Citizenship and Residency by Investment Programmes
See below a selection of countries offering residency and citizenship investment programmes.
Cuba
With its colourful achitecture and sandy white beaches, Cuba is a popular travel destination for many. Its rich culture, history, and scenic beauty offer a truly unique lifestyle. However, Cuba’s political landscape and complex regulations can pose challenges. Engaging in responsible business practices and adapting to local customs are essential. A cautious approach, thorough research, and local expertise are vital for success in this dynamic but intricate environment.
Cuba Golden Visa
Those wishing to make a more permanent move will unfortunately find that Cuba does not offer a golden visa or citizenship by investment programme. Fortunately, such CBI programmes are offered by several other Caribbean nations. Options such as Antigua and St Kitts are hugely popular, allowing individuals to obtain citizenship or residency rights through a investment, most often into real estate or government programmes. Given that Cuba has only recently lifted its policies preventing private property ownership that had been in place since its revolution in 1959, we find it unlikely that it will open itself up to citizenship through investment any time soon.
Cuba Residency and Citizenship
Obtaining residency in Cuba is quite demanding. U.S. citizens in particular face certain restrictions related to travel and financial transactions in Cuba due to the long-standing embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S., including restrictions on trade and investment. Relations began to normalise somewhat in 2011, when US citizens were allowed to visit the Caribbean island once more, but these relaxations have since been reversed. To apply for permanent residency in Cuba, one must have direct family who are Cuban citizens. Otherwise, the Cuban government can offer permanent residency to particular public individuals.
Cuba Passport Strength and Ranking
If Cuba were to introduce a citizenship by investment scheme similar to other Caribbean countries, one concern would be the weakness of its passport. For one, those who have visited Cuba and wish to later travel to the US face similar restrictions to those faced by Iran, Syria and North Korea, meaning that you may not be eligible for an ESTA. The Cuban passport allows visa-free travel to 78 countries, considerably fewer than the 152 allowed by Dominica, for instance. As such, this passport only allows access to 10.8% of world wealth (GDP) and 16.0% of worldwide travel. Cuba ranks 135th on La Vida’s comprehensive Global Passport Ranking.
