11 Countries Where You Can Buy Citizenship (and a New Life) for Less Than a NYC Apartment – Escape the High Cost of Living Now!
Tired of sky-high rent and the endless grind just to scrape by in a place like New York City? What if you could trade that cramped, overpriced apartment for a passport to a new life—somewhere affordable, exotic, and entirely yours? Believe it or not, there are countries where you can buy citizenship (and a fresh start) for less than the cost of a Manhattan shoebox.
We’re talking sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cultures, and a lower cost of living that lets you actually live, not just survive. In this article, we’ve uncovered 11 nations offering golden tickets to residency or citizenship through investment—some for as little as $100,000. From Caribbean hideaways to European gems, these destinations promise more than just a new address; they’re a chance to escape the financial hamster wheel and reinvent yourself.
Ready to ditch the high-cost chaos and discover where your money can buy freedom? Keep reading to find out which countries are calling your name—and how soon you could be packing your bags!
1. Portugal
Portugal is the kind of place that lures you in with its old-world charm and holds you hostage with its irresistible pace of life. From the golden beaches of the Algarve to the labyrinthine alleys of Lisbon’s Alfama district, this is a country that knows how to blend history with modernity. Strolling along Porto’s Ribeira, watching traditional Rabelo boats glide down the Douro River, you begin to understand why so many dream of calling this place home. The scent of pastéis de nata wafting from a tiny bakery, the soulful strum of a Fado guitar, and the warmth of locals sharing stories over a bottle of vinho verde—it all feels like an intimate invitation to stay forever.
One of Portugal’s greatest gifts is its unhurried rhythm. Life moves at a slower pace here, especially in coastal towns like Cascais and Nazaré, where waves dictate the day’s mood. Even in bustling Lisbon, you’ll find locals lingering over their espresso and tosta mista, content to let the world move around them. This blend of European sophistication and laid-back coastal energy makes Portugal one of the most rewarding places to settle. Whether you’re wandering through the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley, gazing at the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, or soaking in the vibrant colors of Sintra’s palaces, Portugal feels like a never-ending postcard waiting to be explored.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-peak seasons: Best from April to June & September to October (pleasant weather, fewer crowds). Winter months are mild but can be rainy.
- Best ways to reach and explore: Lisbon and Porto are well-connected by international flights. The country’s extensive train and bus network makes travel easy. Renting a car is ideal for exploring smaller towns.
- Ideal duration of visit: 10-14 days for a proper experience, but you’ll likely want to stay longer.
- Must-try local experiences: Wine tasting in the Douro Valley, riding Tram 28 in Lisbon, exploring Sintra’s fairytale castles, and eating at a traditional Fado restaurant.
- Budget considerations: Portugal is one of Western Europe’s most affordable countries. A comfortable daily budget ranges from €50-100 for mid-range travel.
- Cultural etiquette tips: A handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when greeting. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Photography opportunities: Pena Palace in Sintra, Porto’s Ribeira district, the cliffs of the Algarve, and the iconic yellow tram in Lisbon.
2. Malta
Malta is a living, breathing museum—an island where every stone tells a story. From the prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim to the baroque grandeur of Valletta, this sun-soaked Mediterranean gem feels like stepping into another era. The limestone streets, kissed by centuries of history, glow golden at sunset, casting a dreamlike haze over the island’s fortresses and harbors. Walking along Mdina’s ancient walls, where the silence is so profound you can hear your own footsteps echo, it’s easy to lose yourself in Malta’s magic.
But Malta isn’t just a relic of the past—it’s a place where tradition meets contemporary island life. In Marsaxlokk, you’ll find fishermen tending to their vibrantly painted luzzu boats as market stalls overflow with fresh seafood. In Sliema, modern cafés hum with expats sipping cappuccinos as they overlook Valletta’s stunning skyline. The island’s compact size means you can go from snorkeling in the Blue Grotto to uncovering centuries-old catacombs in the same afternoon. It’s this versatility—this ability to be both timeless and modern—that makes Malta such a compelling escape.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-peak seasons: Best from April to June & September to November (warm weather, fewer crowds). July-August is extremely hot and busy.
