Cryptocurrency is regarded today as a popular asset class. While some investors may still have their reservations about using large amounts of cryptocurrency, it is possible to gain residency or citizenship through large donations or contributions through certain investment programmes created by governments.
Investment through fiat currency is the main method of gaining residency, but crypto is still accepted in some instances if converted to fiat and paid.
Portugal
Another crypto-friendly country, Portugal, does not offer a direct path to citizenship through cryptocurrency investments. But people interested in becoming residents can apply through the Portuguese Golden Visa, through an investment of 500,000 euros, after which application for citizenship is possible once five years have passed.
You cannot directly invest in cryptocurrency to gain citizenship, but investments into pre-approved funds tied to cryptocurrency are available.
El Salvador
El Salvador was the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, and when it comes to investment programmes that lead to residency and citizenship, there are options that can be considered.
Created in 2023, the Freedom Visa program allows cryptocurrency owners to gain citizenship by making a $1 million donation in the form of BTC or USDT. The application is secured through a $999 application fee for each member, with the remaining money invested in government-approved initiatives.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is considered one of the early adopters of cryptocurrency as a method of payment for its citizenship programmes. Although a direct cryptocurrency payment is still not allowed, investors can pay agents in crypto and have it converted to fiat currency for the application.
For the purpose of citizenship, a person can donate $230,000, which can be invested into real estate, pre-approved business ventures, a university, or the National Development Fund.
Vanuatu
This relatively small island nation is known for offering one of the quickest paths to citizenship. The process typically takes anywhere from 30-60 days, and costs range from $130,000 to $180,000, depending on the number of applicants.
Vanuatu has a 0% tax system for most of its significant transactions, such as income, capital gains, and inheritance, making it an appealing location for cryptocurrency owners holding large investments in digital assets.
Again, it is not possible to make payments in the form of cryptocurrency for citizenship, but agents can be paid in cryptocurrency, which can be converted to fiat currency for the purpose of the application. Also, potential applicants are not required to learn any specific language or have attained any specific degree.
Residency through crypto is still an evolving topic
Interested applicants also must be careful before giving large amounts of money to any one place, as countries regularly change their stance on cryptocurrency, with frameworks still developing globally to regulate the nascent asset class.