The Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
The Eastern Caribbean states, also known as the British West Indies due to their English-speaking heritage and British Commonwealth membership, have long been a tourist destination of dreams.
Today, these idyllic islands attract not only tourists from all over the world – drawn by the beaches, the weather, and the relaxed lifestyle – but also investors looking at alternative “Plan B Passport” citizenships for the future – a secure haven in an increasingly uncertain world.
Citizenship: The Most Valuable Personal Asset
Citizenship is probably the most valuable personal asset we are privileged to hold. It lasts beyond a lifetime: it is inheritable, allowing it to be passed down to future generations. We can lose money and property in business deals, wars or political disputes, but it is much harder under international law to lose citizenship.
In today’s uncertain world, a passport should be regarded as a hard asset. There can be no doubt that people who hold multiple citizenships are rich in freedom and wellbeing.
What is Caribbean Citizenship by Investment?
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment, known as “CBI” for short, refers to Government-run programs focused on achieving the sustainable economic growth and resilience of these island nations, utilizing the grant of citizenship and the resultant passport as an incentive.
CBI programs are also known as “golden passport” or “second passport” programs, but these are misnomers because the main asset is the citizenship not the passport. The passport itself is just a paper booklet that expires and can be renewed, or can be replaced if lost. The passport represents the citizenship, not vice versa. Nonetheless, it is the passport that opens doors when you travel across international borders.
Under CBI programs, citizenship and passport is granted to eligible foreign applicants and their families. After stringent due diligence screening to make sure they are good guys, the applicants make a substantial investment in the country’s economy in return for the citizenship and passport.
The Real Estate sector, government-managed funds, individual businesses and charities are all potential recipients of these investments. The exact CBI investment option chosen depends on the individual seeking citizenship.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programs are diligently regulated by local and regional laws and procedures. They share some common compliance bodies, like the JRCC (discussed below), to ensure their proper functioning and security in a largely and increasingly regulated environment worldwide.
Successful applicants become citizens of these island nations within as little as a few months. The successful applicants benefit from the highest possible level of access as citizens of another country (something that has become very relevant in the post-pandemic era).
Beneficiaries of Caribbean CBI enjoy full access to local economies in which they can settle, expand their business, and raise their children in a safe and peaceful environment – in other words, a viable Plan B for challenging times.
Besides this ultimate access to a country and a region, Caribbean passport holders also benefit from ease of travel to other friendly regions. The historic British Commonwealth connection facilitates access to the UK and Canada, while more recent treaties open doors to European countries such as the Schengen area and even the USA via Grenada’s E-2 treaty. Overall, the Caribbean CBI countries benefit from being small and neutral jurisdictions that maintain friendly diplomatic ties with other nations and economic blocs.
Obtaining a new Caribbean citizenship by investment is win-win: mutually beneficial for the new citizen and their new homeland. CBI facilitates cross-border trade, enhances tax efficiency, enables access to local and international banking and financial institutions, and last but not least aids local economies by creating jobs and fostering resilient economic growth.
CBI naturally foments high end tourism, as new passport holders visit and fall in love with their adopted highlands. This in turn fuels cultural exchange and multiculturalism, as diaspora from different backgrounds converge as citizens or residents in the new country and region. All these perks contribute to reinforce a powerful and rewarding sense of belonging: simultaneously empowering and rewarding for the stakeholders. Citizenship is the ultimate private business and social club!
Which Caribbean Countries offer Citizenship by Investment in 2024?
There are currently five countries that offer citizenship by investment in the Caribbean.
They are:
A lot of people ask: “How much does it cost to acquire a Caribbean passport?” But as will be evident in the rest of this article, it’s not possible to “buy a Caribbean passport.” Citizenship by investment in the Caribbean is based on much more than a contractual relationship: in sharing citizenship and political rights in their nations, Caribbean citizens open the doors to their homelands and their hearts in a way that few other countries do.
The amount of investment required to acquire a Caribbean citizenship fluctuates depending on many variables: the investment route, the family composition (age, number of applicants), nationality of the applicant, etc. This Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Citizenship by Investment will delve further into these details below.
You can calculate the exact costs yourself… but for reasons that will become clear in this article, it’s a good idea to select a government-licensed immigration specialist such as NTL Trust at any early stage of any application. Specialist companies have lots of experience in navigating the intricacies of the programs, from finding the best deal for your family to getting the due diligence process right the first time! They are also regulated and supervised by the governments involved, providing protection against scammers or cowboys who are unfortunately present in the CBI industry.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment - Why should you apply?
A second citizenship from one of the Eastern Caribbean (British West Indies) countries is the best way to safeguard family and wealth – better known colloquially as “ass and assets” – against political and economic instability. Caribbean citizenship also provides a global mobility solution that opens up greater freedom of travel and secure diversification of assets.
At NTL Trust, as global asset protection planners, we believe in the notion that citizenship and residence should be a matter of choice, rather than an accident of birth. The right citizenship and residency can be seminal for the continued and future success of the family and new generations.
Benefits of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
- Freedom:. As the holder of multiple citizenships and passports, you have the highest level of guaranteed access to multiple countries, and are not dependent on just one government.
- No taxation on international income. Even if you are a citizen, as a non-resident you are totally exempt from tax on your worldwide income. Some Eastern Caribbean nations have local income taxes and some don’t, but none of them tax you based on your passport. If you don’t live full time in the islands and don’t have a local job or business, tax will not be one of your worries going forward.
- Tax Residency:. Citizenship by investment does not have any effect on your tax status since most countries tax you based upon residence (the only notable exception to this rule is citizens of the USA, who are taxed based on their passport). Once you have Caribbean citizenship you of course have full residence rights, but no obligation to live there.
- Virtually no residency requirements:. No need to relocate, if not desired. Relocation is an option to keep your doors open - but by no means a requirement.
- Attractive investment opportunities in the bustling tourism sector and real estate:. Real estate in the Eastern Caribbean is an attractive emerging market, as remote working and digital nomadism gain traction. Caribbean real estate is a stable asset that you can leave to future generations and use to create a solid connection with your new country.
Worth noting: You have the possibility to recoup your money after owning the property for a few years of mandatory holding time. A real estate owner can resell the property after the minimum legal holding period, hopefully recovering most of the funds invested or maybe even at a profit. Refer to our Real Estate Hub for further information and recommendations.
- Astounding natural beauty:. Turquoise blue waters, white sand, summer year-round, and idyllic island beauty. You can enjoy fresh food grown in natural conditions on the islands or harvested from the ocean that same day. Healthier lifestyle overall.
- Access to global mobility and regional economic organizations (CARICOM).
- Multicultural education opportunities for the younger generations (from elementary levels of education to University) All the Eastern Caribbean countries are English-speaking with easy access to British-style school opportunities. Higher education often takes young adults off-island to the USA, UK and Canada, but the islands also have international centers of excellence such as the St George’s University in Grenada, the University of the West Indies, or the American University in Antigua.
- Strong statutory asset protection:. Independent of citizenship by investment, you can create legal vehicles such as trusts, LLCs or limited company formations, and open bank accounts in offshore banks. Refer to our Corporate and Family Office sections for more details.
Common Myths about Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
The noisy flow of information in the mainstream media about Caribbean “passports for sale” may be overwhelming and hard to understand. Investors often find themselves misled by myths and fake news propagated online. Let’s have a look at some misconceptions about these programs – where news about citizenship by investment programs has nothing to do with reality:
1. Investors can apply for the citizenship by investment program by themselves.
False. Citizenship by Investment applications must be submitted via government-licensed agents, which are the only companies or individuals authorized to introduce applications to the CBI Units. They are strictly regulated by the CBI authorities under each program. Applicants are not permitted to submit their own applications, which is intentional and operates in their best interest. The process is technical, and the document gathering can be dense with many legal angles to consider, which the average applicant will need assistance with. There are many moving parts that are not immerdiately obvious, such as escrow and banking, background checks and more.
Government staff do not have time and are not trained for a client-facing or “hand holding” role. Licensed experts are, for this reason, required to submit applications. Applicants are safer with the knowledge that they are in the care of professionals that have successfully processed thousands of citizenships by investment applications.
2. The applicant must live in the relevant country to get Caribbean citizenship.
False, but – not surprisingly- this is one of the most popular concerns, probably because of the mix of Caribbean citizenship by naturalization under traditional programmes, versus Caribbean citizenship under Investment-based programmes. Naturalization typically requires residents to live in the country for a set period to become eligible to apply for naturalization, around 5-8 years on average.
Citizenship granted through an investment program typically has no physical presence requirements, no required residence time, and is granted within a matter of months rather than years.
3. Citizenship by Investment is only for the wealthy
False, but let’s admit it: Investment amounts are in the hundreds of thousands. It is not a modest investment, but it is what many people will spend on a home or even a car. Therefore you don’t have to be a millionaire to apply.
Comparatively to other citizenship programs, the Caribbean ones, stand out for being slightly more competitive in terms of how much you are required to invest.
Whilst the ultra-rich with their private planes and super yachts can and do obtain Caribbean passports, the reality of the average applicant is slightly more discreet. Our typical client is a businessperson who has been successful at what they do, has acquired some wealth over the years, and is keen to preserve it.
Some CBI programs require a higher cash outlay than others, because there are other benefits that are less obvious: possibilities to resell and recoup the money invested (in real estate, or government bonds); or the access to new business opportunities, or possible passthrough to the E2 Visa in the US (for Grenadian citizens), more affordable cost of living while enjoying a superior lifestyle, etc.
Some lesser-known benefits might include anything from the highest status and points in hotel loyalty programs, annual hotel or resort stays that can be exchanged worldwide, or domciliation services like a virtual mailbox and telephone line aimed at digital nomads.
Small entrepreneurs can also dive into new local start-ups at a fraction of the investment, they would in other parts of the globe. If proven successful, the new business can be a tool of recovery of the investment amount put into obtaining citizenship.
Bottom line: Many CBI investors are not necessarily HNWI, but middle class business people who appreciate the value of geopolitical diversification.
4. CBI Investment Programs are poorly regulated and have low standards
False. The degree of unmeasured scrutiny and negative perception of the programmes’ practices has grown in the last few years due, undoubtedly, to politics. Most negative opinions are unfounded, but have caused a poor perception in some circles of the Caribbean programmes’ credibility.
Lack of transparency, low investment requirements and source of funds concerns have dominated the narrative around the programs. These perceptions are – at minimum – exaggerated and do not respond to reality. Every few years the programs conduct reviews of their practices, review of the legislation and overall dynamic, that prompt changes to strengthen its operation. The Caribbean Programs are responsible vehicles with the humble purpose of aiding local economies for the wellbeing of their societies.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment comparisons
“I need the best Citizenship by Investment Program” and “What’s the top Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Program” are frequently asked questions.
Obviously, a future citizenship should fulfill the applicant’s (and family’s) needs. Every situation is different, as much as every family can be, however the variables to consider can be common. At any rate, a smarter question to ask could be: “What is the best Caribbean CBI Program for me?” “Which island is the most suited for my circumstances?” Each consideration is personal, is contextual and circumstantial.
Besides that of course, the investment opportunities differ between programs and this will be an important factor for many.
Caribbean Passport power rankings
Often when choosing a particular Caribbean citizenship by investment program, investors will stumble upon one or other of the “Passport Rankings.” Various think-tanks and commercial groups produce global rankings of countries according to the freedom of travel that their passports afford. This is measured in terms of visa-free travel, visa on arrival.
