Many people wonder if they can buy U.S. citizenship by investing money. The short answer is: No, the U.S. does not offer direct USA citizenship by investment like some other countries. However, there are investment-based visas that can eventually lead to citizenship. Here’s what you need to know.
Can You Get U.S. Citizenship Just by Investing?
Unlike countries such as Malta or St. Kitts, the U.S. does not have a program where you can exchange money for an immediate passport. Instead, the closest option is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which provides a green card (permanent residency, not instant citizenship.
To become a U.S. citizen, you must first:
- Get a green card through EB-5 or another visa
- Live in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Meet all other naturalization requirements
How Does the EB-5 Visa Lead to Citizenship?
The EB-5 program allows foreign investors to get a green card by:
- Investing
- Creating at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers
After 5 years as a permanent resident (or 3 years if married to a citizen), you can apply for naturalization, the final step to U.S. citizenship.
Are There Faster Ways to Citizenship Through Investment?
Some visas (like the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa) allow investment but do not directly lead to citizenship. The E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, meaning you must eventually switch to a green card (such as EB-5) before qualifying for naturalization.
Common Misconceptions About U.S. Citizenship by Investment
Myth 1: “I can get a U.S. passport just by investing.”
Reality: You must first get a green card, live in the U.S., and apply for citizenship later.
Myth 2: “The EB-5 visa guarantees citizenship.”
Reality: It only gives a green card; you must still meet residency and good moral character requirements.
Myth 3: “I can live outside the U.S. and keep my citizenship path.”
Reality: Staying outside the U.S. too long can risk your green card status, delaying citizenship.
While the U.S. doesn’t offer direct citizenship by investment, the EB-5 visa is the best path for investors who want to eventually become citizens. It requires patience, compliance with immigration rules, and a long-term commitment to living in the U.S.
If you’re considering this route, consulting an experienced immigration attorney can help you navigate the process smoothly. They’ll make sure your investment meets all requirements and guide you from green card to citizenship.