To enjoy visa-free travel, grow their businesses, and protect against geopolitical risks, wealthy families everywhere are getting a second passport through Citizenship By Investment(CBI) programs.
However, a fundamental question confuses many applicants: Do the countries that operate CBI programs themselves accept dual citizenship?
The answer to this question is not the same for all CBI countries.
Some countries explicitly permit dual citizenship, while others strictly prohibit it or impose conditions. This article discusses in detail the dual citizenship policies of the countries that operate CBI programs.
⚠ Disclaimer
Immigration laws and financial requirements change frequently. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Before making any decisions, please consult a qualified professional or reach out to the High Net Worth Immigration team for a free, up-to-date consultation.
This Mostly Depends on the CBI Country's Policy vs. the Applicant's Own Country's Law
Before applying for a CBI program, you must keep a "Golden Rule" in mind. It essentially depends on two things:
Number 1: Whether the CBI country allows dual citizenship.
Number 2: Whether your own country allows dual citizenship.
Suppose a CBI country grants you permission for dual citizenship. But if your own country's law prohibits dual citizenship, then the moment you receive the new passport, your old citizenship will be automatically revoked.
For example: Countries like India, China, Singapore, Japan, and Malaysia strictly prohibit dual citizenship. That means, if you are an Indian citizen and you obtain a St. Kitts passport, even if St. Kitts agrees to it, under Indian law, your Indian citizenship will be automatically revoked.
Which Caribbean CBI Countries Explicitly Accept Dual Citizenship
The Caribbean CBI programs are most popular in this industry. Almost all Caribbean Citizenship by investment programs explicitly accept dual citizenship.
You can become a citizen here while keeping your current passport intact.
St. Kitts and Nevis: This country, which launched the world's first CBI program in 1984, They clearly states in its official documents: "The country permits dual citizenship, so you don't have to renounce your original nationality." That means, there is no need to renounce your previous citizenship.
Dominica: This program, running since 1993, also allows dual citizenship. You can retain your original citizenship while passing on this citizenship to future generations.
Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda: Both of these countries are also completely liberal regarding dual citizenship and offer investors the opportunity to retain their previous citizenship.
Pacific CBI Countries That Accept Dual Citizenship
Beyond the Caribbean, countries in the Pacific region are also quite welcoming when it comes to dual citizenship.
Nauru: A new program has been launched under the 2024 'Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Act.' Their official website clearly states: "Nauru allows dual citizenship, meaning you can maintain your current nationality while acquiring Nauru citizenship."
Vanuatu: Vanuatu is one of the fastest CBI programs in the world. According to their program information, investors can enjoy full citizen rights of Vanuatu while retaining their original citizenship.
African CBI Programs That Also Accept Dual Citizenship
The African country of São Tomé and Príncipe launched its CBI program in 2025, and they also allow dual citizenship. However, there is an unprecedented advantage here!
According to recent official documents, São Tomé and Príncipe allows an individual to hold three citizenships simultaneously (their original citizenship + two additional foreign citizenships).
However, according to new rules taking effect from April 2026, new applications from individuals holding three or more foreign citizenships will be temporarily suspended.
Exceptional CBI Countries That Accept with Conditions or Prohibit Dual Citizenship
Not all CBI countries are equally liberal about dual citizenship. In some countries, you need to exercise additional caution:
Egypt: In Egypt, if you acquire citizenship of another country without prior government approval, there is a risk of your Egyptian citizenship being revoked.
Jordan: According to Jordanian law, if you voluntarily acquire citizenship of another country, you must renounce your Jordanian citizenship.
Cambodia: In Cambodia, dual citizens cannot hold the top four political positions in the country. However, this restriction does not apply to general citizenship.
Our Recommendation for You:
At High Net Worth Immigration, we always tell second passport seekers to watch out for following three things:
First, confirm whether your current country's law accepts dual citizenship.
Then, verify the dual citizenship policy of your preferred CBI country.
Finally, before making any investment or application, consult an experienced immigration legal expert, so that both your current and future citizenships remain secure.
Are you looking for the right destination for a second passport? Contact our expert team today to learn more about your own country's laws and your preferred CBI program!
