Fastest Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2026
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In an increasingly unpredictable world, the question isn’t whether you need a second passport, it’s how quickly you can get one.
For high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking global mobility, time is often the most precious commodity.
Whether you’re facing political instability, seeking better business opportunities, or simply want a Plan B for your family, the fastest citizenship by investment (CBI) programs can deliver a life-changing document in as little as 30 days.
But here’s the truth most advisors won’t tell you: advertised processing times rarely match reality. The gap between marketing promises and actual timelines can stretch from weeks to months, a costly delay when circumstances demand urgency.
This guide cuts through the noise. We examine which CBI programs genuinely deliver under 60 days, what accelerates or delays your application, and what trade-offs you should consider when prioritizing speed over other benefits.
Why Speed Matters in Citizenship by Investment
The demand for rapid second citizenship has never been higher. Several factors drive this trend in 2026:
Political and Economic Uncertainty
From banking restrictions to sudden policy changes, governments worldwide are implementing measures that can trap citizens within their borders. A second passport provides immediate optionality when your primary citizenship becomes a liability rather than an asset.
Business Continuity
Entrepreneurs face restrictions based on nationality, from banking access to visa complications. A neutral second citizenship eliminates friction, enabling smoother global operations.
Family Security
Multiple citizenships mean multiple safety nets. Educational opportunities, healthcare access, and long-term settlement options expand exponentially with each additional passport.
Time-Sensitive Tax and Investment Planning
Strategic relocation often operates within tight windows. Delays in citizenship processing can cost millions in missed opportunities.
The Fastest Citizenship by Investment Programs in 2026
1. Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment
Vanuatu’s Development Support Program (DSP) is the fastest CBI program in the world. Qualified applicants can receive citizenship in as little as 30 days, with most completing within 45–60 days.
Investment Requirements:
Single applicant: USD $130,000 donation
Married couple: USD $150,000 donation
Family of four: USD $180,000 donation
Why Vanuatu Delivers Speed:
Streamlined bureaucracy
No interview or physical visit required
Advanced digital processing for faster approval
Passport Strength:
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to ~100 countries, including the UK, Schengen area, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia.
Considerations:
Vanuatu’s passport doesn’t provide direct access to the US or Canada. Due diligence standards have improved but remain less strict than longer-established programs.
2. St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
St Kitts is the world’s oldest CBI program. The Accelerated Application Process (AAP) delivers citizenship in 45–60 days.
Investment Requirements:
Donation to Sustainable Growth Fund: USD $250,000 (single applicant)
Real estate option: USD $400,000+
Why It Works:
Established credibility and thorough due diligence
Expedited process maintains full international acceptance
Passport Strength:
Visa-free access to ~157 destinations, including the UK, Schengen area, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Ireland.
3. Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Dominica offers the most cost-effective route to citizenship. Standard processing takes 3–4 months, with some applications completing in as little as 60 days.
Investment Requirements:
Economic Diversification Fund: USD $100,000 (single applicant)
Real estate option: USD $200,000+
Passport Strength:
Visa-free access to ~145 countries, including Schengen, UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Why Dominica:
Best choice for budget-conscious applicants seeking a strong passport without high costs.
4. Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Antigua’s program is ideal for families, covering up to four generations.
Investment Requirements:
National Development Fund: USD $230,000 (family of four)
Real estate option: USD $300,000+
Processing Timeline:
Approximately 3–4 months from application to passport delivery, with minimal physical presence (5 days in first 5 years).
Passport Strength:
Visa-free access to ~151 destinations, including Schengen, UK, and access to US B1/B2 visas.
5. São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
Investment Requirements:
USD $90,000 donation for single applicant
USD $95,000 for a family of 2–4
Additional dependents: USD $5,000 each
Submission fee: ~USD $5,000
Processing Timeline:
Typically 6–8 weeks (~1.5–2 months)
Passport Strength:
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to ~60 countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Africa
Why São Tomé Works:
Lowest-cost program globally
No residency, interview, or language requirement
Dual citizenship allowed
Streamlined, fully remote application process
Limitations:
Modest visa-free access compared with Caribbean or EU programs
Key Considerations for Fast Citizenship
Document Preparation: Apostille, notarize, and translate all documents before submission.
Source of Funds Verification: Prepare comprehensive financial records.
Family Inclusion: Each dependent adds complexity; consider applying individually first if timing is critical.
Agent Selection: Work only with government-authorized, experienced agents for speed and reliability.
Seasonal Timing: Programs may slow during peak periods (December–January).
Trade-Offs: Speed vs. Other Benefits
Passport Strength vs. Speed: Fastest programs (Vanuatu) may provide access to fewer countries than slower, premium programs (St Kitts).
Due Diligence: Faster programs may conduct lighter checks; longer programs offer stronger international credibility.
Investment Type: Fast-track programs usually require non-refundable donations, while slower programs may allow real estate retention.
Who Should Prioritize Fast Citizenship?
Entrepreneurs with urgent relocation needs
Families requiring immediate global mobility
Investors seeking a Plan B in unstable regions
Individuals facing travel or banking restrictions
Build Your Plan B with Ancova
Don’t wait until circumstances force your hand. Whether you’re seeking global mobility, business freedom, or security for your family, Ancova Associates helps high-net-worth individuals design a personalized Plan B through the fastest citizenship by investment programs.
We provide:
Expert guidance on fastest legitimate CBI programs in 2026
Accurate timeline and cost assessments based on real-world performance
Personalized strategies for family inclusion, investment choices, and risk management
Priority support through government-authorized agents to maximize speed and minimize delays
Contact us today to start building your Plan B second passport and secure your freedom, flexibility, and future.