These ranking lists compare around 200 passports according to the number of countries their holders can travel to visa-free. This is not always a decisive factor for choosing a particular country for Caribbean citizenship, but for the feeling of freedom of movement, the number of visa-free countries is usually an important part of the analysis.
Rankings are sometimes biased, and most people realistically only want to travel to key countries like the USA, Canada, Europe and the UK. So, by all means study the rankings as part of your research, but don’t be swayed too much by them.
- Below is a snapshot of the best passports as of 2024-2025 in the Caribbean
RANKING
COUNTRY
VISA-FREE DESTINATIONS
26th
St. Kitts & Nevis
147
30th
Antigua & Barbuda
143
32nd
St. Lucia
139
34th
Grenada
137
37th
Dominica
133
Investment Options for Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
The Caribbean is a region that includes a group of many island nations. As we already covered above, it is difficult to overestimate the advantages of Caribbean citizenship by investment programs – in a short time and with relatively small investments, you and your family members will receive a second passport that opens many borders of the world… you will gain a “Plan B” in case of unforeseen circumstances… and you will be able to optimize taxes for yourself by being firmly in control of your identity and future.
Availability of programs:
With a reasonable investment, you and your family can become Caribbean citizens and passport holders in a few months.
Caribbean Investment Options
Donating to a government fund or NGO
This is one of the easiest and most attractive ways to acquire Caribbean citizenship by investment. All money received through the fund is used for the development of the country’s infrastructure, medicine, tourism, health, education, and other social services. St Kitts and Nevis for example offers the “Public Benefit Option” allowing you to choose more specifically hope your donation is channeled and to receive certain in-kind incentives from the beneficiary organization such as hotel nights, virtual office services, or even the right to participate in a movie! Alternatively, there is an opportunity to contribute to the University of the West Indies Educational Fund in Antigua & Barbuda. This route of investment is particularly relevant for families with 6 applicants or more.
Purchasing Real Estate, in government-approved developments (hotels, resorts, private homes, etc.)
This option is also very popular among investors, as they can resell the property or their shareholding interest after some years and recover most or all of their original investment. St Kitts and Nevis is unique in that it also has the option to invest in any real estate in the open market, rather than just specifically “approved” projects.
Other alternative investment options
It is currently possible to invest in a business of choice in two of the countries (Antigua & Barbuda and St. Lucia). It’s worth noting that other islands are also generally open to granting citizenships for substantial business investments that create jobs for locals, even if their legislation does not specifically allow for it. As a large foreign investor, you can sit down and negotiate your own programme with the government.
Investing in Government Bonds
Non-interest bearing with redemption of the principal at maturity – this option currently exists only in St Lucia.
Procedure for obtaining Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
The day when you decide to opt for the Citizenship by Investment program has come. What should you do, and what steps must be taken to obtain the coveted passport and citizenship?
1. Sign up with a Licensed Agent
First, you need to contact a licensed agent, since governments of these countries do not directly accept applications from investors. A licensed agent is a firm or individual duly accredited, regulated and/or licensed to provide CBI-related services.
NTL Trust is one such licensed company that provides citizenship by investment services in multiple countries, including the five Caribbean jurisdictions and also Türkiye and Vanuatu. Applicants must meet the statutory requirements of the programs. We are accredited variously as local agents, authorized promoters and marketing agents in different Caribbean jurisdictions. (For details see our Licenses).
As a first step, the agent will conduct a pre-screening on the applicant and any family member above 16 using standard online due diligence tools. This preventive measure is not an eligibility confirmation tool, but it helps to identify any potential issues and address them early on. For example – if there is someone on an international blacklist who has a name similar to yours, this issue will be identified early on so we can make sure that it doesn’t cause problems as we get deeper into the application.
In very few cases, the agent’s recommendation may be not to apply if the applicant’s background does not align with the Program’s eligibility criteria. A rejected application will become a disqualifier for any of the other Caribbean programs, thus it is desirable to avoid a denial. Situations like false positives matching the client to another individual or individuals with adverse background, are properly addressed and clarified with NTL Trust’s internal screening, done before the submission of an application starts.
The background history (CV) of the main applicant and any applicant above 16, acquires great relevance as interviews with the CBI authorities have become mandatory across all programmes in recent years. These interviews are often focused on the applicant’s background and will usually test the representations made in the submitted documentation. The interviewers will dig further into any due diligence findings unveiled by the due diligence bodies.
These mandatory interviews are a good example of how all the CBI programs have enhanced standards to make the programs more secure and in line with international compliance laws and anti-money-laundering regulations.
2. Gathering documents
The next step is the collection of the application documents (and forms). The investor and NTL Trust closely collaborate in preparing and documenting the application. This stage is based on the checklist and criteria, and its goal is to generate a compliant application file as quickly as possible.
This collaborative phase is defined by the principle of proactive disclosure. The applicant is not to omit any information that may be unveiled by the programme’s background investigations. Sometimes people might have genuinely forgotten about a negative incident like a bankruptcy long ago, but failure to declare such things is considered to be evidence of an intention to hide things. The authorities understandably take a very dim view of this.
Sometimes clients like to collect their own documents before signing with the CBI agent. This is not advisable. First of all, you are paying for the service of the agent in the preparatory phase, so you might as well use the service you are paying for. The Agent will have lots of experience handling the paperwork and will be able to answer your questions quickly and efficiently.
On the other hand, the CBI agent will probably be unkeen to get into details on the document preparation before you have signed a contract and made a financial committment. It’s not reasonable to expect the agent to take on this work, that amounts to specialist legal advice, without any committment from the client’s side.
3. Submission of documents and background checks
Upon formal submission of the application, the due diligence begins. For this, the CBI units engage the services of reputable companies such as Dun and Bradstreet, Thomson Reuters, Kroll and similar prime names in the industry. Each applicant above 16 is screened and checked.
Each jurisdiction has its own pace for this stage of the process, but the timing is ultimately connected to how complex the investigations can be: geography of the source of information; geopolitics; the nature of the information to be investigated, how many jurisdictions has one person resided in during the 10 years preceding the application, etc. Timescales for due diligence vary, however, these steps can take from a few weeks up to 6 months, according to our recent experience.
Alongside the private international due diligence checks, governments also run their own checks, relying on inter-governmental channels. The best known of these is Interpol, but the Caribbean governments also have backchannels to important development partners like the USA, UK and the European Union to run checks. For example, if you have applied for a visa to one of these countries in the past and been refused, this will come up during the due diligence checks. There is also a coordination centre called the JRCC where Caribbean nations share information amongst themselves on potential security threats.
Queries are a normal occurrence at the due diligence stage. The applicant must reply to and explain any questions raised by the Units during the processing of an application. Also, CIU might send additional requests to which the agent responds – consulting with you if necessary.
These incidents also expand the processing time of an application. You can now see, therefore, why processing will be faster if everything is clearly explained and documented from the beginning.
4. Decision of the CBI Committee
The last step of processing is the final decision: whether or not to accept the application. This decision is taken by various people – the exact roles depend on the jurisdiction, but they are typically government employees and/or a well qualified committee of local professionals.
The decision makers will review in detail the files received regarding background checks, interviews etc together with the explanations given by the clients.
The vast majority of applications are approved, but if there is a hint of doubt about the bona fides of the applicant, their source of funds or even their family members, the decsion makers will likely err on the side of caution and reject the application.
Again, this is why the CBI agent’s role is so important. The agent is your advocate throughout, making sure that the information is properly and completely presented to minimise the possibility of rejection.
5. Payment of the Investment
If an application is approved, the investment amount must be paid, according to the chosen route. Payment is not necessarily simply a question of wiring the money. Due to the scrutiny of recent years and general compliance pressure on banks, banks at both ends are likely to raise queries and difficulties. Your CBI agent will of course have discussed this with you in advance and decided on the best strategy to transfer the funds. Sometimes alternative payment methods like crypto currency work best.
Once the investment is made and the payment has cleared, the Certificates of Registration as citizen are issued, followed by the new passports. Both documents are sent to the applicant, according to the courier instructions, or handed over personally as agreed.
Each of these steps of the application process can be completed thoroughly and expertly with the assistance of a capable CBI agent, familiar with the procedure for obtaining citizenship by investment.
How much does a Caribbean Golden Passport cost?
“How much does a Caribbean passport cost?” In this section we will answer that question.
It varies by country, but they are all in the region of around US$ 50 for a standard passport up to US$ 500 for a premium, expedited service with all the bells and whistles.
Of course, you are not buying a “golden passport”. A “golden” passport is just a term coined by the media, referring to a travel document issued by a government under a Citizenship by Investment Program. The passport, in fact, always remains property of the government that issued it, so no individual can “own” a passport.
The “golden” passport, that is more likely blue or green in reality, is actually just a small part of the deal. If you lose it, it can be replaced. If it expires or its pages are full of stamps, it can be renewed. The important thing is to get the passport, you must first be a citizen of the country in question.
So if you’re not already a citizen of one of these Caribbean countries, the correct question to ask is “how much do I need to invest in order to qualify for Citizenship by Investment?”
The total dollar amount required for Caribbean citizenship through investment varies from program to program but it generally depends on the number of applicants, their ages, the type of relationship with the main applicant (child, parent, sibling etc), and the investment route chosen. In addition to investment itself, there are additional costs imposed by each program such as processing fees, due diligence fees, legal and escrow fees, banking fees etc.
So, what is the minimum amount an applicant must invest to obtain a Caribbean citizenship? For the exact information, visit our country pages:
You can also reach out to us, using the website form, to set up a call with an NTL Trust expert and receive a personalized comparison and quotation.
Hot Tip: If you are looking beyond the Caribbean, you might also consider at this stage Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment. Vanuatu is in the South Pacific, but it’s another British Commonwealth member state that operates a CBI programme. It’s comparable in many ways with the Caribbean CBI programmes in terms of the benefits and investment requirements.
Caribbean Real Estate Investment as a path to the passport
One of the easiest and most popular routes to qualify for Caribbean CBI is to invest in real estate. For this reason, at NTL Trust we have set up a dedicated section on our website called the Real Estate Hub. Here you will find examples of recommended, updated and verified projects that can qualify you for CBI naturalization.
Nonetheless, in this section of the Ultimate Guide, we will get into some more depth about the main features of Caribbean Real Estate investment opportunities.
To qualify under the real-estate route, the starting point is for the investor to enter into a contract with a CBI-approved developer to purchase approved real estate with a certain minimum value.
The real estate purchase contracts are signed initially, but their validity is normally contingent upon the application’s approval. (Check this last point: it’s not obligatory, and you don’t want to be landed with real estate you can’t visit if your application is denied for any reason!).
Currently, the highest minimum real estate investment threshold in the Caribbean corresponds to St. Kitts & Nevis, where the minimum investment is US$ 400,000 in approved developments, or US$ 800,000 in open-market properties.
The majority of investors prefer to go in with the minimum amount, and therefore there are plenty of developer offers around this amount. Of course, there is no maximum and you can also qualify for CBI investing a larger amount. This will certainly be worthwhile if you are a lifestyle buyer or major investor who plans to spend time on-island in your own villa, for example.
Once purchase contracts are executed, the deposit becomes due and is payable into a designated escrow account operated by a suitably-licensed professional or trust company in the jurisdiction. The application can be submitted once the funds in escrow have cleared.