- Best ways to reach and explore: Malta International Airport serves many major cities. Buses are available but renting a car is highly recommended. Ferries connect Gozo and Comino.
- Ideal duration of visit: 7-10 days to explore all three islands (Malta, Gozo, Comino).
- Must-try local experiences: Exploring Mdina’s Silent City, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and tasting pastizzi.
- Budget considerations: Mid-range travelers should budget around €60-120/day. Accommodation costs vary, with Valletta being the priciest.
- Cultural etiquette tips: Dress modestly for religious sites. Locals appreciate polite greetings, and handshakes are common.
- Photography opportunities: The Blue Lagoon, Valletta’s Grand Harbour, Mdina’s ancient streets, and the colorful fishing boats of Marsaxlokk.
3. St. Kitts & Nevis
Few places balance luxury and laid-back island charm like St. Kitts & Nevis. These twin Caribbean islands feel untouched by time, where colonial plantations meet swaying palm trees and the turquoise sea. The pace is slow, the air thick with the scent of sea breeze and fresh mangoes, and the sunsets? Unbelievable. From the scenic railway winding through the sugarcane fields to the secluded beaches where you’re more likely to meet a turtle than a tourist, St. Kitts & Nevis offers a kind of peaceful escape that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Nevis, the smaller of the two islands, is particularly special. Here, wild green vervet monkeys dart through lush forests, and centuries-old churches stand as quiet reminders of the island’s rich history. The island’s volcanic peak looms dramatically in the background, a constant companion whether you’re sipping a cocktail at a beach bar or hiking through the rainforest. There’s something undeniably romantic about it, the kind of place where time stretches and the worries of the world seem impossibly distant.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-peak seasons: Best from December to April (dry season). May-November sees fewer crowds but occasional hurricanes.
- Best ways to reach and explore: Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport connects via the US & UK. Ferries run between the two islands.
- Ideal duration of visit: 5-7 days is enough to embrace island life.
- Must-try local experiences: Riding the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, hiking Nevis Peak, exploring Brimstone Hill Fortress, and tasting a Killer Bee rum punch at Sunshine’s Beach Bar.
- Budget considerations: St. Kitts leans toward luxury but offers budget-friendly guesthouses ($100-300/day).
- Photography opportunities: Pinney’s Beach, the rainforest trails of Nevis, Brimstone Hill Fortress, and the scenic railway.
4. Dominica
Dominica isn’t just another Caribbean island—it’s the “Nature Island”, a wild, untamed paradise where waterfalls thunder through jungle canopies, volcanic hot springs bubble beneath the surface, and misty mountains rise above the clouds. Unlike its more commercialized neighbors, Dominica has resisted mass tourism, preserving its raw, untouched beauty. The air is thick with the scent of tropical flowers, and the dense rainforests hum with the sounds of nature. Whether you’re trekking through Morne Trois Pitons National Park or snorkeling in Champagne Reef, Dominica is an immersive escape into the wild.
The island’s landscape feels like something out of a dream. One moment you’re hiking to the Boiling Lake, watching steam rise from its eerie, bubbling waters, and the next you’re floating in the cool embrace of Emerald Pool, a jungle-shrouded waterfall straight out of a fantasy film. In the coastal town of Roseau, brightly painted wooden buildings line the streets, and the rhythm of Creole music drifts through the air. Local markets burst with tropical fruits, and small, family-run restaurants serve up steaming plates of callaloo soup and grilled plantains.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-peak seasons: Best from December to May (dry season). June to November is rainy and hurricane-prone, but the island remains lush and vibrant.
- Best ways to reach and explore: No major international airport—fly into Antigua, Barbados, or St. Lucia, then take a regional flight. A rental car is best for exploring.
