot. But the EU has zero patience for “passports for sale,” so progress has stalled. This keeps happening: countries close to the EU can’t really launch these programs, no matter how much they want to.
4. Uzbekistan – Big Country, Not Much Buzz
Uzbekistan considered fast-track citizenship for major investors, but strict dual citizenship rules and high minimum investments kept people away. Now they’re leaning into residency-by-investment instead. It can lead to citizenship, but only if you’re patient and follow the standard process.
5. Kenya – Strong Potential, Slow Progress
Kenya has talked about citizenship-by-investment and setting minimum investment levels for years. It’s a powerhouse in East Africa, but so far, there’s no real framework. Without visa-free travel benefits or a clear policy, investors are waiting on the sidelines.
6. Armenia – From Citizenship Plans to Residency Reality
Armenia almost launched a full CBI program, but in the end, they switched gears. Now, investors can get long-term residency, with a potential route to citizenship down the line, just not right away.
7. Laos – High Cost, Limited Rights
Laos rolled out a decree offering “honorary citizenship” to people willing to make a huge investment. The catch? You don’t actually get full citizenship rights—just the honorary title. For most serious investors, that’s a dealbreaker.
8. Saint Vincent & the Grenadines – The Only Sure Thing (So far)
Right now, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the only country with a confirmed citizenship-by-investment program coming soon, set to launch in 2026. It’s hoping to join the heavy hitters in the Caribbean, but for now, investors are just watching and waiting.
9. Suriname – Still Just Talk
Suriname’s leaders say they want to create a citizenship-by-investment program, and committees are working on it. But there’s nothing official, no laws, no structure, no launch date.
10. Solomon Islands – Mixed Signals
The Solomon Islands talked about selling citizenship and even drafted some proposals. But after a wave of national identity concerns, the whole thing stalled out.
11. Papua New Guinea – Residence First, Citizenship Later
Papua New Guinea doesn’t hand out citizenship for investment. Instead, investors can try for residency and, after a long wait, possibly naturalize. It’s a slow, indirect path, definitely not for anyone in a hurry.
12. Tonga – Old Idea, New Rumblings
Tonga used to have a citizenship-by-investment program years ago. Now, politicians are thinking about bringing it back. But for now, it’s all just talk no policy, no framework.
13. Mauritius – All Talk, No Action
Mauritius once floated the idea of citizenship-by-investment, but nothing ever happened. They’re still sticking with their usual investment residency programs.
14. Rwanda – Residency Over Instant Citizenship
Rwanda considered offering citizenship to investors but decided to stick with a residency system. Here, you have to follow the standard legal path if you want citizenship—no shortcuts.
15. Portugal
Portugal stands out as one of the most famous Golden Visa spots. The program’s changed shape over the years, tightening up a bit, but it still draws investors after EU presidency, lifestyle perks, and a shot at citizenship though you’ll have to go through naturalization, not get it right away.
16. Greece
Greece keeps getting attention, mainly because it’s relatively easy to get in, even if the minimum investment has gone up lately. Most investors come for the EU residency and travel freedom, not for quick citizenship.
17. Italy
Italy’s investor visa is all about putting money in and settling down for the long haul. It’s built for people who want to live or do business in Europe, with a solid legal framework but a slow road to citizenship.
18. Malta
Malta’s a bit different. It offers both residency and a very closely controlled citizenship route. But with more international scrutiny lately, Malta now puts the spotlight on compliance, serious checks, and making sure people are in it for the long run not just looking for an easy passport.
19. Hungary
Hungary brought back its investment residency program after a long break. It’s still early days for this new version, but it fits the broader European move toward “residency first” approaches and away from handing out citizenship directly.
20. Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa keeps pulling in investors who want EU access and a better lifestyle. Like most other European programs, it’s all about residency and building ties over time citizenship only comes later, if you stick around.
21. Latvia
Latvia keeps its residency-by-investment program small and selective. It mostly draws investors who have their sights set on the region, not big crowds from around the world.
22. Cyprus
Cyprus has left the citizenship-by-investment game behind and now puts all its focus on residency. These days, investors look for a long-term base there, not just a passport.
23. Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s residency-by-investment options are strict and well-organized. They attract experienced investors, usually those with solid business or financial connections in Europe.
Caribbean: The Core Citizenship-by-Investment Market
24. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda has been part of the Caribbean citizenship-by-investment space for a long time. Its program is known for being steady and predictable rather than flashy. Families often find it appealing, and the ability to travel easily within the region is a practical bonus for many applicants.
25. Dominica
Dominica runs one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs out there. Investors like it because it’s efficient, affordable, and straightforward.
26. Grenada
Grenada is often chosen for reasons that go beyond the Caribbean itself. Its visa access sets it apart, making it a strategic option for investors who want more flexibility when planning future business or travel. It’s a popular choice for investors who want more travel options and flexibility on the global stage. It’s a good pick for investors who want more travel flexibility and options on the geopolitical front.