By the way, it’s important to note that the funds must, by law, flow into the island. Of course, your agent or a third party can play a role in helping you get the funds there, for example via a crypto exchange – but ultimately the funds will have to be in the jurisdiction before citizenship is granted. Do not let anyone tell you that you can use escrow facilities in other jurisdictions because this practice, previously common, is now illegal and you might lose your funds.
Once the processing of the application is completed and approval is granted, the real estate contracts become valid, and investment can be concluded by disbursing the purchase price.
Usually, the property can be resold after a minimum holding period, which depending on the country and the investment amount, can range from 3 to 7 years. You can refer to the exact details, country by country, below or by talking to one of our expert client advisors.
CBI clients are desirable investors, so authorized real estate developments work hard to ensure that purchase and ownership is a hassle-free experience. At the same time, tourism is the future driving force behind the islands’ economy and the governments are keen to maintain quality construction in the sector.
Buying real estate in the Caribbean may well be a good decision for the investor while the Caribbean real estate prices vary depending on the country. On the other hand, like any real estate investment, there is risk involved. Check out our Real Estate Hub to see what real estate projects will suit you the most!
Real Estate Investment Benefits
- Simple process – can be completed remotely
- Tangible assets – can be resold in future.
- Physical substance and connection to the country
- Potential return on and of investment – rental income and resale
Benefits to Country
- Short term jobs – Construction
- Long term jobs – Operation
- Builds the Country’s tourism infrastructure
- Multiplier effect
- Tourism boost leads to higher GDP.
Negatives
- More upfront cash outlay.
There is contractual real estate documentation added in this route. Some extra amounts may need to be paid by way of titling or stamp duties. In some cases, developers may cover these as an incentive, but always check to be sure and avoid any last minute surprises!
As for the real estate offerings, investors will be surprised by the number of real estate options that they can buy to obtain Caribbean citizenship by investment.
- One of the biggest benefits in this option is that you can resell the Property
MINIMUM HOLDING PERIOD (YEARS)
COUNTRIES
3
Dominica
5
Grenada
5
Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia
7
St. Kitts & Nevis
Caribbean Real Estate versus European Real Estate
Usually the family’s specific goals and needs will determine the country of choice to purchase real estate. This question arose because a lot of readers asked us to compare Caribbean vs European real estate. Of course, they are completely different animals.
The confusion likely arises because besides the Caribbean countries offering CBI, a number of European countries like Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, Hungary and Greece, offer or have offered Golden Visa programs.
The Caribbean CBI programs, although their passports might grant visa-free access to Europe, are definitely not intended for people who want to live in Europe full time. In other words – with a Caribbean passport you can visit Europe, and buy real estate in Greece for example, but you will not obtain European citizenship until you have lived some years in Europe. Currently the shortest naturalization period in Europe is Cyprus, starting with 3 years depending on other factors.
So really, there is no comparison between European and Caribbean real estate. They are two different markets for different purposes.
There is an interesting twist however – Caribbean citizenships can be used to apply for European residency under European Golden Visa programs. If your passport of origin does not permit you to apply under European regulations, obtaining Caribbean CBI might be a solution to look into. This is completely irrespective of any visa-free travel, since a Golden Visa does not rely on visa-free travel.
Is Caribbean real estate a good option for creating nexus and substance?
Caribbean real estate investment is a good choice for those investors who want not only citizenship by investment, but also to create a stronger connection with the future home country. We believe that in the future, this physical connection will increase its political and societal importance.
Remember that political pressure on CBI and Golden Visa programmes is generally aimed at those who do not want to integrate or create a nexus in the destination country.
Remember, nobody is complaining about naturalization programs that are offered by almost every country of the world, creating millions of new citizens every year. Naturalization in general, and CBI in particular, is more politically acceptable if there is a close connection to the island besides the actual citizenship. CBI via real estate goes a long way towards solving this political problem. Owning real estate demonstrates a long-term interest and commitment.
Also, owning a Caribbean property may bring benefits to the investor, as they can resell it and recover their money. There are clear lifestyle benefits: jetsetters, actors, celebrities, businesspeople, and royalty have long loved the Caribbean as a place to relax and enjoy a private, luxurious lifestyle. There’s a reason why so many James Bond movies have featured the Caribbean!
What is the average Real Estate Investment return in the Caribbean?
If you are planning to resell your property after the mandatory holding period, clearly your return depends on the price you will sell your real estate for.
ROI (year on year rental income) must normally be shared with a management company and is therefore negligible. Bear in mind that the main return on investment is the actual citizenship.
Please, contact NTL Trust to get more information and calculations based on your personal circumstances.
Let’s now look at every country that offers a Citizenship by Investment program.
St. Kitts & Nevis
The stunning Caribbean nation of St. Kitts & Nevis (also known as St Christopher and Nevis) is a country made up of twin islands with a Federal system of government. The larger island is St. Kitts, which is home to the country’s capital of Basseterre, and the smaller one, more secluded Nevis that has charmed celebrities and royalty seeking discretion, sophistication, peace and quiet for decades.
St Kitts & Nevis, one of the smallest countries in the Caribbean region, boasts a reputation and economy much bigger than its size. A highly frequented tourist destination and cruise liner port, Port Zante in downtown Basseterre, St. Kitts is well known throughout the tourism realm.
The island’s natural beauty, stunning topography, magnificent cuisine, serene shores, unique culture, and friendly population have made it one of the world’s most interesting places to visit.
Alongside its growing tourism sector, St. Kitts & Nevis’ economy is bolstered by its agriculture sector, focusing on spices and fruit. The islands, more specifically Nevis, are also home to an impressive financial services and banking sector. Nevis, in particular, is home to one of the world’s most interesting wealth management services sectors, allowing high net worth individuals to perform crucial tax planning and to utilize asset protection tools such as offshore trusts and bank accounts to safeguard their hard-earned money while also obtaining an invaluable standard of privacy.
Walking around the quaint Nevisian capital of Charlestown, also known as “Queen City” or the Queen of the Caribees, you would never imagine that multi-million dollar offshore finance deals might be taking place online behind closed doors.
However, there is one more foundation for the Caribbean nation’s economy: the St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment program. The St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship program, established in 1984, has become a major contributor to the Federation’s economy, bringing in unencumbered foreign investment to bolster the nation’s economic sustainability, real estate development, and tourism sector.
Overview of the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
The St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment program is the oldest of its kind in the world. It was established in 1984 on independence from the remnants of the British Empire, when the new country changed the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship Act. The St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship program was the only one of its kind for almost a decade, allowing St. Kitts & Nevis to carve a name for itself in the world of investment migration. Since then, the government of St. Kitts & Nevis, through its Citizenship by Investment Unit, has continued to improve and evolve its program to cater to global investors from every part of the globe.
Investment Routes
The premise of the St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship program is simple: applicants who meet the government set criteria can apply and acquire citizenship if they make an investment into one of the following options:
- A real estate purchase for no less than US$ 325,000
- Private Home Sales for US$ 325,000 for condo living or, US$ 600,000 for single family private dwelling.
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) starting at US$ 250,000 for a single applicant or for a family up to four persons.
- The Public Benefit Option (PBO) where the minimum investment per application is US$ 250,000 in an Approved Public Benefit Project.
Criteria to qualify for St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment
Once the main applicant has chosen their preferred investment route, they will have to meet a simple set of criteria to qualify for St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment, which are:
- Absence of criminal records
- Clean background reputation otherwise
- A minimum age of 18 years
- Make a qualified investment
- Submit a compliant application package.
- Be in good health and free of contagious diseases.
- No prior visa refusal in any country with which St Kitts & Nevis holds a visa-free agreement (typically UK and Schengen)
Restricted countries
It is important to note that due to political and due diligence restrictions, nationals of the following countries are not eligible to apply for the St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment program (even if they meet the required criteria set out by the government)
- Iran
- Afghanistan
- North Korea
- Belarus
- Iraq
- Russia
The Steps to Obtain St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship
The process is straight-forward, taking on average between six to nine months for an investor to obtain St. Kitts & Nevis’ citizenship by investment. There are no residency requirements, nor a need to travel to the islands. The processing of the application is done remotely through the authorized agent.
Mandatory interviews are now compulsory for all applicants over 16 years of age either virtually or in-person, at the discretion of the CBI Unit. Successful applicants are now also required to pick up their certificate and passport either in person in St Kitts & Nevis or at a Consulate.
The application process for obtaining St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment is very simple and requires just a few steps to be completed:
The Steps for a Smooth Processing of an Application
- Based on personal or video meetings, NTL Trust studies and recommends the best investment option, at which point the applicant must confirm their choice of investment.
- Signing a contract with NTL Trust. A written agreement and payment of a deposit are important for both sides to feel committed.
- Collecting the required documentation and filling out the relevant application forms. This is done by NTL Trust and the client, or sometimes with the client’s family office or lawyers. The relevant documents, along with the application form, are then submitted to the Citizenship by Investment Unit in St. Kitts & Nevis.
- St. Kitts & Nevis’ Citizenship by Investment Unit will then conduct a deep-dive due diligence process on the primary applicant and any adult family members (above 16 years of age) included in the application, and they will review the documentation.
- Once due diligence is complete, St. Kitts & Nevis’ Citizenship by Investment Unit will decide on the application. The decision will be sent in a letter from the CBI Unit to the agent.
- Successful applicants must make their investment prior to being granted citizenship. Be aware that due to international banking procedures on high risk transactions, the payment process may take some time. It’s therefore advisable to open Caribbean bank or trust accounts in advance so that the funds can be in your name and ready to go.
- Once the investment is completed, St. Kitts & Nevis’ government will issue citizenship certificates (known as Certificates of Registration) to the applicant. Following that, the issue of passports is a routine administrative matter just like for any other citizen of the country.
Once the main applicant and their family members obtain their St. Kitts & Nevis passport, they can of course use it immediately. Once the passport expires, it can be renewed directly via official channels.
The Benefits of the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
The St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment program offers a wide array of perpetual, lifelong benefits for investors and their families to enjoy.
The government in St. Kitts & Nevis continues to enhance the requisites of the program, as they deem it befitting to increase the traditional standards. Siblings are eligible dependents. The following are additional benefits that everyone can enjoy:
Dual or multiple citizenship is permitted in St Kitts and Nevis.
Enhanced global travel
- The St. Kitts & Nevis passport is one of the most powerful worldwide as it currently ranks 26th overall.
- The St. Kitts & Nevis passport provides its holder a stable and safe economic environment.
- The St. Kitts & Nevis government continuously strives to acquire greater political and economic stability for its passport by signing more bilateral treaties with countries all over the world, meaning that the passport can continue getting stronger.
Family Friendly
- The main applicant can include as many eligible family members as needed, if they are financially dependent on the main applicant or spouse, are free of any criminal records, and meet the age criteria. A main applicant could potentially add their spouse, dependent children below 25 years of age, dependent parents, and grandparents above 55 years of age. The dependent unmarried siblings of the main applicant are also welcomed to the application.
Optimal Wealth management solutions
- The twin island Federation has a humming financial services center and a global banking solution scene. It has led to various investors from all parts of the globe to seek and implement wealth management solutions in St. Kitts & Nevis.
- The smaller island of Nevis has various international banks and many private financial institutions such as Trust Companies that help investors conduct global financial activities in a secure, well regulated environment.
