Top Countries for Second Citizenship by Buying Real Estate in 2025

Introduction

Purchasing property abroad opens the door to obtaining second citizenship or a residence permit in another country. It offers the opportunity to live, travel, run a business, and ensure family security without visa restrictions. Many countries offer special programs for foreign investors, where investing in real estate can lead to a residence permit, permanent residency, or even direct citizenship.

The investment amount starts from $200,000 and varies depending on the country’s specific conditions. Some countries, such as Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, or Turkey, grant citizenship within a few months after the property purchase. In others, like Greece or Cyprus, a residence permit is issued first, and citizenship can be obtained later through naturalization. In this article, we’ll cover the most popular programs, participation requirements, minimum property values, timelines for obtaining status, and additional expenses to consider.

Why Obtain Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment

Many countries offer official programs through which you can obtain a second passport by investing in residential or commercial real estate. Acquiring citizenship through real estate investment provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for the investor and their family.

Key Benefits:

1. Simplified conditions and a fast process. Citizenship by investment can take from 3 months to several years. Most countries do not require applicants to speak the language, know the local history, or reside in the country.
2. Benefits for the whole family. Alongside the main applicant, a spouse, children, and other financially dependent family members may also obtain passports, depending on the program’s rules.
3. Reliable and profitable asset. Real estate remains one of the most straightforward and stable investment tools. Many properties can be rented out to generate passive income. After the minimum holding period, the property can be sold, and the investment recouped.
4. Expanded freedom of movement. A second passport opens doors to dozens of countries without the need for a visa.
5. Access to international financial systems. Investors gain access to foreign banking services, including international transfers, multi-currency accounts, and services in global financial hubs.
6. Access to quality services. Second citizenship grants the right to choose the country for healthcare and education, both for the investor and their family members.

In summary, citizenship through real estate investment is not just a way to obtain a second passport — it is a comprehensive solution that offers security, financial stability, and new opportunities for the investor and their family.

Countries Offering Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment

The table below outlines the key countries where you can obtain citizenship or residency through property investment. Knowing these conditions will help you choose the best option for acquiring second citizenship and expanding your opportunities for international travel and living abroad.

Turkish Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment

If you’re looking for a second passport with an affordable program and flexible terms, Turkey offers an attractive investment citizenship option. Investing in real estate allows you not only to obtain Turkish citizenship but also to acquire a liquid asset. Foreign nationals can apply for Turkish citizenship by purchasing residential or commercial real estate worth at least $400,000. The program follows a simplified process — there’s no requirement to know the language, live in the country, or renounce your original citizenship. The process takes around 8 months.

Who Can Participate

The program is available to adults without criminal records or violations of immigration laws. Along with the main applicant, citizenship is granted to their spouse and children under 18.

Property Requirements

Eligible properties include apartments, villas, commercial buildings, and land for development. The key condition is that the investor must be the sole owner of the property, and it must not have been used in a similar program before. Purchasing multiple properties is allowed, provided each one has a TAPU (official title deed). Mortgages are allowed, but the investor’s equity must amount to at least $400,000.

Financial Considerations

In addition to the cost of the property, the investor is responsible for:

• 4% of the cadastral value — property tax;
• Up to 18% VAT;
• 4% for the issuance of the TAPU;
• From $1,000 — for a technical passport (for new buildings).

Profitability and Market Outlook

Demand for real estate continues to grow steadily, especially in popular areas like Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, and Alanya. The average property price has increased significantly, with further growth expected. New developments often offer better prices — for example, one-bedroom apartments in Alanya can start at $54,000.

Advantages of Turkish Citizenship

A Turkish passport grants visa-free access to 113 countries, including Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. While visas are required for the Schengen zone and the USA, Turkish citizens can easily obtain a 5-year Schengen visa and the E-2 business visa for the United States, which allows residence and work. After three years of ownership, the property can be sold, and the investment recovered. The program does not limit the number of family members — the investment amount remains fixed regardless. Turkish citizenship through real estate investment is a practical option for those who want to combine the benefits of a second passport with a profitable capital investment.

Caribbean Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment

Citizenship-by-investment programs in Caribbean countries attract investors due to their fast processing times, relatively low costs, and the ability to retain original citizenship. One of the most popular options is acquiring real estate.

