How to Buy Citizenship and a New Identity
The Growing Market for Second Passports
In today’s interconnected world, acquiring a second citizenship and a new identity is possible and has become increasingly popular. Amicus International Consulting, a Vancouver-based agency, has been navigating the complexities of this market for years. Before the pandemic, they primarily catered to America’s wealthiest, offering second passport plans. However, the global health crisis disrupted this business model, prompting the company to innovate and adapt.
The Rising Demand
The demand for second passports has surged for several reasons. The global political landscape has seen a rise in isolationist policies and nationalistic sentiments. Events like Brexit and the “America First” agenda under Donald Trump have made many individuals seek alternative citizenship options as a form of security and freedom.
Benefits of a Second Passport
- Increased Travel Freedom: A second passport can provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, making international travel more accessible and more convenient.
- Financial Flexibility: Dual citizenship can offer significant tax advantages and access to international banking and investment opportunities.
- Security and Safety: A second passport can serve as a safety net during political instability, civil unrest, or economic downturns in one’s home country.
- Quality of Life: Access to better healthcare, education, and a higher standard of living are compelling reasons for many to seek a second citizenship.
Market Leaders and Their Influence
Leading firms like Henley & Partners have played a significant role in shaping the market. Known as the pioneers of the citizenship-by-investment industry, Henley & Partners have created and promoted various cash-for-passport schemes, helping smaller, economically challenged nations attract foreign investment. Christian Kälin, the founder of Henley & Partners, has earned the nickname “The Passport King” for his contributions to the industry.
Economic Impact
The market for global citizenship is substantial and growing. According to Henley & Partners, the global citizenship-by-investment market is valued at approximately $26 billion annually. This market is expected to expand further as geopolitical uncertainties and the desire for increased mobility drive more individuals to seek second citizenship.
High Net-Worth Individuals and Citizenship
A significant portion of the demand for second passports comes from very high net-worth individuals (VHNWIs). Knight Frank’s Wealth Report reveals that 24% of VHNWIs, those with over $30 million in net assets, are actively looking to acquire a second passport. The need for increased travel freedom, tax optimization, and a safeguard against political or economic instability drives this demographic.
The Pandemic’s Role
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a critical catalyst in the growth of the second passport market. The widespread lockdowns and travel restrictions highlighted the vulnerabilities of having only one citizenship. Many wealthy individuals, particularly in the US, realized the importance of having a contingency plan. The idea of a “Plan B” became more appealing, leading to a surge in inquiries and applications for second citizenship.
Digital Nomadism and Remote Work
The rise of digital nomadism and the global shift towards remote work have also contributed to the growing demand for second passports. The pandemic accelerated the trend of working remotely, making it possible for professionals to work from anywhere in the world. A second passport enhances the flexibility and freedom of digital nomads, allowing them to live and work in countries with favourable climates, lower costs of living, and attractive tax regimes.
Citizenship Program with a New Identity
Several years ago, Amicus launched its innovative “Citizenship Program with New Identity.” This program facilitates obtaining a second passport from one of the 98 countries on their roster. While this opportunity is open to everyone, over 90% of inquiries have come from US citizens. These individuals often seek to explore their ancestry or desire smoother and quicker passport control at international borders.
Key Features of the Citizenship Program with New Identity
- Broad Eligibility: The program is open to many applicants, though most inquiries come from US citizens.
- Diverse Options: Offers passports from 98 countries, catering to various needs and preferences.
- Ancestry Exploration: Many clients are motivated by a desire to connect with their ancestral roots.
- Streamlined Process: Simplifies the process compared to traditional citizenship by investment programs.
- Lower Cost: More affordable than traditional programs, with fees starting at a few thousand dollars.
- Minimal Investment Requirements: There is no need for multi-million dollar investments; eligibility often depends on having the right family tree.
- Experienced Guidance: Amicus provides expert support throughout the application process, ensuring clients meet all necessary criteria.
Benefits and Services Offered
- Personal Consultation: Comprehensive initial consultation to determine the best options for each client.
- Document Retrieval and Certification: Professional assistance in gathering and authenticating necessary documents.
- Eligibility Confirmation: Detailed review and confirmation of eligibility based on the chosen country’s requirements.
- Application Management: Handling all aspects of the application process, from submission to follow-up.
- Approval Timeline: Varies by country, with approval times ranging from 12 months to several years.
- Fee Structure: Competitive and transparent pricing, with costs varying by country (e.g., Czech nationality starts at $250,000; Italian citizenship begins at $179,800).
Detailed Process and Comprehensive Support
Amicus International Consulting’s team handles the entire process for its clients. They retrieve records, certify documents, and confirm eligibility before submitting the necessary paperwork to claim citizenship. The approval timeframe varies from 12 months to several years, and fees differ by country. For instance, Czech nationality fees start at $250,000, while Italian citizenship begins at $179,800.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Initial Consultation: The process begins with a thorough consultation to understand the client’s needs and eligibility.
- Document Retrieval: The team gathers essential documents, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, and other legal papers.
- Certification and Authentication: Documents are certified and authenticated to meet the specific requirements of the chosen country.
- Eligibility Confirmation: A detailed review ensures the client meets all eligibility criteria for citizenship.
- Application Submission: The completed application and supporting documents are submitted to the relevant authorities.
- Approval and Passport Issuance: Once approved, the client will receive their new passport and citizenship documents.
Overcoming Challenges
While the process appears straightforward on the company’s website, it involves detailed and time-consuming steps. Kate Sullivan, who helps manage the program, explains that in many Central and Eastern European countries, citizenship is offered as reparation to descendants of those expelled during historical events such as the Holocaust. Proving lineage and birthplace can be particularly challenging. For example, one client’s meticulous records were invalidated when it was discovered her mother was born in what is now Ukraine. This country doesn’t allow dual citizenship in this manner.
Unique Citizenship Opportunities
Portugal offers a unique case where citizenship is granted as reparation to descendants of those expelled during the Inquisition in the 16th century. This process, though complex, can be advantageous for suitable applicants. Verification by Jewish scholars is required to confirm a link to the Portuguese Sephardic community. Portugal’s program demonstrates how historical ties can create opportunities for modern citizenship.
The Appeal of a Second Passport
The appeal of a second passport is multifaceted. It counters the isolationism and nationalism in recent political climates, such as Brexit and Trump’s “America First” agenda. The rise of digital nomadism and the global shift towards remote work during the pandemic has further fueled interest in acquiring second citizenship. Wealthy individuals, particularly in the US, need a plan B in light of potential civil unrest and political uncertainty.
Ethical and Practical Considerations
While the commodification of citizenship raises ethical concerns, many clients feel a genuine connection to their new country. For example, Italy has no generational limit, potentially allowing 60 million people worldwide to claim Italian citizenship. Most clients plan trips to their ancestral homes, although the program does not require such travel. Citizenship is about what a country can offer you and what you can contribute to that country.
Conclusion
Acquiring a second citizenship and a new identity is a complex but achievable goal. Amicus International Consulting provides the support, guidance, and expertise to navigate this intricate path. Whether motivated by personal, professional, or security reasons, obtaining a second passport can offer significant benefits and opportunities. Contact Amicus International Consulting today for a free consultation and take the first step towards your new identity.
If you would like to work with a professional team that can help make your transition to a life of freedom, contact Amicus Int. for New Identity services today.