- Offshore foundations and Nevis trusts are a great option in St. Kitts & Nevis, as the government regulations ensure that they are safely tucked away from harmful actors, global threats and political instability.
Evolved tax structuring
- St. Kitts & Nevis is considered by many as one of the world’s most tax friendly nations. The country has never implemented any tax on worldwide personal income, and besides this there are attractive incentives on corporate income tax for businesses to maximize profits.
- St. Kitts & Nevis does not impose capital gains, inheritance, or wealth tax on its citizens and residents: allowing those who obtain St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment to efficiently plan their tax obligations while offering them a legal corridor to minimize their tax burdens.
Adding future generations of family members
- St. Kitts & Nevis allows a main applicant who already qualified for citizenship by investment to obtain it also for future family members.
- A main applicant who was single at the time of application can add their spouse once they get married. They will have to pay any required fees, but they will not need to make a completely new application to obtain citizenship for the new spouse.
- In the case where the real estate purchase option was the original investment route chosen, only government, due diligence, and processing fees, must be paid to add a new spouse as the investment amount itself remains constant no matter the family size.
- For the donation, the investment varies depending on the family size and composition.
- St Kitts & Nevis recognizes marriage or a family unit to be made up of a male husband and a female wife. Either spouse may be the principal applicant. Members of families of other compositions are welcome to apply as individuals but cannot apply as families.
Crypto-friendly government
- One of the most intriguing aspects of St. Kitts & Nevis is its wide acceptance of cryptocurrencies. The country is home to many crypto investors, various shops that accept payment in cryptocurrency, and even Bitcoin ATMs.
- Another important aspect for cryptocurrency investors, besides the ability to seamlessly trade cryptocurrency, is that the government does not impose taxes on profits from trading cryptocurrency. As there are no capital gains or worldwide income taxes, there is no mechanism for taxing cryptocurrency profits.
- International Banks in St. Kitts & Nevis have also started rolling out specialized services for cryptocurrency investors, quickly realizing the need for them within the growing crypto community within the twin island federation.
Easy passports renewal
- Renewing a St. Kitts & Nevis passport is a quick and simple process that can be done remotely via a courier service.
- The St. Kitts & Nevis passport also has a long validity compared to many passports around the world, as it has a validity of ten years. Applicants who travel frequently can also request a new passport booklet any time it is necessary, which starts the clock ticking on a new 10 year validity period.
Appealing investment options
- One of the most appealing aspects of the St. Kitts & Nevis program is that it offers investors the chance to invest in idyllic real estate projects. Review our Real Estate Hub for further details.
- Through the real estate investment option, applicants can choose to invest in actual property or buy shares in luxury resorts on the island. They can rent out the property or earn a return through dividends, depending on their investment choice.
- The real estate investment option opens the door for investors to make a profit from their investment while upholding a second citizenship.
Costs of St. Kitts & Nevis CBI
The various investment routes offered by SKN vary in pricing and structure. This variety allows investors to choose the option that best suits them, their budget, and overall objectives. The fees common to all these routes as follows:
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main applicant:
US$ 10,000
Spouse and each dependent 16 years of age and over:
US$ 7,500
PROCESSING FEES:
Application Processing fee per person:
US$ 250
Certificate of Registration fee per person:
US$ 50
I. Donation to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
The contribution to the government’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC). is a one-time, non-refundable monetary disbursement that investors make once their citizenship is approved. The table below highlights the St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship cost associated with the SISC investment option:
DONATION TO THE SUSTAINABLE ISLAND STATE CONTRIBUTION (SISC):
Main applicant or a family of up to four persons:
US$ 250,000
Each additional dependent under 18:
US$ 25,000
Each additional dependent aged 18 or over:
US$ 50,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main applicant:
US$ 10,000
Spouse and each dependent 16 years of age and over:
US$ 7,500
PROCESSING FEES:
Application processing fee per person:
US$ 250
Certificate of Registration fee per person:
US$ 50
*Upon submission of an application non-refundable due diligence fee must be paid.
The Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) donation is an excellent option for investors who do not want to deal with a mandatory holding period, or for smaller families that want to minimize the total outlay as much as possible.
II. The Real Estate Investment route
The real estate investments option allows investors to purchase property or shares in government approved real estate projects in St. Kitts & Nevis. The minimum investment is US$ 325,000 and the property must have a valid designation by the Committee as an approved real estate project. An investor must hold on to their investment for at least seven years before resale.
Alternatively, to resorts and hotels, an Approved Private Home can also be purchased under the Citizenship by Investment Program. Two price levels apply in this case:
- Investing in a Condominium unit for a minimum of US$ 325,000
- Investing in a Single-Family Dwelling for a minimum of US$ 600,000
The minimum holding period is also 7 years at both options. During that time, the investor is of course free to rent out their property for income, or if they bought a share, they could earn profits through annual dividends paid by the resort. The investment amount for real estate remains constant no matter how many family members are included. Like the rest of the investment options, applicants must pay due diligence and processing fees.
Applicants choosing the real estate option must also pay an additional government fee for each person included in the application. The table below highlights the amounts required for a real estate investment (single applicant, family of four (or more):
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT:
Minimum investment:
US$ 325,000
GOVERNMENT FEES*:
Main applicant:
US$ 25,000
Spouse:
US$ 15,000
Each additional dependent under 18:
US$ 10,000
Each additional dependent aged 18 or over:
US$ 15,000
*Real Estate Investment & Application Fee is due post application pre-approval.
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Investor:
US$ 10,000
Spouse and each dependent 16 years of age and over:
US$ 7,500
PROCESSING FEES:
Application fee per applicant:
US$ 250
Certificate of Registration fee per person:
US$ 50
The real estate option is an excellent choice for investors who wish to recoup the majority of their investment, or for those who are aiming to make a profit during the holding period. It is also good for larger families as the investment amount remains constant and it is only the associated fees that increase as more family members are added to the application.
III. The Public Benefit Option
The Alternative Investment Option (AIO) under the previous legislation was replaced by the Public Benefit Option (PBO) where the minimum investment per application is US$ 250,000 in an Approved Public Benefit Project.
Only Approved Public Benefit Projects qualify for the PBO. Investors of such developments are required to apply to the Board of Governors of the CIU to be designated as Approved Public Benefactor, whereby they can apply to have their investments designated as Approved Public Benefit Projects.
Dominica
The green Caribbean Island nation of Dominica is one of the most popular Caribbean countries due to its amazing natural scenery and stunning culture.
Dominica is often confused with the Dominican Republic. Dominican Republic is another Caribbean country, but is a much larger Spanish speaking country located further north, bordering Haiti. Dominican Republic does not have any CBI programme.
Dominica is a small, neutral and friendly English speaking country, formally known as the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Although it has a small population of just over 70,000 people, Dominica does have a large impact within its region. A member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dominica plays an important role in the region’s economic and the regional CBI community.
English is the official and predominant language in Dominica. The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), pegged to the USD, provides great economic stability. Dominica remains a popular tourist destination, and it is one of the major cruise liner destination ports, making it a familiar nation among many tourists in the Western Hemisphere.
Dominica’s global fame can also be attributed to its illustrious citizenship by investment program, which allows a foreign national to be granted Dominican citizenship based on an investment that benefits the country.
The local government is strongly committed to transparency. It consistently publishes the official figures stemming from the CBI Program, and the budgetary appropriations of the investment funds in any given year. It is notable how the country has attained major projects fostering the island’s development, directly benefiting its population (i.e., stable low-income housing, expanded airport infrastructure construction and the world’s longest cable car in recent years). The CBI Program makes all this possible.
CBI is a win-win deal. It has elevated the country’s prospects, and investors who wish to take part in this noble project, are welcomed. This guide will highlight how to obtain Citizenship by Investment in Dominica.
Origins of the Program
Dominica launched its citizenship by investment program in 1993 by modifying its citizenship act, just nine years after St. Kitts & Nevis launched the first ever Program in the Caribbean. Dominica’s is therefore one of the most senior CBI Programs worldwide. The legal framework is quite similar to that of St. Kitts & Nevis, and to other sister programs in the region.
The Dominica model, however, is singular in that it follows perceivably stringent rules on the banking side. Unlike on the other Caribbean islands, in Dominica there is only one bank that handles CBI transactions: the National Bank of Dominica. Dominated by a tight implementation of KYC and AML policies,the National Bank therefore serves as the de facto gatekeeper to the processing and approval of a CBI application. Dominica’s program has therefore laid a roadmap to produce a formidable program with distinctive strengths.
Investment Routes
The Commonwealth of Dominica Citizenship by Investment program has a very simple premise; investors who contribute to the country’s economy through one of the two investment routes will qualify for citizenship. The only two authorized routes to Citizenship by Investment in Dominica are:
- A direct non-refundable contribution to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund.
- The acquisition of government approved real estate.
Dominica allows dual citizenship, so an investor who qualifies for Dominica citizenship by investment may also retain their previous citizenship.
These simplified routes to gaining a second citizenship have attracted investors from every part of the globe, those seeking a Plan B for their families, and those whose passports offer limited global mobility. A Dominica passport is a very powerful travel document, allowing its holder visa-free travel to a variety of highly desirable locations, thus eliminating the hassles and humiliations of visa applications.
Eligibility Criteria
The requirements of the Dominica CBI program are straightforward.
As in other Caribbean countries, an investor must do so through a government approved and authorized agent or promoter. The agent will assist the applicant, walking them through the hoops of the process.
To qualify, applicants must meet the criteria set out by law, as seen below:
- Minimal age: 18 years old.
- No criminal records.
- Make a qualifying investment under one of the two approved categories.
- Be in good health with no contagious diseases.
- No visa denials in any country with which Dominica has visa-free travel agreements.
- Submit a full citizenship application through one of the government’s authorized agents.
The rule concerning no prior visa rejections can be overcome if, after the date of rejection, the applicant was subsequently able to obtain a visa for the same country. The adverse denial record is removed with the ulterior which makes any applicant in such a situation eligible to apply. The purpose of this rule by the Program is to maintain good international relations and protect all the visa free agreements and treaties Dominica has in place.
Restricted and banned Countries
Another criterion that applies in Dominica deals with nationality. There are fully banned nationalities and partially banned nationalities.
Applicants born in Sudan and North Koreans, are eligible under the program if:
- They have not lived in those countries for the past ten years.
- They have no substantial assets in those countries.
- They have not conducted business or have economic ties in those countries.
Fully- banned nationalities are:
Russia, Belorussia, Yemen, and Iraqis from Northern Iraq.
This specific ban on applicants from the north of Iraq is unique to Dominica. It covers the Kurdistan region of Iraq, namely applicants from the cities of Erbil, Amedi, Dahuk, Kirkuk, Lalish, Raniya, Soran, Sulaymaniyah and Zakho. This regionalized restriction is due to complications verifying documents in these areas of origin, and it is expected to be lifted in future once extra due diligence procedures have been implemented in Iraq.
Due diligence process
All applicants must, of course, also pass the Dominica government’s due diligence screening.
The due diligence process is the backbone of the Dominica Program. It guarantees that prospective applicants are not a threat to the safety and security of the nation, its citizens, and residents. It protects Dominican citizens, new and old, from security and reputational risks.
The background checks are conducted by renowned experts who specialize in these types of investigations. If an applicant is currently facing criminal charges but has not yet been convicted, the advice would be to wait and apply once the matter is resolved without a conviction. In the case of civil and administrative processes an applicant may be involved in at the time of the application, NTL Trust will advise how to approach the submission in these cases, to ensure a smooth processing and successful outcome.
