Citizenship by Investment 2026: Which Countries to Choose?

Notification of Second Citizenship

Russians are required to notify the Ministry of Internal Affairs about obtaining a second citizenship or residence permit within 60 days of receiving the status. The period starts from the date of entry into Russia.

Current Citizenship by Investment Programs 2026

Despite restrictions, several countries remain open to Russian investors, offering attractive conditions. Let’s look at the most sought-after programs among citizenship by investment countries list.

1. Citizenship by Investment Turkey 2026

Turkey remains one of the most popular destinations for citizenship by investment, especially for Russians. It does not impose additional conditions for applicants from Russia.

• Minimum Investment: from 400,000 $,,
• Processing Time: 3–6 months (according to other sources, 9-12 months )
• Main Investment Options:
  • Purchase of residential or commercial property: from 400,000 $. Investments must be held for three years, after which the property can be sold, and citizenship retained.,,
  • Opening a deposit in a Turkish bank: from 500,000 $.
  • Purchase of government bonds or investment fund shares: from 500,000 $.
  • Creation of at least 50 jobs: no fixed investment amount, but with a company charter capital of at least 330 $.
• Benefits: Fast processing, access to the Middle East, strategic geographical location, possibility of obtaining an E-2 investor visa in the USA.,

Foreign bank accounts or cash can be used for investment payments.

2. Malta Citizenship by Investment 2026

The Maltese program offers one of the most prestigious citizenships with EU access and high global mobility, making it a key option for citizenship by investment Europe.

• Minimum Investment: from 600,000 € (mixed investments)
• Processing Time: 12–18 months
• Conditions: The program is known as ‘Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment’. It requires a combination of financial contributions to the national development fund, real estate investment or rental, and a philanthropic donation. It includes a strict residency requirement of 12 or 36 months before citizenship is granted.
• Benefits: Full EU access (ability to live, work, and study in 27 EU countries), high global mobility (passport is among the best in the world).

Despite the high cost, a Maltese passport is highly valued for the freedom and opportunities it provides.

3. Egypt Citizenship by Investment 2026

Egypt offers several options for obtaining citizenship by investment.

• Minimum Investment: from 250,000 $
• Main Investment Options:
  • Non-refundable transfer to the Central Bank: from 250,000 $.
  • Real estate purchase: from 250,000 $.
  • Other refundable investments in the country’s economy.

4. Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment 2026

Vanuatu offers one of the fastest citizenship acquisition programs.

• Minimum Investment: from 130,000 $,
• Processing Time: 2–3 months
• Conditions: Contribution or program-specified investment option.
• Benefits: Fastest passport in the world, no residency requirement.,

5. São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment 2026

This is a niche but accessible option for obtaining a second citizenship.

• Minimum Investment: from 90,000 $,
• Processing Time: 4–5 months
• Conditions: Contribution to a government fund.

Residency by Investment Programs 2026

In addition to citizenship programs, there are also attractive residency by investment programs that can serve as a stepping stone to citizenship or provide necessary mobility.

1. Greece Golden Visa

The Greek ‘Golden Visa’ grants residency in the Schengen Area for the entire family.

• Minimum Investment: from 250,000 €,
• Main Investment Options:
  • Real estate purchase: from 250,000 €.
  • Purchase of shares in mutual or alternative funds: from 350,000 €.
  • Rental of tourist accommodation for 10 years: from 400,000 €.
  • Opening a deposit in a Greek bank: from 500,000 €.
  • Purchase of government bonds or shares in local companies: from 500,000 €.
• Conditions for Russians: Only available with a second (non-sanctioned) passport.

It’s important to note that the EU is tightening migration laws, and some ‘golden visa’ programs are closing or becoming more complex (e.g., Spain, Latvia, Portugal).

2. Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment 2026

Cyprus offers indefinite EU permanent residency status.

• Minimum Investment: from 300,000 €,
• Processing Time: 3–6 months
• Main Investment Options: Purchase of residential or commercial property, shares in Cypriot companies, or units in private investment funds.
• Benefits: Indefinite EU status.

Important Aspects When Choosing a Program

When selecting a citizenship or residency by investment program, several factors must be considered:

• Goals: Why do you need a second citizenship? Global mobility, tax optimization, security, access to education, or business?
• Budget: Minimum investment is only part of the cost. Additional fees, legal services, taxes, and maintenance costs must be accounted for.
• Timelines: Some programs offer fast processing (Vanuatu, Turkey), while others require a longer wait (Malta).
• Residency Requirements: Some programs do not require physical presence in the country, while others, like Malta, establish a mandatory residency period.
• Tax Residency: Obtaining a second citizenship does not automatically revoke tax residency or the obligation to report it.
• Due Diligence: Every applicant undergoes thorough verification of their source of funds and reliability. It is important to work with reputable intermediaries to avoid problems at this stage.

Conclusion

The citizenship by investment 2026 market offers diverse opportunities for wealthy investors. Despite tightened requirements and restrictions for Russians, countries such as Turkey, Vanuatu, São Tomé and Príncipe, as well as Cyprus and Greece (with a second, non-sanctioned passport) residency programs, remain accessible. Choosing the optimal program requires a deep analysis of individual goals, financial situation, and careful verification of all conditions. It is recommended to consult experienced advisors to ensure successful completion of all stages and avoid potential risks.

FAQ

What citizenship by investment programs are available for Russians in 2026?

In 2026, Russians can consider citizenship programs in Turkey, Egypt, Vanuatu, and São Tomé and Príncipe. Residency by investment programs are available in Cyprus, and also in Greece (with a second, non-sanctioned passport).

What are the minimum investments for citizenship by investment Turkey in 2026?

Minimum investments for citizenship by investment Turkey start from 400,000 $ for real estate purchase. Other options, such as opening a deposit or purchasing government bonds, require investments from 500,000 $.

Can Russians transfer money from Russian banks to pay for investments?

No, in 2026, direct transfers for investment payments from Russian banks are not possible. Investors use foreign bank accounts or cash.

Do Russian authorities need to be notified about obtaining a second citizenship?

Yes, citizens of Russia are obliged to notify the Ministry of Internal Affairs about obtaining a second citizenship or residence permit within 60 days of receiving the status. The period starts from the date of entry into Russia.

What Caribbean citizenship programs are available for Russians in 2026?

As of July 2026, most Caribbean programs (Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, St. Lucia) do not accept applications from citizens of Russia and Belarus.

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