In a groundbreaking move, Sierra Leone has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, known as GO-FOR-GOLD.

This innovative initiative, launched in early 2025, offers a unique opportunity for global investors to obtain Sierra Leonean citizenship through strategic investments in the country's gold reserves.

Program Overview

The GO-FOR-GOLD program provides two main pathways to Sierra Leonean citizenship:

  1. Fast Track Naturalization: This route grants citizenship within 90 days for a total investment package of $140,000.
  2. Heritage Naturalization: Designed for individuals with African ancestry, this pathway offers citizenship within 60 days for a total investment of $100,000. Applicants must submit a DNA test report as part of their application.

Both options allow applicants to include qualifying family members for an additional fee of $10,000 per dependent1.

Investment Requirements

The program's investment structure is tied to Sierra Leone's gold reserves, offering a unique blend of financial security and citizenship benefits. The investment packages are as follows:

  • Single Applicant: $65,000 plus 1 kilogram of gold
  • Nuclear Family: $75,000 plus 1 kilogram of gold
  • Extended Family: $100,000 plus 2 kilograms of gold

All gold used in the program is 99.99% LBMA-certified bullion, securely stored by the Central Bank of Sierra Leone5.

Key Benefits

  1. Expedited Process: The program boasts a swift 40-day approval process for permanent residency, with citizenship granted within 60-90 days.
  2. No Residency Requirement: Applicants can complete the entire process remotely, with no need to visit or reside in Sierra Leone.
  3. Tax Advantages: The program offers significant tax benefits, including no national taxation implications and the availability of tax residency certification.
  4. GFG Club Membership: Successful applicants gain access to an exclusive network connecting residents with Sierra Leone's business leaders35.
  5. Additional Gold Purchases: Investors have the option to buy up to 19 additional kilograms of gold at a discounted rate over five years.

How to Apply

The application process for Sierra Leone's GO-FOR-GOLD program is designed to be straightforward and efficient:

  1. Document Gathering: Collect the required documents, including passport copies, digital photographs, and relevant certificates for family applications.
  2. Document Certification: Certify the necessary documents according to the program's True Copy Certification Requirements.
  3. Application Submission: Submit your application to the Program Master Agent.
  4. Due Diligence: Once funds are received, thorough background checks and due diligence processes are conducted.
  5. Approval and Naturalization: Upon approval, you'll receive your Permanent Residency status, followed by the filing of your Petition for Naturalization.
  6. Citizenship Granted: Final approval is confirmed, and your Naturalization Certificate and Passport are issued.

Conclusion

Sierra Leone's GO-FOR-GOLD Citizenship by Investment program represents a innovative approach in the investment migration landscape. By linking citizenship to gold investments, Sierra Leone offers a unique value proposition that combines economic opportunity with the benefits of a second citizenship.

For investors seeking to diversify their global presence and access new opportunities in Africa, Sierra Leone's program provides an attractive option. With its expedited processing, tax advantages, and the potential for additional gold investments, GO-FOR-GOLD sets a new standard in the citizenship by investment industry.

As this program continues to evolve, it's advisable to consult with authorized immigration lawyers or program representatives for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the application process.