El Salvador launched the world’s first Bitcoin-accepting CBI program (Freedom Visa) in 2024. It offers 100% online processing, no visit required, and zero capital gains tax on Bitcoin.
Bitcoin accepted: First country to accept Bitcoin for CBI investment
100% online: No visit to El Salvador required for citizenship
Zero capital gains on crypto: No tax on Bitcoin or crypto gains
Fast processing: 2-3 months typical timeline
Strong passport: 134+ visa-free countries including EU Schengen
Territorial taxation: Only local income taxed
This program is ideal for crypto investors and those seeking modern digital citizenship. It’s particularly suited for:
Bitcoin and crypto holders who want to invest using cryptocurrency.
Digital nomads seeking a modern, tech-forward citizenship.
Those avoiding travel who prefer a 100% remote process.
Tax planners interested in territorial taxation with zero crypto capital gains.
Individuals who want strong EU/Schengen visa-free access.
The El Salvador Freedom Visa follows a streamlined digital process:
Submit application through the official Freedom Visa portal with required documents.
Government verifies all submitted documents and conducts initial review.
Background checks conducted on all applicants.
Upon preliminary approval, transfer $1,000,000 USD (or Bitcoin equivalent).
Citizenship granted and passport issued. No visit required.
Passport delivered via secure courier to your location worldwide.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must have no criminal record.
Must pass due diligence checks.
Must make $1,000,000 USD contribution.
Valid passport (scanned copy).
Birth certificate (apostilled).
Police clearance certificates.
Proof of address.
Source of funds documentation.
Passport-sized photographs (digital).
Freedom Visa Contribution: $1,000,000 USD (or Bitcoin equivalent). Non-refundable donation to government development fund.
Processing fees: Included in contribution.
Due diligence fees: Included in contribution.
Passport delivery: Included.
Comprehensive Consultation: Detailed assessment of your eligibility and program suitability.
Document Preparation: Expert assistance preparing digital documents.
Application Management: Submission and monitoring through official portal.
Bitcoin Guidance: Assistance with cryptocurrency payment option if selected.
Due Diligence Facilitation: Support through background check process.
Post-Approval Support: Ensuring smooth passport delivery.
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Application submission | 1-2 weeks |
| Document verification | 2-3 weeks |
| Due diligence | 3-4 weeks |
| Investment and approval | 1-2 weeks |
| Passport delivery | 2-3 weeks |
| Total | 2-3 months |
Bitcoin payment: Can pay the full $1M contribution in Bitcoin at market rate.
No visit required: Entire process is 100% online.
Zero crypto tax: No capital gains tax on Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies in El Salvador.
Schengen access: Visa-free travel to EU Schengen countries.
Dual citizenship: Permitted. No renunciation required.
