San Salvador, El Salvador – In a bid to jumpstart the economy, El Salvador announced a unique program offering citizenship to 5,000 foreign workers with specialized skills. President Nayib Bukele unveiled the initiative, targeting scientists, engineers, doctors, artists, and philosophers, hoping their expertise will fuel national development.

These “free passports,” as Bukele phrased it, come with full citizenship benefits, including the right to vote. To ease relocation, the program eliminates taxes and tariffs on moving families and assets, including valuable equipment, software, and intellectual property.

“We’re offering a chance to join our nation’s journey,” Bukele said on social media. “These 5,000 individuals, representing less than 0.1% of our population, hold the potential to make a significant impact on El Salvador’s future.”

This program follows a series of reforms enacted by Bukele, including making Bitcoin legal tender and offering expedited citizenship to foreigners who contribute to social and economic progress. These reforms have been met with mixed reactions. Supporters credit them with improved security, while critics raise concerns about human rights.

Whether this latest initiative will attract the targeted talent and deliver the promised economic boost remains to be seen. However, El Salvador’s open arms present a unique opportunity for skilled workers seeking a new frontier with fast-track citizenship.