Custodial battles involving children which are included in the application should also be treated expertly, as some conditions will apply such as the consent of the non-applicant parent. NTL Trust will guide the applicants in such circumstances to secure a positive response.
Elgible Family members
The Dominica citizenship by investment program has the same category of eligible family members as its sister Programs, however, last year the siblings were excluded from the permitted category, any sibling wanting to apply, must do it separately, under the financial sponsorship of the main applicant.
The family members that qualify as dependents under the Dominica citizenship by investment program are:
- A spouse of the main applicant.
- A financially dependent minor child of the main applicant or spouse of the main applicant who is under 18 years of age.
- A child of the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant under the age of thirty years but above the age of 18 years who is in full time attendance at a higher learning institution and is fully financially dependent on main applicant or the main applicant’s spouse.
- An unmarried daughter of the main applicant or the spouse who is under 25 years and resides with the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant and is fully financially supported by the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant.
- A child of the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant who is physically or mentally challenged and who is substantially supported by the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant no matter the age of the child.
- Dependent parents or grandparents of the main applicant or the dependent parents or grandparents of the spouse of the main applicant. The dependent parents and grandparents must be above the age of 65 years who are financially supported by the main applicant or the spouse of the main applicant.
The Steps to Obtain Dominica Citizenship
The steps to gaining Dominica citizenship by investment can be summarized quite neatly as follows:
- Signing a contract with NTL Trust
- NTL Trust studies and recommends the best investment option, at which point the applicant must confirm their choice of investment.
- Collecting the required documentation and filling out the relevant application forms. The citizenship documents, along with the application, are then sent to the Citizenship by Investment Unit in Dominica.
- The CBI Unit in Dominica will then conduct a due diligence process on the primary applicant and any adult family members (above 16 years of age) included in the application, and they will review the documentation.
- Once due diligence is complete, the Unit will decide the application. The decision will be sent in a letter from the CBI Unit. Successful applicants must make their investment prior to be granted citizenship.
- Once the investment is completed, Dominica’s government will issue passports and citizenship certificates to the applicant who will receive the originals via prime courier service sent by NTL Trust, to the instructed address.
Choosing the Right Investment Option
Financial analysis is vital, and it is best done by experts in the field. Choosing the right investment option will influence the total outlay. It may aid in managing future repercussions such as gaining profits or minimizing the tax burden. Understanding the intricacies of what investment option to choose and how it will affect an investor is paramount, which is why NTL Trust has devoted a team to help clients make a financial plan that aligns with their citizenship by investment objectives.
The Benefits of the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program
There are multiple benefits to gaining Dominica citizenship. We present below some of them.
Enhanced global travel
- The Dominica passport ranks 37th worldwide.
- As international traveling becomes more exclusive, getting a passport with a high quality and high-count travel ability is crucial.
Evolved tax structuring
- Dominica is considered a very tax friendly nation. Dominica’s government does not impose tax for non-residents on global income, capital gains tax, inheritance taxes, or wealth tax.
- Getting a second citizenship from Dominica potentially allows investors to restructure their tax framework in a favorable manner.
Comfortable business environment
- Dominica has an active financial center and is rapidly becoming a major business hub in the region. With the new international airport and the world’s longest cable car project, Dominica is set to elevate its tourism-based economy even further.
- By becoming a Dominica citizen, a businessperson gains access to local business and can capitalize on the advantages offered optimizing the value of the investment made.
- A Dominican passport is a great tool for business people: Dominica passport holders are able to freely travel with the obvious benefits it represents for the business, and the family member’s education and lifestyle.
- Holding a second citizenship allows for greater international business opportunities. Those who are privileged to gain citizenship through the Dominica CBI (economic citizenship program) will have an upper hand.
Adding future generations and family members
- An investor can always add future family members as Dominican citizens if they were not included in the original application. A future spouse or future children (biological or legally adopted) can also apply for Dominican citizenship, through the family addition process. The investor pays certain fees (like they would have if they added them in the initial application) and their new family members can become proud holders of a second citizenship and bearers of their respective green passports.
Crypto-friendly government
- Dominica is a cryptocurrency friendly nation, allowing cryptocurrency trade without any major restrictions. The absence of capital gains taxes and global income tax also means that cryptocurrency traders can conduct more profitable business from Dominica.
Quick and easy process
- The Dominica economic citizenship program is one of the simplest and fastest. It does not require any prior residence in Dominica, and the citizenship application runs smoothly.
- The entire application procedure takes between four to six months on average, with the due diligence stage being the longest one within that time frame. Applicants can obtain Dominica citizenship by investment through the services of licensed immigration agents. Once approved, the new Dominica passports and citizenship certificates are delivered to the applicant in their desired jurisdiction.
Easy renewals
- Another major point is renewing the passport, which is done easily. Dominica passports can be renewed through an embassy or consulate, or through an authorized agent. The process is also done remotely.
Dominica Investment Options
Dominica’s citizenship program offers investors two investment avenues to choose from:
- A non-refundable donation to the Economic Diversification Fund starting at US$ 200,000 for a single applicant, OR
- Purchasing government approved real estate for no less than US$ 200,000.
The donation and real estate investment options feature different price points affecting the total amount to be disbursed, depending on the family size and composition. There are cost differences too between the two routes:
- Due diligence fees: US$ 7,500 for the main applicant and an additional US$ 4,000 per dependent aged 16 or above
- Expedited passport issuance fee: US$ 1,200 per person
- Processing fee: US$ 1,000 per application
- Certificate of naturalization fee: US$ 500 per person
- Mandatory interview fee: US$ 1,000 per sitting
In addition to these fees and the investment amount, the real estate investment option requires applicants to pay a government fee, only after approval is granted. This fee is not present in the EDF route. Below is a more detailed look at both investment options.
I. Donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
The donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) is exactly what it sounds like: a one-time non-refundable monetary contribution to the government-run fund The total amount is geared to the family composition. The fund option starts at US$ 200,000 for a single applicant, but the amount increases slightly as more family members are included in the application. To see what the fund option would cost for a single applicant, a couple, a family of four, or a family bigger than that, take a look at the detailed table below that includes the investment and all accompanying fees.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION FUND (EDF):
Main applicant only:
US$ 200,000
Main applicant and up to three dependents:
US$ 250,000
Each additional dependent under 18:
US$ 25,000
Each additional dependent aged 18 or over:
US$ 40,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main applicant:
US$ 7,500 (for Iranian applicants there is a default enhanced Due Diligence fee of US$ 25,000 for the Main Applicant, US$ 15,000 for a spouse and any dependent between 12-15 years of age)
Spouse:
US$ 4,000
Each dependent over the age of 16:
US$ 4,000
OTHER FEES:
Passport issue fee per person:
US$ 250
Processing fee per person:
US$ 1,000
Certificate of naturalization:
US$ 500
Mandatory interview fee per sitting:
US$ 1,000
*Upon submission of an application non-refundable due diligence fee must be paid.
The fund option is a great one for investors who want to end move quickly without any future assets. There is nothing to do after an investor gets their citizenship, via donation, and no future tax burdens to consider. The fund option is also highly economical and sought-after especially for smaller families, making it an excellent option for those who want to spend a minimal initial outlay.
II. Purchasing Real Estate
Our Real Estate Hub is the place to check out current vetted and recommended properties that qualify you for CBI under the Dominica real estate option.
The real estate investment option allows investors to purchase government approved real estate within an authorized project to obtain Dominica citizenship. The Dominica citizenship program offers a wide array of real estate options to choose from, and investors can purchase actual property or instead choose to buy preferred shares in a luxury resort built on the island.
The real estate option starts at US$ 200,000, and the investment amount remains fixed irrespective of the number of family members in the application. However, in addition to the investment amount and administration fees, the real estate option requires investors to pay government fees for each person in the application, these fees can be seen in the table below alongside the investment amount and the other fees required by the government of Dominica.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT:
Investment for a family of 4 with two children under the age of 16:
US$ 200,000
GOVERNMENT FEES*:
Main applicant:
US$ 75,000
Family of 4 members, with main applicant and up to 3 dependents:
US$ 100,000
Each additional dependent under the age of 18:
US$ 25,000
Each additional dependent above the age of 18:
US$ 40,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main applicant:
US$ 7,500 (for Iranian applicants there is a default enhanced Due Diligence fee)
Spouse:
US$ 4,000
Each dependent under the age of 16:
US$ 0
OTHER FEES:
Passport issue fee per applicant:
US$ 250
Processing fee per person:
US$ 1,000
Certificate of naturalization:
US$ 500
Interview fee per sitting:
US$ 1,000
Summarizing: The Real Estate route in Dominica is an excellent alternative to the donation route. After the hold-down period of just three years owning a purchased property, the investor is at liberty to resell. Those owning shares in a touristic facility can also profit from their real estate holdings through the distributed dividends, and they can also resell after the legal 3-year period.
Real Estate is also excellent for larger families since the investment amount remains constant, meaning large families can all get Dominica citizenship by investment for a fixed amount with only the secondary government CBI fees increasing.
Antigua & Barbuda
The stunning dual island Caribbean nation of Antigua & Barbuda launched its citizenship by investment program in 2013 after updating the Antigua & Barbuda law of naturalization.
Ever since, the Antigua & Barbuda program stands as one of the most popular in the world. A variety of factors such as the strength of its passport and the distinctiveness of its routes of investment, are a magnet for investors, especially those with larger families.
Overview of the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
Antigua & Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program has a very simple premise; the government grants applicants’ citizenship in exchange for an investment that bolsters the country’s economy.
Investment Routes
The Antigua & Barbuda citizenship program features four different investment options:
- A non-refundable donation to the government’s National Development Fund (NDF) with a minimum investment starting at US$ 230,000.
- A real estate investment with a minimum investment starting at US$ 300,000.
- A non-refundable donation to the University of West Indies Fund (UWI) with a minimum investment starting at US$ 260,000.
- A business establishment investment option starting at US$ 1,500,000.
It is worth noting that Antigua charges a government fee in all the routes of investment a portion of which is paid in advance and is not refundable (more on this further below). The investment options makes Antigua & Barbuda’s Program suitable for all types of investors and family compositions looking for enhanced visa-free travel.
Antigua and Barbuda is the only country in the region that offers educational opportunities linked to donations to the University of West Indies, a reputable regional institution. This feature raises the interest of families looking at education as one of the focuses of the second citizenship. No other Program offers this opportunity.
Criteria to qualify for Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by investment
The requirements of the program are also very straightforward, as to qualify, an investor must:
- Absence of criminal records
- Clean background otherwise
- A minimum age of 18 years
- Make a qualified investment.
- Submit a compliant application.
- Be in good health and no contagious diseases.
- No prior visa in any country with which Antigua and Barbuda holds a visa-free agreement.
- Make a personal visit to Antigua & Barbuda for a minimum number of five days in the five years following obtaining citizenship in order to renew the passport.
The Steps to Obtain Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship
The process is surprisingly simple: it is done remotely through a licensed citizenship by investment agent such as NTL Trust. The steps are as follows:
- NTL Trust conducts an analysis of the client’s requirements and provides the main applicant with quotes showing the investment scenarios. The investor must confirm their choice of investment route and their acceptance of the quote.
- The investor signs the NTL Trust agreement.
