The Easiest Country to Get Citizenship by Investment

For high-net-worth individuals looking for a second passport, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer a fast-track route to global mobility, tax benefits, and enhanced business opportunities. But with several countries offering CBI, which one is the easiest and fastest to obtain?

5/12/20252 min read

Roseau the capital of Dominica from the perspective of the cruise Terminal
Roseau the capital of Dominica from the perspective of the cruise Terminal

After evaluating factors like processing time, investment requirements, due diligence, and visa-free travel, the Caribbean nations stand out as the simplest options. Among them, St. Kitts and Nevis and Dominica are often considered the easiest due to their streamlined processes and affordable investment thresholds.

Why the Caribbean?

Caribbean CBI programs are popular because they offer:
Fast processing (3–6 months)
No residency requirement
Affordable investment options (starting at $100,000)
Visa-free travel to 140+ countries, including the EU and UK
Tax advantages (no global income tax in most cases)

Top 5 Easiest Countries for Citizenship by Investment
1. St. Kitts and Nevis
  • Fastest processing: 45–60 days (Accelerated Application Process)

  • Investment options:

    • Donation: $250,000 (Sustainable Island State Contribution)

    • Real Estate: $400,000 (must hold for 7 years)

  • Visa-free access: 157 countries, including EU Schengen, UK, Russia, and Singapore

  • No residency or visit required

Why it’s the easiest? St. Kitts has the quickest processing time and a well-established, reputable program.

2. Dominica
  • Processing time: 3–6 months

  • Investment options:

    • Donation: $100,000 (single applicant)

    • Real Estate: $200,000 (must hold for 3 years)

  • Visa-free access: 144 countries, including Schengen, UK, and China

  • No residency requirement

Why it’s easy? Dominica has the lowest investment threshold ($100K donation) and a straightforward process.

3. Antigua and Barbuda
  • Processing time: 4–6 months

  • Investment options:

    • Donation: $100,000 (NDF)

    • Real Estate: $200,000 (must hold for 5 years)

  • Visa-free access: 150+ countries, including EU and UK

  • 5-day physical stay required in the first 5 years

Best for families: Allows up to 4 dependents under one application.

4. Grenada
  • Processing time: 4–6 months

  • Investment options:

    • Donation: $150,000 (NTF)

    • Real Estate: $220,000 (must hold for 5 years)

  • Visa-free access: 144 countries, including China and the E-2 visa treaty with the USA

Unique benefit: Only Caribbean CBI that grants access to the US E-2 investor visa.

5. St. Lucia
  • Processing time: 3–4 months

  • Investment options:

    • Donation: $100,000 (National Economic Fund)

    • Real Estate: $300,000 (must hold for 5 years)

  • Visa-free access: 146 countries

Flexible option: Offers government bonds as an investment route.

Which is the Absolute Easiest?

If speed is the priority: St. Kitts (45–60 days with accelerated processing)
If lowest cost is key: Dominica ($100K donation)
If US access matters: Grenada (E-2 visa eligibility)

Final Thoughts

Caribbean CBI programs are the easiest and fastest way to obtain a second passport. While Europe (Malta, Portugal) and other regions offer citizenship or residency by investment, they are more expensive and time-consuming.

For a quick, affordable, and hassle-free second citizenship, St. Kitts & Nevis or Dominica are the top choices.

View of English Harbor from Shirley Heights, Antigua, paradise bay at tropical island
View of English Harbor from Shirley Heights, Antigua, paradise bay at tropical island