The world isn’t as locked down as it used to be. Mobility is power—especially when your primary passport limits your travel, taxes, or access to better financial systems. That’s why more investors and business owners look for a second passport that doesn’t take a decade to process. Fast-track citizenship programs exist, and yes, you can buy a passport legally through investment routes in several countries.
But where can you get one quickly—without long waits, high risk, or unclear legal status?
Let’s get into the countries offering citizenship by investment, what you’ll pay, and how fast you’ll get your new passport in hand.
Key Highlights
- Some countries offer citizenship in under 6 months through direct investment.
- You don’t always need to relocate to qualify for a second passport.
- Real estate investment is the most common route in many Caribbean and EU countries.
- Costs range from $100,000 to over $1 million depending on location.
- Dual citizenship laws vary—some countries will require you to give up your original passport.
- Portugal offers a real estate-based pathway that can lead to citizenship through residency.
Why Second Passports Are in Demand
People aren’t just chasing visa-free travel. They’re protecting assets, expanding business options, and creating insurance against political instability. A second passport gives you more than just convenience—it gives you freedom.
Governments know this. That’s why some have opened fast-track programs that offer citizenship in exchange for substantial financial investment. The process is legal, transparent, and often promoted directly through official channels.
But not every program is equal. Some take years despite their promises. Others ask for donations instead of real investments. Let’s focus on the countries where your money builds something and gets you results fast.
Caribbean Options – Fastest Turnaround
Five Caribbean countries lead the race for speed: St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Lucia.
St. Kitts and Nevis offers the oldest citizenship-by-investment program, with processing times as short as 3 to 6 months.
Requirements:
- $250,000 donation to a government fund or
- $400,000 in real estate (can be resold after 7 years)
- Due diligence fees around $7,500
- Additional family members cost more
St. Lucia has a $100,000 donation option and is considered the most affordable for single applicants.
These programs usually don’t require residence, interviews, or language tests.
European Route – More Investment, More Credibility
Europe doesn’t sell passports as directly as the Caribbean, but Malta and Turkey are exceptions.
Malta’s program leads for EU access and passport strength. But it’s not cheap.
Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services:
- €600,000 minimum donation
- €700,000+ real estate investment
- One-year residency requirement
- Full EU citizenship within 12 months
Turkey offers a more affordable option:
- $400,000 in real estate
- Processing in about 4 to 6 months
- Turkish passport includes visa-free access to 110+ countries
Portugal – The Path with Property Power
Portugal doesn’t sell citizenship upfront. It offers a residency-by-investment path that can lead to a passport after 5 years of maintaining residency, often without full-time relocation.
The key route is real estate.
You can invest in designated low-density areas or urban renovation projects. The real estate Portugal market has adapted to the Golden Visa rules, offering properties specifically qualified for this purpose. A good place to start is Pearls of Portugal, where you can view investment-ready listings built for visa compliance.
Requirements:
- €280,000 to €500,000 in property
- Stay an average of 7 days/year in Portugal
- Clean criminal record
- Basic Portuguese language test at the end of 5 years
Portugal’s program stands out for EU access and long-term stability.
Vanuatu – Pacific Speed, Less Power
Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation, offers citizenship in 1–2 months, making it the fastest globally.
But its passport strength is limited (visa-free to only 96 countries). There’s no real estate route—only a donation-based system:
- $130,000 donation
- $180,000 for a couple
- No visit required
- No language or interview tests
Quick but not highly valuable unless speed is your top concern.
Moldova and North Macedonia – EU Aspirants
Both countries have paused and resumed their programs in the past.
North Macedonia:
- €200,000 donation to a government-approved fund
- Passport in about 3–6 months
- EU candidacy makes it a potential future value investment
Keep in mind: Programs from these countries often get delayed by politics. Always verify status with licensed agents or official channels.
Cost vs. Value – Chart Overview
| Country | Investment Route | Time to Passport | Dual Citizenship Allowed | Cost (USD Approx.) |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | Real Estate | 3–6 months | Yes | $400,000 + fees |
| Dominica | Donation | 3 months | Yes | $100,000 + fees |
| Malta | Donation + Real Estate | 12 months | Yes | $1 million+ |
| Turkey | Real Estate | 4–6 months | Yes | $400,000 |
| Portugal | Real Estate (Residency) | 5 years | Yes | $280,000–$500,000 |
| Vanuatu | Donation | 1–2 months | Yes | $130,000 |
Things to Watch Out For
Not all fast-track passports are created equal. Here’s what to double-check:
- Blacklist status: Some programs lose value if major countries revoke visa-free status.
- Scams: Always go through official channels or licensed agents. If it looks too cheap, it probably is.
- Tax consequences: Some passports come with tax obligations. Always review with a tax advisor.
- Residency rules: Some countries require actual time spent inside the country to maintain citizenship.
Best Pick for Long-Term Investors
If you’re not rushing for a passport but want stability, Portugal’s Golden Visa offers the best combination of lifestyle, real estate investment, and eventual citizenship. It’s slower than Vanuatu or the Caribbean, but you’re investing in one of the strongest EU economies.
Those looking for a quick win with minimal spend will gravitate toward St. Lucia or Dominica. For more travel freedom and EU-level benefits, Malta or Turkey are stronger plays.
Final Word
Buying a second passport isn’t just a legal loophole. It’s a strategic tool. Whether you’re after safety, investment diversity, or visa-free travel, the path is open if you have capital and a clear plan. Real estate in regions like Portugal adds long-term value, while Caribbean or Pacific routes deliver speed. Choose based on your needs—not just how fast you can collect a new passport stamp.
