Why a Plan B Passport Will Be Crucial in 2026: Top Citizenship by Investment Programs

As the year 2026 approaches, the global landscape continues to shift—economically, politically, and technologically. Over the past five years at JH Marlin, we have seen an increase in the number of high net-worth individuals looking to secure a Plan B passport. In the past obtaining a second passport was a luxury, however, we have seen a shift towards individuals seeking citizenship as a strategic necessity, and it’s easier than ever with 76% of countries allowing dual citizenship (Source). 

Whether driven by tax optimization, geopolitical uncertainty, lifestyle diversification, or enhanced global mobility, more people than ever are considering Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs as a practical way to safeguard their future. And at the heart of this movement is a growing realization rooted in a powerful idea: the Sovereign Individual Theory.

This article will explore Plan B passports, the Sovereign Individual Thesis and why second citizenship will be more important than ever in 2026. 

What Is a Plan B Passport?

A Plan B passport refers to acquiring a second citizenship outside of your country of birth. Typically a Plan B passport is obtained in a jurisdiction offering greater freedom, flexibility, and financial security. It serves as an insurance policy, granting access to alternative residency rights, visa-free travel, and options to live, work, or retire elsewhere if necessary.

In an era of increasing government overreach, inflation, capital controls, and political polarization, a Plan B passport is not just about travel—it’s about sovereignty, security, and choice.  

Your birth certificate wasn’t your choice, but you can choose your second passport.

Learn more about how to obtain a second passport

What are the Benefits of Having a Second Passport in 2026?

In 2026, having a second passport offers a powerful range of benefits. From enhanced travel benefits and access to powerful passports to improved political life stability, dual nationality unlocks key benefits. These include investment advantages, greater security, and global opportunities that make a second passport more valuable than ever.

• Expanded Travel Freedom: A second passport grants dual nationals visa-free access to more countries, enhancing travel freedom. This foreign citizenship acts as a contingency plan during political tension, ensuring global mobility in an increasingly volatile world.
• Access to Lucrative Business Opportunities: Holding dual nationality opens doors to international business opportunities and investment opportunities. A second passport allows easier company formation, cross-border trade, and financial transactions in regions with a stable economy and fewer restrictions for foreign citizens.
• Valuable Tax Benefits: A dual national may reduce tax obligations by acquiring a second passport from a country with favourable tax laws. This is especially attractive through a citizenship by investment program offering legitimate financial and tax benefits.
• Enhanced Educational Opportunities: With dual nationality, individuals and their future generations can access premier educational opportunities abroad. A second passport can unlock reduced tuition rates and more inclusive admission policies, especially in countries that welcome foreign citizens with open arms.
• Improved Safety and Political Stability: A second passport acts as a vital contingency plan during times of unrest or political tension. Choosing a nation with a stable economy provides security for dual nationals and long-term peace of mind for future generations.
• Protection from Uncertainty: The growing demand for second citizenships is a direct result of rising uncertainty:
  • Global Conflicts: Ongoing wars and tensions have disrupted mobility and raised safety concerns.
  • Currency Instability: Inflation and devaluation are pushing investors toward hard assets and stable jurisdictions.
  • Increased Regulation: Wealthy individuals are under more scrutiny—making relocation and diversification critical tools for risk management.

A second passport allows you to hedge against country-specific risks, protect your assets, and gain peace of mind.

At JH Marlin, we have helped clients from the United States of America, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Bangladesh, Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Iraq and many more. 

9 out of 10 people don’t know these benefits of second citizenship: Are you one of them?

 The Sovereign Individual Thesis: Why It Matters in 2026

First introduced by James Dale Davidson and Lord William Rees-Mogg in their prescient 1997 book The Sovereign Individual, the theory predicts a radical transformation in how individuals relate to the nation-state.

Key tenets of the Sovereign Individual thesis include:

• The Decline of Nation-State Power: As the digital economy grows, governments will lose their ability to control capital and talent.
• Increased Personal Sovereignty: Individuals with portable wealth (crypto, remote income) will relocate to jurisdictions offering the best terms.
• Jurisdictional Arbitrage: Just like companies shop for tax-friendly jurisdictions, individuals will migrate to countries with favorable laws, low taxes, and personal freedoms.

This vision is no longer theoretical. At JH Marlin, in 2026, we predict that this trend will accelerate. Remote work, blockchain, decentralized finance, and political instability have all contributed to a new wave of sovereign individuals seeking jurisdictional diversification—and a second passport is their gateway. Second passports open more doors and opportunities for investors. 

Founder of JH Marlin Law, Jennifer Harding-Marlin is an example of an entrepreneur who practices the sovereign individual thesis, having sought out different citizenship and residency programs around the world. She relocated from her home country seeking out more favourable laws, lower taxes, better lifestyle and more personal freedom. She hasn’t looked back and helps individuals and families around the world with investment migration and relocation matters.

