1. What is the process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina includes the following steps:

1. Eligibility Check: The first step is to determine if you are eligible for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This includes meeting the minimum investment requirements and having a clean criminal record.

2. Investment Requirements: The next step is to choose an approved investment option. Currently, there are two options available: Real Estate Investment or Business Investment.

3. Prepare Documents: Once you have chosen your investment option, you will need to prepare and gather all necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of your financial means, and other supporting documents.

4. Submit Application: The completed application along with all required documents must be submitted to the relevant government authority in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

5. Background Check and Investigation: Your application will undergo a thorough background check and investigation by the relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

6. Approval Process: If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation letter from the government stating that you have been granted citizenship.

7. Payment of Fees: You will then be required to pay the applicable fees for the citizenship by investment program.

8. Oath of Allegiance: Before receiving your certificate of naturalization, you may be required to take an oath of allegiance to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

9. Certificate of Naturalization: With all fees paid and requirements met, you will receive a certificate of naturalization confirming your new Bosnian citizenship.

10. Passport Application: Once you have received your certificate of naturalization, you can apply for a Bosnian passport at the relevant government office.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

To be eligible for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina, applicants must meet certain criteria including:

1. Minimum Investment Requirement: Applicants must invest at least 250,000 EUR in a qualifying investment, either in real estate or in a business venture.

2. Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record and provide a police clearance certificate from their country of residence.

3. Source of Funds: Applicants must provide evidence that the investment funds are obtained through legal means and are not related to any criminal activity.

4. Health Insurance: Applicants must have valid health insurance for themselves and their family members.

5. Residence Requirements: Applicants must also spend a certain amount of time living in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which may vary depending on the type of investment option chosen.

6. Good Character Requirements: Applicants must be of good character and pass a thorough background check and investigation by the relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

7. Financial Stability: Applicants should be able to demonstrate their financial stability and ability to support themselves and their family members while residing in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

8. Language Proficiency: In some cases, applicants may be required to pass a language proficiency test or show proof of proficiency in one of the official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnian, Croatian or Serbian).

9. Other Requirements: Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific investment option chosen by the applicant.

2. What are the main benefits of obtaining citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

1. Fast-track process: Citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the fastest ways to obtain citizenship. The whole process takes only about 8 months, which is significantly shorter compared to other countries that offer citizenship by investment programs.

2. International mobility: With a Bosnian passport, you gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries, including the entire European Union and some major business hubs like Canada, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

3. No residency requirement: Unlike many other citizenship by investment programs, Bosnia and Herzegovina does not require applicants to reside in the country before or after obtaining citizenship. This means you can maintain your current lifestyle while enjoying the benefits of being a Bosnian citizen.

4. Economic stability: Bosnia and Herzegovina have a relatively stable economy with a low cost of living. The country also has a strategic location in Europe, making it an attractive investment destination for businesses looking to expand into the Balkans.

5. Dual citizenship: Bosnia and Herzegovina allows dual citizenship, so you won’t have to renounce your current citizenship to become a Bosnian citizen. This can be very beneficial for individuals who want to maintain their ties with their home country while reaping the benefits of Bosnian citizenship.

6. Access to education: As a citizen of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you and your family will have access to free education in public schools and universities within the country.

7. Schengen zone accessibility: One of the main benefits for investors seeking Bosnian citizenship is the opportunity to live, work, study or retire in any Schengen Area member state without requiring further visas or permits.

8. Low investment requirements: The minimum investment amount for obtaining Bosnian citizenship through investment is EUR 100,000, which is significantly lower than many other countries that offer similar programs.

9. Generous tax incentives: Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a range of tax incentives to attract foreign investors, including low corporate tax rates and exemption from personal income tax for certain categories of investments.

10. Family benefits: Children under the age of 18 can be included in the citizenship application, along with the investor’s spouse. This means that not only will you obtain citizenship, but your family will as well.

3. How much is the minimum required investment for citizenship in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

According to the Law on Foreigners’ Stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the minimum required investment for citizenship is 300,000 BAM (Bosnian Convertible Mark), which is approximately $183,000 USD. This investment must be made in a legally registered company or organization and must create at least 10 new jobs for Bosnian citizens.

4. Are there any residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, there are residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The investor must have been a resident of Bosnia and Herzegovina for at least five years prior to applying for citizenship, and they must maintain a continuous temporary residence during the five-year period. Additionally, the investor must not be absent from Bosnia and Herzegovina for a total of more than 90 days per year during the five-year period.

5. What types of investments are accepted for citizenship in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not have a formal citizenship by investment program. Citizenship is typically granted through naturalization after meeting certain residency requirements and passing citizenship exams.

6. Is dual citizenship allowed in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, dual citizenship is permitted in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina states that citizens are free to hold multiple nationalities and that the state cannot take away their citizenship. However, if a person voluntarily acquires another citizenship, they must inform Bosnian authorities within 30 days or risk losing their Bosnian citizenship.

7. Are there any language or cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

There are no specific language or cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, applicants may be required to demonstrate a basic understanding of the Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian language as these are the official languages of the country. Additionally, applicants may be expected to show an understanding of Bosnian culture and society during the interview process.

