Which Country has the Cheapest Citizenship by Investment in Europe?

Today, flexibility, freedom of movement, and financial security are more important than ever before, and today, second citizenship is not merely a luxury; it has become an important strategic option for individuals and families alike. If you're looking for more travel options, safety, or a new place to hold your assets, citizenship by investment can often provide what traditional visas cannot.

However, the real question is: what is the cheapest citizenship by investment, and how can you have the cheapest citizenship by investment without sacrificing quality or benefits?

At iland, we don't offer global citizenship-by-investment programs. Instead, we specialize exclusively in Greece, helping international clients secure residency through real estate investment, financial independence, or digital nomad visas.

Whether you're seeking a smart way to live in Europe, invest in EU property, or explore future pathways to permanent residence, our end-to-end services in Greece offer a safe, legal, and strategic alternative.

So, if you're wondering which options are truly worth your investment, you're in the right place and possibly closer to a flexible life abroad than you think.

So, if you are wondering which country offers the cheapest citizenship by investment, you have arrived at the right place, and you are closer than you think.

Which Country Has the Cheapest Citizenship by Investment?

Cost is one of the first elements to be considered when thinking about obtaining a second passport or long-term residency through investment. Affordability isn't just about cost; it's what you receive in return. Some countries offer citizenship directly in exchange for a donation or real estate purchase, while others, like Greece, offer permanent residency that can lead to citizenship.

Let's explore six of the most affordable citizenship-by-investment programs available today, including one European investment opportunity that continues to attract intelligent investors. 

Cheapest citizenship by investment in Europe

🇬🇷 Greece: Residency through Real Estate Investment From €250,000 to €800,000

While Greece does not offer direct citizenship by investment, it stands out as one of the most accessible and reliable residency-by-investment programs in Europe, with a well-defined path to eventual citizenship.

By investing just €250,000 in residential or commercial real estate, you and your family can obtain a Greece Temporary Residence Permit. This Golden Visa grants the right to live in the country and travel freely throughout the Schengen Area.
Now, here’s the key advantage.
Although the initial investment grants residency, it can lead to full citizenship after seven years of legal residence. To qualify for Greek citizenship, you must:

• Maintain continuous legal residency for at least 7 years

• Pass a basic Greek language and culture test

• Demonstrate some level of integration (such as tax residency, school enrollment, or ties to the community)

While Greece may not offer immediate citizenship, it provides a realistic, affordable, and EU-based route for those seeking long-term stability in Europe.
Why choose Greece?

• Lowest property investment threshold in the EU (€250,000)

• No requirement to live in Greece full-time

• Visa-free access to the entire Schengen Zone

• Opportunity for long-term returns from real estate

• Clear legal framework for naturalization

🇩🇲 Dominica: From $100,000

Dominica has consistently ranked among the most affordable citizenship-by-investment program options in the world. For a non-recoverable donation of $100,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), you can receive full citizenship in just 3-4 months.
Why Dominica?

• Visa-free access to over 140 countries

• No residency or interview requirements

• Citizenship is hereditary

• Tax-friendly with no capital gains or inheritance taxes

It is an ideal choice for individuals seeking low-cost, high-speed options for worldwide travel and second citizenship.

🇻🇺 Vanuatu: From $130,000

Vanuatu offers the fastest route to citizenship by investment (typically under two months!). For a minimum contribution of $130,000, you can obtain full citizenship, which includes a passport that provides access to over 130 countries.
Some additional benefits include:

• Complete applications are processed within 3-4 weeks

• No language or residency requirements

• No personal income or capital gains tax

• Families can be included

🇱🇨 St. Lucia: Starting from $100,000

St. Lucia's program is another Caribbean option known for being flexible and affordable. Like Dominica, a minimum donation of $100,000 is required for a single applicant.
The program also offers:

• Real estate investment alternatives

• Visa-free access to 145+ countries

• Low due diligence costs

• Fast processing (3–4 months)

🇲🇪 Montenegro: Starting from €200,000 (Program closed but under revision)

Montenegro offered a competitive CBI program that is currently closed but expected to reopen with revised guidelines. When active, it required an investment of €200,000, combining a donation and real estate purchase.
Its appeal lies in:

• Potential EU membership shortly

• Fast-track process (less than 6 months)

• Strategic location in Southeast Europe

Although paused, Montenegro remains on the radar of many investors, who are waiting for the program to resume.

