Blogs • November 4, 2025 • 13 Min

2025’s Most Anticipated Citizenship and Residency Programs

2025 has been a turning point for global citizenship and residency programs. Across the world, we’ve seen new launches and official announcements that are already starting to reshape investor interest, from São Tomé and Príncipe’s swift entry into Africa’s CBI market to new plans emerging in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. Governments are rethinking the role of citizenship and residency by investment, using it as a tool for development, sustainability, and economic recovery. In this overview, we explore both the programs that have already gone live and those confirmed for launch, offering a clear look at the next wave of global mobility opportunities. Emerging Citizenship and Residency by Investment Programs in 2025 New citizenship programs are emerging across Africa, the Pacific, and Asia, each offering investors a fresh entry point into global mobility. Unlike traditional, property-focused routes, these initiatives emphasize national development, sustainability, and speed of approval, creating practical alternatives to the well-established Caribbean and European frameworks. São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program has quickly become one of the most accessible options in Africa. With a minimum contribution of $90,000 and approvals in as little as two months, it allows investors to participate directly in national projects in renewable energy, tourism, and infrastructure. You can read more about the initiative in our blog on the launch of São Tomé and Príncipe’s CBI program and its expanding visa-free access list. Best For: Investors seeking a fast, affordable, and transparent route to African citizenship. Botswana Citizenship by Investment Program Set to launch in 2026, the Botswana Citizenship by Investment Program is among the most anticipated in the region. Botswana combines low corruption, strong financial systems, and a business-friendly environment. The upcoming program will allow investors to acquire citizenship through direct economic contributions and enterprise creation, helping the country diversify beyond mining while attracting global entrepreneurs. As we discussed in our feature on Africa’s new CBI trends, Botswana’s entry signals a broader shift toward sustainability-driven programs rather than property-heavy investments. Best For: Entrepreneurs and business investors prioritizing stability, governance, and regional expansion potential. Nauru Citizenship by Investment Program The Nauru Citizenship by Investment Program is establishing itself as the Pacific’s latest CBI route, designed to attract responsible investors while funding national development and climate resilience projects. With its strategic proximity to Australia and Asia, Nauru provides investors with exclusive Pacific-region access and an efficient, low-residency model, rivaling its regional counterpart, Vanuatu. For full mobility details, check out our authorative guide on Nauru’s visa-free countries. Best For: Investors seeking a Pacific-based passport and straightforward application process. Solomon Islands Citizenship by Investment Program The Solomon Islands are preparing to launch a development-focused citizenship route under the Pacific regional cooperation framework. The proposed model emphasizes eco-investments, marine resources, and sustainable tourism, aligning with global ESG principles. Best For: Impact-driven investors who want to support sustainability while obtaining citizenship in a frontier market. United States Gold Card Program The United States Gold Card is one of the most talked-about developments in global investment migration this year. Announced in early 2025 by President Donald Trump, the program aims to replace or complement the EB-5 visa with a new, tier-based residency-by-investment framework. Under the proposal, qualified investors would contribute a minimum of $1 million toward U.S. enterprises or job-creation projects, in exchange for permanent residency and a potential path to citizenship. However, the initiative remains under legislative review. While a registration portal has opened for interested applicants, the program has not yet been enacted into law and continues to await congressional approval and regulatory definition. If implemented, the Gold Card could transform the U.S. investor landscape, introducing faster processing, streamlined eligibility, and direct residency rights similar to Asia’s leading investor visas. Best For: Investors seeking U.S. residency with a route to citizenship route, taking advantage of one of the most groundbreaking policy developments in global mobility. Vietnam Golden Visa Program A newcomer to the global investment migration arena, Vietnam is preparing to roll out a 10-year Golden Visa that could evolve into a long-term residency and eventual citizenship pathway. The initiative is expected to attract foreign entrepreneurs and investors to Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy. Vietnam’s approach merges economic contribution with relocation flexibility, mirroring trends seen in programs like Portugal’s Golden Visa but adapted to an Asian market context. Best For: Investors targeting Asia-Pacific exposure, long-term residence, and future citizenship potential in a dynamic emerging economy. Global Mobility Trends Shaping 2025 Programs As new citizenship and residency programs emerge, several global trends are defining how investors approach mobility and long-term relocation. These reveal what governments are prioritizing, and what global citizens now value most. How Are Digital Nomad and CBI Pathways Overlapping? The line between residency, citizenship, and digital-nomad visas is becoming increasingly thin. Many countries now design programs that begin as remote-work residencies and evolve into permanent settlement routes, attracting location-independent professionals who later qualify for naturalization. This hybrid approach has already taken root in Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, and similar models are expected to appear in upcoming citizenship frameworks. What Are the Key Global Mobility Drivers in 2025? Diversification of Citizenship Portfolios – Investors are pursuing multiple passports for security and access. Sustainability and ESG Integration – New programs tie citizenship funding to green projects and community impact. Faster Processing and Compliance – Governments compete by shortening timelines