What is the difference between citizenship and residency?
Citizenship is the status of a person recognised under the custom or law as being a legal member of a sovereign state or belonging to a nation. A citizen will have all the social and political rights of that particular country. Citizenship tends to be lifelong and irrevocable, even if obtained through investment.
Residency is the act of establishing and maintaining residence in a particular place for a specific period of time. Permanent residency is indefinite. Usually, residency allows the person to access that country’s healthcare system etc., but not other privileges like voting or standing for elections etc.
Is dual citizenship legal?
Dual citizenship is completely legal. However, some countries do not allow they citizens to obtain multiple citizenships, and may revoke citizenship in such cases.
In which circumstances would my application be rejected?
Your application may be rejected if it is revealed that you have lied or omitted any important information. If you are also suspected or wanted for any crime, your application would unquestionably be denied.
How long does the process take?
The processing time varies with each program. However, the usual time period is 3-6 months. In some cases, an extra fee determined by the Government can expedite processing (but does not guarantee approval).
Do I have to live in my new country of citizenship or residency?
Citizenship by Investment programs do not require residency in that particular country. Some may, however, require an occasional visit within a specified timeframe, while it may be necessary to spend at least 6 months in others.
Can my children and parents get the citizenship too?
Your children and parents can apply for citizenship on the same application. But each country has its own age criteria; some may not allow children above the age of 21 or parents below the age of 65.
Is there anything I should know after obtaining my second citizenship?
Now that you have acquired a legal second citizenship, it is important to keep your documents safe. Travel with copies and keep the originals in a secure area. You also need to make sure that your certificates are deemed valid in your current place of residence (you can have them attested).
When you travel, research for some basic information in order to answer any routine questions at immigration about how you obtained citizenship etc.
If you misplace your passport or need to renew it, you can do so at the embassy closest to you.
