In 2026, as global connectivity continues to grow, more individuals are seeking second passports to enhance their mobility, secure financial advantages, and protect their privacy. Whether you’re looking for greater travel freedom, business opportunities, or a backup plan for unpredictable times, acquiring a second passport is becoming an increasingly popular option. Many countries now offer legal pathways to obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment (CBI) and residency by investment programs. In this article, we’ll explore 11 countries where you can purchase a second passport in 2026, detailing the top investment programs, benefits, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is a Second Passport?
A second passport is a travel document that allows individuals to travel to other countries under a different citizenship. People obtain second passports for a myriad of reasons such as, having fewer travel restrictions, obtaining a tax passport, and having a backup travel document in the case of an emergency. Not to be confused with a visa, a second passport is a full passport document issued by a country to an individual that already has a passport or based on special requirements.
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Residency by Investment (RBI) programs are offered by many countries, which provide second passports. These programs provide an individual the option to invest in the country and, in turn, receive citizenship and a second passport.
You are able to earn a second passport for many different reasons. These different reasons will be expanded upon in the following points:
More Freedom: A second passport will allow you to travel freely to destinations that are previously restricted when traveling with a first passport.
Tax Liabilities: It is common in many countries that a second passport can reduce the amount of tax you pay. This is achieved by moving to a country that is more tax favorable and spending time there.
Business: A person is able to open a business more easily when they have a second passport. This is due to the fact that open business opportunities to new markets are also available to them.
Safety: If a person is living in a country that has unsafe political views and policies, then a second passport is a good thing to have as a backup for emergencies.
Privacy and security: A second passport offers additional privacy for individuals who want to keep their travel activities more discreet.
1. St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the most popular destinations for obtaining a second passport. Its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has been around since 1984 and offers a straightforward path to citizenship.
Investment Options:
Donation to the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation: Starting at $150,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $200,000.
A second passport from St. Kitts and Nevis grants visa-free access to over 150 countries, making it a popular choice for investors seeking global mobility.
2. Dominica
Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the most affordable in the Caribbean. This program provides a quick and efficient path to citizenship, often taking just a few months.
Investment Options:
Donation to the Economic Diversification Fund: Starting at $100,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $200,000.
Dominica offers visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the European Union and the United Kingdom.
3. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda offers one of the most flexible and appealing CBI programs in the Caribbean. The country is known for its beautiful beaches and a high quality of life.
Investment Options:
Donation to the National Development Fund: Starting at $100,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $400,000.
Citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda provides visa-free access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area.
4. Grenada
Grenada CBI program stands out due to the country’s close ties to the United States. Grenadian passport holders can apply for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, allowing them to live and work in the U.S.
Investment Options:
Donation to the National Transformation Fund: Starting at $150,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $220,000.
Grenada offers visa-free access to over 140 countries.
5. Cyprus
Cyprus is an EU member state, making its citizenship especially valuable for those seeking European Union access. While Cyprus has temporarily suspended its CBI program as of 2020, the country is still an attractive option for those looking for residency by investment opportunities.
Investment Options:
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of €2 million.
Cyprus residency grants you the right to live and work in any EU country, a significant advantage for those looking to expand their business or travel within the EU.
6. Malta
Malta’s Individual Investor Program (IIP) offers a pathway to citizenship through investment. As a member of the European Union, Malta provides significant benefits, including access to the EU market and excellent healthcare and education systems.
Investment Options:
Contribution to the National Development and Social Fund: Starting at €650,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of €350,000.
A Maltese passport grants visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the Schengen Area.
7. Turkey
Turkey citizenship by investment program offers a more affordable option for those seeking a second passport. It’s one of the few countries where a relatively low investment can lead to citizenship.
Investment Options:
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $400,000.
Bank Deposit: Minimum deposit of $500,000.
With a Turkish passport, you gain access to visa-free travel to over 110 countries.
8. Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers one of the fastest and most affordable citizenship programs in the world. A second passport from Vanuatu provides visa-free access to over 130 countries.
Investment Options:
Donation to the Development Support Program: Starting at $130,000.
Vanuatu’s citizenship program is known for its quick processing times, often taking as little as one to two months.
9. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is a Caribbean nation that offers a highly attractive CBI program, known for its flexibility and diverse investment options.
Investment Options:
Donation to the National Economic Fund: Starting at $100,000.
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of $300,000.
Saint Lucia provides visa-free access to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, and Hong Kong.
10. Austria
Austria offers a very selective citizenship by investment program. Although it is more challenging to qualify for, it is one of the most prestigious passports you can obtain.
