South American Citizenship by Investment: A Comprehensive Guide for 2026

Last updated: March 2026

As a high-net-worth investor, you understand that geographic diversification is no longer a luxury — it is a strategic necessity. South American citizenship by investment has emerged as one of the most compelling, yet underexplored, options for globally minded families and entrepreneurs seeking a second passport, expanded visa-free access, and a stable legal foothold in a fast-growing continent. Whether your priorities are business expansion in Latin America, lifestyle diversification, or long-term wealth planning, the region's investment migration programmes deserve serious consideration in your 2026 strategy.

What Is South American Citizenship by Investment?

South American citizenship by investment refers to formal legal pathways through which foreign nationals can obtain permanent residency or full citizenship in a South American nation by making a qualifying financial investment in that country. These programmes are established under national legislation and are administered by each country's immigration and interior ministries. Unlike traditional naturalisation — which may require decades of physical residence and linguistic integration — investment-based pathways streamline the process by linking immigration status to measurable economic contributions such as real estate acquisition, business creation, government bonds, or job generation.

It is important to distinguish between residency by investment (sometimes called a golden visa) and full citizenship by investment. In the South American context, most programmes begin with permanent residency, followed by a naturalisation period that varies significantly by country — from as few as two years in Paraguay to five or more years in Brazil. A small number of routes can accelerate this process, particularly where the applicant has cultural or ancestral ties to the country in question. For a broader comparison of global options, visit our guide to the best citizenship by investment programmes.

South American Citizenship by Investment: Key Programmes in 2026

The investment migration landscape across South America has matured considerably over the past decade. Below we outline the three most prominent and investor-friendly programmes currently available.

Paraguay: The Most Accessible Route

Paraguay consistently ranks as the most straightforward pathway to South American citizenship by investment. The country's programme requires a minimum capital transfer of approximately $70,000–$100,000 into a Paraguayan bank account as evidence of financial means, alongside a commitment to maintain economic ties to the country. Permanent residency can be approved within 3–5 months, and applicants may apply for naturalisation after just two years of registered residency — one of the shortest windows in the world.

Paraguay operates outside the more complex bureaucratic frameworks of its neighbours, making it particularly appealing for investors seeking efficiency. Physical presence requirements are minimal — typically just a few days per year during the residency period. The Paraguayan passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 130 countries, including the entire Schengen Area, making it a highly functional travel document. Learn more on our dedicated Paraguay citizenship by investment programme page.

Brazil: Prestige and Economic Weight

Brazil offers one of the most globally respected South American passports, providing access to over 170 destinations visa-free or with visa on arrival, including the United States (under recent agreements), the European Union, and the United Kingdom. The Brazilian investment residency route requires a minimum investment of BRL 500,000 (approximately $100,000 USD) in a qualifying Brazilian company, or a higher threshold for certain financial instruments.

Permanent residency can be granted within 6–12 months, and applicants become eligible for naturalisation after four years of ordinary residency — reduced to one year if the applicant has a Brazilian child or spouse, or if they hold an advanced degree from a Brazilian institution. Brazil's sheer size, economic diversity, and international commercial relationships make this passport particularly valuable for business-focused investors. Explore the full details on our Brazil golden visa and residency page.

Colombia: Emerging as a Strategic Option

Colombia has positioned itself as an increasingly sophisticated destination for investment migration. A qualifying investment of approximately $170,000 USD (or its equivalent in Colombian Pesos) in real estate, financial instruments, or productive businesses qualifies applicants for a Migrant (M) visa, which leads to permanent residency and eventual citizenship. The Colombian passport grants visa-free access to approximately 140 destinations and carries growing diplomatic weight in both Latin American and European circles.

The naturalisation timeline in Colombia is five years from the date of obtaining residency, though this may be reduced to two years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Spain, or Jamaica, as well as for those who marry Colombian nationals. Colombia's improving security situation, world-class cities such as Medellín and Bogotá, and vibrant startup ecosystem make it a compelling choice for entrepreneurs and families alike. See our full overview on the Colombia residency by investment programme page.

