Mauritania

For an international high-net-worth investor considering obtaining a second passport and citizenship, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania does not present a compelling opportunity. This impoverished desert state grapples with severe drought and economic mismanagement, leading to a significant accumulation of foreign debt. Consequently, investors may find it wiser to explore alternative options that provide greater stability and more favourable conditions.

MAURITANIA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT

At present, Mauritania does not provide any citizenship by investment opportunities. Instead, both foreign investors and Mauritanian nationals may want to consider other countries offering established CBI programmes. A popular choice in this category is Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment programme which fosters economic growth by attracting investment from individuals seeking citizenship rights. Through substantial investments, typically in real estate or government donations, individuals can secure citizenship in Antigua and gain visa-free access to 161 countries.

MAURITANIA RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT

Investors interested in establishing residency in the West African state do not currently have the option to pursue it through an investment-driven pathway. Mauritania’s procedures for obtaining residency typically adhere to conventional methods, such as birth, registration, marriage, and nationalisation. Therefore, investors should consider exploring alternative programmes such as the Greek Golden Visa programme.

MAURITANIA’S PASSPORT STRENGTH AND RANKING

If Mauritania were to consider introducing a citizenship by investment programme, its attractiveness to foreign investors would probably be constrained. The resulting passport would only offer access to 66 countries, accounting for merely 5.9% of global wealth (measured by GDP) and 12.8% of worldwide travel. This would rank it at 162nd on La Vida’s comprehensive Global Passport Ranking, placing it among some of the least desirable passports. Much stronger passports are available through popular CBI programmes, such as Malta’s Passport which offers visa-free access to 198 countries.