Investment Options:
Direct Investment: A minimum investment of several million euros, with a focus on creating jobs and boosting the Austrian economy.
An Austrian passport grants you the right to live, work, and travel freely throughout the European Union.
11. Portugal
Portugal Golden Visa program is one of the most popular residency by investment programs in Europe. It provides individuals with residency in exchange for significant investments, with a path to citizenship after five years of residency.
Investment Options:
Real Estate Investment: Minimum investment of €280,000 (depending on the location and type of property).
Capital Transfer: Minimum investment of €1 million.
Job Creation: Minimum investment of €350,000, including creating jobs for locals.
A Portuguese passport grants you visa-free access to all EU countries and many other global destinations.
How to Choose the Right Country for Your Second Passport
Choosing the right country to buy a second passport depends on several factors:
Budget: Some programs, like St. Kitts and Nevis, start at lower investment levels, while others, like Cyprus, require a higher financial commitment.
Visa-Free Travel: Depending on where you want to travel, you may want to choose a country that provides access to specific countries or regions. For example, a Maltese passport offers access to the entire European Union.
Tax and Business Considerations: If you’re looking for tax advantages or business opportunities, you may want to choose a country with favorable tax policies or access to certain markets.
Processing Time: If you need a passport quickly, programs like Vanuatu’s might be appealing, with processing times as fast as a couple of months.
Conclusion
Obtaining a second passport is becoming an increasingly popular way to secure global mobility, financial freedom, and protection from political instability. Whether you’re seeking a faster processing time, an affordable investment, or a European Union passport, there are a range of options available in 2026.
Countries like St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, and Malta offer attractive programs for those looking to invest in their future and enjoy the many benefits of a second passport. For expert guidance, you can turn to trusted services like Apollo IMA, which can help navigate the complex process of acquiring a second passport and guide you through the best investment options.
Consider your goals, budget, and long-term plans to select the right country for your second passport. In today’s global world, having a second passport can be a significant advantage, providing both security and opportunity.
Read Also: The Most Powerful Passport in the World 2026—Updated Rankings of Passports
FAQs
Q1) What is a second passport?
A second passport is an additional passport issued by a country, often for individuals who seek increased mobility, business advantages, or privacy. It is typically obtained through citizenship by investment (CBI) or residency by investment (RBI) programs.
Q2) How do second passports work?
Second passports work by granting citizens of one country a passport from another, often in exchange for a significant financial investment in the country’s economy, such as through donations, real estate purchases, or business ventures. These passports provide benefits like visa-free travel to multiple countries.
Q3) Which countries offer the best citizenship by investment programs in 2026?
Some of the top countries offering second passports in 2026 include St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Malta, Turkey, and Portugal. Each of these countries has unique investment options and benefits that appeal to different types of investors.
Q4) Can I apply for a second passport without relocating?
Yes, many countries offering citizenship by investment programs, such as St. Kitts and Nevis and Dominica, allow applicants to acquire a second passport without the need to live in the country. Some residency by investment programs, like Portugal’s Golden Visa, may require a few years of residency before you can apply for citizenship.
Q5) What are the costs associated with obtaining a second passport?
The cost of obtaining a second passport varies widely depending on the country and the type of investment. For example, in St. Kitts and Nevis, you can get citizenship for as low as $150,000 through a donation, while real estate investment options may start at $200,000 or more in some countries.
Q6) Are second passports legal?
Yes, second passports obtained through legal citizenship by investment programs are fully legitimate. These programs are government-approved and comply with international laws. However, it’s important to follow the specific requirements of the country’s program to ensure that everything is above board.
Q7) How long does it take to get a second passport?
The processing time for a second passport varies by country. Some programs, like Vanuatu’s, can issue passports in as little as one to two months, while others, like those in Europe, may take a few years to process, especially if you are applying for residency first.
Q8) Can a second passport provide tax benefits?
In certain cases, a second passport can offer tax advantages, especially if the country you are obtaining it from has favorable tax policies. For example, countries like Portugal and Malta offer benefits for investors looking to reduce their tax burden.
Q9) What is the best country for obtaining a second passport in 2026?
The “best” country depends on your goals. For fast processing, Vanuatu and Turkey are great options. If you seek a European passport, Portugal and Malta are ideal. If tax advantages and mobility are your focus, St. Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda are top choices.
Q10) How do I get started with acquiring a second passport?
To get started, it’s essential to research the available programs in the countries you are interested in. Working with an experienced consultant, such as Apollo IMA, can help guide you through the process and ensure you meet all requirements for citizenship and investment.
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