BAYAT GROUP BECOMES LICENSED AGENT FOR NAURU’S ECONOMIC CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM
Bayat Immigration Services, part of Bayat Group – a company specializing in residency, citizenship, and immigration solutions – is now a Licensed Agent for the Republic of Nauru’s newly launched Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program (ECRCP). The company will promote and facilitate access to this unique initiative, which offers citizenship in return for contributions that support Nauru’s sustainable development and climate resilience.
This collaboration marks a significant step for both parties: for Bayat Group, it expands its global portfolio; for Nauru, it ensures the involvement of an experienced advisory partner capable of attracting committed and qualified applicants.
With over 30 years of experience in the investment migration industry, Bayat Group brings deep expertise in guiding investors and families toward alternative residency and citizenship options.
The Republic of Nauru, the world’s smallest independent republic, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to bolster its economy while contributing to global climate resilience. The Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program (ECRCP) offers investors the unique opportunity to obtain Nauruan citizenship in exchange for substantial contributions to the country’s sustainable development efforts.
Program Overview
Nauru, known for its phosphate-rich ecosystem and small yet vibrant population of around 12,000, has introduced the ECRCP to attract forward-thinking investors committed to making a difference and seeking alternative citizenship. The program is designed to support both the investor and the nation’s development through contributions that fund economic growth and climate resilience projects, including infrastructure and economic diversification initiatives.
Key Benefits
The ECRCP offers several significant benefits for participants:
- A Politically Neutral Passport: Provides a valuable safety net during times of global instability.
- Visa-Free Access: Travel freely to destinations including Hong Kong (SAR China), Ireland, Singapore, the UAE, and the UK.
- Family Inclusion: Your spouse and dependents (including parents and siblings) can be included in your application.
- Climate Crisis Contribution: Support solutions in the South Pacific, addressing rising sea levels and biodiversity loss.
- Unrestricted Dual Citizenship: No minimum stay or visit requirements.
These benefits not only enhance global mobility and safety for investors but also contribute significantly to Nauru’s development goals.
Financial Contributions and Fees
ECRCP participants are required to make substantial financial contributions to the Nauru Treasury Fund. The contribution amounts are structured to accommodate various family sizes:
- Single applicant: $105,000
- Family of up to four members: $110,000
- Family of five or more members: $115,000
- For each sibling of an applicant or their spouse: $15,000
Additionally, there are application fees and due diligence, and bank due diligence and transaction charges and fees to ensure thorough background checks:
Application Fee:
- Single applicant: $25,000
- Family of up to four members: $27,500
- Family of five or more members: $30,000
Due Diligence Fee:
- Applicant: $10,000
- Each additional dependent, aged 16 or above: $7,500
Bank due diligence fee and transaction charge:
- Single applicant $1,200
- Family of up to four members: $1,700
- Family of five or more members: $2,200
Passport fee:
- $500 per person
Application Process
The application process for the ECRCP is designed to be both rigorous and efficient. It involves several key steps to ensure that each application is thoroughly reviewed and processed:
- Initial Consultation with a Licensed Agent
- Eligibility Criteria Assessment
- Submission of Application
- Due Diligence and Background Checks
- Application Review and Decision
Once the due diligence checks are completed, the Nauru Program Office conducts a risk assessment and makes a recommendation to the Minister for approval or rejection. If approved, the Principal Applicant receives a Letter of Approval in Principle, along with instructions to remit the contribution and passport fee.
After taking the oath or affirmation of allegiance, either in person or online, applicants receive their certificate of citizenship. The final step involves obtaining a Nauruan passport, with the support of the Licensed Agent ensuring all necessary documentation is completed.
Impact on Nauru’s Development
The ECRCP was unveiled at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29) in Baku, addressing key conference themes of climate finance and adaptation. In his address to COP 29 delegates, Hon. Asterio Appi, Nauru’s Minister for Climate Change and National Resilience, presented the program as an opportunity for conscientious investors to gain citizenship while contributing to climate adaptation and sustainable development projects in the South Pacific. Minister Appi emphasized the program’s broader impact on global biodiversity and climate resilience. HE David Adeang, President of the Republic of Nauru, highlighted the program’s role in mitigating sustainability risks and enhancing climate resilience. By channeling investments into critical projects, the ECRCP aims to safeguard Nauru’s future while contributing to global environmental preservation.
Nauru’s government has mandated the international investment migration advisory firm Henley & Partners to design, set up, and run the ECRCP.
Nauru’s new economic citizenship program is expected to have a transformative impact on Nauru’s development. The funds generated from the program will support vital infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and the preservation of the island’s rich biodiversity. By participating in the ECRCP, investors can secure valuable second citizenship, contribute to the resilience of a small island nation, and be part of a forward-thinking community dedicated to global environmental sustainability.
The official launch of ECRCP aligns Nauru with other nations globally that have used citizenship by investment as a means to attract foreign capital, supporting economic growth and diversification. This initiative marks a significant development for Nauru, which has been economically reliant on phosphate mining and foreign aid. Now, the country aims to build a more sustainable economic model, potentially attracting investors interested in the nation’s natural beauty and strategic location.
However, Nauru’s entry into the citizenship-by-investment market also brings challenges. Investment migration programs worldwide have faced scrutiny over concerns such as security risks, money laundering, and maintaining national integrity. To address these issues, Nauru’s government has enacted strict due diligence requirements and is working to ensure that only high-quality candidates are approved.
The introduction of Nauru’s CBI program is part of a growing trend among small nations seeking to capitalize on the global demand for alternative citizenship. The program not only aims to boost Nauru’s revenue but also to strengthen its international partnerships and raise its profile on the global stage.