Which second passport is quickest to get? Programmes ranked by timeline, cost and visa-free strength — updated after the 2024 EU & UK changes.
If speed is your priority, Vanuatu is the fastest citizenship-by-investment programme in 2026 — citizenship in roughly one to two months, fully remote, from $130,000. São Tomé is the cheapest at $90,000 but carries a weaker passport; the Caribbean programmes take longer but offer stronger travel (Schengen, and UK for most).
| Programme | Timeline | From | Visa-free / VoA | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇻🇺 Vanuatu | ~1–2 months | $130,000 | ~90 | Fastest; 100% remote; 0% tax |
| 🇸🇹 São Tomé | ~2–3 months | $90,000 | ~50 | Cheapest; weaker passport |
| 🇩🇲 Dominica | ~4–6 months | ~$200,000 | ~140 | Low-cost Caribbean; Schengen |
| 🇰🇳 St Kitts & Nevis | ~4–6 months | ~$250,000 | ~155 | Strongest Caribbean; UK + Schengen |
| 🇬🇩 Grenada | ~4–6 months | ~$235,000 | ~145 | US E-2 treaty; China visa-free |
| 🇦🇬 Antigua & Barbuda | ~4–6 months | ~$230,000 | ~150 | Family-friendly; UK + Schengen |
| 🇹🇷 Türkiye | ~3–6 months | ~$400,000 (real estate) | ~110 | Larger economy; E-2 eligible |
Figures are indicative (Henley-style, 2026) and change frequently. For most clients who want the quickest, lowest-cost route, the realistic choice is Vanuatu (fastest) or São Tomé (cheapest). For European/UK travel, a Caribbean passport is the better fit.
General information only, not legal advice. Programme costs, timelines and visa policies change frequently; confirm current details with a licensed agent. Last verified 25 June 2026.
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