27. Saint Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts & Nevis launched the very first citizenship-by-investment program. It’s built a reputation for being premium and long-lasting, although buy-in costs have gone up over the years.
28. Saint Lucia
St. Lucia keeps its program flexible and competitive. Investors often stack it up against other Caribbean options before making their choice.
North America: Building a Life, Not Racing for Citizenship
29. United States
The U.S. takes a different approach. Investment migration here isn’t about fast-tracking citizenship. It’s designed for people who plan to build a future over time. Programs like the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program focus on permanent residency and place real emphasis on long-term involvement, business contribution, and becoming part of the wider community.
30. Canada
Canada’s take on investment migration pushes people to dive into entrepreneurship and bring fresh ideas to the table. These programs move at a slower pace, but they’re built for folks who genuinely want to settle in, start something new, and contribute over time.
Middle East: Residency as a Power Move
31. United Arab Emirates
The UAE treats residency like a golden ticket for talent and wealth. Its Golden Visa attracts high-net-worth individuals, experienced professionals, and entrepreneurs looking for stability and straightforward access to doing business in the region.
32. Turkey
Turkey offers both residency and citizenship pathways. This makes it attractive to investors who want a foothold in a country that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, both geographically and economically. But, how people see the program tends to change along with the country’s economy.
33. Jordan
Jordan’s investment residency programs are directly tied to economic contributions. Most interest comes from people in the region, not so much internationally.
34. Bahrain
Bahrain has rolled out new residency options for professionals and investors, trying to stand out as a business-friendly spot in the Gulf.
Asia and Oceania: Selective and Highly Controlled
35. Australia
Australia doesn’t make it easy for investors. The country keeps its doors open only to those who bring real economic value, play by the rules, and plan to stay for the long haul. It’s not about bringing in big numbers it’s about quality and commitment.
36. New Zealand
New Zealand attracts people because it feels stable and safe. Still, moving there is difficult. The requirements are strict, and permanent residency usually takes years, not months. Every step is carefully laid out and there’s no fast track.
37. Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment program is a standout in the Pacific. Still, it’s feeling the heat from the global community to tighten its standards.
38. Thailand
Thailand’s Elite Visa is not about becoming a citizen. It’s mainly for people who want the right to stay long term, such as business owners, remote workers, or retirees.
39. Malaysia
Malaysia’s MM2H program allows long stays, but the conditions change often. Anyone considering it has to follow policy updates closely before making plans.
40. Singapore
Singapore sets the bar sky-high for investors. Only those with serious economic weight and a real commitment to integrating for the long haul have a shot. It’s easily one of the toughest places in the world to get in through investment.
The Key Trends Shaping 2026
Investment migration is changing fast.
Here’s what’s really happening:
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- Rising Investment Costs
Governments, especially in Europe and the Caribbean, keep raising the bar. Higher minimum investments, housing crunches, inflation, and politics all play a part. Instead of opening doors wider, most countries are making it tougher to get in.
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- New Players and Program Shakeups
Some countries have launched new programs or revamped old ones to pull in fresh capital. Smaller nations see citizenship-by-investment to boost revenue. But let’s be honest most of these new efforts are still untested, and the market is watching to see what works.
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- Tighter Rules and More Scrutiny
The European Union isn’t a fan of “Golden Passports” and keeps turning up the heat. So, many countries now push residency programs instead, with longer waits and tougher requirements to live there.
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- Focus on Real Value
Money alone doesn’t carry the same weight it used to. What matters now is whether someone actually shows up, builds something, and sticks around. In most developed countries, the easy routes have already been closed, and the rest are slowly heading the same way.
A Crucial Difference Investors Need to Grasp
Not every “investment visa” lets you just sit back and collect benefits. Plenty of countries pitch entrepreneurs or startup visas as investment routes, but these come with strings attached: you have to run a business, create jobs, and take on real risk. If you’re a founder, that’s great. But if your goal is capital preservation or just easier mobility, these visas demand a totally different level of commitment.
Knowing these up front saves you from expensive missteps.
What Investors Should Take Away
Let’s be honest, most citizenship-by-investment programs don’t make it past the drawing board. Political headaches, outside pressure, and a general lack of real interest usually shut things down before they even start. Even when a law gets drafted, getting it off the ground is another story.
For investors, all this uncertainty is a big red flag. If you’re moving your life and money, you need stability, predictability, and laws that stick.
Why the U.S. EB-5 Still Leads
But then there’s the U.S. EB-5 program. While everyone else talks, the United States just keeps doing its thing. EB-5 lays out a straightforward, legal route to permanent residency for investors and their families. It’s not just an idea; it’s written into law, tested by years of experience, and watched over by real regulators. Other countries might roll out flashy announcements, but most of those programs fizzle out or get stuck in limbo. EB-5, though? It’s up and running. It’s transparent. It delivers. That steady track record is exactly why EB-5 still stands out as the most dependable and valuable investment migration program out there.