Minimum Real Estate Investment Amounts for Citizenship:

1. Antigua and Barbuda: from $300,000.
2. Dominica: from $200,000.
3. Saint Lucia: from $300,000.
4. Grenada: from $270,000.
5. Saint Kitts and Nevis: from $325,000.

Please note that investment amounts and program conditions may change. It’s recommended to contact us for up-to-date information.

Antigua and Barbuda

Investors can only purchase property from a list approved by the government, usually apartments and villas in resort complexes and five-star hotels. The property can be rented out to generate income.

Key details:

1. Minimum investment: $300,000.
2. Required holding period: at least 5 years.
3. Time to obtain citizenship: from 6 months.
4. Limitations: a single property can be used in the program no more than twice.

After five years of ownership, the property can be sold, and the investment returned.

Grenada

The program allows purchasing either a share in an approved project (such as a hotel) or an entire property. For shared investments, the property is managed by a management company. If purchasing a whole property, the investor has full control — to live in it or rent it out.

Key details:

1. Minimum investment: $270,000.
2. Rental yield: up to 5% annually.
3. Holding period: at least 5 years.
4. Time to obtain citizenship: from 6 months.

This format suits investors seeking stable income without managing the property directly.

Dominica

Participants select a property from a government-approved list that includes over 50 projects, mainly five-star hotels offering apartments and cottages.

Key details:

1. Minimum investment: $200,000.
2. Holding period: at least 3 years.
3. Additional option: resale after 5 years allows the new buyer to join the program.
4. Processing time: from 6 months.

This is one of the most affordable ways to obtain a Caribbean passport.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

The program offers two options: buying a share in a tourism project or purchasing a private home. All properties must be government-approved. Investing in a private home requires a higher threshold but provides full ownership.

Key details:

1. Project share: from $400,000, rental yield 2–5% per year, resale after 7 years.
2. Private home: from $800,000, resale after 7 years.
3. Time to obtain citizenship: from 6 months.
4. Additional costs: due diligence and paperwork fees starting at $10,000.

This is ideal for those who seek not only a passport but also a full-fledged family home in a high-potential tourist region.

Saint Lucia

Participants can buy a share or a full property from an official list. These are typically apartments, villas, or hotel complexes. Ownership must be maintained for at least 5 years.

Key details:

1. Minimum investment: $300,000.
2. Holding period: 5 years.
3. Time to obtain citizenship: from 6 months.

Properties can be rented out, providing income before resale.

Citizenship through real estate investment in the Caribbean combines residency benefits, rental income, and investment diversification. It’s a convenient way to obtain a second passport while becoming the owner of vacation property in a tropical paradise.

Spanish Citizenship through Real Estate Investment

Spain offers a residency pathway for affluent foreign nationals through property investment, with the possibility of eventual citizenship. The program begins with an investment visa, allowing applicants to purchase liquid real estate in Spain and gradually transition to full EU citizenship, provided all conditions are met.

How the Program Works in Spain

By investing at least €500,000 in residential or commercial real estate, foreigners may apply for a residence permit. The purchase can be made with personal funds or a mortgage, but at least €500,000 must come from the investor’s own money. The residence permit is initially issued for three years and can be renewed for five more years as long as the investment is maintained. The status also extends to close family members: spouses, underage or financially dependent children, and parents.

Applicant Requirements

Applicants must be over 18, have no criminal record, and demonstrate sufficient financial means. A minimum of €28,800 must be transferred to a Spanish bank account. Health insurance is required, along with documents proving the legality of income and property acquisition. Applications are submitted via the PRIE online portal. At the time of submission, the applicant must be in Spain — most often using a special investor visa or a valid Schengen visa.

Real Estate Costs and Taxes

1. Property transfer tax (6–10% for resale properties, 10% VAT for new developments, Up to 25% for commercial properties).
2. Additional costs include stamp duty, notary fees, and registration.
3. Annual property tax ranges from 0.4% to 1.1% of cadastral value, depending on the municipality.

Path to Citizenship

To apply for Spanish citizenship, applicants must reside in Spain for at least 10 years, continuously renewing the residence permit and meeting stay requirements. Language proficiency (A2 level) and passing a test on the constitution and cultural knowledge are mandatory. Spain does not allow dual citizenship, except for certain Latin American countries, so renouncing existing citizenship is typically required.