- Documents are collected, and the application forms are filled out and sent to Antigua & Barbuda: first digitally for review, then originals must be sent by courier.
- Antigua & Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CBIU) then conducts due diligence on the main applicant and any adult dependents in the application.
- Approval in principle is granted, and the investor must then finalize their investment.
- The Passports and Certificates of Registration are collected by the local agent and are couriered to the client per the client instructions.
Applicants can then use the Antigua & Barbuda passport for travel to numerous locations across the globe, allowing them to become true global citizens.
The Benefits of Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
The Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment program (“CIP”) offers investors a wide array of benefits. Some of the most popular benefits to mention are:
Enhanced global mobility
- The Antigua & Barbuda passport is a very powerful one, granting its holder access to most important destinations worldwide.
Tax breaks
- Antigua & Barbuda does not levy personal income tax on worldwide income generated abroad, nor does it impose wealth, capital gains, or inheritance taxes. It provides investors with a route to structure their finances to pay taxes at a minimum.
Expansive eligibility of family members
- The Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment program allows the principal applicant to include or add (after approval is granted) a wide array of qualifying dependents such as the spouse, as well as the or the spouse’s financially dependent children below 30 years and parents, and grandparents above 55 years of age.
- There is no age limit for the siblings, which is sui-generis characteristic of this program, highly advantageous. No other jurisdiction offers this perk.
Plan for future family growth
- The principal applicant can obtain citizenship for their future spouse or children of the future spouse through the initial application.
A robust contingency plan
- Antigua & Barbuda’s business-friendly environment is great for those who want to expand their business on a global scale, and its close economic ties to the US, Canada and the UK are noteworthy boosts for its local businesses.
A simple, remote process
- The process to attain lifetime citizenship of Antigua & Barbuda is carried out remotely, from the comfort of the applicant’s location and with the qualified assistance of the CIP Agents. Agents such as NTL Trust ensure that the application meets the Program’s requirements.
- There is no residency requirement inherent to obtaining the citizen status initially; however, prior to the first renewal of an Antigua and Barbuda CIP passport, namely during the first five years, the citizen must visit the islands for a minimum of five days in order to swear an oath of allegiance. NTL Trust arranges these visits through our local Asian own island making it a very smooth and pleasing experience for the new citizens. There are no other residency requirements to maintain citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda.
- Once the first passport is issued, it will be sent together with the Certificate of Registration to the client.
Attractive Investment Opportunities
- The Antigua & Barbuda CIP program is open for business. You will find real estate projects by way of property or shares in five-star resorts. It is the only Caribbean citizenship program utilizing the proceeds of investment to foster the development of high-level academic institutions like the University of West Indies (UWI). As such, it benefits not only Antiguans but also the rest of the Caribbean nations and other regions, including the children of foreign applicants.
A quick turnaround time
- The entire process to obtain an Antigua & Barbuda passport takes about 6 to 9 months on average, making it one of the fastest ways of gaining citizenship by investment in the world. As it occurs with the rest of the programs any queries or findings during the due diligence stage may delay the tenor of an application.
A specialized route for large families
- Antigua & Barbuda’s University of the West Indies fund is an investment pathway under the Antigua & Barbuda CIP citizenship by investment program designed for large families. For families of six people or more, the UWI investment option offers a significant benefit for large families and can prove highly attractive.
Enhanced wealth management solutions
- Antigua & Barbuda has formidable financial services and banking sectors that allow its citizens to employ advanced wealth management and asset protection solutions such as offshore banking and offshore trust formation.
Antigua & Barbuda Investment Options
The Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment program has four different investment categories for investors to choose from. Each of these categories comes with its own set of investment requirements as well as its own set of government fees. The government fees payable for any of the routes, are as follows:
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main Applicant:
US$ 8,500
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Dependent Children aged 0-11
US$ 0
Dependent Children aged 12-17
US$ 2,000
Dependent aged 18-30
US$ 4,000
Passport Fee per person
US$ 300
Government fees, however, may differ depending on the investment route selected, along with the requirements of each investment.
I. Donation to the National Development Fund (NDF)
The first investment option available for investors comes in the form of a non-refundable government donation to the NDF.
This fund is a non-profit vehicle subject to parliamentary oversight allowing for transparency and accountability. It is also be audited by an internationally recognized accounting firm.
It is a straightforward investment option: the applicant must pay the investment amount only once approval is granted, with no further actions other than receiving the citizenship. The amount is not refundable, as it will be devoted to the government’s economic projects. On the flip side, the competitive investment starting at just US$ 230,000 regardless of family size that is a great motivator driving applications in the jurisdiction. As of today, and safe for future changes announced for all programs, the NDF route ranks amongst the most affordable ones across the Caribbean Programs.
The rest of the jurisdictions present different and higher investment amounts depending on the number of applicants. The processing fee for a family of four is set at US$ 20,000, and any dependent after the fourth will incur an additional US$ 10,000 per person in processing fees. The table below highlights on the detailed costs:
CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND (NDF):
Single applicant:
US$ 230,000
Family of up to 4 members:
US$ 230,000
Family of 5 and up:
US$ 230,000
PROCESSING FEES:
Single applicant:
US$ 10,000
Family of up to 4 members:
US$ 20,000
Each additional dependent from the 5th:
US$ 20,000 plus US$ 10,000 per person
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Main applicant:
US$ 8,500
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Each dependent from age 12-17
US$ 2,000
Each dependent of age 18 and above:
US$ 4,000
Passport Fee per person:
US$ 300
The NDF option is excellent for investors and smaller families who want to keep the cost low without having to consider any holding periods or exit strategies.
II. The Real Estate Investment option
Real estate investments under Antigua’s CIP can take the form of actual property or shares in five-star or boutique resorts. These preferred shares give ownership and rights to dividends from the resort operations in one of the world’s most touristic countries. These shares, however, do not grant investors administrative rights.
Irrespective of the real estate route chosen, new citizens must hold on to their real estate investment for five years; however, they can profit from their investment during the holding period, either from earning rental income if it is directly owned property, or by acquiring dividends if it is a share in an elite resort on the islands.
The Real Estate investment amount will not vary, remaining at US$ 300,000 irrespective of the number of applicants. To apply, the investor must have executed the real estate purchase sale agreements, validity of which is contingent on the approval of the citizenship application.
Whether a single applicant or a family of 6 or more, the investment amount is not increased. The cost for real estate investment, including the processing fees, is as follows:
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT OPTIONS:
Minimum investment:
US$ 300,000
GOVERMENT FEES:
Single applicant:
US$ 10,000
Family of four or less:
US$ 20,000
Family of 5 and up:
US$ 20,000 plus US$ 10,000 per person
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Investor:
US$ 8,500
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Each dependent from age 12-17:
US$ 2,000
Each dependent of age 18 and above:
US$ 4,000
Passport Fee per person:
US$ 300
Real estate investment is an excellent option for investors who want to recoup the majority of what they pay for their citizenship while also aiming to make a return on their investment.
III. University of West Indies Fund (UWI) option
The University of the West Indies Fund (UWI) option is a mechanism for financing UWI’s fourth landed campus in Antigua.
The unique feature of the UWI citizenship option is that It entitles participating supporters one year, tuition only, scholarship at the University of the West Indies for one individual. If this tuition is not needed, it can be relinquished in favour of a local or regional student who has good grades and potential, but whose family might not have the resources to send them to university.
The UWI Fund investment option is actually a donation akin to that of the NDF, as investors make a non-refundable contribution to the UWI Fund, which is not recoverable. The investment amount is set at US$ 260,000 for a family of six and remains constant, no matter how many family members are added. This makes it one of the most affordable options for larger families seeking citizenship by investment in the Caribbean. You can find the costs in detail in the table below:
UWI CONTRIBUTION:
Family of 6:
US$ 260,000
Family of 7 and more:
US$ 260,000
GOVERNMENT FEES:
Family of 6:
fees are included in contribution amount
Family of 7 and more:
US$ 10,000 per each dependent
The UWI Fund is excellent for larger families that want to pay the lowest possible cost while not having to consider an exit strategy or liquidating their investment.
IV. Business Investment
The last option available to investors is the business investment option, which requires applicants to invest US$ 1,500,000 in an approved business in Antigua & Barbuda, or a minimum of 2 persons to make a joint investment in an approved business totaling at least US$ 5,000,000. Each person is required to contribute at least US$ 400,000 to the joint investment. All the citizenship applications must be submitted through the same Agent.
As applicable in the Donation and Real Estate route, the business investment also calls for a US$ 20,000 processing fee (for families of 4), and an additional US$ 10,000 for any additional family member.
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) recommends Cabinet approval of businesses – whether existing or proposed –under the Citizenship by Investment Program.
Here is a list of the applicable fees:
MINIMUM BUSINESS INVESTMENT AMOUNTS:
Family up to 4 members:
US$ 1,500,000
Joint application of minimum 2 investors:
US$ 5,000,000 or more
(each investor needs to contribute at least US$ 400,000)
PROCESSING FEES:
Single applicant:
US$ 10,000
Family up to 4 members:
US$ 20,000
Family of 5 and more:
US$ 20,000 plus US$ 10,000 per person
Interview Fee per sitting:
US$ 1,500
The business investment option is excellent for those who are looking to expand their business into the Caribbean region.
St. Lucia
The beautiful Caribbean nation of St. Lucia is renowned for its touristic importance in the region. One of the larger Caribbean countries, St. Lucia is a major hub for cruise liners and tourists exploring one of the most stunning areas on the globe.
St Lucia is a British Commonwealth country with close ties to the UK, and it is an integral part of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The country’s economy relies heavily on tourism and agriculture, and its currency, the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), is pegged to the US Dollar, giving the country even greater economic stability.
Overview of the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
The St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (“CBI”) program is an efficient and simple way for foreign investors to obtain St. Lucia’s citizenship and a St. Lucia passport, allowing them better global mobility and financial safety opportunities. Launched in 2015, It is the youngest of the Caribbean CBI programs. Perhaps because of that, it is also dynamic and more varied in terms of investment routes.
Criteria to qualify for St. Lucia citizenship by investment
To qualify for the St. Lucia citizenship by investment program an investor must be able to check the following boxes:
- Absence of criminal records
- Clean background otherwise
- A minimum age of 18 years
- Make a qualified investment.
- Submit a compliant application.
- Be in good health and no contagious diseases.
- No prior visa rejection in any country with which St Lucia holds a visa-free agreement.
Eligible Dependants
The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program allows investors to add a wide array of family members to their applications, including:
- The spouse of the principal applicant.
- A child under the age of eighteen of the principal applicant or their spouse.
- The child of the principal applicant or their spouse under the age of 30.
- Parents or grandparents of the principal applicant or their spouse aged 55 years old; and
- Unmarried siblings younger than 18 years old.
The ability to add various family members to the application allows investors to maximize the benefit gained from their investment. The program also allows the main applicant to add future family members to their application, such as a future spouse (in case they were single at the time of application) and any future dependent children.
Investment Routes
The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program has four different approved investment options for applicants to choose from. It is the only one that offers securities, in the form of government bonds:
- A minimum US$ 300,000 investment to the National Action Bond (NAB) as a new non-interest-bearing Government Bond
- A non-refundable donation to the National Economic Fund (NEF) with a minimum investment starting at US$ 240,000.
- A minimum investment in real estate from an approved real estate developer for no less than US$ 300,000.