Top Citizenship by Investment Programs to Consider in 2026

As global demand for alternative citizenships increases, competition among countries offering CBI programs is heating up. Below are the top CBI programs expected to attract the most attention in 2026:

1. Grenada Citizenship by Investment 

• Why it’s hot: The only Caribbean CBI passport that offers access to the E-2 Visa Treaty with the United States—ideal for those seeking business presence in the U.S.
• 2026 outlook: Continued visa-free travel with China and enhanced business infrastructure may drive growth in high-end applicants.

Grenada’s CBI programme offers a gateway to U.S. business access through the E-2 Visa Treaty. It’s especially appealing for those seeking Caribbean citizenship and greater travel convenience. Caribbean passports from Grenada also offer favourable tax treatment, without taxing global income, making it an attractive option for global entrepreneurs and professionals.

Learn more about Grenada citizenship

2. Portugal Golden Visa 

• Why it’s hot: Although Portugal no longer offers a traditional real estate path under the Golden Visa, it remains one of the most attractive European residency options through investment funds, job creation, or donations to scientific and cultural projects. Residency can lead to citizenship in 5–6 years, without requiring full-time physical presence.
• 2026 outlook: Portugal is expected to maintain its popularity thanks to its high quality of life, strategic EU location, relatively low cost of living, and favorable tax regime. 

Portugal’s Golden Visa provides legal status through investment without the need for full-time residence. The pathway to dual citizenship is streamlined, and the country’s economic stability draw investors. Families also gain access to top-tier educational institutions and enjoy a high standard of living across EU member states.

Learn more about Portugal citizenship

3. St. Kitts & Nevis

• Why it’s hot: The oldest and most trusted CBI program in the world, St. Kitts & Nevis offers more fast-track processing, tax neutrality, and strong visa-free access to over 150 countries.
• 2026 outlook: Expect enhanced due diligence measures and more real estate development options linked to the program. St. Kitts remains a premium choice.

Renowned for offering one of the most established programmes, St. Kitts & Nevis allows applicants to retain their original citizenship while gaining second citizenship. Permanent residents benefit from visa-free access to over 150 countries and enjoy numerous benefits such as tax neutrality and inclusion in a politically and economically stable region.

Learn more about St Kitts & Nevis citizenship

4. Antigua & Barbuda

• Why it’s hot: Offers one of the most affordable options for families and includes visa-free travel to the UK, EU, and more. Also supports remote filing and payments in cryptocurrency. 
• 2026 outlook: Likely to expand its ties with Asian and African markets while improving infrastructure for digital nomads and global investors.

Ideal for families, Antigua & Barbuda offers affordability and flexibility—including remote filing options. Dual citizenship is granted without impacting your original citizenship status, and the programme supports global mobility. Citizens enjoy access to foreign countries, strong travel benefits, and the ability to tap into emerging economic opportunities across multiple markets.

Learn more about Antigua & Barbuda citizenship

5. Türkiye

• Why it’s hot: Turkey offers a fast-track citizenship route through real estate investment and provides a strong strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
• 2026 outlook: With visa-free travel expanding and investment thresholds rising, Turkey continues to attract entrepreneurs and digital business owners.

Türkiye’s strategic location between Europe and Asia makes it a prime choice for those seeking second citizenship through real estate. The programme grants dual nationals access to tax-friendly policies and proximity to high-growth regions. Its growing reputation is enhanced by easy access to foreign markets and a rising number of permanent residents.

Learn more about Türkiye citizenship

How to Get a Second Citizenship: What Does the Process Entail?

Obtaining a second citizenship involves several legal and administrative steps. Below, we outline the process, from expert consultation to final approval, ensuring your application is handled smoothly and efficiently.

• Consult with a Citizenship Expert: Begin by consulting a trusted firm like JH Marlin, where experienced citizenship specialists assess your goals, eligibility, and preferred country of citizenship. This ensures the most suitable citizenship through investment program is selected based on your personal and financial objectives.
• Choose a Citizenship Program: Select the right programme tailored to your needs as a foreign national, considering factors like visa-free arrival access to numerous countries, family inclusion, and investment type—real estate, government funds, or business ventures.
• Submit Your Citizenship Application: Prepare and file all necessary documents for your citizenship applications, including due dilligence checks, proof of investment funds, and legal documentation. Our expert team ensures full compliance with the regulations of your chosen country of citizenship.
• Complete the Investment Requirement: Make the required qualifying investment, which may include government donations, property purchases, or business contributions, as defined by the selected citizenship through investment program. This step formally qualifies you for consideration.
• Receive Your Passport and Citizenship Certificate: Once approved, you’ll be granted official citizenship status and receive your new passport—providing enhanced mobility and arrival access to numerous countries worldwide, along with the security and benefits of holding dual or second nationality.

How to get a second passport: Step-by-step guide and expert tips

Begin Your Citizenship Journey with JH Marlin

At JH Marlin Law, we help clients navigate the complexities of Citizenship by Investment programs and residency by investment programs around the world. From strategic planning to document submission, our expert legal team ensures a smooth, compliant, and efficient process. 

For more information or assistance with applying for citizenship by investment or residency by investment contact: Jennifer Harding-Marlin at jennifer@jhmarlin.com or visit www.jhmarlin.com to learn more.

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