(DDM) – Botswana has unveiled a new citizenship-by-investment scheme that allows wealthy applicants to secure a Botswanan passport for a minimum payment of $75,000.
The announcement, first reported by international media, has renewed global debate about the rising trend of “golden passports,” and Diaspora Digital Media DDM gathered that Botswana’s entry into the market is already being described as one of the cheapest globally.
Botswana’s government is partnering with global citizenship advisory firm Arton Capital to launch its Citizenship by Investment Program, CIP, in early 2026.
The programme enables high-net-worth individuals to obtain full citizenship by making a financial contribution to the state.
Authorities confirmed that applicants will pay $75,000 for the main citizenship slot.
They added that a spouse or a child under 18 will cost an extra $10,000, while an adult dependent attracts an additional $5,000.
The government says revenue from the programme will support national priorities such as housing development, luxury tourism expansion, renewable energy projects, mining sector transformation, and the growth of local financial industries.
Officials insist that these funds will help reposition the nation’s economy amid falling international diamond prices.
Botswana’s economy has faced pressure from a sustained decline of nearly 30 percent in diamond value since 2022.
The state now views foreign capital injection as a necessary tool for achieving long-term financial resilience.
Analysts note that golden passport schemes are increasingly used by nations seeking fresh investment, with African countries such as South Africa, Egypt, and São Tomé and Príncipe already operating similar models.
Botswana’s version is notably cheaper than São Tomé’s $90,000 minimum, making it the most affordable open citizenship-by-investment offer in the world.
The initiative is also designed to attract globally mobile entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled migrants who can contribute to the nation’s long-term development agenda.
Arton Capital stated that the CIP aims to bring in both capital and international talent, giving Botswana a competitive edge in Africa’s investment landscape.
President Duma Boko argued that the programme represents a new economic opportunity for Batswana nationwide.
He said the scheme will strengthen the country’s financial future and foster collaboration with affluent individuals seeking African citizenship.
He added that Botswana is ready to welcome global citizens who believe in the continent’s potential.
The programme will run on a quota system, meaning that only a limited number of applicants will be accepted annually.
All applications will be submitted through an official online portal set up by Arton Capital.
Background observers caution that the global “golden passport” industry has attracted scrutiny in recent years, with critics raising concerns about national security, money laundering risks, and inequality.
Supporters, however, argue that such schemes attract valuable investment and global expertise that can accelerate development.
Botswana, known for its political stability and strong governance record, hopes the world’s most affordable citizenship offer will position the country as a prime destination for investors seeking mobility, stability, and opportunity in Africa.
