NEWS

What is Citizenship by Investment?

Citizenship by Investment is a legal process where an individual or family can obtain a second citizenship by making a significant financial contribution to a country. This investment can take several forms, such as donations to national development funds, purchasing government-approved real estate, or investing in business ventures that create jobs and economic growth. Countries offering these programs include Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and others.

While the benefits of CBI—such as visa-free travel, tax advantages, and personal security—are clear, it’s essential to fully understand the cost structure to avoid unexpected surprises. Below, we break down the typical expenses involved in applying for citizenship through investment.

Initial Investment Amounts

The largest and most obvious cost involved in any CBI program is the initial investment amount. These programs offer several options, each with a different price tag:

1. Donation to a Government Fund

• Cost: $100,000 to $150,000+ (single applicant)
• This is typically the most straightforward option. For example, in the Dominica CBI program, applicants can make a non-refundable donation to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund. The contribution required for a single applicant is around $100,000, but this figure rises for families or dependents.
• Other countries, like Antigua and Barbuda, offer similar donation options starting at approximately $100,000 for a single applicant.

2. Real Estate Investment

• Cost: $200,000 to $400,000+
• Real estate options allow applicants to purchase property in a government-approved development. For example, in Saint Kitts and Nevis, a real estate investment typically ranges from $200,000 to $400,000, depending on the location and type of property.
• The investment is not just about buying a property but also involves maintaining ownership for a number of years (typically 5 years). The real estate approach can be a good option for those seeking both citizenship and long-term asset appreciation.

3. Business Investment

• Cost: $1 million to $3 million+
• Some programs, like the Grenada CBI program, offer business investment as an option. To qualify, you may need to invest in an approved business venture that directly contributes to economic development, such as job creation or infrastructure improvement.
• The minimum investment required in business CBI options is significantly higher compared to donations or real estate, but it offers the potential for returns on investment.

Processing and Due Diligence Fees

While the initial investment amounts make up the largest portion of CBI costs, there are also substantial fees for processing your application and conducting due diligence checks.

1. Application Processing Fees

• Cost: $1,000 to $10,000+
• These fees are required by the government to process your application. The amount varies depending on the country and the complexity of your case. For instance, Saint Kitts and Nevis may charge around $1,500 for a single applicant, while larger families may incur additional charges.

2. Due Diligence Fees

• Cost: $5,000 to $15,000+
• Due diligence fees cover the background checks, including verifying the applicant’s identity, criminal history, financial standing, and any potential risks. These checks are critical to ensure that applicants meet the standards set by the program and are usually non-refundable.
• Countries like Saint Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda conduct thorough due diligence processes, and the fees can vary based on the number of dependents included in the application.

3. Government Processing Fees

• Cost: $2,000 to $5,000+
• Most CBI programs require applicants to pay a government processing fee, which is separate from the investment and due diligence fees. These charges generally apply to each individual on the application and can vary widely depending on the number of dependents or other factors.

Legal and Administrative Fees

Navigating the complexities of the CBI process often requires the expertise of legal and administrative professionals. Here are some of the common legal fees that you may encounter:

1. Legal Fees

• Cost: $5,000 to $10,000+
• Legal professionals will help you with the documentation, submission of applications, and any legal requirements tied to your investment. While it is possible to apply independently, many individuals prefer to hire legal experts who specialize in CBI to streamline the process and avoid mistakes that could lead to delays or rejection.
• These fees may vary depending on the country’s legal framework, the applicant’s needs, and the complexity of their case.

2. Administrative Fees

• Cost: $2,000 to $5,000+
• This fee typically covers the cost of document preparation, translations, and other administrative tasks required to complete your application. While these costs can be considered part of the overall legal fees, some programs list them separately.

3. Courier Fees

• Cost: $100 to $500+
• Sending sensitive documents, such as original passports or investment proofs, may incur additional courier fees. This is usually a minor cost but can add up depending on the volume of documentation required.

Additional Costs

Beyond the main investment, due diligence, and legal fees, there are other potential costs that applicants should consider:

1. Dependent Fees

• Cost: $5,000 to $10,000 per dependent
• Many CBI programs allow for the inclusion of family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents or grandparents. However, each additional family member typically incurs extra charges for processing, due diligence checks, and government fees.
• For example, in Antigua and Barbuda, adding a spouse and children could increase the total cost by $5,000 to $10,000 or more.

2. Real Estate Management Fees

• Cost: $1,000 to $5,000+ annually
• If you choose the real estate investment route, you will also need to consider property management fees. These can include maintenance costs, insurance, taxes, and any associated management fees.
• Countries like Saint Kitts and Nevis and Grenada may require property owners to maintain their property for a set period, and management fees may vary depending on the type and location of the property.

3. Travel and Miscellaneous Costs

• Cost: Variable
• Applicants are often required to travel to the country to complete certain aspects of the application process or attend interviews. Travel expenses can add up, especially for large families.
• Additional costs could also include visa application fees or medical exams, depending on the country.

Conclusion: Total Cost of Citizenship by Investment

The total cost of obtaining citizenship by investment varies widely depending on the country and the specific investment option chosen. For a single applicant, the cost can range from approximately $100,000 to $200,000 for donation programs, or $200,000 to $400,000 for real estate programs. Larger families can expect these costs to increase by $10,000 to $20,000 or more due to additional due diligence, legal, and administrative fees.

To get a more accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs, it’s highly recommended to schedule a consultation with an experienced CBI advisor. With the right guidance, you can ensure that you understand all of the costs involved, avoid hidden fees, and make the best decision for your family’s future.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to take the next step in securing your second citizenship? Contact Roc Citizenship for a comprehensive consultation to understand the full range of fees associated with Citizenship by Investment. Our experts can provide personalized advice and ensure that your application process is smooth and cost-effective. Reach out today for an accurate estimate of the total costs involved!