- Ideal duration of visit: 7-10 days to fully experience the island’s nature and culture.
- Must-try local experiences: Hiking to Boiling Lake, swimming at Emerald Pool, whale watching, and soaking in the hot springs of Wotten Waven.
- Budget considerations: Mid-range travelers can expect to spend $80-150/day. Eco-lodges and guesthouses offer affordable stays.
- Cultural etiquette tips: Respect nature—locals take conservation seriously. Greeting people with a friendly “good morning” is appreciated.
- Photography opportunities: Trafalgar Falls, Indian River boat tours, the dramatic cliffs of Scotts Head, and the boiling waters of the volcanic lake.
5. Grenada
Grenada, known as the “Spice Island,” is a place that engages all the senses. The air is perfumed with the warm, heady scent of nutmeg and cinnamon, and the island’s emerald-green hills roll down to sugar-soft beaches and turquoise waters. Unlike the glitzy resorts of other Caribbean destinations, Grenada’s charm lies in its authenticity—a place where life moves at an island rhythm, and every experience feels deeply personal. Wander through St. George’s, the island’s capital, and you’ll see fishermen unloading their fresh catch, colorful colonial buildings dotting the waterfront, and locals sharing stories over a rum punch.
Beyond the beaches, Grenada is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The Grand Etang National Park hides lush rainforests, crater lakes, and playful mona monkeys. Drive up into the hills, and you’ll stumble upon family-run spice plantations where you can breathe in the intoxicating aroma of freshly harvested nutmeg. Meanwhile, the underwater world is just as breathtaking—Molinière Underwater Sculpture Park is an ethereal dive site where marine life weaves through hauntingly beautiful submerged statues.
Key Practical Information
- Peak/Off-peak seasons: Best from December to April (dry season). The wet season (June to November) has fewer tourists but occasional hurricanes.
- Best ways to reach and explore: Maurice Bishop International Airport serves direct flights from the US, UK, and Canada. Renting a car is best for exploring, but minibuses offer local charm.
- Ideal duration of visit: 5-7 days for beaches, hikes, and cultural experiences.
- Must-try local experiences: Visiting a spice plantation, diving at the Underwater Sculpture Park, hiking Grand Etang, and experiencing Fish Friday in Gouyave.
- Budget considerations: A mid-range budget of $100-200/day covers accommodation, food, and activities.
- Cultural etiquette tips: Greet locals with a smile and take your time—life here isn’t rushed. Dress modestly when outside of beach areas.
- Photography opportunities: St. George’s harbor, Annandale Falls, Grand Anse Beach, and the nutmeg plantations of the interior.
6. Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda isn’t just a postcard-perfect getaway—it’s an island nation with 365 beaches, one for every single day of the year. But beyond the white sands and swaying palms, it’s a place where the echoes of history meet a deep love for sailing. Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO-listed site, tells the story of the British naval presence, while today, the island transforms every April into the world’s sailing capital during Antigua Sailing Week.
For those who love seclusion, Barbuda is where the real magic happens. Here, the beaches are cotton-soft pink, thanks to crushed coral, and you might not see another soul for miles. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Codrington Lagoon is a spectacle—thousands of birds nesting in the mangroves, their crimson pouches inflating in a synchronized dance. Imagine paddling through the calm waters in a kayak, the only sounds being the distant waves and the chatter of seabirds.
Key Practical Information
- Unique experience: Spend a day exploring Hell’s Gate National Park, where limestone rock formations create natural jacuzzis in the sea.
- Hidden local gem: The Shirley Heights Sunset Party, where steel drum bands play as the sun dips into the horizon.
- Best time to go: December to May for clear skies and the best sailing conditions.
- Getting there: Direct flights from the US, UK, and Canada. Ferries run between Antigua & Barbuda, though Barbuda remains lightly developed post-hurricane.
