These are the 12 best crypto passport options in 2025:
- El Salvador
- Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Vanuatu
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Portugal
- Malta
- Panama
- United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
- Georgia
- Turkey
In a world of tightening capital controls, frozen bank accounts, and governments scrambling to regulate digital assets, securing a crypto passport is becoming one of the smartest plays in the space.
For seasoned investors, this isn't about fleeing, it's about freedom.The freedom to bank globally, optimize taxes, and protect your crypto portfolio by choosing the jurisdiction that works for you.
It’s not theory. It’s what happens when your digital wealth meets real-world mobility. And it’s gaining serious momentum.
Whether you're sitting on BTC from 2013, trading altcoins daily, or earning through DAOs, a second passport, funded by your crypto, gives you sovereignty most people only dream of.
In the next few paragraphs, we’ll break down how and where crypto investors are buying citizenship, what it really means to hold a passport aligned with your financial future, and the mistakes to avoid before making your move.
The 12 Best Crypto Passport Options for 2025
Not all second passports are created equal, especially when you’re in crypto.
Some countries offer speed.Others offer tax efficiency.A few are quietly building reputations as crypto havens.
If you're planning to buy citizenship with Bitcoin, stablecoins, or any other digital asset, the following countries offer the smoothest paths, the most benefits, and the lowest friction.
Here’s a closer look at the top-performing crypto passport programs right now.
1. El Salvador
El Salvador made history by becoming the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, and CitizenX has partnered with El Salvador’s Freedom Passport program to give crypto investors a direct route to citizenship through BTC or USDT contributions.
Through the Freedom Visa program, investors can obtain residency and a path to citizenship by contributing $1 million in BTC or USDT to the national development fund.
For crypto investors, this isn’t just symbolic. It’s a country where your assets are understood, respected, and encouraged.
The administration is openly building a framework around Bitcoin, from volcano-powered mining to digital securities laws.
Advantages
- No capital gains tax on Bitcoin holdings
- BTC and USDT accepted for investment directly
- Fast-track process: eligibility for citizenship in as little as 2–3 months
- Government is explicitly pro-Bitcoin and courting crypto entrepreneurs
- Long-term vision to build a Bitcoin-based economy
Disadvantages
- High entry threshold compared to other options
- Limited global mobility for now (visa-free travel to 130+ countries)
- Infrastructure still developing, especially outside major cities
- Potential political volatility in the future
Ready to take action? Get started now with CitizenX and secure your crypto passport today.
2. Saint Kitts & Nevis
Known for one of the most reputable Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in the world, Saint Kitts & Nevis offers a relatively straightforward and fast process for crypto investors.
Several agents and partners accept crypto payments, converting BTC, ETH, or USDT into government-approved contributions.
With citizenship available from $250,000, and visa-free travel to over 150 countries including the Schengen Zone and United Kingdom, this passport provides serious flexibility for international investors.
Advantages
- Fast processing in 60 to 90 days
- Long-established, well-regarded CBI program
- No personal income tax or capital gains tax
- Excellent global mobility for business and travel
- Discreet and remote application process
Disadvantages
- Crypto payments not always accepted directly; depends on agent
- Due diligence and legal fees can add up
- Small domestic crypto ecosystem, mostly used for passport, not relocation
- Limited options for those wanting to build or operate a crypto business locally
3. Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda has one of the most accessible citizenship programs in the Caribbean, with options starting from $130,000 via donation.
While the government doesn’t yet accept crypto directly, several licensed agents do, offering payment options in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT.
The country has shown a growing openness to fintech and digital innovation, making it an increasingly attractive destination for crypto professionals seeking flexibility, minimal taxes, and a second passport with real utility.
Advantages
- Affordable entry point compared to most programs
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- No physical presence required at any stage
- Crypto accepted through trusted agents, enabling smooth cross-border payments
Disadvantages
- Travel freedom is solid but less extensive than Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Processing times can be longer without fast-track
- Domestic crypto ecosystem is minimal for those relocating
- Program visibility and reputation not as strong as top-tier options
4. Vanuatu
The island nation of Vanuatu has carved out a unique position by offering one of the fastest and most crypto-friendly passport programs globally.