Market Outlook and Investor Interest

Demand for Spanish real estate remains strong, with market growth between 9% and 19% annually. Popular regions include Catalonia, Andalusia, and Valencia. Investing in Spanish property offers not only stable EU residency and a pathway to citizenship but also an opportunity to participate in one of Europe’s most dynamic property markets.

Maltese Citizenship through Property Investment

Malta is one of the few EU countries that allows citizenship by investment, offering a structured and multi-step process for wealthy applicants ready to meet specific criteria.

Path to Citizenship through Investment

Under regulations introduced in 2020, applicants can only apply for citizenship by exceptional services after first acquiring residence status. This residency must be held for 12 or 36 months, depending on the amount of the main contribution. After this period, the citizenship application may be submitted. The program is available to the main investor and their family — including a spouse or registered partner, children under 29, and parents over 55, provided they are financially dependent.

Three Investment Requirements for Citizenship

Applicants must fulfill all three of the following:

1. Purchase property worth at least €700,000, with mandatory retention for at least 5 years after naturalization.
2. Contribute to Malta’s National Development and Social Fund: €750,000 for a 12-month residency or €600,000 for a 36-month term.
3. Donate a minimum of €10,000 to a registered Maltese NGO (cultural, sports, or charitable).

While property can be purchased anywhere, Special Designated Areas (SDAs) are particularly popular as they do not require additional government permits.

Processing Time

Residency is granted within 4 months and initially valid for one year, with renewals allowed. Permanent residency is possible after 5 years, and citizenship through naturalization may follow after another 5 years, if all criteria are met. Investing in Maltese real estate offers access to a high standard of living in the EU and the opportunity to obtain a European passport through a comprehensive approach. The program’s flexibility allows for tailored paths from temporary residence to full naturalization.

Greek Citizenship through Property Investment

Purchasing real estate in Greece offers both a sound investment and a first step toward citizenship. While Greece does not offer direct citizenship by investment, it provides a clear path via the Golden Visa program. After 7 years of legal residence under this visa and meeting eligibility criteria — including passing an exam — investors may apply for Greek citizenship through naturalization.

Investment Requirements

1. €800,000 minimum investment for properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and select smaller islands.
2. €400,000 in other regions.
3. Exception: €250,000 is acceptable for restoring protected buildings or converting industrial properties to residential use.

Only one property of at least 120 m² may be purchased. The Golden Visa is valid for 5 years and renewable as long as the investment is maintained. The application process takes approximately 4 months.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be legal adults with no criminal record, have legal income, and hold valid health insurance. The visa is extended to family members:

• spouse and children under 21;
• parents, if financially dependent.

Additional Investor Costs

1. Property transfer tax: 3.09% of the higher of market or cadastral value.
2. VAT: 24% for new properties.
3. Notary and registration fees: 1–2%.
4. Annual property tax: €2–€16.20/m², plus 0.1–1.15% for property over €200,000.
5. Average utility and maintenance costs: ~€212/month.

Rental returns range from 2% to 10% annually depending on location and property type, with central Athens and resort properties yielding the highest returns during peak seasons. Investing in Greek property offers access to the Southern European lifestyle and a pathway to an EU passport through a long-term strategy. It combines financial opportunity with the potential for stable income and asset appreciation.

Egyptian Citizenship by Real Estate Investment

An Egyptian passport grants investors access to international financial instruments, simplified taxation, and visa-free entry to 65 countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. One of the most popular ways to obtain citizenship is by purchasing real estate.

How to Obtain Egyptian Citizenship through Property Investment

Foreign nationals can apply for Egyptian citizenship by purchasing real estate valued at $300,000 or more. Both residential and commercial properties, as well as land plots, are eligible. All transactions must be officially registered. The passport can be obtained in as little as 10 months. There are no language or history exams, and permanent residence in Egypt is not required.

Property Ownership Terms and Restrictions

The property can be sold five years after citizenship is granted. Early sale may lead to revocation of the status unless a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 is made. In resort areas like Sharm El-Sheikh and other cities on the Sinai Peninsula, foreigners can obtain long-term leases for up to 99 years, with the right to transfer the property by inheritance and rent it out.

Who Can Apply

The program is available to adult investors with no criminal record or serious health conditions. The application can include:

• a spouse, who will receive a passport two years after the main applicant;
• children under 21, who are granted citizenship simultaneously with the main investor.