while strengthening due diligence. Regional Cooperation – Agreements like CARICOM and ASEAN mobility frameworks are influencing new CBI models. Investment Requirements for New 2025 Programs Each new program introduced or announced in 2025 follows its own investment model, yet most share one principle: direct contribution to national development. Below is a look at the most common routes and what investors can expect from each. What Are the Main Investment Options? Most emerging programs offer one or more of the following categories: Government Development Funds – The simplest and fastest route, where applicants make a non-refundable contribution to a national fund that supports infrastructure, healthcare, or renewable energy. Best For: Investors prioritizing speed and simplicity with minimal administrative requirements. Business and Enterprise Investment – Investors can establish or co-invest in government-approved ventures, often linked to tourism, agriculture, or innovation. Best For: Entrepreneurs seeking active involvement and long-term ROI. Real Estate or Property Participation – While fewer in number, some programs still allow property investment as part of broader diversification. Best For: Applicants who prefer asset-backed investments and tangible holdings. Government Bonds or Securities – In some cases, investors can purchase refundable bonds held for a fixed term, offering a lower-risk alternative to donations. Best For: Investors valuing recoverable capital and stable returns. Who Is Eligible to Apply? Across programs, eligibility criteria remain consistent and transparent: Age: 18 years or older Clean criminal record: Verified through international background checks Financial integrity: Proof of lawful fund source and banking records Health standards: Basic medical certificate (if required) Due diligence clearance: Successful enhanced KYC and AML screening How Much Should Investors Budget? While exact figures vary, most entry thresholds range between: Why Are Governments Favoring Fund and Business Routes? These options bring measurable economic results without inflating property markets, a key concern for nations balancing foreign investment with local affordability. As highlighted in our overview on Residency and Citizenship Programs 2025, governments are moving toward transparent, fund-driven models that directly support national growth. Benefits of 2025 Citizenship and Residency Programs The next wave of citizenship and residency initiatives brings more than new destinations. It also redefines what global investors value: speed, transparency, and meaningful mobility. Here’s what makes the 2025 programs especially relevant for investors and families seeking a second home or long-term global access. What Are the Main Travel and Mobility Advantages? Visa-free travel remains one of the strongest motivators for citizenship investment. The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program grants access to 95+ destinations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Africa. Nauru’s framework is providing broad Pacific and Asian mobility, complementing its Commonwealth relationships. Vietnam’s planned Golden Visa aims to facilitate regional integration across ASEAN, making it attractive to entrepreneurs expanding within Asia. Best For: Investors who value travel flexibility and cross-regional access without the complexity of long residency commitments. How Do These Programs Support Tax and Wealth Planning? Most of the new programs are hosted in territorial or low-tax jurisdictions, where residents are taxed only on local income, not worldwide earnings. This creates opportunities for entrepreneurs, digital professionals, and investors managing global assets. São Tomé and Príncipe and Botswana both operate under territorial taxation frameworks. Pacific nations like Nauru offer zero personal income tax environments. Vietnam’s investment residency is still under review but is expected to include incentives for foreign capital inflows. Best For: Individuals seeking tax-efficient global residency combined with legal and financial transparency. How Do Families Benefit from These New Routes? Nearly all 2025 programs allow family inclusion under a single application, an essential factor for long-term relocation and succession planning. Eligible dependents typically include: Spouse or life partner Dependent children (often up to age 25) Parents or grandparents (in select programs) This inclusive approach allows investors to secure the future of their families while diversifying citizenship portfolios. Best For: Families seeking mobility, education, and generational security through a single investment. Do These Programs Offer Business and Expansion Opportunities? Yes, and increasingly so. Governments are designing programs that link citizenship directly to enterprise creation, employment, and innovation sectors. Botswana’s upcoming model prioritizes business ownership and sustainable job creation. São Tomé and Príncipe supports investors contributing to tourism and renewable energy. Vietnam focuses on technology, logistics, and foreign investment as part of its economic expansion plan. Best For: Entrepreneurs and business owners who want to combine mobility with growth in emerging markets. Legal Framework and Compliance The success of the new and upcoming citizenship programs in 2025 is closely tied to stronger legal structures and compliance oversight. Governments are now prioritizing transparency, due diligence, and regulatory alignment, ensuring each program operates under internationally recognized standards. How Are These Programs Regulated? All newly launched and announced initiatives are designed to meet global anti–money laundering (AML) and know-your-client (KYC) benchmarks. Most jurisdictions operate in consultation with international watchdogs such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the OECD, and Interpol. São Tomé and Príncipe implemented a central verification system in cooperation with its National Investment and Development Agency. Botswana’s proposed CBI framework draws on its long-standing compliance culture, recognized as one of Africa’s cleanest governance systems. Vietnam and the Pacific programs under development are expected to include built-in due diligence and transparency clauses modeled after European standards. This shift reflects a clear message. And that is that future citizenship programs will prioritize credibility and integrity as much as investment inflows. What