With processing times as short as 30 to 45 days, and agents accepting Bitcoin payments for years, it’s a go-to for those needing speed and simplicity.
Vanuatu has zero income or capital gains taxes, and no foreign income reporting requirements. This makes it an appealing option for privacy-conscious crypto investors who want minimal government interference.
Advantages
- One of the fastest application processes available
- Crypto payments widely accepted by approved agents
- Total tax freedom: no income, wealth, or capital gains taxes
- Remote-friendly process with no residency requirement
Disadvantages
- Weaker passport strength (visa-free access to ~95–100 countries)
- Political and regulatory transparency can vary
- No crypto regulatory framework for long-term business operations
- Lower recognition compared to other established CBI countries
5. Dominica
Dominica offers one of the most cost-effective and trusted CBI programs in the Caribbean.
With citizenship available from $200,000, it’s a compelling choice for investors looking to gain global mobility with a modest crypto outlay.
Though the government does not yet accept digital assets directly, many reputable agents facilitate crypto payments via third parties, allowing you to use BTC, ETH or stablecoins to complete the process.
Advantages
- Low-cost entry point
- High trust and longstanding CBI reputation
- No income or wealth taxes for non-residents
- Fully remote application process
- Strong legal structure with minimal bureaucracy
Disadvantages
- Fewer visa-free destinations than other Caribbean nations
- No official crypto legislation or government-level adoption
- Limited local infrastructure for crypto users or businesses
- Crypto payments must be channeled through intermediaries
6. Grenada
Grenada stands out in the crypto passport landscape thanks to its unique visa treaty with China, and growing international reputation. Citizenship is available from $150,000 via donation or $220,000 in government-approved real estate.
While the government doesn’t yet accept crypto directly, several licensed agents and legal firms facilitate payments in BTC, ETH, and USDT, making it an increasingly viable option for digital asset holders.
Grenada is particularly attractive for those who want flexible global access, low taxes, and a clear legal path to a second passport using crypto.
Advantages
- Fast-track citizenship in 3–4 months
- Visa-free access to China, Russia, the UK, and EU Schengen countries
- Access to E-2 visa treaty with the United States
- Remote application available through crypto-friendly agents
- Low or zero taxes on offshore income
Disadvantages
- Crypto must go through intermediaries, not government directly
- Travel freedom not as broad as Malta or Portugal
- Local adoption of crypto is still minimal
- Limited infrastructure for crypto business relocation
7. Portugal
Portugal has quickly become one of Europe’s top crypto migration destinations, thanks to its historically favorable tax policies on crypto, dynamic startup scene, and high quality of life.
While Portugal doesn’t offer citizenship-by-investment directly, its Golden Visa program allows applicants to apply for citizenship.
Lisbon is already a hub for DAOs, Web3 companies, and blockchain conferences, making Portugal especially attractive for those building long-term in the space.
Advantages
- No tax on crypto gains for individuals, under current law
- Residency leads to citizenship in 5 years
- Strong passport with visa-free access to 180+ countries
- Access to EU banking and financial infrastructure
- Vibrant crypto-native community in Lisbon and Porto
Disadvantages
- No direct crypto payment options for visa or investment
- Recent debates may affect future crypto tax policy
- Citizenship is not immediate, requires multi-year commitment
- Bureaucracy can be slow, especially with high demand
8. Malta
Malta has long branded itself as the “Blockchain Island”, offering an early regulatory framework for crypto exchanges and digital assets. It also offers one of Europe’s most prestigious citizenship-by-naturalization programs, with full EU access.
To qualify, investors must contribute to a national development fund, hold property, and pass strict due diligence.
The total cost often exceeds €750,000, and crypto must be converted to fiat to complete the process.
Still, for those seeking a top-tier passport with access to all of Europe, and a government familiar with digital finance, Malta remains a strategic option.
