For decades, Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes have served as a lifeline for high-net-worth individuals seeking greater mobility, security, and global opportunity. Despite its generally inclusive nature, there are restrictions as many established programs have traditionally imposed restrictions on applicants from sanctioned or politically sensitive jurisdictions, including Iran.
For Iranian investors, this has meant being unable to access the benefits CBI programmes can offer, including visa-free travel across Europe, Asia, and beyond, improved financial flexibility through international banking, and enhanced family security via global education and healthcare opportunities.
This complicates their already vulnerable position, given that as of 2025, the Iranian passport ranks 97th globally, offering visa-free access to only 41 destinations. This limited mobility has been further compounded by renewed political restrictions. On June 4, 2025, the Trump administration issued a Presidential Proclamation reinstating and expanding travel bans against nationals from 19 countries, including Iran, citing national security and immigration concerns, furtner placing Iranian nationals at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing global opportunities.
A New Wave of Inclusive Island-State Programs
However, a new generation of island-state Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs is transforming global migration pathways, with countries like São Tomé and Príncipe leading the charge toward inclusivity and accessibility. As traditional jurisdictions tighten eligibility rules, São Tomé and Príncipe is redefining the landscape by welcoming investors from all nationalities except North Korea, including those historically restricted from other CBI schemes, such as Iranian nationals.
Furthermore, the programme offer a streamlined 1-2 month approval process with no residency, interview, or language requirements. Dependents may include spouses, children up to 30 years old, parents over 55, and even future family members, ensuring intergenerational flexibility for globally mobile households. It is also among the most affordable in the world, with investment starting at only USD 90,000 for single applicants or USD 95,000 for families of up to four, plus USD 5,000 per additional dependent. This puts São Tomé and Príncipe at one-third the cost of most Caribbean programmes. The country also boasts visa-free, visa-on-arrival and eVisa access to 99 destinations and minimal bureaucracy
Strategic Benefits for Restricted Nationalities
Beyond travel freedom, São Tomé’s CBI program empowers investors to establish and protect international assets, access secure banking systems, and tap into broader trade and investment networks, all while holding a Plan B citizenship that safeguards family security and continuity across generations. As a member of the United Nations, IMF, and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), São Tomé demonstrates political stability and growing regional influence, further boosting its CBI program’s credibility
Indeed, the emergence of programmes like São Tomé’s reflects a paradigm shift in investment migration, where smaller nations are bridging the opportunity gap left by more restrictive jurisdictions. As more nations recognise the economic and humanitarian potential of investment migration, the market is evolving toward greater inclusivity and opportunity. For Iranian investors, this represents a turning point, a chance to secure global access, financial freedom, and lasting family security.
As an officially authorised partner of São Tomé and Príncipe, Citizenship Invest can help you navigate every step from eligibility to approval. Explore São Tomé’s inclusive program and unlock a future defined by mobility, stability, and professional growth.
