This page has been reviewed and verified by
Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
You can confirm program compliance information via
Our Citizenship by Investment Guidance.
The Due Diligence Process is the most critical stage of every Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. It ensures that only applicants of sound reputation, verified financial standing, and legal income sources are granted citizenship.
At Visa Applications, all applicants undergo a full pre-screening before official submission to ensure a smooth and successful review by the government’s authorised due diligence agencies.
What Due Diligence Involves
- Identity verification using government databases and international watchlists.
- Criminal background checks through Interpol, Europol, and national records.
- Financial audits confirming the legitimate source of investment funds.
- Reputation checks across media, sanctions, and politically exposed persons (PEP) databases.
Who Conducts Due Diligence?
Independent global agencies (such as S-RM, Thomson Reuters, and EXIGER) perform multi-jurisdictional background checks for CBI governments. The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) or ministry then reviews and approves or declines applications based on the findings.
How to Prepare for Due Diligence
- Provide all financial documents (bank statements, property deeds, and investment records).
- Submit clean criminal record certificates from all countries of residence in the past 10 years.
- Disclose all past visa rejections or immigration history truthfully.
- Ensure your funds are transferred from verified financial institutions.
What Happens After Approval
Once due diligence is passed, applicants receive formal approval-in-principle and are invited to complete their investment or donation. Citizenship certificates and passports are then issued through the CIU or Ministry of Citizenship.
Related Guidance
About This Page
Author: Citizenship by Investment Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: December 2025.