- Enterprise investment – There are currently no enterprise projects open for investment.
As in other programs, Saint Lucia’s CIP also requires the investment to be paid only after approval has been granted. The real estate route will usually require a prepayment of a deposit amount prior to submitting an application, although this depends on individually agreed contractual terms.
All St Lucia CIP applications must be submitted through licensed local agents. These agents who are to follow through up until a decision has been made and are to keep close contact with the CBI authority until the citizenship documents are received by the applicants in their desired jurisdictions. NTL Trust is uniquely positioned to assist any applicant looking at St. Lucia, as agents licensed under both licensed agent and promoter categories. We have a physical presence on island and strong ties with the Program stakeholders.
The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program can be completed remotely, without the need for applicants to reside or visit St. Lucia at any point during processing or after the application has been approved.
The Steps to Obtain St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
The St. Lucia citizenship application process is comprised of the following steps:
- NTL Trust conducts an analysis and provides the investor with the best investment option(s) for their case. The investor must confirm their choice of investment type.
- Applicant retains NTL Trust as their agent to handle the application.
- With the support of NTL Trust’s experienced experts, the applicant collects all the documents needed, filling out and signing the application forms. The documents are submitted both digitally and physically at the Unit’s counters in Castries, St. Lucia.
- The CBI Unit, along with their development partners, conducts due diligence on the main applicant and any adult dependents in the application (above 16).
- Approval in principle is granted, and the investor must then settle the investment into the country.
- Certificates of Registration and the passports are couriered directly to the applicant.
Due diligence process
The due diligence process is the longest procedure under St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program, and the most critical, as in the other four Programs. Proper due diligence ensures that any investors and their family members who are granted citizenship through the St. Lucia citizenship by investment program do not pose a potential security risk to the country or the international community. Safety and integrity are at the core of the Program’s operation. This philosophy has permitted St. Lucia to maintain excellent realtions including visa-free travel arrangements with nations worldwide.
The Benefits of St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
Greater global mobility
- The St. Lucia passport is a very powerful travel document, granting its holder the ability to travel to a wide array of countries internationally.
Tax relief
- St Lucia does not impose any personal income tax rates on worldwide income of non-residents, nor does it impose wealth taxes, capital gains taxes, or inheritance taxes on its citizens. It provides new citizens with a route to legally minimize their tax burden.
Addition of family members
- The Program allows the principal applicant to include their financially dependent family members, (spouse, as well as their or their spouse’s financially dependent children below 30 years and parents and grandparents above 55 years of age).
- Siblings are welcomed to apply as far as they are financially supported by the Main Applicant, are unmarried and are below 18 years of age.
- The principal applicant can obtain citizenship for their future spouse or children of the applicant and the future spouse through the initial application.
Plan B
- Having a second citizenship is the best way to mitigate any political and economic instability in one’s home nation. As a second citizenship offers them and their families another home and a strong travel document with great visa-free access capabilities in case they need to use it to get out of a rough situation such as a pandemic or civil war. This is a major reason why many investors choose St. Lucia as their second home.
Exciting business and investment benefits
St Lucia is business friendly, and its proximity to the US and Canada, as well as its strong economic ties with Latin America and the UK, makes it a great option for those looking to expand their business footprint into the Americas.
Great asset protection tools
- St Lucia has a growing financial services sector that allows its citizens to take advantage of various asset protection solutions such as offshore bank accounts and well-managed offshore trusts.
A remote citizenship process
- The entire process for St. Lucian citizenship by investment can be done remotely without the need to visit St. Lucia, although we do of course recommend visiting your new homeland!
A reasonable turnaround time.
- The entire process to obtain a St. Lucia passport takes about 3-9 months on average.
St. Lucia Investment Options
I. Donation to the National Economic Fund (NEF)
The St. Lucia citizenship by investment program offers investors four different investment options to choose from. This variety makes the program popular for a varied spectrum of investors with different investment preferences.
Investment minimum thresholds differ from one investment option to the next. Some options have distinctive fees; but whichever the selected route, the fees below are to be paid before submitting the application:
- Administrative fee: US$ 2,000 for the main applicant and US$ 1,000 for each additional qualifying dependent
- Due diligence fee: US$ 8,000 (inclusive the mandatory interview fee) for the main applicant and an additional US$ 5,000 per dependent aged 16 or above
The donation to the National Economic Fund option is straightforward. Once an approval is granted the applicant settles the payment of the non-refundable contribution, which is followed by the issuance of the citizenship documents once the funds have cleared.
The investment amount depends on the number of family members included in the application, and it grows accordingly. The table below highlights the minimum amounts required to qualify for Citizenship of St Lucia via donation to the National Economic Fund.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONAL ECONOMIC FUND (NEF):
Main applicant with up to three dependents:
US$ 240,000
Each additional applying dependent under the age of 18:
US$ 10,000
Each additional applying dependent above the age of 18:
US$ 20,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
*Upon submission of an application non-refundable due diligence fee must be paid
Main applicant:
US$ 8,000 (inclusive the mandatory interview fee)
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Each dependent over the age of 16:
US$ 5,000
Processing Fee for main applicant:
US$ 2,000
Processing Fee per each dependent:
US$ 1,000
The donation option is an excellent one for those looking for a simpler process. It is also very economical for smaller families.
II. Real Estate Investment option
The real estate investment option is a popular choice, acccounting for the vast majority of applications in 2023. To qualify, an investor must make a real estate investment in a government approved project for no less than US$ 300,000. It is important to note that the minimum investment remains the same no matter how many family members are included in the application. However, the real estate investment option does incur a government fee per each person added to the application, as the table below shows that fee alongside the entire cost breakdown under this option.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT:
Minimum investment:
US$ 300,000
ADMINISTRATIVE FEES:
Each additional dependent under 18:
US$ 10,000
Each additional dependent aged 18 or over:
US$ 20,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Investor:
US$ 8,000 (inclusive the mandatory interview fee)
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Processing Fee for main applicant:
US$ 2,000
Processing Fee per each dependent:
US$ 1,000
Investors can sell their investment at its market value after the minimum holding period of five years, retaining of course their citizenship for life and future generations. This attractive feature has succeeded in making the real estate investment option a great one for those looking to make the smallest possible overall outlay over the long term.
III. Government Bond Option: The National Action Bond (NAB)
The National Action Bond (NAB) is a new non-interest-bearing Government bond – to replace the Special COVID-19 Relief Bond. It is also an available investment option under the St. Lucia CBI Program.
Applicants and qualified citizens must hold the bonds for a minimum of 5 years and then can therrn cash in their initial investments by redeeming the bond directly with the government. This government-guaranteed redeemable bond route is one of a kind among all the Caribbean citizenship programs.
THE NATIONAL ACTION BOND (NAB):
Investment for main applicant and unlimited dependents:
US$ 300,000
Government Fee for any number of applicants:
US$ 50,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
*Upon submission of an application non-refundable due diligence fee must be paid
Main applicant:
US$ 8,000 (inclusive the mandatory interview fee)
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Each dependent over the age of 16:
US$ 5,000
Processing Fee for all applicants:
US$ 2,000
IV. Approved enterprise project
There are currently no enterprise projects open for investment.
Grenada
The breathtaking Caribbean country of Grenada is one of the region’s top tourist destinations. Grenada has it all: dream beaches, rainforest and friendly towns and villages. Grenada maintains close ties to the US, Canada and UK.
Grenada is an English-speaking country with stunning natural scenery and quaint villages flocked by mountains and valleys lush with various spices. It is known for its trade and agricultural importance within the region, that has earned it the moniker “the Spice Island.”
The nation’s economy is on an upward path, and that is due in part to the influx of new money through the citizenship by investment program and the new luxury hotel developments also funded by CBI.
Overview of the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program
The government of Grenada launched its citizenship by investment program in 2013 after it changed the laws regarding the naturalization process adding the Citizenship by Investment act. Since Grenada recognized dual citizenship, the changes to the law were readily applicable. After enacting the citizenship by investment act and launching the program, Grenada has consistently been amongst the most popular Programs, if not the most popular.
Investment Routes
Grenada offers investors two distinct investment options to qualify for citizenship under its citizenship by investment program, which are:
- A non-refundable donation to Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF) starting at US$ 235,000 for a single applicant and up to three dependents.
- An investment in government approved real estate developments, typically either upmarket hotels or quality rental units to accommodate the island’s large foreign student population.
Grenada CBI Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants need to meet the criteria set out by legislation. An applicant must be able to check the following boxes:
- Absence of criminal records
- Clean business background otherwise
- A minimum age of 18 years
- Make a qualified investment.
- Be in good health and no contagious diseases.
- No prior visa refusal in any country with which Grenada holds a visa-free agreement, unless this has been subsequently remedied.
The program does not require applicants to hold temporary or permanent residence to apply, nor does it require a visit, although this is highly recommended. The entire citizenship and subsequent passport application process happens remotely, via licensed local agents and promoters on island such as NTL Trust. These agents are the main communicaton channel, handling the submission and follow the citizenship and passport-issuing process through until conclusion.
The application process takes as little as 90 days, although at busy timers or for more complex cases, it can extend for 8-10 months. It’s worth pointing out that there is an established pre-screening process that is carried out by the local bank dealing with investment funds in connection to the Program. These steps expand the tenor of the processing.
Agents and promoters such as NTL Trust are regulated by Grenada’s Investment Migration Agency. IMA Grenada is the government body responsible for running the program. Agents ensure not only the submission of the application, but also fine tuning in the documentary phase, making it hassle-free as possible. Grenada is a jurisdiction where NTL Trust’s expertise is vast, with NTL Trust having opened on the island more than 10 years ago.
The Steps to Obtain Grenada Citizenship
- NTL Trust will conduct a financial analysis to recommend the best investment option, at which point the applicant must confirm their choice of investment.
- Signing a contract with NTL Trust, and with real estate developers of applicable.
- Collecting the required documentation and filling out the relevant forms. The citizenship documents, along with the application, are then sent to Grenada’s Investment Migration Agency.
- The Unit conducts the due diligence process on the primary applicant and any adult family members (above 16 years of age) added to the application.
- Once due diligence is successfully completed, Grenada’s Investment Migration Agency will send a letter of approval in principle to successful applicants, via their local agent, at which point the investor must settle their investment.
- Once the investment is completed, the citizenship documents (Certificates of Registration) and passports are issued.
Grenada is today a preferred economic citizenship jurisdiction. Under the active leadership of IMA Grenada, the Investment Migration Agency, the program is dynamic, responsive, and proactive in following the compliance trends which elevate its standards. Grenada’s fast-developing economy rests easy on the strength of its citizenship by investment program.
The Benefits of Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program
The Grenadian citizenship by investment program offers investors a way to elevate their entire lifestyle by acquiring a powerful passport and dual citizenship in one of the most naturally stunning nations on Earth.
The benefits of getting dual citizenship are endless, but the most common, and important, benefits are worth mentioning.
Enhanced global mobility
- The Grenadian passport is a very powerful passport, providing easy access to nearly all destinations over the world. Many destinations can be accessed without a visa, or via simple visa-on-arrival or e-visa processes.
The US E2 visa
- Grenadians are eligible to apply for the US E2 visa, a business treaty visa open to a select number of nationalities worldwide. This allows investors from countries not on the E2 treaty list to obtain a route to apply for the E2 visa, providing them with a pathway to get residency in the US while also being able to obtain Grenada citizenship.
