Countries are cracking down on schemes offering citizenship and residence permits for cash. Explore the motivations behind applicants and offering countries. EU concerned about risks like organized crime and money laundering.
Golden passports provide easier travel and lifestyle upgrades for a significant fee.
Countries are facing scrutiny and implementing regulations to prevent misuse and security risks.
Deep dives
Golden Passports and Visas: A Price for Freedom
Golden passports and visas, offering visa-free access to over 150 countries, have become a sought-after commodity. For a sum ranging from $100,000 to $1 million, individuals can obtain citizenship or residency in another country, providing the allure of enhanced travel opportunities and lifestyle upgrades. Indians are increasingly availing themselves of this opportunity, driven by the benefits of easier travel, improved quality of life, and enhanced business prospects abroad. While countries like the US leverage such programs for economic stimulation through foreign investment, concerns over potential misuse and security risks have led to increased scrutiny and regulatory adjustments across the globe.
Under the Radar: The Dark Side of Golden Passports
The allure of golden passports has led to shady dealings and security threats, with some countries exploiting these schemes for financial gain. Instances of underreported passport issuances and suspicions of organized crime have raised alarms, particularly in the European Union. Countries like Dominica have come under fire for allegedly granting citizenship to individuals from high-risk areas, enabling potential money laundering and evasion of legal consequences. The EU has pushed for tighter regulations to curb abuse, highlighting cases like the escape of individuals facing legal charges, such as Mehul Chokse, through acquired citizenship in foreign lands.
In today’s episode for 19th April 2024, we tell you why countries are clamping down on schemes that offer citizenships and residence permits in return for cash.
But before we begin, we have a question for you — Do you want to be the one writing and editing the content tha goes on the Finshots podcast?
Well, we might have a role for you that involves leading content initiatives on this front. If you have a background in finance or economics and narrative skills to transform dry financial data into engaging stories, then click this link to apply - https://bit.ly/3vBT8Sw
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode