Five Low-Cost Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2025

The demand for citizenship by investment (CBI) programs has grown significantly over the last decade. With global mobility restrictions, tax planning considerations, and the desire for a safer future, many investors are now seeking the cheapest citizenship by investment options available. While some countries require millions in real estate or government contributions, others provide more accessible paths to second passports at much lower costs.

In this guide, we explore five of the cheapest citizenship by investment programs in 2025: Nauru, Vanuatu, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, and Grenada. These countries stand out for their relatively affordable requirements, relatively quick processing times, and strong international recognition. If you are searching for the cheapest passport by investment or even the cheapest country to buy citizenship, these five programs should be at the top of your list.

Nauru: A Lesser-Known but Accessible Option

Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, has gained attention in recent years for offering one of the cheapest citizenship by investment programs in the world. Unlike the more famous Caribbean CBI options, Nauru’s program is not widely publicized, but it provides a relatively straightforward path to a second passport at a fraction of the cost.

While details are less standardized compared to Caribbean programs, Nauru generally requires a government donation or an approved investment that can start from around $100,000 USD. The processing is relatively quick, often completed in under a year, and the passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to dozens of countries, including several in Europe and Asia.

Although it may not be the best citizenship by investment program in terms of global mobility, Nauru is one of the cheapest countries to buy citizenship, making it appealing for budget-conscious investors or those seeking a backup plan for international travel.

Vanuatu: Fast and Affordable Citizenship

Among the fastest citizenship by investment programs globally, Vanuatu has positioned itself as a serious competitor to the Caribbean nations. With prices starting around $130,000 for a single applicant, it is not only affordable but also incredibly efficient. Many applicants receive their passports in just two to three months, making it one of the fastest citizenship by investment programs available today.

The Vanuatu passport offers visa-free travel to over 95 countries, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Singapore. It is often seen as the cheapest passport to buy for speed and efficiency, particularly for entrepreneurs and digital nomads who value quick mobility solutions.

While the program does not yet offer visa-free access to the Schengen Area, its low cost, simplicity, and fast-track approval process make it one of the best citizenship by investment countries for those who need an affordable second passport in record time.

Dominica: Longstanding Reputation for Value

Dominica is widely regarded as one of the best citizenship by investment programs in the world, thanks to its combination of affordability, transparency, and stability. Established in 1993, it is one of the longest-running CBI programs and has built a reputation for integrity.

The minimum contribution starts at $100,000 for a single applicant, making it one of the cheapest passports to buy. Families can also apply at relatively low costs compared to other programs, which is why Dominica is considered one of the best citizenship by investment programs for families.

Dominica’s passport allows visa-free access to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Zone and the United Kingdom. This makes it not just one of the cheapest investment citizenship options, but also one of the most powerful in terms of global mobility. For individuals or families seeking the cheapest country to get citizenship without compromising on travel benefits, Dominica remains a top contender.

Antigua and Barbuda: Family-Friendly Citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda stands out as one of the cheapest citizenship by investment programs for families. With a minimum contribution of $100,000 to the National Development Fund, families of up to four can secure citizenship, making it one of the most affordable options for larger households.

The Antigua passport provides visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Zone, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. This positions it as both a cheap citizenship by investment program and one of the best passport by investment options for those who want extensive travel benefits at a low cost.

Processing typically takes around three to six months, and while Antigua requires applicants to spend at least five days in the country within the first five years, this residency obligation is minimal and easily manageable. For those searching for the cheapest second passport that balances affordability and mobility, Antigua is one of the most strategic choices.

Grenada: Affordable Citizenship with Unique Advantages

Grenada offers one of the most attractive yet cheap citizenship by investment programs, starting at $150,000. What sets Grenada apart from other Caribbean nations is its unique international agreements. Grenada is the only Caribbean CBI country that has a visa-free agreement with China, making it an exceptional option for investors with business interests in Asia.

Moreover, Grenadian citizens are eligible to apply for the E-2 Investor Visa in the United States, something that other Caribbean passports do not provide. This makes Grenada not just a cheap passport by investment, but also a strategic investment citizenship program for those with global business aspirations.

The passport grants visa-free travel to over 140 countries and processing times average three to four months. For investors who want both affordability and added international leverage, Grenada is often seen as the best citizenship by investment program in the Caribbean.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Low-Cost CBI Program

When considering the cheapest citizenship by investment programs, it is important to balance cost with long-term value. While countries like Nauru and Vanuatu provide the cheapest passports to buy, their travel privileges may be more limited. On the other hand, Dominica, Antigua, and Grenada combine affordability with strong visa-free access, making them some of the best citizenship by investment countries overall.

Ultimately, the cheapest country to buy citizenship depends on your personal priorities—whether you want the fastest citizenship by investment, the most affordable family package, or the cheapest second passport with powerful global mobility. By carefully comparing these programs, you can select the option that provides not only a low entry cost but also lasting benefits for your future.