Second Passport Options for Indian Citizens: Best CBI Programs to Consider in 2025
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The world today is far more connected than it was a decade ago. Business moves across borders in seconds. Families are spread across continents. And opportunities no longer stop at the edge of a passport. For many Indians, what once felt like a distant dream — holding a second passport — has started to look like a real possibility.
A second passport offers more than just easier travel. It brings security in uncertain times, wider choices for education, and access to new markets. Parents see it as a way to secure their children’s future. Entrepreneurs view it as a tool to expand business beyond India.
In 2025, one of the clearest ways to achieve this goal is through Citizenship by Investment (CBI). These programs allow individuals to invest — whether in property, government funds, or development projects — and in return gain citizenship. Out of the many available worldwide, five stand out this year for Indians: Türkiye, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Dominica, and Vanuatu. Each program has its strengths, but all share one promise — a faster, legal, and reliable route to global mobility.
Important Legal Note for Indian Citizens
For Indians, a second passport is no longer out of reach. Citizenship by Investment programs provide a recognized and legal route, giving families a chance to step onto the global stage.
India, however, has its own framework. The Indian Citizenship Act of 1955 does not allow dual citizenship. This means that anyone who chooses another nationality must give up their Indian passport. It may sound daunting, but it is a straightforward requirement that thousands of Indians have already navigated. To give up your Indian nationality, it’s advisable to contact a lawyer or the nearest Indian embassy in your country of residence for further guidance.
There is also a bridge that keeps the link with India strong. After renouncing citizenship, you can apply for an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card. This card has become the practical choice for many Indians abroad. It grants lifelong entry, the ability to live and work in India, and preserves key benefits that maintain your connection to home.
Put simply, a second passport expands your global reach, while OCI status makes sure your bond with India remains secure. Together, they give you mobility without losing touch with your roots.
How Citizenship by Investment Works
Citizenship by Investment, often called CBI, is a legal process where a country grants citizenship in return for a qualified investment. It was created to attract foreign capital while offering investors and their families new opportunities. The major routes are simple:
Government Donation: A direct contribution to a national fund that supports development projects.
Real Estate or Property Purchase: Buying pre-approved property, often with the option to sell it after a few years.
Government Bonds or Funds: In some countries, approved bonds or mutual funds can qualify you for citizenship.
For families, CBI is more than just an investment. It brings a new passport, wider travel freedom, access to better education, and peace of mind. For entrepreneurs, it opens doors to global markets and safer banking options.
In short, CBI programs give you a clear path to global mobility while supporting the host country’s growth. It is a partnership that works both ways; you invest in their future, and they invest in yours.
Second Citizenship Options for Indian Citizens in 2025
In 2025, Indians have a handful of trusted routes for a second passport. Below are some of the most preferred programs — Türkiye, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Dominica, and Vanuatu. Each works in its own way, but the outcome is similar: more travel freedom and a secure future. For families, it means safety and stability. For entrepreneurs, it opens doors to global markets without heavy visa restrictions.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment
Straddling Europe and Asia, Türkiye is more than a country — it’s a crossroads. Its Citizenship by Investment Program has gained strong traction in recent years and remains a top choice in 2025.
The process is straightforward: make the investment, hold it for the required period, and secure citizenship for the entire family. There is no need to live in Türkiye, and most applications are processed within a few months.
For entrepreneurs, the appeal goes even further. Türkiye’s location makes it a true crossroads, connecting Europe with the Middle East and Central Asia. Investors often point to another plus — the option of applying for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa once they set up residency in Türkiye. And unlike short-term permits, this citizenship stays with you for life. It can be handed down to your children and covers the entire family under one application.
Benefits
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ destinations.
- Strong healthcare system with both public and private choices.
- Mediterranean lifestyle with diverse cities and coastlines.
- Major trade and investment hub across three regions.
- Eligibility to apply for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
- Entire family included under one file; citizenship is lifelong and inheritable.
Investment Options
Real Estate:
Buy a property worth at least USD 400,000. Hold for a minimum of three years.
Other Approved Investments:
Invest at least USD 500,000 in real estate funds or venture capital funds. It must also be held for three years, verified by the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye.
St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
St. Kitts & Nevis launched the world’s first Citizenship by Investment Program in 1984. With over forty years of history, it has earned a name for stability and global respect. The passport ranks in the top 25 worldwide and gives Indian investors both mobility and a solid legal framework. Most applications are approved within six to eight months, making it a balanced choice for those who want both speed and reliability.
Benefits
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 150+ destinations, including the UK and Schengen Area.
- Safe, English-speaking country with a calm lifestyle and clean beaches.
- Welcoming expat circles and low population density.
- Strong healthcare system with modern clinics.
- Spouse and eligible dependents are included in one application.
- Citizenship is permanent, inheritable, and passed to future generations.
- Tax-friendly environment with no personal income, wealth, or inheritance tax.
* Tax laws may change and can vary depending on personal circumstances. We recommend seeking professional tax advice before making any investment decisions.
Investment Options
Donation – Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- Single applicant: USD 250,000.
- Family of up to four: USD 250,000.
- Each additional dependent under 18: USD 25,000.
- Each additional dependent over 18: USD 50,000.
Real Estate Investment
- Minimum USD 325,000 in approved condominium or share units.
- Minimum USD 600,000 in approved private real estate projects.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program
Grenada launched its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2013 and soon earned a solid reputation. It is the only Caribbean country whose citizens can apply for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, which makes it appealing for entrepreneurs and families with plans in America. The program does not impose residency rules, and applicants can keep their current citizenship while applying.
