cheapest citizenship by investment in europe
Yes, you can obtain Turkish citizenship by purchasing real estate in Turkey, thanks to the Turkish government’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Introduced in 2017 and later amended to attract more foreign investment, the program allows foreigners to apply for Turkish citizenship by purchasing property worth at least $400,000 USD. The investment must be maintained for a minimum of three years, and the property must be registered with a commitment not to sell during this period. Applicants are required to obtain a valuation report from a certified appraiser to prove the property meets the required threshold.
Before diving into the most affordable programs, it’s crucial to clarify the difference between citizenship by investment (CBI) and residency by investment (RBI). Citizenship by investment allows you to obtain a passport and full rights as a citizen, often in a matter of months. Residency by investment, on the other hand, grants you the right to live in a country with the potential to apply for citizenship after fulfilling certain criteria, such as years of residency or language requirements. In Europe, many of the lower-cost options begin as residency programs but provide a pathway to full citizenship within a few years.
Among the few remaining countries offering direct citizenship by investment in Europe, North Macedonia stands out for its affordability and efficiency. With a minimum investment of €200,000 in a government-approved development fund, applicants can gain citizenship in as little as six months. The North Macedonian passport provides visa-free access to over 125 countries, including much of Europe, Turkey, and Japan, although it doesn’t yet grant EU membership benefits. The program is ideal for those seeking a quick and relatively inexpensive second passport without the requirement of long-term residency.
Although Bulgaria ended its fast-track citizenship program in recent years, it still offers a solid investment-based residency route that can lead to EU citizenship over time. By investing approximately €512,000 in government bonds or exchange-traded funds, investors can obtain permanent residency and apply for citizenship after five years of residence. The path requires some physical presence and integration, but the reward is a powerful European passport that allows free movement and work rights across the EU. For those willing to wait and invest for the long term, Bulgaria presents one of the more financially viable routes to EU citizenship.
Greece offers one of the most affordable Golden Visa programs in Europe, starting at €250,000 in real estate investment. Although this program initially grants residency rather than citizenship, it opens the door to naturalization after seven years of living in the country. Unlike some nations, Greece requires actual residency and a degree of cultural and linguistic integration before granting citizenship. Still, for individuals or families looking for a foothold in the Schengen Zone with a relatively low investment, Greece is an attractive and budget-friendly option.
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has been among the most popular in Europe for years, thanks to its flexibility and relatively low investment thresholds. In 2025, investors can gain residency by contributing as little as €280,000 to rehabilitation projects in low-density areas. What makes Portugal particularly appealing is its naturalization process: after five years of holding residency, applicants can apply for citizenship, even if they haven’t lived full-time in the country. The Portuguese passport ranks highly in terms of global mobility and offers full EU rights. Although the program has become more restrictive recently, it remains one of the smartest pathways to European citizenship for those seeking a balance between cost and benefit.
Malta is one of the few EU countries that offers a direct route to citizenship through investment, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The total cost, including a government donation, property purchase or lease, and administrative fees, starts at around €690,000. Despite the high cost, the Maltese passport is one of the strongest in the world, offering visa-free travel to more than 180 countries and full EU citizenship benefits. For those with the financial means, Malta provides a legitimate, efficient, and prestigious pathway to European citizenship, though it cannot be considered a low-cost option.
In truth, no European country offers *cheap* citizenship in the sense of a low-cost, no-strings-attached EU passport. However, there are still financially accessible routes for investors who are strategic and patient. Programs like those in North Macedonia and Bulgaria offer relatively affordable ways to gain long-term benefits, while Greece and Portugal provide lower-cost residency paths that can eventually lead to citizenship. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your timeline, goals, and willingness to meet residency or integration requirements.
While the concept of buying a European passport might seem straightforward, the reality is often more complex. Laws change, political landscapes shift, and programs evolve. Anyone considering citizenship by investment should work with licensed immigration advisors or legal experts to navigate the process properly. The cheapest option is not always the best one — but with proper planning, it can be the smartest move you ever make.