Advantages
- One of the strongest passports in the world
- Longstanding support for crypto regulation and innovation
- EU citizenship with full banking, travel, and business access
- English-speaking business environment
- Possibility to operate crypto companies under EU law
Disadvantages
- High investment threshold
- Long and rigorous vetting process
- Direct crypto payments not allowed
- Recent policy shifts have added complexity and delays
9. Panama
Panama is often seen as a quiet favorite among crypto investors seeking residency with minimal oversight. While it does not offer citizenship-by-investment, the Friendly Nations Visa and Qualified Investor Program provide residency that can lead to naturalization over time.
There is no capital gains tax, and the country has taken steps toward legalizing and recognizing blockchain-based payment systems. Crypto is already widely used by expats and businesses.
While direct crypto payment isn’t yet integrated into the immigration system, Panama offers flexibility, privacy, and long-term upside for those who prefer lower-profile jurisdictions.
Advantages
- Zero tax on foreign-sourced income and crypto
- Multiple residency pathways with relaxed entry requirements
- Strong history of financial privacy
- Growing community of digital nomads and crypto entrepreneurs
- Use of USD as official currency
Disadvantages
- No direct citizenship-by-investment option
- Requires time and physical presence to qualify for naturalization
- Limited international mobility with Panamanian passport
- Government crypto stance remains uncertain despite growing adoption
10. United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
Dubai, part of the UAE, is now one of the world’s most dynamic crypto hubs, thanks to its regulatory clarity, zero tax on crypto gains, and active support for blockchain innovation.
While the UAE does not offer formal citizenship by investment, long-term residency visas are available for high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs.
Crypto payments aren’t accepted for the visa process itself, but many real estate and investment platforms in Dubai now allow BTC, ETH, and USDT for qualifying transactions, including luxury properties tied to visa eligibility.
For those building businesses or managing substantial crypto portfolios, Dubai offers a globally connected, tax-efficient, regulation-forward environment.
Advantages
- Zero income and crypto tax
- Direct access to regulated crypto exchanges and service providers
- Residency through investment, real estate, or business formation
- World-class infrastructure, banking, and logistics
- Highly active Web3 and blockchain startup scene
Disadvantages
- No path to citizenship for most foreign nationals
- Residency linked to investment or employment status
- High cost of living and business operation
- Crypto volatility not recognized for legal valuations (must convert)
11. Georgia
Georgia has quietly emerged as one of the most crypto-welcoming countries in Eastern Europe. It offers low taxes, simplified residency options, and a government that openly supports blockchain development.
While Georgia does not have a formal citizenship-by-investment program, it does provide residency-by-investment starting at just $100,000 in real estate or local business investment.
Many foreign investors use Georgia as a base of operations while applying for long-term residency, with citizenship eligibility after several years of continuous residence.
For crypto investors, the low cost of living, zero tax on crypto-to-crypto transactions, and easy access to banking and exchanges make it a high-potential option.
Advantages
- One of the most crypto-friendly tax regimes in Europe
- Fast-track residency with low entry threshold
- Growing crypto startup scene and blockchain infrastructure
- No restrictions on foreign ownership of property or companies
- Path to citizenship after 5–10 years of residency
Disadvantages
- No direct citizenship-by-investment route
- Passport is weaker for global mobility (visa-free to ~115 countries)
- Bureaucracy can be unpredictable in certain regions
- Political risks due to regional instability
12. Turkey
Turkey offers a popular citizenship-by-investment program through real estate acquisition, with a minimum of $400,000.
While crypto itself is not accepted directly for payment to the government, multiple legal firms and developers now facilitate property purchases using BTC, ETH, and USDT, effectively allowing crypto-backed citizenship.
Turkey is actively developing its own central bank digital currency and blockchain policies, and while its stance on crypto exchanges is mixed, it remains a strategic gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
For investors who want a diverse portfolio, high lifestyle value, and a large local market, Turkey offers fast processing and a powerful passport at a competitive price.
