So you want a second passport. Maybe you’re looking to lower your taxes, secure a backup plan, or just flex on your friends when you casually drop “dual citizen” into conversation. Whatever your reason, there’s one undeniable fact: some countries will sell you citizenship legally if you’ve got the cash.

This is not a loophole, not a backdoor scheme. These are government-backed Citizenship by Investment (CBI) or Golden Visa programs that allow foreigners to gain nationality through donations, real estate, or investments. Some are surprisingly affordable. Others? They’ll cost you a cool million—but unlock life-changing mobility.

So let’s dive into 10 of the best (and cheapest) countries where you can literally buy your way in. Welcome to the ultimate round of passport shopping.

This small Caribbean nation consistently ranks as one of the best-value CBI programs. For $100k, you get a passport with visa-free access to 140+ countries, no residency requirements, and zero worldwide income tax. Think of it as a boutique passport with outsized perks—perfect for divers, nature lovers, and those who like flying under the radar.

St. Lucia combines Caribbean charm with impressive global mobility. It’s the cheapest gateway to European access—meaning if your retirement dreams include bouncing between Paris, Rome, and Berlin, this is your ticket. And yes, it feels extra fancy telling people you’re from St. Lucia.

Five days in the Caribbean every five years? Sounds more like a reward than a requirement. Antigua & Barbuda is family-friendly, affordable, and offers visa-free access to 150+ countries. Think turquoise waters and tax-free living, with a passport that holds weight.

Grenada is the sleeper hit of the Caribbean passport game. Not only does it open doors to 140+ countries, but it’s the only Caribbean CBI program that allows you to apply for a U.S. E2 Visa. That means if you want to live and work legally in the U.S. while keeping a Caribbean escape plan, Grenada is your best bet.

St. Kitts invented this game. Their passport is one of the strongest in the Caribbean, with visa-free access to 157 countries including the U.K. The price tag is higher than its neighbors, but you’re buying credibility and stability. For those who want the original and most established CBI program, St. Kitts is it.

Turkey’s program is attractive because it pairs investment with opportunity. Property values in Istanbul and coastal areas have surged, meaning you could actually profit from the required investment. Plus, Turkey’s passport gets you visa-free access to 111 countries, and you’ll gain a foothold in one of the most dynamic economies in the region.

Malta is not cheap, but it’s fast, direct, and bulletproof. With Maltese citizenship, you gain the right to live, work, and retire anywhere in the EU. Plus, visa-free access to 190+ countries globally. It’s the golden ticket—if your wallet can handle it.

Hungary is relaunching its CBI program, and it’s one to watch. For a relatively modest investment, you can gain EU mobility and the right to live and work across Europe. Budapest is one of the most affordable EU capitals, meaning your money stretches further even after you secure citizenship.

Not a direct CBI, but Greece’s Golden Visa offers a path to one of the most desirable passports in Europe. For half a million, you get residency in a country where the beaches rival the Caribbean, the food rivals Italy, and history whispers from every corner.

The UAE recently opened the door for investor citizenship, a massive shift for the Gulf. With world-class infrastructure, no income tax, and booming opportunities, this is the pinnacle of modern luxury living. Dubai and Abu Dhabi aren’t just stopovers—they’re rapidly becoming retirement and business hubs for global citizens.

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries on Earth, and while you can get residency fairly easily, taxes will eat away at your retirement budget. If you want an EU passport and don’t mind high taxes, Italy could be your dream—but don’t expect to keep most of your earnings.

You’ll see Vanuatu on some lists. Here’s my advice: skip it. The passport has been under international scrutiny, the program’s credibility has taken hits, and honestly, not many retirees are lining up to move there.

That depends on your goals.

At the end of the day, a second passport isn’t just about travel. It’s about freedom, options, and security for you and your family.