- Unexpected tip: Barbuda’s caves hide ancient Arawak petroglyphs, a fascinating link to the island’s pre-colonial past.
- Best adventure: Snorkeling the shipwrecks in Deep Bay, where marine life has taken over sunken vessels.
- Ideal trip length: 5-7 days for a mix of beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
7. Turkey
Few places offer the cultural fusion of Turkey. One moment, you’re lost in the timeless bazaar alleys of Istanbul, inhaling the scent of roasted chestnuts and simmering kebabs; the next, you’re staring at the surreal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, hot air balloons drifting like paper lanterns at sunrise. Citizenship here isn’t just about investment—it’s about stepping into a civilization spanning millennia.
The real magic lies in the lesser-visited corners. Along the turquoise coastline, the ruins of Patara Beach merge with the sea, where loggerhead turtles nest under the moonlight. In the East, the haunting beauty of Mount Nemrut awaits, its ancient stone heads standing sentinel over the landscape at dawn. In that quiet moment, as the sun peeks over the horizon, history doesn’t feel like the past—it feels alive.
Key Practical Information
- Best-kept secret: Amasya, a town with Ottoman-era riverside mansions and mountain-carved tombs that glow at night.
- Ideal for: History lovers, food enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
- Citizenship perk: A gateway to both Europe and Asia, with a powerful passport allowing easy access to many countries.
- Budget insight: Turkey remains incredibly affordable outside of tourist hotspots. A meal of pide (Turkish pizza) and ayran costs just a few dollars.
- Local etiquette tip: Always remove your shoes before entering homes or mosques—it’s a sign of respect.
- Unforgettable activity: Soaking in Pamukkale’s natural hot springs, where mineral-rich terraces create a landscape like no other.
- Recommended trip length: 10-14 days to fully appreciate Turkey’s diverse regions.
8. Montenegro
Montenegro is where mountains kiss the Adriatic. It’s often overlooked in favor of Croatia, but those who come here know it’s a quieter, wilder beauty. The medieval town of Kotor, cradled by fjord-like cliffs, feels like a place time forgot. Climb the 1,350 steps up to San Giovanni Fortress, and you’ll understand why sailors used to say that no port felt safer than Kotor’s Bay.
Beyond the coast, Durmitor National Park hides Europe’s deepest canyon—Tara River Canyon, a paradise for white-water rafters and those who crave true solitude among glacial lakes and pine forests. Montenegro’s magic isn’t just in its landscapes but in the slow, soul-soothing pace of life.
Key Practical Information
- Underrated experience: Take a boat across Lake Skadar, where floating lily pads and monasteries make it look like a painting.
- Best way to explore: Rent a car—Montenegro is small, and its best spots are tucked away in mountain roads.
- Cost of living: One of Europe’s most affordable options for a second passport, with low taxes and low living costs.
- Best time to visit: September and October—warmer seas but fewer crowds.
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers, photographers, and those who appreciate medieval charm.
- Photography highlight: The mirror-like waters of Perast at sunrise, with mist rolling over the bay.
- Recommended trip length: 7-10 days for coastal and inland exploration.
9. St. Lucia
St. Lucia isn’t just another Caribbean island—it’s a volcanic wonderland sculpted by fire and sea. The iconic Pitons, twin volcanic spires, rise dramatically from the coastline, framing every postcard-perfect view. But St. Lucia’s magic isn’t just in its beaches; it’s in the hidden waterfalls buried in the rainforest, the drive-in volcano at Soufrière, and the way hot springs bubble up from the earth, forming natural healing baths.
The island has a surprising amount of hidden gems too—take a boat ride through The Marigot Bay, where the lush hills wrap around you like a secret hideaway, and the surrounding water is tranquil enough to make it feel like a scene from a romantic movie. For adventure lovers, the Tet Paul Nature Trail offers sweeping views of the island and a short but rewarding hike, while those seeking to relax can find solace at Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano, where you can soak in the natural mud baths surrounded by sulfurous steam.
