Cheapest Citizenship by Investment and Golden Visa Programs (2026)
By: Burak Ünal
A second passport does not always require a million-dollar investment. As of 2026, some programs offer citizenship for donations starting around USD 90,000. In this guide we compare the cheapest citizenship by investment and golden visa options by entry amount, timeline and benefits.
Lowest-Budget Citizenship Programs
| Program | Lowest investment (donation) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Sao Tome and Principe | ~USD 90,000 | ~3-6 months |
| Nauru | ~USD 105,000 | ~3-4 months |
| Vanuatu | ~USD 130,000 | 1-2 months |
| Dominica | USD 200,000 | ~4-6 months |
| Antigua and Barbuda | USD 230,000 (family of 4) | ~4-6 months |
| Grenada | USD 235,000 | ~4-6 months |
| Saint Lucia | USD 240,000 | ~4-6 months |
| St. Kitts and Nevis | USD 250,000 | ~4-6 months |
These amounts are for the non-refundable donation route; real estate routes usually start higher but let you recover your capital over time. Government fees, due diligence and advisory costs are added separately; see our cost guide for the details.
Lowest Budget in Residence
If the right to live in a country is enough rather than citizenship, Latvia is one of the lowest-cost EU residence options at EUR 50,000 in business investment; Greece real estate starts at EUR 250,000.
What to Watch in a Cheap Program
Low price alone is not enough. The passport's visa-free travel power, the program's reputation and its due-diligence standards also matter. Caribbean programs offer visa-free access to more than 140 countries, while some low-cost programs have a narrower travel network. We assess your budget and goals together and recommend the program that genuinely fits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest citizenship program?
As of 2026, Sao Tome and Principe (~USD 90,000) and Nauru (~USD 105,000) are among the lowest entry amounts. Vanuatu, at ~USD 130,000, is both affordable and the fastest (1-2 months).
Is a donation or real estate cheaper?
The donation route has a lower entry amount and is simpler, but it is non-refundable. Real estate starts higher, yet part of the cost can be recovered because the property can be sold after the holding period.
Are cheap programs safe?
Official, legal programs are safe; however, each program has a different level of due diligence and reputation. We help you choose the program that fits you, based on current official sources.
How much does adding family cost?
A spouse, children and, in some programs, parents are added for an extra fee. Programs such as Antigua and Barbuda offer a single donation price for a family of four, which is an advantage for families.
To find the program that best fits your budget, take the free eligibility test or contact us.
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