For wealthy digital asset holders in 2025, several countries now offer enticing paths to global mobility through citizenship or residency in exchange for crypto-funded investments. While many governments still prefer fiat contributions, a growing number of licensed migration agents are stepping in, accepting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ether, and stablecoins, converting them to fiat before submission to the authorities. Some jurisdictions are going a step further, providing opportunities ranging from fast-track second passports to long-term residency for investors.

Here are four countries that are making headlines with their crypto-friendly citizenship or residency programs:

1. Vanuatu: Vanuatu offers one of the quickest routes to obtaining a second passport, with citizenship typically granted within 30 to 60 days. Through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program via the Development Support Program (DSP), a donation starting at $130,000 for single applicants is required, scaling to $180,000 for a family of four. While the government does not directly accept crypto, licensed agents are authorized to receive Bitcoin or stablecoins, convert them to fiat, and manage the entire application process. This allows crypto holders to leverage their digital assets to demonstrate wealth and fund the donation.

2. Dominica and Saint Lucia: These Caribbean nations provide citizenship within months through their CBI programs. Investments typically start at $200,000. Licensed agents are permitted to convert crypto into fiat to meet the government's requirements. Dominica and Saint Lucia offer a fully remote process that includes family members.

3. Portugal: Portugal's Golden Visa program presents an attractive option for crypto investors seeking European residency. While Portugal doesn't directly accept cryptocurrency for citizenship, its Golden Visa scheme requires a minimum investment of €250,000. The program now favors investment funds, some of which allow crypto-converted fiat and exposure to blockchain assets. Applicants need only minimal stays in the country, and the path to citizenship may extend from five to ten years. Tax conditions are favorable, especially for long-term crypto gains. Portugal does not tax capital gains on cryptocurrencies for individual investors, making it an ideal location for crypto traders.

4. El Salvador: El Salvador is leading the way with its Freedom Visa, accepting a direct $1 million investment in Bitcoin or USDT for citizenship. This program, limited to 1,000 applicants yearly, is fully crypto-native and offers fast-track approval. El Salvador was the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender. The program is a unique offer for those looking to buy citizenship with crypto directly, bypassing fiat intermediaries entirely.

It's worth noting that golden visa programs are evolving, and some countries are rethinking their strategies. For example, there were reports of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offering Golden Visas to crypto investors, but these claims were refuted by authorities. The UAE clarified that digital currency investment is not an eligible category for the long-term residency program and that Golden Visas are issued based on specific, officially approved criteria.