Benefits
- Eligibility to apply for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
- English-speaking nation with a strong education system.
- Fast processing with clear and stable regulations.
- Safe environment, ideal for both entrepreneurs and families.
- Well-connected with visa-free access to key global markets.
- No tax on foreign income, wealth, or capital gains.
* Tax laws may change and can vary depending on personal circumstances. We recommend seeking professional tax advice before making any investment decisions.
Investment Options
Donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF)
- Single applicant or family of four: USD 235,000.
- Additional dependents: USD 25,000–50,000.
- Siblings: USD 75,000.
Real Estate Investment
- Minimum USD 270,000 in government-approved property.
- Government fees of USD 50,000 (waived in some cases).
Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program
Dominica has been running its Citizenship by Investment Program since 1993, making it one of the longest-standing and most reliable in the world. The process is known for clear rules, strict due diligence, and steady timelines. Applications are managed by the CBI Unit, and most families move from submission to approval within four to six months. For Indian citizens seeking a second passport, Dominica offers a dependable and affordable path that has been trusted for decades.
Benefits
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 140 destinations, including the Schengen Area.
- One application covers the spouse, children, and dependent parents or grandparents.
- Approvals are usually granted within 4–6 months.
- Citizenship is permanent, inheritable, and supported by simple passport renewals.
- No wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
* Tax laws may change and can vary depending on personal circumstances. We recommend seeking professional tax advice before making any investment decisions.
Investment Options
Donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
- Single applicant: USD 200,000.
- Family of up to four: USD 250,000.
- Each additional dependent under 18: USD 25,000.
- Each additional dependent over 18: USD 40,000.
Real Estate Investment
Government-approved property with a minimum value of USD 200,000.
Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment
Vanuatu offers the fastest process among all CBI programs. Vanuatu introduced its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2017, offering one of the fastest and simplest routes to a second passport. The process is donation-based, with minimal paperwork and approvals often granted in under three months. For Indian citizens looking for a quick and cost-effective option, Vanuatu stands out as a practical choice.
Benefits
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 90+ destinations.
- One of the lowest investment thresholds in Citizenship by Investment.
- Passports usually issued in about 3 months.
- Spouse, children, and parents can be included in one application.
- No residency requirement before or after approval.
- 10-year passport validity with simple renewals.
- No language or history tests.
- Tax-friendly environment with no personal income, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
* Tax laws may change and can vary depending on personal circumstances. We recommend seeking professional tax advice before making any investment decisions.
Investment Options
Donation to the Development Support Program (DSP)
Single applicant: USD 130,000.
Family of up to four: USD 180,000.
São Tomé & Príncipe Citizenship by Investment
São Tomé & Príncipe launched its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2025 through Decree-Law No. 07/2025. The initiative directs investor contributions to the country’s National Development Fund, which supports key areas such as housing, education, and infrastructure.
For applicants, the process is quick and simple — approvals are often completed in around six weeks. With a minimum investment of USD 90,000, the program is among the most affordable second citizenship options available today.
A São Tomé & Príncipe passport allows easier travel to more than 60 destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Africa. For Indian citizens and global investors seeking a cost-effective route, it offers a balance of accessibility and long-term value.
Benefits
- Citizenship within approximately six weeks.
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 60+ countries.
- Lifelong citizenship for the applicant and eligible family members.
- No residency or interview requirements.
- Parents over 55 years and children up to 30 years can be included.
- Dual citizenship is permitted.
- Contribution supports national development projects.
- One of the world’s most affordable CBI programs.
Investment Options
National Development Fund (NDF) Contribution
- Single Applicant: USD 90,000
- Family (2–4 members): USD 95,000
- Each Additional Dependent: USD 5,000
Total Cost Planning
When planning for a second passport, it is important to look beyond the main investment. Each program also includes government fees, due diligence charges, and professional service costs. These vary from country to country, and from single applicants to larger families. Planning early helps avoid surprises and gives a clear view of the total budget.
How UNO Capital Helps
At UNO Capital, we know that applying for a second passport is not only about paperwork. It is a life choice that shapes your family, your business, and your future. Through the years, we’ve supported many Indian families and walked with them through each stage of the process.
Our strength lies in combining professional knowledge with personal attention. We make the process simple, explain every step clearly, and keep everything open and transparent.
Working with the right experts makes the process clear and straightforward. At UNO Capital, we guide you through each stage:
- Free eligibility check.
- Preparing documents and verifying the source of funds.
- Submitting your application to the chosen program.
- Government due diligence and approval.
- Issuance of citizenship and passport.
- Post-passport services including renewals, adding dependents, and real estate exit strategies.
For Indian applicants, we go one step further. We also support with passport renunciation and OCI coordination, ensuring that every stage follows Indian law while protecting your connection to India. Contact us today!
Conclusion
In 2025, Indian citizens have a clearer path than ever to a second passport. With the right guidance and careful planning, global mobility is now achievable.
- Türkiye is ideal for property investors and retirees seeking long-term growth and relocation options.
- Kitts & Nevis offers one of the strongest and most respected passports.
- Grenada provides a unique route to the U.S. market through its E-2 treaty.
- Dominica is the most affordable and reliable choice.
- Vanuatu is the fastest for those who want quick results.
- São Tomé & Príncipe is the most affordable yet the quickest option for single applicants and families.
The best CBI programs 2025 depend on your family’s needs — whether it is travel freedom, business access, or lifestyle upgrades. For many Indians, securing a second passport today means building a safer and more global future tomorrow.
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