Key Practical Information
- Ultimate sunset spot: Marigot Bay, where yachts bob in the golden glow of dusk.
- Best way to experience St. Lucia: Stay in a clifftop boutique hotel, where you wake up to Piton views.
- Must-try dish: Green fig and saltfish, the national comfort food.
- Luxury or budget? St. Lucia has both—from high-end resorts to charming guesthouses.
- Unique local tradition: Jump Up street party in Gros Islet, where locals and tourists dance to Caribbean beats every Friday night.
- Adventure highlight: Zip-lining through the dense rainforest, offering unparalleled jungle views.
- Ideal trip length: 5-7 days for a balanced island experience.
10. Vanuatu
If you’ve ever dreamt of an island where life feels untouched by time, Vanuatu is that dream made real. This Pacific archipelago is where traditions run deep, and life is dictated by the sea, the volcanoes, and the stars. Villagers still perform ancient dances, and chiefs hold ceremonial rights passed down for centuries. But Vanuatu is also for thrill-seekers—from diving into the SS President Coolidge, one of the world’s best wreck dives, to standing on the rim of the fiery Mount Yasur volcano, where lava bursts into the night sky like fireworks.
One of the most surreal experiences on the islands is land diving on Pentecost Island, a tradition that predates even modern bungee jumping. Witnessing the rituals performed by villagers as they leap from wooden towers, their feet tied only by vines, is both humbling and exhilarating. But Vanuatu isn’t just for adrenaline junkies; the beauty of its remote islands, crystal-clear waters, and wild rainforests is enough to soothe the soul.
Key Practical Information
- Best-kept secret: The remote island of Tanna, where you can witness the world’s most accessible active volcano, Mount Yasur, in all its glory.
- Getting there: Air Vanuatu offers direct flights from Australia and New Zealand, with connections from the Pacific. Boat tours are the best way to explore outer islands.
- Best time to visit: May to October, when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant.
- Must-try local experiences: Diving at the SS President Coolidge, land diving, and hiking through the lush rainforest of Espiritu Santo.
- Local etiquette tip: Respect traditional customs—visiting villages requires permission from the chief, and guests should present gifts as a sign of respect.
- Affordable adventure: Stay in traditional bungalows that offer a unique cultural experience without the high costs of resort accommodations.
- Ideal trip length: 7-10 days to enjoy both the adventurous and cultural sides of Vanuatu.
11. North Macedonia
North Macedonia is for the traveler who loves the unexpected. The capital, Skopje, is a quirky mix of Ottoman bazaars, grandiose statues, and café culture. But the real magic is in the lakes and mountains. Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO gem, is so ancient and deep that it has species found nowhere else on earth. Its shoreline is dotted with medieval monasteries where time seems to pause.
Hike into Mavrovo National Park, and you’ll discover villages that feel lost in time, where shepherds still guide their flocks through the meadows. This is the Balkans at its most authentic—raw, beautiful, and deeply welcoming. But the nation’s appeal lies in its ability to surprise; you can walk through history in Ohrid’s UNESCO-listed old town one moment and sip rakija (fruit brandy) in a lively tavern the next.
Key Practical Information
- Must-see: The Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched over Lake Ohrid’s blue waters, offering one of the most stunning views in the Balkans.
- Getting there: Skopje International Airport is the main point of entry. Local buses and rental cars are the best way to explore.
- Best time to visit: April to October, ideal for enjoying the warm weather, historical sites, and outdoor activities.
- Hidden treasure: The Sunken Church of Mavrovo, which can only be seen when water levels drop in the lake.
- Budget tip: North Macedonia is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offering meals for under $5 and inexpensive accommodations.
- Cultural insight: Macedonian hospitality is legendary, and it’s customary to offer guests food and drink as a sign of respect.
- Ideal trip length: 5-7 days to explore Ohrid, Skopje, and surrounding nature.
