CIU currently lists a US$250,000 base contribution for a single applicant or a family of up to four under both routes. Approved-project documentation, additional dependants and other charges still require separate review.[1][2]
Purpose of the contribution and required documents
| Dimension | PBO | SISC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | An approved public benefit project | National sustainable-development priorities |
| Base contribution | US$250,000: one applicant or up to four family members | US$250,000: one applicant or up to four family members |
| Documentation | Specific approved-project and relevant entity documents | Government contribution and application documents |
| Decision focus | Project approval, agreement, fees and payment evidence | Contribution, applicable charges and payment instructions |
Based on the two CIU route pages. A PBO project may involve construction, but a contribution should not be treated as personal residential ownership or a capital-guaranteed return.[1][2]
Charges beyond the base contribution
Both published schedules list US$25,000 for each additional dependant under 18 beyond the four-person grouping, and US$50,000 for each additional adult. Due diligence is US$10,000 for the main applicant and US$7,500 for each dependant aged 16 or over.[1][2]
The PBO page also lists post-approval application charges of US$15,000 for a spouse, US$10,000 for a qualified dependant under 18, and US$15,000 for a qualified adult dependant. A quotation should confirm their applicability. Any waiver should be supported by formal authority and reconciled with the other charges.[1]
The phrase “from US$250,000” is therefore insufficient to compare family totals. Professional services, documents and passport costs should also be itemised.
Biometric requirements introduced in 2026
The CIU states that biometric enrolment is mandatory for new applications submitted from 14 April 2026. Applicants can book through the official platform once they reach approval in principle.[3]
Enrolment involves an appointment, attendance and applicable charges. Confirm available locations, dates and current fees before travel. Any temporary discount should be checked for eligibility and expiry.
Project documents and approval stages
PBO involves a specific public benefit project, so the project name, approval status and contracting entity require verification alongside the agent’s authorisation. SISC follows the government contribution process. Both engagements should identify the contribution, official charges and professional fees, including recipients and payment dates.[1][2]
Approval in principle, final citizenship registration and passport issuance are distinct stages. A complete comparison also accounts for applicable interviews, enrolment and passport procedures; submitting an application is not the same as completing the engagement.
Common questions
Is PBO a property purchase?
It should not be treated as one. A contribution supports an approved public benefit project; construction activity does not by itself establish personal ownership or a guaranteed return.[1]
Does the same US$250,000 threshold mean equal family costs?
Not necessarily. Dependant charges, applicable PBO fees and other costs must be reconciled item by item.[1][2]
Does biometric enrolment require additional time and expense?
Yes. Check the CIU platform for the requirements, designated locations and current charges applicable to the application.[3]
Sources and verification
This article draws on the official sources below, checked on 24 September 2026. Policies and fees may change; the requirements applicable at the time of an individual application should be confirmed.
Conatus Mobility provides consultation and coordination services and is not a government body. This is general information, not individual legal, tax or investment advice. Services are governed by written agreement; decisions remain with the relevant authorities.
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