At The Michele Carby Practice, many of our clients are globally mobile individuals looking for strategic ways to enhance their freedom, security, and financial flexibility. One increasingly popular option is Citizenship or Residency by Investment (CBI or RBI). These programmes offer individuals and families the opportunity to secure alternative citizenship or residency rights through financial contributions to a country. But what exactly is the difference between the two—and why are so many people exploring this route?
Citizenship vs. Residency by Investment: What’s the Difference?
While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct legal statuses:
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Citizenship by Investment (CBI) grants you full citizenship of a country. This includes a passport, voting rights, and often the ability to pass citizenship on to future generations.
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Residency by Investment (RBI), on the other hand, allows you to live, work, and sometimes travel freely within a country or region—without necessarily gaining full citizenship or a second passport.
Why Consider a Second Citizenship or Residency?
There are several strategic reasons why individuals and families pursue these programmes:
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Global Mobility: Many CBI and RBI programmes offer visa-free access to a wide range of countries, making international travel easier and more efficient.
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Political and Economic Stability: Alternative residency or citizenship can offer peace of mind in uncertain times, providing a safety net and greater personal security.
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Tax Planning: Certain jurisdictions offer more favourable tax environments, allowing individuals to structure their affairs more efficiently.
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Business Expansion: Holding citizenship or residency in another country can open doors to new markets, investments, and banking opportunities.
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Education and Healthcare Access: Families often choose these programmes to give their children access to world-class education and medical services.
Popular Programmes Around the World
Some of the most sought-after Citizenship and Residency by Investment programmes include:
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Portugal Golden Visa: One of the most popular European RBI programmes, offering residency with a path to citizenship after five years, along with access to the EU.
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Greece Golden Visa: Offers affordable real estate investment options and visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.
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United States EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: Offers a path to a U.S. Green Card through investment in a U.S. business that creates jobs. Ideal for those looking to relocate to the U.S. with their family.
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United States EB-3 Visa: A lesser-known but increasingly popular route to U.S. residency for skilled and unskilled workers, offering a long-term path to a Green Card through employment sponsorship.
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Canada Start-Up Visa (SUV): Designed for innovative entrepreneurs, the SUV provides permanent residency for those launching a qualified business in Canada, with the backing of an approved organization.
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Let’s Talk About Your Options
Whether you’re seeking a second passport, a Plan B for your family, or new investment opportunities abroad, we can help you navigate the complex world of Citizenship and Residency by Investment. At The Michele Carby Practice, we work with trusted strategic partners to bring you access to world-class programmes that align with your goals.
Set up a meeting with us today to explore how a CBI or RBI programme could enhance your financial and personal future.
