With Pakistan’s passport consistently ranking among the least powerful globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to fewer than 35 countries, a growing number of high-net-worth individuals are seeking solutions beyond national borders. Of late, citizenship and residency by investment (CBI/RBI) programmes have emerged as strategic tools for Pakistani investors to gain mobility, protect wealth, and secure long-term global access for their families, a testament to the rising value of passport strength in today’s interconnected world.
Why Pakistani investors are seeking alternatives
Pakistan’s limited passport strength severely restricts business mobility, international education planning, lifestyle and access to global opportunities. With Pakistan’s restrictive access amounting to just 2.2% of global GDP, the lack of mobility is a major handicap for entrepreneurs and international investors.
Additional concerns include the currency volatility and capital restrictions, political uncertainty and fragile economic outlook and limited access to international banking and investment platforms. For Pakistani nationals facing visa restrictions to over 170 countries, acquiring second citizenship and residency by investment has become not just desirable but essential.
Strength in numbers
Combining a Pakistani passport with a stronger travel document significantly enhances global access. For instance, a St. Kitts & Nevis passport offers visa-free entry to 168 destinations including the UK, EU, and Hong Kong boosting global GDP access from just 2.2% to 46.2%. A Malta passport expands that reach to 198 countries, covering 81.1% of global GDP. Pairing a Portuguese passport with a Pakistani one unlocks access to 199 destinations and 87.7% of global GDP, along with full rights to live, work, and study across the EU.
Even holding European residency through Portugal, Greece, or Latvia’s Golden Visa grants instant visa-free access to 33 Schengen and EU countries.
Most programs allow family inclusion, giving the investor’s peace of mind
Citizenship and residency by investment offers far more than just travel perks, it is a comprehensive strategy for global access and long-term security with minimum costs from $130,000 for a second citizenship and €90,000 for a residency permit. Investors gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to key destinations such as the EU, UK, China, and Hong Kong, significantly expanding their mobility.
Most programmes also provide family security, allowing spouses, dependent children, parents and some even siblings to be included under a single application. In addition, these programs unlocks entry into world-class education and healthcare systems without the need for complex student or medical visas. From a financial perspective, it facilitates global business operations, offering smoother access to offshore banking, international company registration, and asset protection structures, crucial tools for wealth management in an increasingly regulated world.
Navigating citizenship laws
Although the benefits are clear, Pakistani inventors need to be strategic as there are factors to consider. Firstly, Pakistani investors must understand the country’s dual citizenship laws. The country only recognises dual nationality with 21–22 countries, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most of the EU, such as France, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands.
Notably, Turkey and all Caribbean CBI nations are not on Pakistan’s permitted dual nationality list. This means that under Pakistan’s Citizenship Act 1951, a Pakistani citizen who voluntarily acquires citizenship from these countries may be deemed to have ceased Pakistani citizenship, unless they are eligible to apply for resumption under specific conditions.
Top European picks among Pakistani’s elite
Pakistani citizens do have access to several reputable investment migration programmes in Europe that offer speed, flexibility, and long-term value, especially for those seeking to retain their Pakistani passport, as these options offer residency rather than citizenship. Golden visa programmes across Europe remain highly attractive in 2025 for individuals focused on mobility, asset protection, and lifestyle planning.
Portugal’s Golden Visa provides access to 33 European countries, with an average processing time of 8–10 months. The programme requires a capital transfer of at least EUR 200,000, or EUR 500,000 investment in funds. It allows inclusion of spouses, children under 18, adult dependents, and financially dependent parents.
Greece’s Golden Visa offers residency within 3–6 months, with visa-free travel across 33 European countries, including the Schengen zone. A minimum real estate investment of EUR 250,000 is required. Family inclusion extends to spouses, children under 21, and even parents and in-laws.
Latvia’s Residency Programme is another appealing option, with processing completed in just 3-4 months. It grants visa-free access to 33 Schengen countries and requires a minimum investment of EUR 50,000 in business, making it the most affordable Golden Visa program in Europe. Spouses, children under 18 can be included in the application.
It is important to note that while European residency options allow Pakistanis to retain their citizenship, Caribbean and Turkey are still available for Pakistani investors. However, given that these citizenship and residency by investment programmes require individuals to renounce their Pakistani nationality, we recommend seeking legal advice for this deeply personal decision.
A transformational strategy for global investors
As global tensions rise and economic fragmentation deepens, a second passport and residency offer more than mobility; it offers peace of mind. For Pakistani families, it enables long-term financial planning, safer relocation options, educational opportunities, wealth protection, and strategic international growth.
Whether for business expansion, global education, or personal security, residency and citizenship by investment programs are no longer a luxury, they are a legacy investment.
At Citizenship Invest, we specialise in helping investors navigate the path to second citizenship or residency. Our expert advisors offer confidential guidance, legal clarity, and end-to-end support, tailored to your unique financial goals and family needs. Reach out to us today.
