# Frequently Asked Questions Source: https://www.savoryandpartners.com/frequently-asked-questions Our FAQ section provides answers to the most common questions we hear from our clients, along with those we anticipate based on our long-standing experience and legacy. It's important to have proven insights from experts, and with a combined 90 years of expertise and coverage spanning more than 20 jurisdictions worldwide, our team is your trustworthy source. ## Before you start ### What is the difference between citizenship and residency by investment? Citizenship programs confer immediate nationality and a passport without residency mandates, unlike residency programs, which often lead to citizenship through prolonged domicile. Citizenship and residency are both legal statuses, but citizenship is perpetual and offers a person all the political rights in a country, whereas residency is conditional and has restrictions on the rights of a person (i.e. work, study, physical residence, etc.) ### Are the investments refundable? Investment recuperation depends on the chosen avenue and the investment program; while government contributions are generally non-refundable, real estate investments may be sold after a stipulated duration. ### Why do I need an authorised agent? Authorised agents or agencies play a crucial role in guiding applicants through the process, preparing and submitting documentation, liaising with the government, and providing advice on suitable investment programs. They are typically accredited by the government running the citizenship by investment program and are essential for a smooth application process. ## Residency ### How to apply for a residency program? The process involves: - Selecting a qualifying investment. - Submitting necessary documentation. - Passing due diligence checks before making the investment and obtaining residency rights. ### What are the residency investment options? Eligible investments often involve real estate, government bonds, or significant business ventures that create employment opportunities. ### What are the mistakes to avoid when applying for residency? Ensuring the legality of funds, completeness of documentation, and adherence to program requirements are critical to avoid pitfalls. Another major issue is the valuation and processing of the investment. Doing so in an incorrect manner may lead to significant monetary losses as well as the application being rejected. ## Citizenship ### Can citizenship by investment be inherited? Inheritance of citizenship depends on the country’s laws and naturalisation act. In many countries, like those in the Caribbean and Turkey, citizenship can be inherited by future generations. In others, it will depend on a variety of factors. ### Can citizenship be cancelled or revoked? Citizenship remains unaffected by post-grant investment changes, but there are conditions that can lead to revocation, such as divestment within a particular holding period or being charged and found guilty of a serious crime. ### What is the citizenship processing time? Depending on the specific nation and application complexities, processing times can fluctuate widely, from a few months to over a year. ## Eligibility & Requirements ### What documents do I need to apply for citizenship? Commonly required documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), police clearance certificate, detailed resume, bank statements to prove financial stability, medical examination reports, and proof of investment. ### What are the most common reasons for citizenship or residence application rejections? Incomplete documentation, unclear fund sources, and criminal history are among the common reasons for rejection. ### How to prepare for a citizenship by investment interview? One important thing to note is that an investor’s consultant or international marketing agent cannot attend the interview, as it is exclusive to the CIU and the applicants and their dependents only, so comprehensive preparation is essential. The interviews will focus on three key aspects: - Ensuring the validity of information - Covering any gaps - Bridging any cultural differences One of the main goals of the interview is to ensure that all the information you provided is correct, so be sure to go through the documents and keep a copy with you to be better prepared to answer any question asked. Another important factor interviewers will consider is addressing any existing gaps in the application. Your consultant should inform you of any gaps in your application and what documents or information you need to provide during the interview. The last part that will benefit most from the interview is the cultural differences between the legal and cultural framework of the host country and that of an applicant.