Advantages
- Fast-track citizenship in 90–120 days
- Real estate purchases can be completed using crypto via trusted intermediaries
- Strong passport with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 110+ countries
- Large economy and strategic geographic position
- High-quality lifestyle options at a lower cost than EU markets
Disadvantages
- No direct crypto acceptance at the government level
- Complex banking system for foreigners
- Currency volatility and inflation risks
- Crypto regulation is still in flux
Methodology & Selection Criteria
We built this list based on a combination of quantitative data, expert insights, and real-world feedback from crypto investors navigating the second passport space.
Key Metrics
We evaluated countries based on:
- Minimum investment required (in USD equivalent)
- Visa-free travel score (based on Henley & Arton indices)
- Processing time (from application to approval)
- Crypto-friendliness, including legal stance, tax policy, and payment flexibility
Each program was assessed not just on government policy, but on how well it supports crypto-native needs: jurisdictional arbitrage, asset protection, transaction simplicity, and long-term strategic value through crypto citizenships.
Data Sources
Our analysis included:
- Official data from government portals and investment promotion agencies
- Third-party rankings from CBI indexes, such as Henley & Partners and CS Global
- Field experience from licensed migration firms
- Interviews with crypto founders, digital nomads, and legal experts who have completed the process
Weighting & Scoring
To ensure a fair ranking, we assigned weighted scores to each metric based on relevance to crypto investors:
- Crypto-friendliness (35%)
- Visa-free access (25%)
- Processing time (20%)
- Investment threshold (20%)
The result is a balanced evaluation that factors in both hard data and soft factors like user experience, adaptability, and on-the-ground legal clarity.
Comparison cost
To help you quickly assess the best crypto passport options, here’s a breakdown of the key criteria for each of the 12 countries covered:
El Salvador
- Minimum Investment: $1,000,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 137
- Approval Time: ~60 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: BTC, USDT
Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Minimum Investment: $250,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 150
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Via agent (BTC, ETH, USDT)
Antigua & Barbuda
- Minimum Investment: $130,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 145
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT
Vanuatu
- Minimum Investment: $130,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 95
- Approval Time: ~45 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: BTC
Dominica
- Minimum Investment: $100,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 140
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Via agent
Grenada
- Minimum Investment: $150,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 145
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT
Portugal
- Minimum Investment: ~$280,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 189
- Approval Time: ~5 years to citizenship
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Indirect (converted to fiat)
Malta
- Minimum Investment: €750,000+
- Visa-Free Destinations: 180
- Approval Time: ~12 months
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Indirect
Panama
- Minimum Investment: ~$100,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 140
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Not direct
UAE (Dubai)
- Minimum Investment: ~$200,000+
- Visa-Free Destinations: 175
- Approval Time: ~60 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Real estate in BTC
Georgia
- Minimum Investment: ~$100,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 115
- Approval Time: ~90 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Not direct
Turkey
- Minimum Investment: $400,000
- Visa-Free Destinations: 110
- Approval Time: ~120 days
- Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Real estate in BTC
Eligibility Requirements
Obtaining a crypto passport isn’t just a matter of sending Bitcoin and receiving a new nationality.
Each country applies strict vetting processes to ensure applicants meet legal and personal integrity standards.
General Criteria
Most programs require the following:
- Age: Minimum of 18 years old
- Clean criminal record: Verified through official police certificates
- Proof of funds: Documents must show legal source and origin of funds, including crypto wallets, exchange histories, or tax declarations
- No history of sanctions or terrorism-related activity
- Due diligence checks: Mandatory for all principal applicants and dependents
Country-Specific Variations
Some jurisdictions add extra conditions:
- Health certificates: Often requested to ensure the applicant does not carry infectious diseases or chronic conditions that burden public services
- Language proficiency: Required in Malta and Portugal as part of naturalization
- Residency or stay requirements: For example, Portugal requires applicants to spend time in the country during the 5-year period before citizenship can be granted
- Interviews or in-person verifications may be part of the process in stricter EU programs like Malta
These layers of scrutiny serve to protect the integrity of the passport program, and ensure that legitimate crypto investors can access the benefits of second citizenship legally and securely.
Want to know if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free online tool.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Acquiring a crypto passport is a highly structured legal process, and while paying in Bitcoin or stablecoins adds flexibility, it doesn’t remove the formalities.
