Residence and Citizenship by Investment (RCBI) is a way to legally acquire citizenship by
making an investment in a property or a contribution to the economy of a host
country. Many Caribbean, European and over 50 countries offer citizenship
programmes not only to high-net-worth individuals (those worth more than
US$1million), but also to less-wealthy investors, with programmes starting at US$200,000. Investors must pass strict due diligence and meet
other requirements, but residence requirements are generally minimal.
The number of investor visas (including accompanying family members) granted
per year globally is estimated to over 150,000.
RCBI host countries require
an investment either in a property that must be kept for three to five years, or a once-off, non-refundable contribution to a government-approved project. Residence is normally available within a few months after application, while investors
must wait for several years for citizenship, if available. Several Carribean island states have fast-track citizenship programmes that can get approved within three months.
