This Pacific island country has it’s own “Golden Visa”: For $105,000 you can become a citizen for a good cause
The effects of climate change have forced the tiny Oceanian island of Nauru to sell passports.
Ever wished you were from a country more exotic than your own? If so, you now have the chance to become a citizen of the Pacific island nation of Nauru, which needs your help.
Where and what is Nauru?
Officially the Republic of Nauru, and formerly known as Pheasant Island, the Oceanian microstate is the third-smallest country in the world and lies approximately 2,500 miles northeast of Australia.
As a result of the effects of climate change, and with climate financing running out, Nauru is selling “golden passports” to foreigners for $105,000 as its looks to fund a mass relocation of its 13,000 residents.
Why is Nauru selling passports?
Sea levels around Nauru are said to be rising 1.5 times faster than global averages, threatening the country’s coastal areas. To make matters worse, an estimated 80% of the island is considered uninhabitable due to mining.
Those circumstances are likely to lead to 90% of Nauru’s population being moved inland, with the first phrase of relocation expected to cost more than $60 million.
Officials believe they will make $5.7 million from 66 successful applicants in the first year, a figure they hope will eventually rise to $43 million thanks to approximately 500 passports being sold.
The Nauruan government claims its passport offers visa-free entry into 89 countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Hong Kong.
“This is about more than survival. It is about ensuring future generations have a safe, resilient and sustainable home,” said president David Adeang.
How to apply for Nauruan citizenship
If you do want to apply for Nauruan citizenship, you can find full details and requirements on the official website of the the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program.
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