Here’s how most top-tier programs typically work, from first click to passport in hand:
1. Initial Online Assessment
The process begins with a preliminary eligibility check, usually hosted on the official site or via a licensed agent.Applicants answer basic questions about nationality, investment preferences, crypto holdings, and legal history.
This step is designed to flag any red flags early, such as nationality restrictions or PEP status, before moving into formal due diligence.
2. Document Submission & KYC
Once pre-approved, the applicant must provide a full documentation package, which may include:
- Government-issued ID or passport
- Proof of address
- Source of funds documentation
- Crypto wallet history or exchange statements (for crypto-funded applications)
- Birth/marriage certificates (if applying with family)
- Police clearance from all jurisdictions of residence
This is also when KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) protocols are applied, usually by the agent handling the case.
3. Crypto Payment & Verification
After KYC clearance, the applicant can proceed with the investment payment. For crypto-friendly programs, this is handled in two main ways:
- Direct payment to an authorized wallet address managed by the agent or real estate developer
- Conversion to fiat through escrow or licensed crypto-payment processors
Funds are verified on-chain and recorded as part of the official application. Some programs also require gas fee records or a blockchain explorer link as part of compliance.
4. Government Review & Approval
Once payment is confirmed, the complete file is submitted to the relevant government authority (e.g. Citizenship Unit or Immigration Office).
Here, additional due diligence is conducted by state-level investigators, sometimes in cooperation with third-party intelligence firms.
If approved, the applicant receives a letter of approval in principle, confirming that citizenship or residency has been granted pending final steps.
5. Passport Issuance & Delivery
After final confirmations, the applicant is issued:
- A Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- A national ID (where applicable)
- A valid passport, shipped securely to the applicant or picked up in person, depending on the program
In some cases, a brief oath ceremony or in-person biometric scan is required before documents are released.
From start to finish, timelines can vary between 30 days and 12 months, depending on the country, the applicant’s background, and the method of investment, but the structure remains largely consistent.
Cost & Fees Analysis
Acquiring a crypto passport goes beyond just the headline investment number. While some programs start at $100,000, the true cost includes a range of government fees, legal charges, crypto conversion spreads, and ongoing obligations.
Understanding the full financial picture is critical before committing to any program, especially when using digital assets as your primary source of funds.
Government vs. Advisory Fees
Government fees are fixed and published by the issuing country. These include:
- Application and processing fees
- Due diligence checks
- Passport printing and issuance
- Contribution to national development funds or real estate approvals
In parallel, advisory or agent fees are charged by licensed intermediaries who manage the application on your behalf. These often include:
- Legal document preparation
- KYC/AML compliance
- Liaison with local authorities
- Crypto-to-fiat conversion coordination
Expect to pay 10%–20% in additional costs on top of the official investment amount.
Crypto vs. Fiat Payment Fees
When paying with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins, there are unique cost factors to consider:
- Network/gas fees during on-chain transfers
- Conversion spreads if the agent requires fiat delivery
- Escrow service fees, if a licensed provider holds and converts the crypto
- Additional legal documentation to verify wallet ownership or transaction origin
While crypto adds flexibility and global access, these hidden fees can increase total cost by 2–5%, especially when large transfers require multiple steps or legal verifications.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Many applicants underestimate the incidental costs that add up during the application journey:
- Translation and notarization of official documents
- Family member fees: spouses, children, and dependents often require additional payments
- Real estate taxes if using a property-based investment route
- Annual renewal fees for residency-based programs (especially in the EU)
It’s critical to review a complete fee schedule upfront, and to avoid agents who obscure or minimize these charges.
Don’t wait for borders to close, apply for your crypto passport today through a secure, crypto-friendly platform.
Tax Implications & Legal Considerations
A second passport is a powerful tool for tax optimization, but it doesn’t automatically exempt you from reporting or legal obligations.
Crypto investors must ensure their new citizenship aligns with international compliance standards.
