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A successful application hinges on multiple critical elements. The extensive experience we've gained from handling thousands of diverse cases over the years empowers us to proactively identify potential application weaknesses and case-specific challenges. Our specialized knowledge lies in anticipating issues and developing solutions in advance, ultimately ensuring only positive outcomes.
As an initial step we evaluate the client's objectives and requirements to identify the most appropriate Citizenship by Investment or residency program. We verify that the client's nationality and personal situation permits application for the desired program, otherwise we identify suitable alternatives.
During this phase, we conduct comprehensive prequalification of the citizenship application and request passport copies for security verification. An application may face rejection for the following reasons:
If the case presents difficulties, we pre-screen it with the Government beforehand to obtain their approval in principle.
During this phase, the client proceeds to sign our Retainer Agreement and we officially commence work on the application.
We assign a dedicated Document Officer to each case who assists the client with document gathering. We can obtain most documents on behalf of the client. During this phase, the Document Officer creates a customized checklist for the client and family members containing a comprehensive list of required documents to ensure a successful application. Please note that each case requires specific documentation and, when documents are unavailable and permitted, we prepare Affidavits to explain this to the Government.
Some of the basic documents are the following:
Once the file is complete, we submit the case to the appropriate Ministry of the selected country.
The Government confirms receipt of the file and verifies that all documents have been submitted correctly. At this point, the file is forwarded to the Government's appointed Due Diligence agency for comprehensive background verification.
Following completion of investigations by the Due Diligence agency, they produce a report which undergoes Government review. During this phase, additional supporting documents may be requested to clarify points that emerged during background verification. Currently, supplementary documents are required for over 50% of cases after Due Diligence completion, and this is where significant challenges often surface. This is precisely when partnering with an experienced Citizenship Advisory Firm can determine whether an application receives rejection or approval.
Due Diligence typically requires two to three months on average, although certain countries provide an expedited process for an additional Government fee, reducing the timeline to approximately five weeks.
Once the Government is satisfied with the documents and the evidence presented, they issue an official Approval Letter. At this stage, the client is requested to transfer the Donation or Investment (whichever the client has selected beforehand) and any applicable Government fee.
Once the client transfers the required payments, we request a copy of the swift issued by the client’s bank to ensure the Government can locate the funds without delays. We liaise directly with the relevant local banks and present all required documents to clear the funds in a timely manner.
Citizenship Certificates are issued approximately one month after the Government confirms receipt of the funds. The Citizenship Certificate must be sealed and signed by a Government authority.
Once the Citizenship Certificates are issued, we proceed to apply for the passports. Passport are issued by the Passport Office which is a different authority to the one which processed the citizenship. The issuance of passports takes one week approximately. In urgent cases we can obtain them within 24 hours.
We receive the Citizenship Certificates and Passports in our offices and handed them over in person to the client. For the client’s convenience we could also couriered them to their country of residence.
Please note that this is a generic step by step guide on the application process, however each country and each program has its particularities. The application process for Residency programs differ from Citizenship programs. For the specific process of how to apply for a particular program, please visit the specific program’s page and go to “Process”.
