Global demand for second citizenship has reached unprecedented levels in 2023, driven by a convergence of geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, and an increasingly interconnected but volatile world. The concept of a “Plan B passport” — a second citizenship held as insurance against worst-case scenarios — has moved from niche strategy to mainstream wealth management practice.

What’s Driving the Trend?

Several factors are converging to create record demand for citizenship by investment programs worldwide.

Geopolitical instability: Ongoing conflicts, political tensions between major powers, and unexpected regime changes in previously stable nations have prompted business leaders and families to reconsider their assumptions about safety and stability. The understanding that borders can close quickly and that travel freedom can be revoked overnight has become visceral rather than theoretical.

Economic uncertainty: Currency fluctuations, inflation concerns, and banking system vulnerabilities have highlighted the risks of concentrating all assets and citizenship ties in a single jurisdiction. Diversification — a fundamental principle of investment management — is increasingly being applied to citizenship itself.

Travel friction: Despite globalization, visa requirements and travel restrictions have actually increased for many passport holders. Business opportunities that require rapid international travel are being missed by entrepreneurs whose passports don’t provide sufficient visa-free access.

Who Is Applying?

The profile of today’s CBI applicant has evolved significantly. While early programs attracted primarily ultra-high-net-worth individuals, the current wave of applicants includes successful entrepreneurs, tech founders, medical professionals, senior executives, and upper-middle-class families.

Common motivations include protecting family mobility options, securing educational pathways for children, diversifying personal risk across jurisdictions, and accessing more favorable tax environments.

Why Vanuatu Is Leading the Conversation

Among the available CBI options, Vanuatu has emerged as a particularly compelling choice for Plan B seekers. The program’s speed — 30 to 45 days — means that investors can secure their backup plan quickly rather than waiting months or years. The $130,000 entry point makes it accessible to a broader range of applicants than the increasingly expensive Caribbean alternatives.

“The shift we’ve seen over the past year is remarkable. Three years ago, most of our clients viewed second citizenship as a luxury. Today, they view it as a necessity — part of responsible financial planning, no different from insurance or portfolio diversification. The questions have changed from ‘Should I get a second passport?’ to ‘How quickly can I get one?’ Vanuatu’s speed and value make it the natural answer to that question.”

— Manpreet Kataria, CEO, Alpha Immigration Associates

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