Eligibility Requirements Across South American Programmes

Whilst each programme carries its own specific criteria, the following eligibility requirements are broadly consistent across the leading South American investment migration routes in 2026:

• Clean criminal record: Applicants must provide certified police clearance certificates from all countries of residence or citizenship over the preceding five to ten years. These documents typically require apostille authentication.
• Proof of investment funds: You will be required to demonstrate the legitimate origin of the funds used for your qualifying investment. This typically involves bank statements, audited accounts, or a letter from your accountant or wealth manager.
• Health insurance: Most programmes require evidence of valid private health insurance coverage in the host country, at least during the initial residency phase.
• Minimum age: Principal applicants are generally required to be 18 years of age or older.
• No current sanctions: Applicants must not appear on international sanctions lists or be subject to outstanding criminal proceedings in any jurisdiction.
• Qualifying investment: Proof of the qualifying investment — whether real estate, capital transfer, business creation, or government bonds — must be submitted at the point of application.

Some programmes impose additional requirements, such as a basic language proficiency test at the point of naturalisation (notably Brazil and Colombia), or a demonstration of integration into local civic life. Mirabello's consultants will prepare you thoroughly for each of these requirements as part of our personalised onboarding process.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Overview

Navigating a South American citizenship by investment application involves several coordinated phases. Here is a general framework that applies across the primary programmes, subject to country-specific variations:

1. Initial assessment and programme selection: Your Mirabello consultant will conduct a thorough review of your nationality, family composition, investment preferences, tax situation, and travel objectives to identify the most suitable programme. This stage typically takes one to two weeks.
2. Document preparation: You will compile a comprehensive dossier including certified identity documents, criminal background checks, financial statements, proof of investment, and health insurance. Apostilles and certified translations are arranged during this phase. Allow four to eight weeks for full document preparation, depending on your country of residence.
3. Investment execution: You make your qualifying investment — whether a property purchase, bank deposit, or company formation. In many cases, Mirabello can refer you to trusted local legal counsel and investment partners to facilitate this step.
4. Residency application submission: Your completed file is submitted to the relevant immigration authority. In Paraguay, this is the Dirección General de Migraciones; in Brazil, the Polícia Federal; and in Colombia, Migración Colombia.
5. Biometrics and in-country visit: Most programmes require at least one in-country visit to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) and attend any required interviews. This visit is typically brief — often a single working day.
6. Residency card issuance: Upon approval, your permanent residency card (or equivalent documentation) is issued, commencing your naturalisation countdown.
7. Naturalisation application: After satisfying the minimum residency period and any physical presence requirements, you submit your citizenship application. This stage involves additional background checks and, in some countries, a language or civic knowledge assessment.
8. Oath of allegiance and passport issuance: Upon naturalisation approval, you take the oath of citizenship and receive your new passport, typically within four to eight weeks of the ceremony.

Processing Times and Investment Thresholds at a Glance

The following summary provides a factual reference point for investors comparing South American programmes. All figures reflect 2026 programme parameters and are subject to legislative updates.

• Paraguay: Minimum capital transfer from approximately $70,000–$100,000 USD. Permanent residency in 3–5 months. Citizenship eligibility after 2 years. Visa-free access to approximately 130 countries.
• Brazil: Minimum qualifying investment from approximately $100,000 USD (BRL 500,000). Residency within 6–12 months. Citizenship eligibility after 4 years (reduced to 1 year in specific circumstances). Visa-free access to approximately 170+ countries.
• Colombia: Minimum qualifying investment from approximately $170,000 USD. Residency within 3–6 months of visa approval. Citizenship eligibility after 5 years (reduced to 2 years for certain nationalities). Visa-free access to approximately 140 countries.

These figures represent entry-level thresholds. Investors with more ambitious goals — such as faster processing, premium real estate assets, or enhanced due diligence profiles — may elect to exceed the minimum investment, which can positively influence application outcomes and timelines.

Benefits of South American Citizenship by Investment

The strategic advantages of acquiring South American citizenship by investment extend well beyond the possession of an additional passport. Here is what our UHNW and HNW clients consistently cite as the most compelling benefits:

• Expanded visa-free travel: A second South American passport significantly broadens your travel freedom, particularly into Mercosur member states, the European Union, and — in the case of Brazil — the United States.
• Business and commercial access: South America is home to a $5 trillion combined GDP, abundant natural resources, and rapidly expanding consumer markets. Citizenship confers full rights to establish and operate businesses in the host country.
• Tax planning opportunities: Several South American jurisdictions offer territorial tax systems (notably Paraguay), meaning foreign-sourced income may not be subject to domestic taxation. This can represent a meaningful advantage for internationally mobile investors, though we always recommend consulting an independent tax adviser for personalised guidance.
• Legacy and family protection: A second citizenship provides your family with an additional layer of security — a legal home base that is insulated from geopolitical disruptions in your primary country of residence.
• Cultural and lifestyle enrichment: South America's extraordinary diversity of landscapes, cuisines, and cultures offers an unparalleled quality of life for families who choose to spend meaningful time in the region.
• Portfolio diversification: Real estate and business investments in growing South American markets offer competitive yields alongside the intangible benefit of immigration status.

