Citizenship by Investment Fees Breakdown 2026: Full Cost Guide
Investing in a second citizenship requires a clear understanding of all costs involved. Citizenship by investment (CBI) programs charge fees across multiple categories including government contributions, real estate or business investments, due diligence, and administrative charges. Knowing the detailed cost breakdown ensures investors can plan strategically and avoid surprises.
Why Fee Transparency Matters
Transparent fee information is critical for informed investment decisions:
- Allows investors to compare programs accurately
- Prevents unexpected costs during application
- Helps with financial planning and cash flow
- Supports understanding of family inclusion costs
- Ensures compliance with government regulations
Core Fee Categories in Citizenship by Investment
Most CBI programs structure fees across several categories:
1. Government Contribution / Donation
This is a mandatory non-refundable contribution paid to the government or national fund.
- Saint Kitts & Nevis: $150,000 donation (single applicant)
- Dominica: $100,000 donation
- Antigua & Barbuda: $100,000 donation
- Grenada: $150,000 donation
- Saint Lucia: $100,000 donation
2. Real Estate Investment
Investors may acquire approved real estate as an alternative to a donation.
- Minimum thresholds range from $200,000 to $400,000+
- Real estate can often be sold after 3–5 years, recovering part of the investment
- Additional fees: registration, legal fees, and property taxes
👉 Compare real estate vs donation programs
3. Business Investment
CBI programs sometimes allow business creation or capital investment.
- Minimum investment varies per country ($200k–$1M+)
- Must meet local employment or economic development criteria
- Legal and setup costs included in total fees
4. Due Diligence Fees
Government-mandated background checks to verify applicant integrity:
- Saint Kitts & Nevis: $7,500–$10,000 per applicant
- Dominica: $7,500–$10,000 per adult
- Grenada: $5,000–$10,000 per applicant
- Europe programs: €7,500–€15,000 per adult
Important: Due diligence fees are non-refundable even if the application is declined.
5. Processing and Administrative Fees
Fees for application review, government administration, and legal support:
- Application fees: $1,000–$2,500
- Passport issuance fees: $100–$500 per applicant
- Legal and service provider fees: $10,000–$50,000 depending on complexity
6. Family Inclusion Costs
Costs increase when adding dependents:
- Spouse and children under 18: Typically $25,000–$50,000 per dependent
- Dependent parents or siblings: $50,000–$100,000 per person
- Additional due diligence fees apply for each family member
Country-Specific Fee Examples 2026
Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Donation: $150,000 single applicant
- Real estate: $200,000+
- Due diligence: $7,500–$10,000
- Government processing: $35,000–$50,000 depending on family
- Total: Approx. $200,000–$250,000+
Dominica
- Donation: $100,000 single applicant
- Real estate: $200,000+
- Due diligence: $7,500–$10,000 per adult
- Total: $150,000–$200,000 for a single applicant
Grenada
- Donation: $150,000 single applicant
- Real estate: $220,000+
- Due diligence: $5,000–$10,000 per applicant
- Total: $200,000–$270,000 including family
Malta
- Donation: €600,000–€750,000
- Property purchase/rental: €16,000–€70,000 per year
- Due diligence: €7,500–€15,000 per adult
- Total: €650,000–€800,000+
Hidden and Additional Costs
Investors should also anticipate:
- Legal representation fees for application preparation
- Translation and notarization fees for foreign documents
- Travel costs for interviews or document submission
- Currency exchange and bank transfer fees
- Optional lifestyle or relocation support services
Cost Comparison Table 2026
| Country | Minimum Donation | Real Estate Investment | Due Diligence Fees | Total Approx. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Kitts & Nevis | $150,000 | $200,000+ | $7,500–$10,000 | $200,000–$250,000+ |
| Dominica | $100,000 | $200,000+ | $7,500–$10,000 | $150,000–$200,000 |
| Grenada | $150,000 | $220,000+ | $5,000–$10,000 | $200,000–$270,000 |
| Malta | €600,000–€750,000 | €16,000–€70,000 | €7,500–€15,000 | €650,000–€800,000+ |
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Conclusion
A detailed understanding of citizenship by investment fees ensures strategic planning, avoids surprises, and helps investors select the most suitable program for themselves and their families. By accounting for government contributions, real estate or business investments, due diligence, and administrative costs, investors gain clarity and maximize ROI from their second citizenship.
👉 Begin your investment planning today by reviewing each program’s fee structure and family inclusion options.