🇹🇷Turkey - From $400,000

Turkey is no longer the least expensive passport, but it is still a great option for real estate investment. You can obtain Turkish citizenship in just a few months with a qualifying property purchase of just $400,000.
Benefits you will get:

• location between Europe and Asia

• The family can get full citizenship

• Fast processing (3-6 months)

• Strong passport with access to 110+ visa-free countries

Programs can be compared not just by price but also by benefits and long-term opportunities. If you need a fast second passport, you will probably be best suited to Caribbean countries like Dominica or St. Lucia. If you are seeking long-term residency in Europe with a clear pathway to citizenship, Greece is a great choice.

At iland, we will support you in comparing, planning, and applying - step-by-step! From counseling to approval, we utilize our experienced consultants to help you secure your application legally and achieve your personal goals.

Is it Good to Get the Cheapest Citizenship by Investment Programs?

When it comes to acquiring a second passport, many people wonder whether choosing one of the cheapest citizenship by investment programs is a smart move or if lower cost means sacrificing quality, benefits, or security.
The truth? Affordable doesn't have to mean risky or ineffective if you know where to look and work with the right professionals.
Choosing the cheapest citizenship by investment doesn’t mean compromising on safety or legitimacy. It means making a strategic, cost-effective decision, especially when guided by experts who are familiar with the legal frameworks and benefits of each program.
With iLand’s personalized advisory, legal support, and global partner network, we help you identify the best-value program that matches your lifestyle, goals, and budget, ensuring you get the passport power you deserve without overpaying for prestige you may not need.

How to Invest in Greece? We can answer this question for you; if you want to know more, contact us.

What is the Cheapest Citizenship by Investment Program?

Today, more than ever, people are seeking affordable and reliable pathways to obtain a second citizenship that combines low investment thresholds, clear legal frameworks, quick processing times, and broad travel benefits. Greece, as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations, offers unique residency and investment programs that provide a strong foundation for long-term residence and eventual citizenship.
While several Caribbean nations remain among the most cost-effective citizenship-by-investment options in 2025, Golden Visa for Greece stands out with benefits such as a renewable 7-year residence permit, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, and flexible investment options like real estate starting at €250,000.

Here’s a brief comparison of leading affordable citizenship-by-investment programs for 2025:

At iland, we specialize in providing expert investment consulting, property sales and management, renovation, and comprehensive support for Greece’s Golden Visa and residency programs. Our goal is to help you confidently navigate your path to residency or citizenship in Greece while maximizing all the benefits this beautiful country has to offer.

Also, If you want to know where is the cheapest place to buy property in Greece, Read about it in the other article.

Conclusion

Thanks to citizenship-by-investment programs, the opportunity to obtain citizenship is no longer just for the ultra-wealthy and powerful executives. In 2025, individuals and families around the globe will have access to programs starting from $100,000 to acquire increased global mobility, financial flexibility, and a solid Plan B without compromising their life savings.

The least expensive citizenship-by-investment programs can be great options, but only if selected with clear intent, legal advice, and full transparency.

Whether you are looking to improve your travel freedom, secure your family’s future, save on taxes, or just worry less in uncertain times, citizenship by investment can help.
At iland, we offer our clients a collaborative, reassuring, and intentional approach to citizenship by investment, ensuring a legal process that is both reassuring and transparent.

So, what’s the next step? Our experts would be happy to assist you throughout the process of exploring your options and obtaining your second passport.

Book your free consultation today, and let’s make your second citizenship a reality affordably, securely, and smartly.