The cheapest Citizenship by Investment programs currently available range from approximately $90,000 to $130,000, with São Tomé and Príncipe, Nauru, and Vanuatu ranking among the lowest-cost options on the market. While investment thresholds remain the main point of comparison, each program differs in processing speed, application structure, and eligibility criteria. This guide breaks down the details of each option and compares what investors receive at different price points.
Key Takeaways
- Citizenship by Investment entry thresholds can now start from as little as $90,000, making second citizenship more accessible than in previous years.
- São Tomé and Príncipe, Nauru, and Vanuatu currently rank among the most cost-effective options available.
- Processing times vary considerably — some programs prioritise speed, while others focus on broader family structures or different application models.
- All three programs allow applicants to complete the process without long-term relocation requirements.
- Dual and multiple citizenship is generally permitted, allowing investors to retain their existing nationality subject to home-country rules.
- Lower investment thresholds do not necessarily mean identical schemes — citizenship routes differ in structure, eligibility criteria, and long-term positioning.
- Comparing the cheapest citizenship programs side by side is essential before selecting the most suitable citizenship pathway.
Top 3 Most Affordable Citizenship by Investment Options in 2026
Sao Tome and Principe
Launched in late 2025, the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment program entered the market, with a required investment starting from $90,000 through a contribution to the National Transformation Fund.
Key highlights include:
- Minimum investment from $90,000 per a single applicant and from $95,000 for a family of 2–4
- Government due diligence from 2 months
- Citizenship typically granted within 4–6 months
- Family inclusion available (a spouse, children under 30, and parents aged 55 and above)
- Dual and multiple citizenship permitted
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 60+ destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa,
- Malaysia, the Philippines, Kenya, Panama, and multiple countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America
- No relocation required
Nauru
Designed as the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, the initiative allows investors to get second citizenship while contributing from $90,000 to national development and climate resilience projects.
Key highlights include:
- Minimum investment from $90,000 for a single applicant (limited-time offer valid until 31 December 2026)
- Citizenship from approximately 3–4 months
- Visa-free or simplified access to 85+ countries including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Ireland
- No residency or visit requirements
- Fully remote application process
- Family inclusion available including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and siblings
- Dual and multiple citizenship permitted
- No tax on global income, inheritance, or capital gains
Vanuatu
Vanuatu remains one of the most established Citizenship by Investment programmes and is widely recognised for its speed and streamlined application process. The programme operates through a government contribution model with a minimum investment of $130,000.
Key highlights include:
- Minimum investment from $130,000
- Citizenship from approximately 3 months
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 90+ destinations, including Hong Kong and Israel
- No residency requirements
- No language tests or interviews
- Family inclusion available (a spouse, children under 28, and parents over 50))
- Dual and multiple citizenship permitted
- No tax on global income, inheritance, or capital gains
Investment Options Available
Applicants can choose between two program pathways, which differ in structure, pricing, and family eligibility.
Development Support Program (DSP)
Applicants make a non-refundable contribution to the government development fund, with investment starting from $130,000 for a single applicant. Additional government and processing fees apply, and the contribution amount increases depending on the number of dependents included in the application. This route is generally chosen by applicants prioritising speed and a straightforward process.
Capital Investment Immigration Plan (CIIP)
The CIIP follows a different structure and starts from $165,000 for a family of up to four applicants, with due diligence fees already included. Rather than a standard government contribution model, the programme is linked to approved national development initiatives designed to support long-term economic projects in Vanuatu. Because the base amount already covers a family application, the CIIP can become particularly attractive for larger households seeking a more cost-efficient structure.
Final Thoughts
Cost is often the starting point when comparing Citizenship by Investment programmes, but it is rarely the only factor that shapes the final decision. Application structure, processing timelines, family eligibility rules, and the long-term direction of a program can all influence overall value.
As the investment migration market continues to evolve, newer jurisdictions are creating additional opportunities for internationally mobile investors seeking a second passport. Understanding how the cheapest citizenship programs differ — beyond headline investment figures — can help applicants make a more informed decision aligned with their personal priorities and future plans.
How Astons Can Help
Astons supports clients throughout the full immigration process — from initial program selection and pre-application assessment to document preparation and submission. We act as an authorised agent across multiple Citizenship by Investment jurisdictions, including Vanuatu, Nauru, and Sao Tome and Principe.
Before submission, Astons also conducts a structured pre-check designed to assess eligibility, documentation readiness, and potential risk factors early in the process.
For applicants considering the most cost-effective second citizenship route, an initial assessment can help identify which program aligns best with personal objectives, timing, and long-term plans.
