Citizenship by investment is surrounded by misconceptions. Some come from outdated information, others from confusion between legitimate programs and scams, and a few from deliberate misinformation by competitors. Here are ten myths we encounter regularly — and the reality behind each.
Myth 1: CBI Is Only for Billionaires
CBI programs start at $90,000 (São Tomé and Príncipe) and the most popular Caribbean options begin at $200,000. These are significant sums, but they're accessible to successful professionals, business owners, and upper-middle-class families — not just the ultra-wealthy. Many clients we work with are entrepreneurs, senior executives, and medical professionals, not hedge fund billionaires.
Myth 2: CBI Citizenship Is "Fake" or Second-Class
Citizenship obtained through investment is legally identical to citizenship obtained through birth or naturalization. You receive a real passport, full citizenship rights, and the same travel privileges as any other citizen of that country. There is no "CBI" stamp on your passport. International border agents cannot distinguish between a born citizen and a CBI citizen from the passport alone.
Myth 3: You Have to Live in the Country
Most Caribbean CBI programs have zero residency requirements. You can obtain citizenship without ever visiting the country (though some programs require an oath of allegiance that can be done at a consulate). Antigua and Barbuda requires five days of physical presence within the first five years — the only Caribbean program with even a minimal requirement. Malta and Portugal do require residency periods, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
Myth 4: You Have to Give Up Your Current Citizenship
The vast majority of CBI programs do not require you to renounce your existing citizenship. You'll hold dual (or multiple) citizenship. However, some countries restrict dual nationality on their end — meaning your home country might not allow it. This is a question about your home country's laws, not the CBI program's requirements. Most countries today permit dual citizenship, but it's essential to verify your home country's rules before applying.
Myth 5: The Process Is Shady or Unregulated
Legitimate CBI programs are government-operated, legally established, and subject to international oversight. Caribbean programs are now being harmonized under ECCIRA with enhanced compliance standards. Malta's program is supervised by the EU. These are not back-door arrangements — they're formal, legislated programs with published requirements and transparent processes. The key is working with licensed agents and reputable advisory firms, not unregulated intermediaries.
Myth 6: Anyone Can Get Approved
CBI programs reject applicants. Due diligence processes screen for criminal history, sanctions exposure, financial irregularities, and adverse media. Programs like Malta reject a significant percentage of applications. Even Caribbean programs with high approval rates turn away applicants who don't meet their standards. The "buy a passport" narrative drastically oversimplifies a process that involves genuine, thorough vetting.
Myth 7: CBI Is Mainly Used for Tax Evasion
While tax optimization is a legitimate motivation for some applicants, CBI citizenship alone doesn't change your tax obligations. Your tax liability is determined by your tax residency, not just your citizenship. Holding a Caribbean passport doesn't exempt you from paying taxes in the country where you actually live and earn income. Effective tax planning requires coordinated legal and financial advice — citizenship is just one component of a broader strategy.
Myth 8: Once You Get Citizenship, You're Done Forever
CBI citizenship is typically permanent, but it's not entirely obligation-free. You'll need to renew your passport periodically (just like any passport). Some programs require maintaining your qualifying investment for a specified period. And as ECCIRA reforms take effect, there may be periodic compliance checks introduced for existing citizens. Treat your CBI citizenship as a long-term asset that requires minimal but ongoing attention.
Myth 9: All CBI Programs Are Basically the Same
This is one of the most costly misconceptions. The differences between programs are substantial and directly affect the value you receive. Visa-free country access varies from 80 to 186+ countries depending on the passport. Only Grenada offers E-2 treaty access to the US. Only Malta provides EU citizenship. Family inclusion policies differ significantly. Processing times range from one month to over a year. Choosing the wrong program based on price alone can mean missing out on the specific benefits that matter most to your situation.
Myth 10: CBI Programs Are Going to Be Shut Down
People have been predicting the end of CBI for decades. In reality, the industry is growing. New programs have launched in São Tomé and Príncipe, Nauru, and potentially Botswana, St. Vincent, and Argentina in 2026. While individual programs do occasionally close (Montenegro shut down in 2022), the overall trend is toward more options, better regulation, and wider acceptance. CBI addresses a fundamental demand — global mobility and security — that isn't going away.
The Bottom Line
Citizenship by investment is a legitimate, legal, and well-established pathway to global mobility and security. But like any significant financial decision, it requires accurate information, careful analysis, and experienced guidance. Don't let myths or misconceptions prevent you from exploring an option that could meaningfully improve your family's future.
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*Meridian Advisory provides expert guidance on citizenship and residency by investment programs worldwide. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.*