Golden Passports: Investing for Plan B Citizenship

What is a Golden Passport?

The term Golden Passport is not an official legal definition but a widely used phrase that refers to citizenship by investment (CBI). In simple terms, it means acquiring a second citizenship and passport from a country in return for making an eligible investment.

The difference between Golden Visas and Golden Passports:

A Golden Passport grants citizenship and a second passport, usually with full rights, including the ability to pass citizenship to future generations.

A Golden Visa provides residency rights through investment, not citizenship, although in some cases it may lead to naturalisation over time.

For international investors and high-net-worth individuals, a Golden Passport offers immediate access to a new nationality and the mobility benefits that come with it. In simple terms it’s the difference between residency and citizenship.

Why Consider a Second Passport?

Owning a golden passport (aka a second citizenship) has become one of the most powerful tools for global citizens. The benefits can include:

Visa-Free Travel: Access to over 140+ countries depending on the program chosen.
Security and Stability: A safe haven in uncertain times.
Generational Benefits: Citizenship rights can often be passed down to children and grandchildren.
Business and Tax Planning: More flexible residency and structuring options.
Lifestyle Choice: The freedom to live, retire, or invest abroad.

How Can I Get a Golden Passport?

Several countries around the world legally offer citizenship by investment programs. To obtain a Golden Passport, applicants are typically required to make a qualifying investment such as:

Government Donations – A contribution to a government run, national development fund.
Real Estate Investments – Purchasing approved property or shares in luxury developments.
Business or Bonds – Less common today, but available in some programs.
The application process can only be submitted through government-approved agents.

La Vida is officially recognised by all the Citizenship by Investment Units (CIUs) to process applications, ensuring every submission is fully compliant. Our team supports clients at every stage – from selecting the right program to preparing documentation securely through our client portal, right through to successful citizenship approval.

The Cost of a Golden Passport

The cost vary significantly by country and family size. For example:

Caribbean Programs: Five key options starting from $200,000 + for a single applicant.

South Pacific Programs: Two main options Nauru and Vanuatu, start from $105,000+.

European Programs: Higher entry points, often upwards of €650,000+, though many countries now focus more on residency (Golden Visas) rather than direct citizenship. Portugal’s Golden Visa program grants residency in return for a minimum investment of €500,000. Following five years of residency, investors can apply for a Portuguese passport.

While Caribbean options remain the most cost-effective, European programs tend to be more prestigious but require larger investments or longer residency periods before naturalisation. Investors should always budget for additional fees to cover the due diligence costs, government and application processing fees.

Golden Passport Countries

Some of the most popular destinations offering citizenship by investment – and therefore a Golden Passport – include:

These Caribbean nations are renowned for their efficient processing, relatively low investment thresholds, and wide visa-free travel access.

A handful of European countries, such as Cyprus, used to offer direct citizenship by investment programs, but most of Europe today focuses on Golden Visas (residency permits by investment) rather than immediate citizenship. Direct citizenship routes in Europe are now extremely limited due to the EU tightening regulations. In some cases, countries, may offer citizenship by merit or exceptional contribution (Malta), rather than through a structured investment program.

The Power of a Golden Passport

Not all passport were created equally! When considering investing for a second citizenship or Golden Passport, it’s not just about the number of countries you can visit. La Vida’s unique Passport Ranking measures true passport strength by weighting visa-free access against global GDP. This means investors gain a clearer view of the real economic and lifestyle opportunities a second citizenship can unlock. For example, some passports may offer entry to 140+ destinations, but the one granting access to the world’s largest economies delivers far greater impact. By using La Vida’s Passport Ranks, clients can compare programs more strategically and select the citizenship that offers the strongest long-term value

Is a Golden Passport Right for You?

Every investor’s circumstances are unique. Some seek the prestige and future rights of European residency, while others prioritise the immediate travel freedom and family security of a Plan B passport.

At La Vida, we have helped thousands of clients worldwide secure a second citizenship or residency. Our role is to provide transparent advice, legally compliant solutions, and the most suitable programs for your personal and family goals.

Take the Next Step

If you are exploring Golden Passports or Golden Visas, speak with our expert team at La Vida today. With over a decade of experience and clients in more than 160 countries, we are the trusted partner for global investors seeking second citizenship.

For a personalised consultation, contact La Vida’s experts.

Contact Advisor