These 8 Countries Will Give You Citizenship If You Buy Property

As the world becomes more globalized and remote work allows for increased flexibility, it can make sense to consider moving abroad. The potential benefits of moving to another country include a lower cost of living, escape from a tense political climate, better healthcare, access to immersive cultural experiences, a slower-paced lifestyle, or more favorable taxes, depending on where you currently live. If you’re considering a big move, we have good news: Purchasing property in certain countries can eventually lead to residency and/or citizenship—and in many of these destinations, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to buy a home.

Before buying property abroad, review these steps to ensure you’re set up for success:

• Do your research: Start by looking into countries that match your personal and financial goals. Pay attention to property ownership laws, residency programs, tax rules, and the overall lifestyle to make sure it’s a good fit.

• Visit first: It’s no secret—people are way more likely to move somewhere after spending time there. Before making any big decisions, be sure to visit your potential new home a few times. This will give you a better feel for the local vibe, culture, and whether it’s practical for everyday living.

• Consult the experts: Chat with immigration lawyers, real estate agents, and tax professionals who know the ins and outs of foreign property deals. Their expertise will help you navigate local rules and avoid any unwanted surprises down the road.

• Think long-term: Moving abroad and buying property is undoubtedly a serious commitment. Take the time to really think and reflect about what it means to get residency or citizenship outside the U.S.—and how it’ll impact your life in the future.

Ready to take the next step? Here are eight countries that will grant you residency and/or citizenship for buying property.

Portugal

Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, oh my! Portugal has been on a tourism hot streak for over a decade, climbing the ranks for popular countries to visit. Even better news? Their residence by investment program is super well-known. According to Henley & Partners, a global residence by investment firm, for as little as $280,000 in real estate expenditure, you may be able to access their coveted Golden Visa program. (This amount is generally for low-density areas; in tourist hot spots, you can expect to pay more.)

The visa allows for residency where Americans can live, work, and travel freely within the EU. After a five-year waiting period, you can begin the citizenship process. Portugal is attractive for its rich culture, deep history, convenient Western European locale, and great healthcare system, making it a prime target for residence by investment.

Spain

Like its Iberian neighbor, Spain offers a Golden Visa program that grants residency in exchange for property investment. By investing roughly $500,000, you can gain residency in Spain and enjoy the country’s vibrant culture and temperate Mediterranean climate.

Spain’s Golden Visa offers a path to permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years, making it an attractive option for those looking to move abroad with the potential for EU citizenship. Please note, Spain does not allow dual citizenship with the U.S.

Antigua and Barbuda

For a dose of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda can be an ideal pick. This multi island nation offers a Citizenship by Investment program that includes a real estate option. With a minimum investment of $400,000 in property, investors can eventually earn their citizenship.

This beachy locale also boasts a strong passport, with the opportunity for visa-free travel to over 150 countries. Beyond a welcoming, warm climate, advantageous taxes, and a favorable business environment all help Antigua and Barbuda stand out from the residence by real estate crowd.

Malta

Another archipelago, Malta is a prime pick for expat property investment. Their Individual Investor Programme (IIP) might be the ideal choice and requires a real estate investment of at least $350,000. Beyond the initial investment, this program generally involves a contribution to the country’s National Development and Social Fund and a commitment to maintaining the property for several years.

Though the citizenship process can take a few years, Malta offers a high standard of living and education along with a prime location in the heart of the Mediterranean. From its golden capital city to its azure waters, it’s easy to see why this EU nation made our list.

Turkey

Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program allows individuals to apply for citizenship after purchasing real estate worth $400,000 or more. This relatively low threshold for investment has made Turkey one of the most popular destinations for those seeking a second passport.

Turkey’s unique location bridging Europe and Asia, rich culture, burgeoning food scene, and growing economy make it an extra appealing choice for expats. Also notable: This large Eurasian country has a fairly low cost of living, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to diversify their investments and citizenship.

Dominica

The Caribbean’s best kept secret is the so-called “Nature Isle” of Dominica. Nope, not the Dominican Republic; Dominica is its own independent nation with a Citizenship by Investment Program that’s one of the most affordable in the region.

Although you can opt to contribute to a government fund, investing in real estate is also an option, with a minimum investment requirement of $200,000 in property. In exchange, you gain citizenship and access to visa-free travel to over 140 destinations.

Greece

Greece’s Golden Visa program is one of the most affordable residency-by-investment programs in Europe. For a minimum investment of about $270,000 in real estate, individuals and their families can obtain Greek residency, which offers the freedom to live and work in Greece and travel throughout Europe.

Although this program does not offer immediate citizenship, after seven years of residency (not full time), individuals may apply for citizenship. As long as other benchmarks are met, like a basic understanding of the language, real estate can be a viable road to Greek citizenship.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis has long been considered a reliable option for individuals seeking citizenship by investment. With a real estate investment of at least $200,000, investors can apply for citizenship in as little as 3 to 6 months. Please note, you’ll have to hold onto the property for a specific time frame to apply, and this is for a shared ownership situation. For direct real estate ownership, the level of investment is more like $400,000.

The dual-island nation is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and a business-friendly environment that attracts international investors. The program also offers some of the most competitive tax benefits, such as no capital gains tax, no personal income tax, and no inheritance taxes.

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