What Are the Cheapest Ways to Get a Second Passport in 2026?
For investors seeking a second citizenship without breaking the bank, several government-approved Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer legitimate pathways to a new passport at varying price points. In 2026, the most affordable programs start at just $90,000, making second citizenship accessible to a broader range of investors.
At Passport Gates, we help clients from the UAE and GCC region navigate these options to find the best value for their investment. Here is a complete ranking of CBI programs by cost.
How Do CBI Programs Rank by Price?
1. São Tomé & Príncipe — From $90,000
São Tomé offers the most affordable citizenship by investment program in the world. This Portuguese-speaking island nation in West Africa provides visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the entire Schengen zone. The program requires a contribution to the national development fund, with processing times of 3-6 months. As a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), São Tomé citizenship offers unique ties to Portugal and Brazil.
2. Vanuatu — From $130,000
Vanuatu's Development Support Program (DSP) is the fastest citizenship by investment program globally, with approvals possible in as little as 30-60 days. The South Pacific island nation offers visa-free access to 130+ countries, including the Schengen zone, UK, and Russia. Vanuatu has no income tax, no wealth tax, and no capital gains tax, making it attractive for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
3. Dominica — From $200,000
Dominica's CBI program, established in 1993, is one of the oldest and most respected in the world. Consistently ranked as the world's best CBI program by the Financial Times' CBI Index, Dominica offers visa-free travel to 140+ countries. The contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund starts at $200,000 for a single applicant, with processing times of 3-4 months.
4. Antigua & Barbuda — From $230,000
Antigua's CBI program offers visa-free access to 150+ countries and requires only 5 days of physical presence in the country within the first 5 years. The National Development Fund contribution starts at $230,000 for a family of four, making it one of the most family-friendly programs. Processing time is approximately 3-4 months.
5. Grenada — From $235,000
Grenada stands out as the only Caribbean CBI program that provides access to the US E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. This unique advantage allows Grenadian citizens to live and work in the United States by establishing a business. Visa-free travel covers 140+ countries including China. The contribution starts at $235,000 with processing in 3-4 months.
6. St. Lucia — From $240,000
St. Lucia's CBI program offers multiple investment options including a contribution to the National Economic Fund starting at $240,000. The program provides visa-free access to 140+ countries and includes family members. Processing time is typically 3-4 months, and the program is known for its thorough due diligence process.
7. St. Kitts & Nevis — From $250,000
St. Kitts & Nevis operates the oldest CBI program in the world, established in 1984. The Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) starts at $250,000. The program offers visa-free travel to 150+ countries and is widely regarded as the gold standard in citizenship by investment. Processing time is 2-3 months.
What Is the Total Cost Beyond the Investment?
The headline investment amount is only part of the total cost. Additional expenses typically include:
Government Processing Fees: $5,000-$50,000 depending on the program and number of applicants.
Due Diligence Fees: $5,000-$10,000 per adult applicant for background checks.
Legal and Advisory Fees: $15,000-$30,000 for professional guidance through the application process.
Passport Fees: $250-$500 per passport issued.
When calculating total costs, investors should budget an additional $30,000-$75,000 above the base investment amount.
How to Choose Based on Budget and Needs?
Lowest Budget ($90K-$130K): São Tomé and Vanuatu offer the most affordable options. Vanuatu is ideal if speed is a priority, while São Tomé offers stronger Schengen access.
Mid-Range Budget ($200K-$240K): Dominica, Antigua, Grenada, and St. Lucia offer established Caribbean programs with strong passport rankings. Grenada is the best choice if US access matters.
Premium Budget ($250K+): St. Kitts offers the most prestigious program with the longest track record and highest visa-free country count.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cheapest program always the best value? Not necessarily. Value depends on your specific needs — visa-free countries, processing speed, family inclusion, and tax benefits all factor into the equation. A slightly more expensive program may offer significantly better travel freedom.
Are there hidden costs in CBI programs? Reputable programs are transparent about costs. However, always account for due diligence fees, processing fees, legal fees, and passport issuance costs beyond the base investment.
Can I finance my CBI investment? Most programs require the full investment amount upfront. Some real estate options may offer developer financing, but government fund contributions must be paid in full.
Which cheap CBI program has the strongest passport? Among the most affordable options, St. Kitts & Nevis and Antigua & Barbuda offer the highest visa-free country access at 150+ countries each.
Get Expert Guidance on CBI Costs
Passport Gates provides transparent, detailed cost breakdowns for every CBI program. Contact our Dubai office for a personalized cost analysis based on your family size and investment preferences.