World in crisis: securing citizenship by investment

As Europe experiences a brutal war reminiscent of the darkest days of the 20th century, many families are increasingly seeking second citizenships in safer countries, making investments in the economy in return for a passport.

In the PWM Perspectives video series, we talk to three key due diligence investigation agencies about the future of citizenship by investment and how applicants are vetted.

In discussion:

The mechanics of due diligence: PWM hears how due diligence agencies can help countries with citizenship by investment programmes avoid fraudulent applications and detect ‘red flags’ highlighting investors with questionable reputations

Sanctions and anti-money laundering measures: With many jurisdictions suspending citizenship applications from wealthy Russians, countries seeking to preserve reputations in a time of turmoil are also asking due diligence agents to ‘re-scrub’ existing investors who may be on sanctions lists

Contrasting competing jurisdictions: Determining the ‘gold standard’ of due diligence, which defines the quality of competing citizenship by investment programmes

Future challenges: How countries seeking new citizens can work with law firms, intelligence agencies and due diligence investigation firms to assess high-risk and politically connected clients

In conversation with:

Heyrick Bond Gunning, CEO, S-RM

Karen Kelly, Director of Strategy & Development, Exiger

Eddy Leviten, Chief Operating Officer, FACT Worldwide