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Residency and citizenship programmes across the Americas

The Americas hold some of the most established investment migration routes in the world, from Caribbean citizenship programmes to residency options across North, Central and South America. This hub explains the landscape so you can find the page that fits your goal.

Reference
Official authorityEach programme is run by its own national authority
Information current as ofJune 2026

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

Written by Morten Andersen and reviewed by Fredrik Filipsson of the Passports for Kings editorial team. Last reviewed 12 May 2026.

Caribbean citizenship routes

Several Caribbean states run long standing citizenship by investment programmes, including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia. Each offers a government fund contribution route and, in most cases, an approved real estate route.

These programmes are run by national citizenship units and have tightened their checks in recent years. Figures and rules move, so read the country page and confirm the current position with the official authority before you act.

Residency on the mainland

Across North, Central and South America a wide range of countries offer residency to investors, retirees, remote workers and people of independent means. Some of these residencies build toward citizenship over time, while others are designed mainly for lawful long term living. The qualifying criteria differ sharply from country to country.

How to choose within the Americas

Start from your goal. If you want a second passport quickly and you accept a contribution, a Caribbean citizenship route may suit. If you want a base, lower entry costs or a path that rewards time on the ground, a mainland residency may fit better. Weigh cost, timeline, physical presence rules and how the outcome travels.

What to verify before you commit

Confirm that the route is open, who the official authority is, the current cost, any residence requirement and whether the country accepts applicants of your nationality. Programmes in this region have changed terms and paused at short notice, so rely on the official source rather than older summaries.

Common questions

Which Americas routes lead to citizenship fastest?

Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes are designed to grant citizenship without a long residence period, while most mainland routes grant residency first and citizenship only after several years. Confirm current timelines with each official authority.

Do Caribbean programmes require me to live there?

Historically these programmes have had light or no physical presence requirements, though some have signalled changes. Check the current rule on the country page and with the official authority.

Is a residency the same as citizenship?

No. Residency lets you live in a country lawfully. Citizenship makes you a national, usually with a passport. Some residencies lead to citizenship over time, others do not.

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

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50 programmes7 regions15 nationalitiesEvery fact dated and sourced to the official authority

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