Additional Expenses

Real estate purchases come with the following fees:

1. Government fee – $10,000 per family.
2. Registration fee – $11 per 100 m², capped at $43.
3. Property tax – 10% of the estimated rental value (considering expenses: 30% for residential, 32% for commercial).
4. Utilities – starting from $19 per month in Cairo, up to $32 in Sharm El-Sheikh (electricity, gas, water, waste collection, heating).

Egyptian citizenship through real estate investment is a simple and accessible route to a second passport. The program is suitable both for residency and for benefiting from the growing market. With flexible terms and no language requirements, it is popular among international investors.

Cypriot Citizenship through Real Estate Purchase

Cyprus is not only a picturesque island with beautiful beaches and a mild climate, but also a country offering attractive investment conditions. Citizenship can be obtained through naturalization, provided you invest in real estate and live on the island.

How to Obtain Permanent Residency through Investment

Foreigners can acquire permanent residency in Cyprus by purchasing residential or commercial property worth at least €300,000. Applicants must visit the country at least once every two years and are not allowed to work for local companies, although starting their own business is permitted. Permanent residents can rent out their properties. Rental demand is high between May and October, with yields reaching up to 9% annually. After eight years of holding PR status, investors can apply for Cypriot citizenship through naturalization. Once the passport is granted, the property can be sold, allowing the investor to recover their funds.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be over 18, have no criminal record, and prove a foreign annual income of at least €50,000. The following family members can be included:

• a spouse;
• children under 18;
• children up to 25, if unmarried, in full-time education, and financially dependent.

When purchasing commercial property, investors must also rent or purchase a residential unit and register it as their address — there are no specific requirements for the type or size of the residence.

Additional Investor Costs

1. Stamp duty – 0.15–0.2% of the property value.
2. VAT – 19% on new properties (reduced to 5% if used as a primary residence).
3. Title deed transfer fee – 3–8% on secondary market properties.
4. Rental income tax – from 20% to 35%, depending on earnings.

Cyprus Property Market

The market has shown steady growth, with prices increasing by 20.3%. Apartments remain the most in-demand, having appreciated by 12.7% over the past year. The most popular cities among foreign buyers are Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia, and Paphos, accounting for around half of all real estate transactions. The Cyprus PR program through property investment combines financial benefits with the prospect of EU citizenship. It’s a convenient path to European stability, offering opportunities to develop business, generate rental income, and eventually obtain a Cypriot passport.

Citizenship by Investment Process

While specific procedures for obtaining second citizenship through investment vary by country, the key steps are generally similar. Some countries grant passports immediately upon meeting the investment requirements, while others require a step-by-step process starting with a residence permit, followed by permanent residency, and finally citizenship.

Here’s a typical process investors go through:

1. Choosing the Property – The investor selects a residential or commercial property that meets the criteria of the national investment program.
2. Document Preparation – Required documents are gathered, including passports, proof of income, marriage and birth certificates, and a police clearance certificate. Documents are translated into the official language, notarized, and apostilled if necessary.
3. Property Purchase – A purchase agreement is signed, payment is made, and the transaction is officially registered.
4. Application Submission – The investor or their representative submits the application to the relevant government authority, such as the immigration office, Ministry of Interior, or a special citizenship agency.
5. Status Approval – Depending on the country, the applicant receives either a temporary or permanent residency permit, or directly qualifies for citizenship. Processing times can range from a few months to over a year.
6. Citizenship and Passport Issuance – Once approved, the investor receives citizenship and can obtain a passport either in person or through an authorized representative.

Obtaining second citizenship through real estate investment is not just a way to enhance travel freedom and protect wealth — it’s a strategic decision for the entire family’s future. The right country depends on the investor’s priorities: fast-track passport issuance, economic stability, or a profitable property market.

Key Takeaways: Second Citizenship through Property Purchase

Citizenship or residency by real estate investment is a legitimate way to establish a legal foothold in another country and ease international mobility. It’s essential to thoroughly research the conditions of the selected jurisdiction and be prepared to comply with residency timelines, registration protocols, and financial transparency requirements.

For some, it’s a path to new citizenship; for others, a lifestyle that bridges two countries. In any case, buying property abroad can be more than just acquiring real estate — it’s an investment in freedom, mobility, and security for the whole family. We’re here to help you choose the right program and guide you through every stage of the process.