UAE Residents Face Uncertain Passport Future

Second Passport to Nowhere? Uncertain Future for UAE Expats

As the United States and the European Union tighten the regulations for citizenship-by-investment programs, thousands of UAE residents who have obtained their second passports from the Caribbean or other countries are now facing serious uncertainty.

What happened?

In recent years, citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs have become increasingly popular, particularly in countries like Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Grenada, Cambodia, or Egypt. These programs offered visa-free travel to more than 140 countries, tax advantages, and personal security, attracting many. The fees varied by country but generally ranged from $115,000 to $330,000 for such a passport.

However, by August 13, 2025, countries operating these programs must meet strict data-sharing and verification conditions, or face a visa ban, at least from the United States. Meanwhile, the European Union is considering suspending Schengen visa-free travel for certain countries.

Why is this important for UAE residents?

Nearly 90 percent of the UAE’s population is foreign, and a second citizenship offered an escape route from limited travel opportunities, especially for those from South Asia or the Middle East. Many sold their properties or invested their entire savings in these programs, believing it would secure their family's mobility and future long-term. It's estimated that in recent years, at least 10,000 such applications have been filed from the region, potentially affecting up to 30,000 people.

The situation is particularly difficult for Indian expatriates who relinquished their Indian passports for second citizenship, as India does not allow dual citizenship.

Economic and Social Consequences

The Caribbean countries, particularly Saint Kitts and Nevis and Dominica, greatly depend on the revenues from these programs to develop schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. A potential U.S. or European visa ban could have disastrous effects on these nations, while many citizens don’t even comprehend why it’s happening.

The United States and EU's concerns are not unfounded. A 2023 EU report revealed that the five Caribbean states collectively issued more than 88,000 passports in recent years, yet the level of background checks often remained low. This poses security risks and undermines trust in the whole system.

Agency Responsibility

Several consultancy firms operating in the UAE have actively promoted these programs as a “quick, secure, and beneficial” investment. However, they are now facing the consequences as client dissatisfaction grows and regulations tighten.

The Future Path: Credible Alternatives

In the current scenario, more individuals are turning to safer solutions, such as the UAE's 10-year Golden Visa. This program provides a stable background and long-term residency possibilities with a proper vetting and certification system. Likewise, there’s growing interest in point-based immigration systems offered by countries like Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.

What could the future hold?

Experts suggest that the issue lies not with the concept of investing for citizenship but with its practice until now. Transparency, stricter background checks, and communal integration could be key values upon which future programs are judged. Visa-free travel is not a right, but a sign of international trust, and this trust could be lost for many CBI programs.

The regulatory environment is changing dramatically, and those affected need to replan their strategies as soon as possible. The transition could be painful, but in the long run, more sustainable and reliable systems will be more advantageous for individuals and the host countries alike.

(Source of the article: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) by citizenship.)