Botswana to Launch Citizenship by Investment Program in 2026
Botswana will introduce its first-ever Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program in early 2026, developed in partnership with Arton Capital. The program aims to attract foreign investment to diversify the economy beyond diamonds, directing funds into housing, tourism, renewable energy, mining, and financial services (BotswanaCitizenship.com, 2025).
The minimum investment is expected to be $75,000–$90,000, with a structured quota system and eligibility checks. Spouses and dependent children are anticipated to qualify, consistent with global CBI norms (BotswanaCitizenship.com, 2025).
Global and African Context
Worldwide, Caribbean nations such as Saint Kitts and Nevis and Dominica have long-standing CBI programs, requiring investments above $200,000 and offering passports with visa-free access to 143–154 countries (IMI Daily, 2025). Malta’s program requires €600,000 for a 12-month residence period and provides access to 184 countries (Global Residence Index, 2025).
In Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe ($90,000), Seychelles ($1,000,000), and Egypt ($250,000) have similar programs, with passports offering varying degrees of visa-free travel (Passport Index, 2025). Botswana’s program is positioned as a more accessible, cost-effective option for investors while maintaining selectivity and economic impact.
Strategic Significance
While Botswana’s passport offers fewer visa-free destinations than some global programs, the lower investment threshold and focus on economic diversification make it an attractive gateway for investment migration in Africa.
Prospective applicants should consult BotswanaCitizenship.com for updates, eligibility, and registration information.
