Guide · Updated October 2026

Second Citizenship: Legal Routes, Costs and Requirements

A second citizenship is more than a spare document. It changes where your family can travel, live and bank. This guide explains the legal routes to obtaining one, what the cost is made up of, and who it suits.

What is second citizenship?

It means holding the citizenship of another country alongside your original one, with the full rights of a citizen: a passport, the right to live there, and the right to pass citizenship to your children under that country's law. It is different from residency, even permanent residency, because residency is granted on conditions and can lapse or be withdrawn, while citizenship is a permanent legal status.

The four legal routes to a second citizenship

1. Descent

If a parent or grandparent was a citizen of a country that grants citizenship by ancestry.

2. Marriage

After a period of marriage and residence set by the country's law.

3. Naturalisation

After years of genuine residence, usually with a language requirement.

4. Investment

A financial contribution or approved investment in a country with an official programme, with no prior residence requirement.

The first three routes depend on circumstances you cannot change, or take years. Investment is the only route that starts with a decision you make.

Why people seek a second citizenship

Freedom of movement

Travel to more destinations without applying for a visa in advance.

A plan B for the family

A permanent legal option that does not depend on an employment contract or a trade licence.

Banking and business

Open accounts and set up companies with a document that is accepted more widely.

The next generation

Citizenship passes to future generations under the country's law.

The citizenship by investment programmes we advise on

Dominica: for the single applicant who wants the lowest cost.

Antigua & Barbuda: for larger families.

Grenada: for those who want a route to the US market.

Saint Lucia: for those who prefer the bond option, where capital is returned.

St Kitts & Nevis: for those who want the longest-established programme.

Türkiye: for those who prefer real estate investment.

The full side-by-side comparison is on our Compare the Programmes page.

How much does second citizenship cost?

The cost varies from one programme to another, depending on the type of investment (government contribution, approved real estate or bonds) and the number of family members included in the application. It is usually made up of four parts: the contribution or investment itself, due diligence fees, government fees and processing fees. In your first consultation we give you a written, itemised estimate for your case based on the official figures in force, with no obligation.

How long does it take?

Between four months and more than a year, depending on the programme and how complete the file is. We do not promise a fixed timeline, because the decision and its timing rest with the government alone.

Who can apply?

A main applicant aged 18 or over, with a clean criminal record and a source of funds that can be documented. Some programmes place restrictions or additional conditions on certain nationalities, and that is the first thing we check before any other step.

Does your country allow dual citizenship?

Some countries do not allow their citizens to hold another citizenship, or require prior permission. Check your country's law or consult a qualified lawyer before applying. We raise this point in the first consultation, but the legal position in your home country remains your responsibility.

Frequently asked questions about second citizenship

Do I have to travel to the country?

All five Caribbean programmes require an interview, usually held by video. Some programmes have attendance or biometric requirements, which we explain for each programme.

Does it cover my family?

Yes. The programmes allow a spouse and children to be included, and some allow parents, on conditions that differ from one programme to another.

Is approval guaranteed?

No. The decision belongs to the government alone, after due diligence. Our role is to find the weak points in your file before it is submitted, not after.

Do I pay the contribution before approval?

No. The contribution is paid after approval in principle is issued.

Start with a free eligibility assessment

We are headquartered in Dubai and serve clients worldwide. One conversation is enough for us to tell you which programmes suit you, and which do not.

Request a consultation