Botswana has confirmed details of its upcoming Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), setting a minimum investment requirement of $75,000 and planning a launch in early 2026. The announcement positions Botswana as one of the most affordable new entrants in the global citizenship by investment landscape.
Announcement and Development
The initiative was first unveiled during the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September 2025, when the government signed an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding with Arton Capital to design and implement the program. At the time, officials highlighted the need to diversify the economy away from diamonds by attracting both foreign capital and international talent.
President Duma Boko called the initiative a way to “secure the long-term financial future of Botswana, unlocking opportunities for business owners and Batswana throughout our nation.” Development work on the framework has since continued, leading to the recent disclosure of program pricing and an anticipated launch window.
Investment Threshold and Structure
According to the program’s dedicated website, BotswanaCitizenship.com, the qualifying contribution is set between $75,000 and $90,000, with $75,000 described as the official floor. Full details of how funds will be allocated between government, development, and other channels have not yet been disclosed. Analysts note that the number of available places may be limited, adding exclusivity to early participation.
Target Sectors and Strategic Goals
Program proceeds are expected to be directed toward priority sectors such as luxury tourism, renewable energy, housing, mining, and financial services. The aim is to broaden Botswana’s capital base, create jobs, and reduce reliance on diamond exports, which have historically accounted for a significant share of state revenue.
Financial Strength and Travel Benefits
Botswana holds Africa’s strongest credit rating according to Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. Its passport currently ranks fourth strongest in Africa and sixty-first globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 84 destinations.
Officials have set a target of making Botswana’s passport the strongest in Africa by 2027 through new visa-waiver agreements. The government frames the program as an opportunity for “affluent, talented global citizens who see the benefit of African citizenship.”
Regional and Global Context
If launched in early 2026, Botswana’s program would join other recent African initiatives such as Sierra Leone and São Tomé and Príncipe. Globally, it follows Nauru’s program, which opened earlier in 2025. The relatively low entry point makes Botswana’s CIP competitive in the wider market of citizenship options.
Outlook
Botswana’s Citizenship by Investment Program is set to become a significant development for both the country and the investment migration industry. With its confirmed pricing, strong financial reputation, and clear diversification goals, Botswana is positioning itself as a new destination for investors seeking affordable citizenship in a stable and growing African economy.
