Citizenship is the relationship between an individual and a sovereign State, defined by the laws of that State and involving corresponding duties and rights. Principal grounds for acquiring citizenship are birth within a certain territory, descent from a citizen parent, marriage to a citizen, and naturalization. The conditions under which the privilege of naturalization is granted vary from State to State, but family relationships or lengthy periods of residence are usually essential, besides character and other requirements. While residence is granted to investors and wealthy individuals in most countries, there are only very few countries now which have clear provisions in their laws to grant citizenship for economic considerations and without any residence requirements.
The USA, Canada, Belgium, Australia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom are countries which offer residence to wealthy individuals and investors, as well as citizenship at a later stage. Other countries offer citizenship-for-investment programs, sometimes also known as Economic Citizenship Programs.
Grant of Citizenship on the Basis of an Investment
Most countries have provisions that allow the Government to grant citizenship in return for major contributions to society, culture, the economy, and other interests of the State. However, this discretion of the Government is exercised extremely rarely.
Several countries had programs in place at different times which were specifically designed to attract foreign investors in return for citizenship. These include Ireland, whose program was terminated in 2001, Belize (until 2002), Grenada (terminated 2001), and several others.
Currently Available Citizenship-by-Investment Options
However, there are currently only two countries which offer legal and clearly defined programs on a statutory basis. These are the Commonwealth of Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis.
It is also possible to acquire Austrian citizenship if you invest substantially in the country. Although this is an established practice, there is no Citizenship-by-Investment program as such and only very few cases are approved each year. Nevertheless, Austria can be a very attractive option for a substantial investor.
We have studied all current programs and constantly monitor new developments. Furthermore, we have been for many years involved in advising several Governments in this area. Overall, St. Kitts & Nevis clearly offers the most attractive Citizenship-by-Investment Program available today.
Citizenship-by-Investment Programs offer you the opportunity to legally acquire a new nationality quickly and simply, without major disruption to your life.
Henley & Partners' Residence & Citizenship Practice Group
Henley & Partners is the only firm that has the global overview to offer you real options regarding Citizenship-by-Investment programs which have a sound legal basis. We are also constantly aware of the many illegal "programs" frequently available over the Internet and through various agents, and we advise several Governments on citizenship law, immigration law and visa policy. We have our own offices in all relevant countries and constantly monitor the worldwide situation.
For more than a decade, the firm's renowned International Residence and Citizenship Practice Group has been advising private clients, their close advisors such as lawyers and private bankers, as well as governments on citizenship law, immigration law, and visa policy issues. The Group has extensive expertise and experience with regard to Citizenship-by-Investment programs and its members have been involved in all the major programs that have existed over the last 20 years. The Group is in direct contact with the governmental authorities of the relevant countries and constantly monitors the worldwide situation.
