Why a Second Passport Matters in 2025
In an increasingly uncertain world, a second citizenship offers more than just a travel document — it represents freedom: the freedom to move, live, do business, and protect your family across borders regardless of geopolitical shifts in your home country.
The number of high-net-worth individuals acquiring second citizenships has grown dramatically in recent years. According to investment migration industry reports, global demand for citizenship by investment (CBI) programs increased by over 40% between 2020 and 2024, driven by political instability, pandemic-era border closures, and growing wealth in emerging markets.
In 2025, the best CBI programs combine passport strength (visa-free access), processing speed, reasonable investment thresholds, and family inclusion. Here's our expert comparison.
Top 5 Citizenship by Investment Programs: Comparison
| Program | Min. Investment | Timeline | Visa-Free Access | EU Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malta | €690,000+ | 12–36 months | 185+ countries | ✅ Full EU |
| Dominica | $100,000 | 2–4 months | 140+ countries | ❌ |
| Grenada | $150,000 | 3–6 months | 140+ countries | ❌ (E-2 US) |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | $250,000 | 45–60 days | 155+ countries | ❌ |
| Vanuatu | $130,000 | 30–60 days | 130+ countries | ❌ |
Best for EU Access: Malta
The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN) program is the only EU citizenship available through direct investment. Malta passport holders enjoy full EU citizenship rights — live, work, and study in all 27 EU member states, plus access to 185+ countries visa-free including the USA, UK, Canada, and Japan.
Investment requirements:
- Government contribution: €600,000 (after 3-year residency) or €750,000 (after 1-year residency)
- Real estate: Purchase €700,000+ or rent €16,000+/year for 5 years
- Philanthropic donation: €10,000 minimum
Malta is ideal for those seeking the most powerful passport available through investment, particularly for Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Russian nationals seeking EU access.
Best Value & Speed: Dominica and Vanuatu
Dominica has consistently been rated the world's best CBI program by independent rankings. At $100,000 minimum (government fund donation for a single applicant), it offers excellent value. Processing time of 2–4 months and a politically stable program with 20+ years of operation make Dominica the go-to choice for speed and affordability.
Vanuatu is the world's fastest citizenship by investment program. The Development Support Program (DSP) can issue citizenship in as little as 30 days from approval. At $130,000 for a single applicant, it's a premium on Dominica but unbeatable on speed. Vanuatu also offers a zero-tax environment.
Best for US Business Access: Grenada (E-2 Treaty)
Grenada holds a unique position: it is the only Caribbean CBI country with a US E-2 Treaty Investor Visa treaty. This means Grenada citizens can apply for E-2 visas to live and run businesses in the USA — a pathway unavailable to citizens of most other Caribbean CBI nations.
For investors from countries without E-2 treaty access (notably China and many Middle Eastern nations), a Grenada passport opens a direct route to US business operations.
Note on St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Kitts & Nevis holds the distinction of operating the world's oldest CBI program (since 1984). However, investors should confirm current visa-free access to specific destinations before applying, as geopolitical developments can affect visa-free arrangements. Always verify current passport access with a qualified advisor.
How to Choose Based on Your Goals
- EU residency & freedom of movement: Malta — the only option.
- Fastest processing, low budget: Vanuatu (30 days) or Dominica (2–4 months, from $100k).
- US business access: Grenada (E-2 treaty).
- Strong Caribbean passport, established program: St. Kitts & Nevis (verify current access).
- Tax optimization + zero stay requirement: Vanuatu or Dominica.
Start Your Second Passport Journey
Choosing the right CBI program requires careful analysis of your nationality, travel needs, tax situation, and timeline. CRP World's advisors have assisted clients from over 40 countries in selecting and completing their citizenship applications.