Are the Investor Protection Measures? Each country’s program operates under legislation that defines: Clear investment refund or holding terms (where applicable) Legal recognition of dual or multiple citizenships Government oversight of fund allocation and project approval In established programs, licensed agents must operate under official government authorization, ensuring all applications go through accredited channels. Savory & Partners is among the few firms officially authorized by multiple governments to handle citizenship and residency applications, giving clients direct access to compliant, government-approved pathways. Why Does Compliance Matter for Investors? For HNWIs, legal clarity is the foundation of a successful citizenship strategy. Programs that adhere to international compliance standards provide: Protection from future policy reversals or revocations Greater recognition by foreign governments and financial institutions Assurance of lawful documentation and background screening As a result, well-regulated frameworks such as São Tomé and Príncipe or Vietnam’s developing Golden Visa give investors the confidence to integrate their new citizenship or residency status into broader wealth and succession planning. Program Selection Guidelines With several new programs entering the global stage, investors must evaluate more than just price or speed. Choosing the right citizenship or residency option means aligning each country’s framework with your mobility goals, investment strategy, and family priorities. How Should Investors Compare Emerging 2025 Programs? To make an informed decision, consider four essential factors: Investment Budget – The minimum capital required and whether it’s refundable (as in bonds) or non-refundable (as in development funds). Processing Speed – How fast citizenship or residency can be obtained. Program Stability – The maturity of government policy and history of reliability. Family Inclusion – How comprehensive the program is in covering dependents. How Can Investors Minimize Risk? Before applying, investors should verify: The program’s legal status (active vs. announced) Whether the government has an official authorized-agent list Transparent fund-handling and refund procedures Working with an experienced advisor like Savory & Partners ensures every stage of the process, from eligibility checks to government submission, is handled legally and securely. Which Programs Offer the Best Value in 2025? While each investor’s goals differ, these general profiles can help guide the choice: For speed and simplicity: São Tomé and Príncipe For business and economic opportunity: Botswana For diversification and Pacific access: Nauru For sustainability-driven investors: Solomon Islands For long-term Asian exposure: Vietnam For high-tier global residency: United States Future of Citizenship by Investment The investment migration industry continues to evolve rapidly, and 2025 has already shown that innovation, not imitation, will define the next chapter. Governments are reimagining citizenship as more than a privilege; it’s becoming an economic partnership that benefits both the investor and the host nation. Where Is the Global CBI Market Heading? Three trends dominate the direction of the next-generation programs: Technology Integration – Governments are moving toward digital application systems, AI-driven due diligence, and blockchain-backed verification, improving both speed and security. These systems reduce human error, shorten review timelines, and strengthen compliance. Sustainability and Impact Investment – The new standard for CBI is no longer luxury property- It’s switched focus to emphasize green infrastructure, renewable energy, and social impact. Programs like those in São Tomé and Príncipe and the Solomon Islands already align citizenship contributions with environmental goals. Asia-Pacific Expansion – With Vietnam entering the arena and Pacific nations reintroducing programs, the region is expected to become the next major hub for investment migration. These programs cater to entrepreneurs and professionals seeking proximity to major trade corridors while enjoying residency or second citizenship flexibility. What Does This Mean for Investors? For global citizens, the next five years will bring: More accessible entry points (sub-$100,000 thresholds in emerging markets) Faster processing times due to digital transformation Wider mobility coverage, as developing nations form new visa alliances Increased trust through stricter compliance and transparency Every legitimate citizenship or residency application must go through licensed, government-recognized agents. Partnering with an authorized firm ensures your submission follows official channels, meeting the strict due diligence, security, and documentation standards now required by all reputable programs. Contact Savory & Partners to explore 2025’s most promising new programs with expert, government-recognized guidance. FAQs on 2025 Citizenship Launches Which countries launched new citizenship or residency programs in 2025? New programs this year include São Tomé and Príncipe, Nauru, and several officially announced initiatives from Botswana, Vietnam, and the Solomon Islands. The proposed U.S. Gold Card program is also under legislative review. Which program offers the fastest approval time? The São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Program currently offers one of the fastest timelines, with approvals typically issued within 1 to 2 months. What is the minimum investment for these programs? Entry points start from around $90,000 for São Tomé and Príncipe and are expected to begin at $75,000 for Botswana once launched. Pacific and Asian programs may vary based on investment type and structure. Do these programs allow family inclusion? Yes. All emerging programs allow investors to include their spouse, dependent children, and in some cases parents or grandparents within one application. Can I apply directly or do I need an authorized agent? Applications must be submitted through a government-authorized agent. Savory & Partners is officially licensed by multiple governments to process and manage citizenship and residency applications on behalf of clients. References Referred from the Government of Vietnam – Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). https://www.mpi.gov.vn Referred from the Government of the Solomon Islands – Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration. https://www.commerce.gov.sb