Capital Gains Reporting
Some countries, like Portugal and El Salvador, offer zero capital gains tax on crypto. Others, particularly in the EU, are tightening their tax regimes.
When moving to a new jurisdiction, you must consider:
- How crypto holdings are valued and taxed upon entry
- Whether crypto-to-crypto trades are considered taxable events
- Local rules on staking, airdrops, or NFT gains
If you’re liquidating crypto to fund your investment, you may trigger a taxable event in your current country of residence, especially if you're subject to citizenship-based taxation rules like those imposed by the U.S.
It's vital to plan exits strategically and consult with cross-border tax professionals.
Double Taxation Treaties
Countries with double taxation agreements (DTAs) can help reduce or eliminate duplicate taxes for global citizens.
For crypto investors, this means:
- Avoiding taxes in both your home country and your new one
- Leveraging withholding tax exemptions on interest, dividends, or business income
- Clarifying residency for tax purposes vs. passport ownership
CBI-friendly nations like Malta, Portugal, and Grenada maintain treaties with dozens of countries, which can be highly advantageous for those operating internationally.
Compliance with AML/KYC Laws
Even if you're paying with crypto, compliance is non-negotiable.
All legitimate programs require:
- Verified identity
- Source of wealth declarations
- Wallet or exchange documentation
- Third-party screenings through global risk databases
Trying to shortcut this process leads to automatic disqualification, possible blacklisting, or even legal liability.
The best approach is simple: treat your application with the same level of transparency and diligence as any regulated financial transaction. It will speed up your approval, and protect you in the long run.
Pros & Cons by Country
Here’s a quick-reference summary of the main advantage and drawback of each jurisdiction covered, ideal for comparing your top options at a glance.
- El Salvador + Bitcoin is legal tender – Higher investment threshold ($1 million)
- Saint Kitts & Nevis + Strong global mobility (150+ countries visa-free) – Crypto payments only accepted via agents
- Antigua & Barbuda + Low entry cost with crypto-friendly agents – Smaller travel network vs. other Caribbean options
- Vanuatu + Fastest processing time (30–45 days) – Weaker passport and limited crypto infrastructure
- Dominica + Trusted, low-cost citizenship program – Crypto not accepted directly by the government
- Grenada + Access to US E-2 visa – Limited real estate options that support crypto
- Portugal + No tax on crypto gains (under current law) – No direct citizenship by investment; long wait
- Malta + EU citizenship with strong crypto awareness – High investment requirement (€750,000+)
- Panama + Zero tax on foreign and crypto income – No citizenship-by-investment route
- UAE (Dubai) + No crypto or income tax – No path to citizenship
- Georgia + Crypto-friendly regulation and low taxes – Passport has weaker travel privileges
- Turkey + Real estate route can be funded with crypto – Currency and inflation risks
Real-Life Case Studies
Case Study A: Fast-Track Citizenship in Vanuatu
After cashing out early ETH gains in 2021, a Canadian developer wanted a second passport to minimize tax exposure and gain international flexibility.
He chose Vanuatu due to its speed and crypto payment acceptance.
- He paid $130,000 via BTC to a licensed agent
- Completed due diligence remotely
- Received citizenship documents in 32 days
- Now uses Vanuatu as a legal base while working from Bali
Case Study B: Portugal Golden Visa with Crypto Assets
A DeFi entrepreneur from Argentina needed EU access and a way to relocate legally with his family. He converted USDC to fiat, invested in a €280,000 investment fund, and applied for Portugal’s Golden Visa.
- Family of four approved in under 6 months
- Maintains crypto portfolio tax-free under Portugal’s current regime
- Eligible for citizenship in 5 years without renouncing original nationality
- Now part of Lisbon’s growing Web3 startup scene
Security & Fraud Alerts
As demand for crypto-funded citizenship programs grows, so does the risk of misinformation, unlicensed operators, and outright scams.
Transferring large sums of Bitcoin or stablecoins requires trust, legal protection, and clear documentation, especially when it’s tied to something as serious as your second nationality.