For a comprehensive comparison of global residency and citizenship options, our guide to the best golden visa investment programmes offers an excellent starting point.

Family Inclusion in South American Investment Migration

One of the most valued aspects of South American investment migration programmes is their inclusive approach to family members. In the majority of cases, the primary applicant's qualifying investment covers the inclusion of dependants without the need for separate investment contributions. The following family members are typically eligible for inclusion:

• Spouse or civil partner: Legally recognised spouses and, in several jurisdictions, registered domestic partners may be included on the primary application.
• Dependent children: Minor children (generally under 18 years of age) are included as dependants. In many South American jurisdictions, children born to a naturalised citizen automatically acquire citizenship by descent, providing a permanent legacy benefit.
• Adult dependent children: Children between the ages of 18 and 24 (or older, if they have a recognised disability) may qualify as dependants subject to proof of financial dependency and full-time study status.
• Dependent parents: Some programmes — particularly Paraguay — extend eligibility to the financially dependent parents of the primary applicant, subject to additional documentation requirements.

It is essential to note that each family member will be subject to the same due diligence and background screening processes as the primary applicant. Mirabello's team will guide your entire family through this process with discretion and efficiency, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Frequently Asked Questions About South American Citizenship by Investment

Can I hold dual citizenship with a South American passport?

This varies by country and by your primary nationality. Brazil, Colombia, and Paraguay all permit dual (or multiple) citizenship in principle. However, your home country's laws may restrict or prohibit the holding of a second nationality. We strongly recommend obtaining independent legal advice in your country of origin before initiating any application. Mirabello can refer you to specialist lawyers in key jurisdictions.

Do I need to live in South America to maintain my residency or citizenship?

Physical presence requirements differ significantly by programme. Paraguay is notably flexible, requiring only minimal presence (a few days per year) during the residency phase. Brazil has more structured presence requirements — typically 30 days per year for permanent residents wishing to maintain status. Colombia requires longer cumulative presence periods. Once full citizenship is obtained, most South American countries impose no mandatory residency requirement on citizens living abroad, though extended absence may affect certain civic rights.

What is the minimum investment for South American citizenship by investment?

The lowest formal threshold in the region is found in Paraguay, where applicants are required to evidence a capital transfer of approximately $70,000–$100,000 USD into a Paraguayan bank account. Brazil's qualifying investment starts from approximately $100,000 USD (BRL 500,000), and Colombia requires a minimum of approximately $170,000 USD in a qualifying asset class. These are minimum entry points; individual circumstances and investment goals will influence the most appropriate investment level.

How long does South American citizenship by investment take from start to finish?

The total timeline depends on the programme chosen and the speed of document preparation. As a general guide: Paraguay offers the fastest overall route, with residency achievable in 3–5 months and citizenship after a further 2 years — a total of approximately 2.5 years. Brazil typically takes 4–5 years in total when accounting for the residency period and naturalisation process. Colombia's standard pathway spans approximately 5.5–6 years, though this can be reduced for eligible nationalities. Prompt document preparation and professional representation can meaningfully shorten the administrative phases.

Is South American citizenship by investment legal and internationally recognised?

Yes. All of the programmes described in this guide are established under the formal national legislation of sovereign states and are administered by official government bodies. Passports issued through these programmes carry the full legal weight of any other nationally issued travel document and are recognised internationally. Mirabello operates exclusively with programmes that meet rigorous standards of legal compliance and international due diligence, in line with FATF guidelines and our own internal compliance framework.

Will I need to speak Spanish or Portuguese to obtain citizenship?

Language requirements vary. Brazil requires a working proficiency in Portuguese, assessed as part of the naturalisation process through an interview conducted in Portuguese. Colombia requires conversational Spanish, assessed at the naturalisation stage. Paraguay's requirements are generally more straightforward, with basic Spanish familiarity helpful but not always formally assessed for investors. Mirabello recommends beginning language preparation well in advance of the naturalisation application to ensure a smooth process.

Can South American citizenship be passed on to my children?

Yes, in most cases. Children born to a naturalised South American citizen after the grant of citizenship will generally acquire citizenship automatically by descent. Children included as dependants in the original application will also obtain citizenship upon naturalisation. This represents a significant long-term legacy benefit — your South American citizenship can extend to future generations, providing an enduring global asset for your family.