8. Do I need to have a job offer or business plan to qualify for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, a job offer or business plan is not required to qualify for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, applicants must make a qualifying investment in order to be eligible for citizenship. This can include investing in government bonds, real estate, or a business venture.

9. Can my family members also obtain citizenship through my investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, only you as the main investor can obtain citizenship through your investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, your family members may be eligible for residency permits and other benefits depending on their relationship to you. It is best to consult with a citizenship lawyer for specific details on your family’s eligibility.

10. What is the timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina can vary depending on the specific circumstances and requirements. However, the general process typically involves several steps, which may take anywhere from three to six months or longer.

Here is a rough outline of the timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

1. Investment Selection: The first step is to select an eligible investment option, such as real estate or a business venture.

2. Application Submission: Once the investment is selected, the applicant must submit an application along with all required documents to the relevant government authorities.

3. Background Check: The government will conduct a thorough background check on the applicant, including any criminal history or financial stability.

4. Investment Approval: If the application and background check are successful, the investment will be approved by the relevant authorities.

5. Investment Payment: The applicant will then be required to make the full investment payment according to the chosen option.

6. Residence Permit Application: With proof of investment, the applicant can then apply for a temporary residence permit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

7. Temporary Residence Permit Issuance: Once approved, a temporary residence permit will be issued to the applicant within 30 days.

8. Residency Period: The temporary residence permit allows for a one-year residency period in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

9. Citizenship Application: After at least one year of residency, the applicant can apply for citizenship by submitting an additional application along with all necessary documents and fees.

10. Citizenship Approval: If all requirements are met, including passing language proficiency and history tests, citizenship will be granted within approximately two months after submitting the application.

Overall, obtaining citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina can take anywhere from one to two years from initial application submission to final approval. It is important to note that this timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances and processing times at different stages of the process. It is recommended to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer for a more accurate assessment of the timeline for your specific case.

11. Can I invest in any industry or sector for citizenship purposes in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, you can invest in any industry or sector that is approved by the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina for citizenship purposes. However, it is recommended to consult with a government-approved agent or lawyer for guidance on which industries or sectors are eligible for investment.

12. Is there a limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment each year in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

There is no maximum limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The decision to grant citizenship rests with the government and is based on each individual’s eligibility and the availability of funds for investment in the country.

13. What level of due diligence is conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The level of due diligence conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina can vary depending on the specific investment program being applied for. For example:

– In the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), applicants are subject to a thorough background check conducted by Ministry of Security, which includes checks for criminal records, Interpol lists, and security and terrorism risks.

– In the Residency by Investment Program (RIP), applicants are also subject to a background check by the Directorate for Economic Cooperation and Development, which verifies the eligibility criteria such as financial stability, good standing with local authorities, and absence of past tax or financial sanctions.

Additionally, both programs require applicants to provide documentation to support their source of funds and prove that they have no prior criminal record in Bosnia and Herzegovina or any other country. It is important for applicants to be transparent and thorough in providing all required information and documentation during the application process.

Overall, while there is not an exact standardization for due diligence in citizenship by investment programs worldwide, it is generally understood that most countries have some form of screening process to ensure only eligible individuals are granted citizenship.

14. Are children born to citizens through investment automatically granted citizenship?

No, children born to citizens through investment are not automatically granted citizenship. They will need to apply for citizenship and meet the necessary requirements, such as age restrictions, character assessments, and proof of relationship and entitlement to citizenship through their parents’ investment.

15. Are there any restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

There are no restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The main requirement is that the applicants must invest a minimum of 100,000 Euros in a new or existing business in the country and maintain it for a period of at least three years. However, individuals from countries that are subject to international sanctions may face additional scrutiny during the application process.

16. Does receiving citizenship through investment grant me voting rights and access to government services?

Yes, receiving citizenship through investment typically grants you voting rights and access to government services. However, the specific voting rights and access to services may vary depending on the country’s laws and regulations. It is important to research and understand the specifics of your chosen country’s citizenship by investment program before investing.

17. Is it possible to lose my newly acquired citizen status if I fail to maintain my initial investment?

Yes, it is possible to lose your acquired citizenship status if you fail to maintain your initial investment. Many countries have requirements for maintaining citizenship, such as living in the country for a certain amount of time or making regular contributions to the economy. If you do not meet these requirements, your citizenship status may be revoked. It is important to carefully research and understand the requirements of the citizenship program before making an investment.

18. Can I include dependents such as parents or siblings on my application for citizenship by investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No, the citizenship by investment program in Bosnia and Herzegovina does not allow for dependents such as parents or siblings to be included in the application. Only the main applicant and their spouse and children under the age of 18 are eligible for citizenship through this program.

19. Does holding another passport affect my eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investing in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

No. Holding another passport does not affect your eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investing in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, you will still need to fulfill all of the necessary requirements and qualifications for citizenship by investment.

20. Are there any tax implications associated with gaining economic residency and/or full nationality through investing in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Applicants for economic residency and full nationality through investment in Bosnia and Herzegovina may be subject to various tax implications, including potential taxes on their income and capital gains. These taxes will depend on the specific circumstances of the applicant and any relevant tax treaties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and their home country. It is recommended that applicants consult with a tax professional for more information about their individual tax situation.