Red Flags in Crypto CBI Programs
Not all citizenship-by-investment (CBI) offers are legitimate. Here are common warning signs to watch out for:
- No government accreditation: Every real program requires a licensed agent approved by the country’s citizenship unit
- "Too good to be true" offers: Unrealistic promises like “instant passport for $30K in crypto” are red flags
- Lack of due diligence: If no background check or KYC is required, the offer is either illegal or not respected internationally
- Unsecured wallet transfers: Requests to send BTC or USDT to personal wallets without legal contracts or escrow
- No official documentation: Every program should issue certificates of naturalization, passport numbers, and embassy verification options
Always verify any firm claiming to offer crypto passports through the official government portal or the CBI unit of the country in question.
Protecting Your Private Keys During KYC
Applying with crypto often means submitting wallet screenshots, transaction IDs, or exchange records. Here's how to share necessary data without exposing your keys:
- Never share seed phrases or private keys, even with licensed agents
- Use watch-only wallets to generate reports or show balances
- When possible, provide read-only API access from your exchange or portfolio tracker
- Blur QR codes and receiving addresses unless specifically required for on-chain verification
- Ask if the agent uses end-to-end encryption for KYC submissions
Treat any crypto-related documents the same way you would treat sensitive banking credentials.
Verifying Agent Licenses and Accreditation
Each CBI program works with a short list of approved agents and legal representatives. To protect yourself:
- Ask for the agent’s license number and verify it on the country’s official CBI registry
- Confirm whether they are authorized to receive crypto on behalf of clients
- Check for international affiliations (e.g. Investment Migration Council membership)
- Review client testimonials, legal disclaimers, and refund policies
- Be wary of “referral-only” schemes with no contractual obligations
If you're not dealing with a transparent, licensed firm, you're putting your funds and legal standing at serious risk.
Glossary of Key Terms
Crypto Passport
A second citizenship or legal residency acquired through a program that allows cryptocurrency as an accepted form of payment, typically BTC, ETH, or stablecoins, for investment, donation, or real estate contributions.
CBI (Citizenship by Investment)
A structured legal process where individuals gain citizenship of a foreign country by making a qualifying financial contribution, often in the form of a government fund donation or property investment.
Golden Visa
A residency-by-investment program that offers long-term residence (and sometimes eventual citizenship) in return for investment into the country, usually via real estate, business, or capital transfer.
KYC (Know Your Customer)
A standard legal process requiring individuals to verify their identity and source of funds, especially important in crypto passport applications to meet AML regulations.
AML (Anti-Money Laundering)
A global compliance framework designed to detect and prevent illegal financial activity, including the use of crypto for money laundering, tax evasion, or terrorism financing.
Domicile
A legal term referring to the country where an individual is considered to have their permanent home or tax residency, which can affect global tax obligations and inheritance laws.
Fiat Conversion
The process of exchanging cryptocurrency into traditional government-issued money (such as USD, EUR, or GBP), often required for citizenship programs that do not accept crypto directly.
Next Steps with CitizenX
If you're serious about securing your crypto passport, the smartest move is to act before regulations tighten or prices rise.
CitizenX makes the process frictionless, combining secure digital tools with expert human guidance at every step.
Start your free online eligibility check
In less than 3 minutes, you can find out which citizenship or residency programs fit your profile, based on your nationality, crypto holdings, investment preferences, and goals.No commitments. No hidden fees. Just clear options tailored to you.
24/7 personalized support and real-time application tracking
Once you begin your process, you’ll have access to:
- A dedicated advisor fluent in both crypto and global mobility
- An encrypted dashboard to track your file in real time
- Transparent cost breakdowns with no surprise fees
From your first question to your passport in hand, CitizenX keeps you fully informed and fully protected.
How to book a strategy call with our crypto-savvy advisors
Need to talk through your options? Schedule a 1-on-1 strategy session with one of our senior advisors.
They’ll help you:
- Compare countries and timelines based on your crypto profile
- Navigate tax, KYC, and legal considerations
- Understand the safest path from wallet to passport
Your assets give you freedom. Let’s make sure your passport does too.
If you're serious about digital freedom, take the first step with CitizenX and explore your second citizenship options.
