India now boasts one of the fastest-growing populations of millionaires and tech founders. As a result, more and more of these newfound high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are seeking new opportunities overseas, including launching startups in new territories, investing in international real estate and sending their children to the world’s top schools.
But despite their success, Indian entrepreneurs and investors face frustrating limitations. As of 2025, the Indian passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 60 countries. In contrast, passports from nations like Malta, Portugal or St Kitts & Nevis allow for travel to over 140 countries, including the EU Schengen zone, the UK and many Commonwealth nations.
For ambitious Indian business owners who have their sights set on international markets, it’s a huge stumbling block. Long visa wait times, complicated paperwork and unreliable approval processes can seriously jeopardise time-sensitive business deals, as well as delay family travel and limit access to international opportunities.
Thankfully, there is a simple and accessible solution, in the form of a second citizenship. In this article, we’ll explain why global mobility matters, what blockers a second citizenship can help Indian entrepreneurs overcome and which programmes might be right for you.
Limitations of the Indian Passport
The Indian passport currently ranks low on the Global Passport Index, with limited travel freedom compared to many other nations. Indian nationals often face lengthy visa application processes (especially for Schengen, UK, Canada and the US), last-minute rejections and inconsistent processing times, which can seriously disrupt plans and opportunities. Similarly, the need for extensive documentation and interviews, even when it comes to short-term travel, can have a major impact on timescales and make last-minute travel needs exceptionally tricky.
For a HNWI’s international interests, this lack of flexibility can be more than just a minor inconvenience; it can mean missed opportunities and even lost revenue.
Why Global Mobility Matters for Indian HNWIs
Indian HNWIs are more likely to seek international opportunities than ever before. They’re now global citizens with worldwide investments and expanding family interests, which is why an Indian passport alone means serious limitations. Second citizenship unlocks key advantages:
- Business agility: Seamless international travel for meetings, deals and conferences
- Family planning: Easier access to education systems in the UK, US, Europe and Canada
- Asset diversification: Investment options in stable, secure economies
- Lifestyle upgrades: A safer, more flexible future for spouses and children
- Wealth protection: Tax efficiency, estate planning and currency hedging
The demand for a ‘Plan B’ has grown enormously, in part due to the increase in political and economic volatility, on top of those already in place restrictions. To help secure a contingency plan, Indian investors are now more likely to look for ways to increase their freedom and financial continuity, which is exactly what citizenship by investment allows.
What is Citizenship by Investment & Why is it a Smart Decision for Indian Citizens
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a legal route to second citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment. This investment could be in the form of government bonds, real estate or national development funds, depending on the country you’re looking to acquire a passport from. Unlike traditional immigration routes, CBI offers speed, certainty, simplicity and security, which all contribute towards reaching your goals without the roadblocks that can come with your home nation’s passport.
If you’re worried about your national identity, don’t worry. For Indian citizens, it’s not about giving up who you are or throwing away your national heritage. It’s about enhancing global flexibility and future-proofing your legacy to open up new opportunities around the world.
To discover more, explore CBI options with MHG Wealth
Top CBI Programmes for Indian Citizens
There are many CBI programmes available for Indian citizens, with each having a slight variation when it comes to access, investment type and processing time. Here are some of the most popular and trusted CBI programmes available for Indian investors:
| Country | Visa-Free Access | Investment Type | Processing Time |
| St Kitts & Nevis | 140+ countries | Donation or real estate | 4 – 6 months |
| Antigua & Barbuda | 145+ countries | Government donation or property | 4 – 6 months |
| Grenada | 140+ countries | Real estate or NDF | 4 – 5 months |
| Malta | 185+ countries | Real estate + donation | 12 – 18 months |
| Portugal (Golden Visa) | Schengen area | Real estate or fund investment | 12 – 18 months |
Each has unique benefits and some allow access to the US E-2 Visa, while others have no personal income tax. MHG Wealth can help you choose the best fit for your long-term goals, so get in touch with us today to discuss your needs.
How CBI Solves the Mobility Challenge
Acquiring a second passport for Indian citizens from a CBI-approved country can immediately transform your global access:
- From 60 to 140+ countries without the burden of visas
- Business-friendly travel to major global hubs, including the EU and UK
- Faster family relocation and access to premium healthcare and education
- Tax optimisation and wealth protection benefits in many CBI jurisdictions
Rather than waiting for embassy appointments or dealing with convoluted visa rules, CBI gives you much-improved freedom far more quickly and easily.
A Strategic Move, Not Just a Status Symbol
While some view second citizenship as a luxury, Indian entrepreneurs increasingly appreciate the plethora of benefits and understand the role it can play in their finances:
- Legacy planning: Secure a future for your children, even in times of uncertainty
- Asset protection: Hedge against domestic policy risks and currency fluctuations
- Privacy and security: Discreet ownership and relocation options
- Business continuity: Operate globally without bureaucratic hurdles
Second citizenship isn’t a vanity project or something to use as a status symbol; it’s a shield against global volatility and a chance to expand into territories that otherwise wouldn’t be nearly as accessible.
Final Thoughts: Passport to Possibility
India’s wealthy entrepreneurs deserve the freedom to move, invest and build without friction, which is far more straightforward with a second citizenship. But second citizenship isn’t about abandoning India, it’s about expanding your options, opening up new markets and protecting your family’s future.
For Indian entrepreneurs and investors who have global ambitions, Citizenship by Investment is the key to securing your long-term flexibility, security and freedom.
Ready to Unlock the World?
Reach out to MHG Wealth today to discover the best second citizenship programme for your goals. Our experts will help you through every step, from programme selection to legal due diligence.
