If you’ve been thinking about acquiring a second passport through a citizenship by investment program but are concerned about the cost, you’re not alone.
While some programs require significant capital, there are several affordable options available in 2026, including both direct citizenship and residency programs that can lead to citizenship over time.
In this article, we bring you the cheapest citizenship by investment (CBI) and residency by investment (RBI) programs available in 2026, ranked from lowest to highest in terms of the investment amount required.
8 Cheapest Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2026
1. Latvia
Program type: Residency by investment
Starting investment amount: €60,000 (~$70,000 USD)
Path to citizenship: After 10 years of residence
Latvia’s Residency by Investment program offers one of the lowest-cost entry points into the European Union, with a starting investment of just €50,000 into a local business plus a €10,000 government fee. Applicants can also choose higher-cost options such as real estate, bank deposits, or government bonds. The program provides a five-year renewable residence permit and requires no minimum stay, although citizenship is only possible after 10 years of legal residence, language proficiency, and civic integration.
Key advantages:
- Lowest entry point into the EU investment migration space
- Visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area
- No minimum stay requirement for residency renewal
2. São Tomé and Príncipe
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $90,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
Launched in 2025, São Tomé and Príncipe’s Citizenship by Investment program offers the world’s most affordable route to second citizenship through a $90,000 non-refundable contribution to its National Transformation Fund. The process is fully remote, requires no physical presence, and typically takes just 6 to 8 weeks. Applicants may include eligible family members, and citizenship is lifelong and hereditary.
Key advantages:
- Lowest-cost direct second citizenship program globally
- No residency, language, or education requirements
- Stateless people and those with expired passports can apply for this option
3. Vanuatu
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $105,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
Next up on our list of the world’s cheapest citizenship by investment programs is Vanuatu. The new Real Estate by Share option allows investors to obtain citizenship for just $105,000, with no residency or language requirements. Citizenship is granted for life and can be passed down to future generations, making it an attractive option for global mobility and long-term planning.
Key advantages:
- Fast-track passport in as little as one month
- No physical presence, language, or residency requirements
- An excellent option for tax planning since you don’t have to pay personal income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes
4. Malta
Program type: Residency by investment
Starting investment amount: €169,000 (~$198,000 USD)
Path to citizenship: After 5 years of residence (via naturalization)
Malta’s Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) offers indefinite EU residency through a structured investment that includes a government contribution, administrative fees, a property lease or purchase, and a charitable donation.
With no physical presence requirement to maintain residency, it’s a flexible and family-friendly route into Europe. While not a direct citizenship program, naturalization is possible after five years of residence, subject to integration and due diligence requirements.
Key advantages:
- Permanent EU residency valid for life
- No stay requirement to maintain status
- Eligible for citizenship after five years of residence
5. Dominica
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $200,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment program is one of the most established and government-regulated CBI schemes in the Caribbean. Applicants may qualify by making a non-refundable contribution of $200,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund or by investing at least $200,000 in an approved real estate project.
Key advantages:
- Enjoy no wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income, or capital gains tax.
- No residency, language, or education requirements
- Citizenship is granted for life and can be passed on to future generations
6. Antigua & Barbuda
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $230,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
Antigua and Barbuda offers a direct path to second citizenship through a government-approved donation or business investment of $230,000 to the National Development Fund. The program is open to single applicants or families and typically takes 3–6 months to process. There is no requirement to reside in the country full-time, but new citizens must spend at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years.
Key advantages:
- Immediate citizenship with a one-time donation or a business investment
- Investors can also choose a revenue-generating film production investment, with a minimum of $400,000 USD.
- Inclusion of a wide range of family members: spouse, dependent children under 31, parents/grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings
- No personal income tax on worldwide earnings
7. Grenada
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $235,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program offers direct citizenship in exchange for a non-refundable contribution to the country’s National Transformation Fund. The donation option starts at $235,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four.
Key advantages:
- Fast-track citizenship with no physical presence requirement
- E-2 treaty country status allows for potential U.S. investor visa access
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to China, the UK, the Schengen Area, Singapore, and more
8. St. Lucia
Program type: Citizenship by investment
Starting investment amount: $300,000 USD
Path to citizenship: Direct
Last but not least on our list of the most affordable CBI programs across the world is St. Lucia. This Caribbean nation offers full citizenship in exchange for an investment in the National Action Bond that’s refundable after 5 years.
Key advantages:
- Citizenship in as little as 3–6 months
- No physical residency or travel required
- Investment is refunded to the applicant after 5 years, making it a great option if you prioritize capital security and long-term stability
Which Program Caught Your Eye?
Whether you’re looking for a strategic Plan B, better travel freedom, or a long-term legacy for your family, these citizenship and residency programs offer accessible options—without breaking the bank.
That said, making the right choice isn't just about picking the cheapest option. It’s about choosing the one that fits your lifestyle, goals, and future plans. And that’s where expert guidance matters.
If you’re serious about securing a second passport or EU residency in 2026, working with us at High Net Worth Immigration can help you avoid costly mistakes, fast-track your application, and make the most of your investment.
Book your free initial consultation today!
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest citizenship-by-investment program in 2026?
The cheapest direct citizenship by investment program in 2026 is São Tomé and Príncipe, with a starting investment of $90,000 USD. This involves a non-refundable donation to the country’s National Transformation Fund. The process is fully remote, takes little time, and includes lifelong citizenship with family eligibility.
2. What’s the cheapest residency by investment program in Europe in 2026?
As of 2026, Latvia offers the most affordable residency-by-investment program in Europe. The minimum investment starts at €60,000 (approximately $70,000 USD), involving a business investment plus a government fee.
3. Is citizenship by investment legal and safe in 2026?
Yes, citizenship by investment programs are legal and government-regulated in many countries across the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. In 2026, top programs, such as those in St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Grenada, continue to operate under official legislation, with strict due diligence and background checks in place.
To ensure safety, applicants should always apply through CBI consultants like High Net Worth Immigration and avoid unofficial third-party providers.
Whether you are looking to acquire a second passport, protect your wealth, or pass on lasting freedom to the next generation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
👉 Book a free consultation today.