FAQs About Crypto Passports
Can I legally buy citizenship with Bitcoin or Ethereum?
Yes, in several countries, you can fund your citizenship or residency application using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins. While most governments still require the final payment in fiat, many licensed agents and legal firms now accept crypto and convert it on your behalf.Just ensure you're working with a government-approved provider that follows proper KYC and compliance protocols.
What’s the safest country to get a crypto passport?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but Saint Kitts & Nevis, Portugal, and Malta are among the most trusted programs with strong legal structures and international recognition.For speed and simplicity, Vanuatu and Dominica are also considered safe, provided you go through a licensed agent with a verifiable track record.
How long does the process usually take?
It depends on the country:
- Vanuatu: 30–45 days
- Caribbean programs (like Saint Kitts or Dominica): 60–90 days
- Portugal: Residency in ~6 months, citizenship after 5 years
- Malta: 12+ months with in-depth due diligence
Delays may occur depending on the quality of your documentation, crypto funding process, and background checks.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes. Most crypto passport programs allow you to include:
- Spouse or legal partner
- Children (usually under 25 if financially dependent)
- In some cases, parents or grandparents
Each additional family member typically increases the investment or donation amount, so it’s important to calculate the total cost upfront.
What are the tax implications of having a second passport?
A second passport can open the door to lower taxes, but it doesn't automatically eliminate your existing obligations. Key considerations:
- Some countries (e.g. Portugal, UAE, Panama) offer zero tax on crypto gains
- Others apply worldwide income rules, especially if you become a tax resident
- U.S. citizens are taxed on global income even if they have a second passport
- Exiting a high-tax jurisdiction may require formal tax planning
Always speak to a cross-border crypto tax specialist before relocating.
What are the ongoing residency or stay requirements?
It varies:
- No residency required: Vanuatu, Saint Kitts, Antigua, Dominica
- Minimal stay: Malta (1–2 weeks/year), Grenada (optional)
- Active residency: Portugal requires physical presence for part of the year during the 5-year path to citizenship
If you're aiming for maximum flexibility, choose a country with no mandatory presence clauses.
If you're relocating for lifestyle or tax purposes, consider how many days you need to maintain legal status.
What is a crypto passport and how does it work?
A crypto passport refers to a second citizenship or residency obtained through an official program that allows you to fund the investment using cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins.
You go through legal vetting, due diligence, and payment (often via an agent who converts your crypto to fiat), and once approved, receive a valid passport or residency permit.
Is it legal to use crypto to apply for second citizenship?
Yes, using crypto to apply for second citizenship is legal in several countries, provided the transaction follows KYC/AML laws and is processed through an approved agent.
Some programs accept crypto directly, while others require it to be converted to fiat before submission.
Which countries accept Bitcoin for citizenship or residency?
Countries like El Salvador, Vanuatu, Antigua & Barbuda, and Turkey accept Bitcoin indirectly or through licensed agents.
Some, like El Salvador, accept BTC or USDT directly via government-backed programs.
How do I pay for citizenship with Bitcoin or Ethereum?
You can pay for citizenship with Bitcoin or Ethereum through licensed agents who accept crypto payments.
These agents typically convert the funds into fiat and manage the legal process. It's essential to have on-chain proof of funds and use secure, traceable wallets.
Are there tax benefits to having a crypto passport?
Yes. Many crypto passport countries offer zero tax on crypto gains, no wealth tax, and favorable residency rules. Jurisdictions like Portugal, the UAE, and Panama are known for crypto-friendly tax policies, but planning must be done carefully to avoid triggering taxes in your current country.
Can I remain anonymous if I apply with crypto?
No. Even if you fund your application with cryptocurrency, you are still required to pass full identity verification, KYC, and due diligence checks.
Anonymity is not allowed in any legal passport-by-investment program.
Do I have to give up my original citizenship?
Most crypto passport countries allow dual citizenship, meaning you can keep your original nationality while acquiring a second one.
However, your home country’s laws may differ, so it’s important to confirm local regulations on dual nationality.