- If you are considering this option, however, please pay special attention to the following point, that many competitor websites fail to mention. US Immigration authorities when handling E2 visa applications from Grenada citizens may require additional documentation to prove the applicant has been domiciled in the treaty country indicated in the application for a continuous period of no less than 3 years, any point before applying for E-1 or E-2 classification.
Scope of eligible family members
- The addition of family members – Grenada allows investors to add a wide array of financially dependent family members to their application, including the spouse of the main applicant as well as the couple’s financially dependent children below 30 of age, dependent parents over 55, dependent grandparents over 55, and the unmarried financially dependent siblings of the main applicant above eighteen years of age.
Evolved tax benefits
- Grenada does not impose a tax on worldwide income of non-residents, nor does it levy capital gains tax. The country also does not impose an inheritance tax on its citizens or residents. This allows investors, especially those hailing from countries with brutal tax regimes, to find a route to structure their taxes in a favorable way.
Plan B
A formidable contingency plan – Getting dual citizenship is the best way to combat any political or economic instability in one’s home country. By having dual citizenship and the highest level rights of access to a second home country, a CBI passport holder can protect themselves and their families against any turmoil in the country of origin, from natural disasters to political turmoil.
Lively business environment
- Grenada’s business-friendly economy provides an excellent environment for new businesses. The government is also continuously working to attract international companies to Grenada, and anyone looking to incorporate a business near North and South America can easily find a home base in Grenada.
Adding future generations and family members
- An applicant can always add a future spouse or children to their application even after they receive citizenship themselves.
Solid investment options
- Create investment opportunities that make financial sense – Investors who choose to apply under the real estate option can find very interesting investment opportunities, either in the form of actual properties such as student housing that gain appreciation as time goes on, or through buying shares in top tier resorts in one of the world’s hottest touristic destinations.
Enhanced processing
- The process of applying for citizenship by investment is simple and quick, taking as little as 90-180 days. The process is completed remotely without the need to travel or reside in Grenada prior, during, or after applying.
Easy passport renewals
- Investors who obtain passports via CBI through investment can always renew their passport directly via courier, with no need to travel or make appointments at embassies.
Footprint services
- Once an investor gains citizenship they can apply for a Grenada driver’s license and open a bank account as a citizen, among other benefits. Wealth management possibilities – Grenada has a robust banking sector that investors can take advantage of to invest their wealth. They can also open offshore trusts on the nei to alleviate their tax burden and protect their assets.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment Options
Grenada offers foreigners the opportunity to obtain the privilege that is its grant of citizenship, through one of two investment options: a donation to Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF) or through a real estate investment that is typically in the hotel, student accommodation or agricultural sectors. These investment options are accompanied by other standard fees, which are application, due diligence, and processing fees, as follows:
- Application fees: US$ 1,500 per person.
- Due diligence fees: US$ 5,000 for any member in the application 17 years of age and above. Anyone under 17 years is exempt from this fee.
- Processing fees: US$ 1,500 for any member in the application 17 years of age and above; US$ 500 for any member in the application below 17 years of age.
It is worth noting that while these fees are constant in both the NTF donation and real estate investment options, the real estate option does also levy a separate government fee, more on that below.
I. Donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF)
This option consists of a non-refundable donation to the government run NTF. The investment amount will not be recouped by the investor; however, this is an affordable and simple option. The return on investment is the citizenship you obtain, that is valid for your lifetime and can be transmitted to future generations.
The investment process under the NTF is particulary simple: the investment amount is simply transferred by bank SWIFT wire transfer, and that completes the entire transaction.
The NTF route to Grenada citizenship requires a minimum investment depending whether you are a single applicant or an extended family. Details are in the table below. This investment is made alongside processing, due diligence, and application fees as well as legal fees. The table below highlights what the NTF would cost for a single application, a couple, a family of four, and a family of five or more:
CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION FUND (NTF):
Main applicant and up to three dependents – except for siblings, parents & grandparents under age 55:
US$ 235,000
More than three dependents:
US$ 25,000/50,000 per person
Additional siblings:
US$ 75,000 per person
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
*Upon submission of an application non-refundable due diligence fee must be paid
Main applicant:
US$ 5,000
Spouse:
US$ 5,000
Each additional dependent aged 17 and over:
US$ 5,000
Processing Fee:
US$ 1,500 per person and US$ 500 for persons under 17
Application Fee:
US$ 1,500 per person
Interview Fee:
US$ 1,000 per applicant aged 17 or over
The NTF is a very affordable option for investors that want an economical option that does not require any holding period, exit strategy, or resale. It is also very affordable for families with a smaller composition.
II. Real Estate Investment option
The real estate investment option is the most popular choice among Grenada citizenship by investment applicants, and for good reason. It slightly edges out the NTF option in the number of overall applications lodged under it for the Grenada citizenship program.
The real estate investment option under the Grenada citizenship by investment program allows applicants to invest in a government approved real estate project. It is important for applicants to choose a government approved project as their investment destination, otherwise their application will not be approved. NTL Trust has carried out due diligence on the various projects and can advise you on the suitability of the different options, depending on your preferences and circumstances.
Applicants enjoy the choice between directly or jointly buying government approved property from student studios through to beachfront villas, or instead investing around the minimum amount by buying shares in top tier resorts being developed on the island. These shares give them partial ownership and allow their holders to annual dividends; however, they do not grant their owners any administrative powers over the project and resort operations. It is important to note that shares do not incur property tax, or property transfer tax, whereas directly titled property might.
Benefits
- The real estate investment option’s greatest attraction is the ability to resell the property after five years of holding on to it. Investors must maintain ownership of the property for five years after receiving their citizenship, but once that period is over, they are free to sell it or keep it. The citizenship remains for life, and can be passed to future generations.
- Another major benefit is the potential return on investment (ROI), as investors can profit from their real estate investment during the holding period. From time-to-time, developers offer guaranteed returns or guaranteed repurchases after the minimum holding period.
Minimum investment amounts for Real Estate under the Grenada CBI progam.
The minimum investment amount (see table for full details) remains constant no matter how many family members are added to the application. However, the real estate option does incur a unique government fee.
The real estate option also requires investors to pay due diligence, processing, and application fees just like those present in the NTF donation option. The costs of the real estate investment are shown in the table below for a single application, a couple, a family of four, and a family of five or more:
To qualify, the investor must enter a contract to purchase government-approved real estate.
Important: The property may not be sold within five years from the grant of citizenship.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT:
Minimum investment amount:
US$ 270,000*
*US$ 270 000 investment refers to shared ownership in real estate. The real estate holding period for US$ 270 000 investment option is five years. For sole ownership the investment amount must be US$ 350 000+.
GOVERNMENT FEES:
Family of four:
US$ 50,000
Application fee for family of four:
US$ 6,000
DUE DILIGENCE FEES:
Same as it is at the donation option. Please find it above.
The real estate investment option is an excellent one for those looking to acquire Grenada citizenship while also getting back the bulk of what they pay for citizenship, or even possibly make a profit, by reselling the asset at its market value after the holding period.
The real estate investment option is also a great option for larger families as Grenada’s minimum real estate investment amount remains the same no matter what the family composition is: the only addition being the government fees and the rest of the administrative and professional fees.
Summary
It’s paramount to point out that Caribbean Citizenship by Investment is not about “selling” a passport. Applicants who come with the idea that they are “buying” a passport in a typical purchase-sale contract are likely to be disappointed.
Instead, Citizenship by Investment is about Building Nations. Citizenship is a privilege that is granted by the sovereign peopled of a Small Island Developing State: one of the five countries in the Caribbean currently offering such programs.
Other nations in other parts of the world also offer similar programs. The Vanuatu CBI program from the South Pacific is the most directly comparable program, as it is also an English speaking, British Commonwealth member Small Island Developing State. Other CBI countries with differing programs include Malta, Türkiye, Kenya and Egypt.
Citizenship by Investment programs serve as a path to sustainable development of island nations who depend greatly on these programs to bolster their economies. CBI is a business enhancement vehicle, and it is a way to connect the world to vulnerable small island nations who appreciate and welcome friendly investors.
CBI is a win-win situation for the people of the country, and for foreign investors seeking new horizons and opportunities.
The minimum cash outlay starts at a couple hundred thousand dollars, but there is no upper limit to the amount you can invest if you are buying into a business or luxury property.
At their core, the CBI programs are about transforming these developing nations into highly sought after tourism, academic and business destinations. Monies raised from Citizenship by Investment are directed into programs that demonstrably and directly benefit the local populations. CIPs build a base for economic stability and resilience via skills and technology transfer. They create both long – and short – term jobs developing industries that are crucial for the survival of these small nations. Implementation of social projects such as schools, hospitals, agriculture, healthcare, and renewable energy create much-needed infrastructure.
The Caribbean islands are a slice of paradise, blessed with wonderful climate and ecology; a safe haven to reside and work; own and operate a business; and invest. The people are friendly, and they traditionally show great hospitality towards newcomers.
The Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs are a fair way to combine the good with the great – obtain greater individual freedom and security whilst supporting the development of a carefully chosen Caribbean country.
Stay up to date with the latest CRBI News by subscribing to our newsletter and following NTL Trust using the social media links. Contact us to get more information about Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs and choose your best program today!
Table of contents
Which Caribbean Countries offer Citizenship by Investment in 2024?
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment – Why should you get one?
- Benefits of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
- Common Myths about Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment comparisons
Investment Options for Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
- Caribbean Investment Options
- Procedure for Obtaining Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
- Submitting the citizenship by investment application
- Using a Caribbean Passport while Travelling
How much does a Caribbean Golden Passport cost?
Caribbean Real Estate Investment as a path to the passport
- Real Estate Investment Benefits
- Benefits to Country
- Negatives
- Caribbean Real Estate versus European Real Estate
- Overview of the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
- The Steps to Obtain St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship
- The Benefits of the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
- St. Kitts & Nevis Investment Options
- Origins of the Program
- The Steps to Obtain Dominica Citizenship
- Choosing the Right Investment Option
- The Benefits of the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program
- Dominica Investment Options
- Overview of the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
- The Steps to Obtain Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship
- The Benefits of the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
- Antigua & Barbuda Investment Options
- Overview of the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
- The Steps to Obtain St. Lucia Citizenship
- The Benefits of the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
- St. Lucia Investment Options
FAQS
What Caribbean countries offer citizenship by investment?
are the countries that offer citizenship by investment programs. Another option to consider with a similar program is the Republic of Vanuatu Development Support Program in the South Pacific.
In which Caribbean country is it easiest to get citizenship?
Any of the listed above countries have easy, transparent, and clear paths to qualify for citizenship by investment. The most important thing is that an investor and their dependents should fulfil all requirements and be persons of good repute who can pass the thorough background checks, also proving the legitimate source of their wealth.
Can you buy a passport in the Caribbean?
A passport is simply a travel document, normally issued to citizens of a country. Therefore there is no point in buying a passport and to do so might be illegal or a scam. If you would like to a second passport for travel, the only legitimate way to obtain it is to become a citizen of a new country. You cannot buy citizenship, but you can obtain it fast in certain Caribbean countries based on investing a sum of money.
Caribbean citizenship by investment can be obtained after passing the due diligence process and making financial investments in the chosen country. After all steps that an investor goes through, they receive citizenship in the chosen nation, and that entitles them to a passport. On this website you can find the exact detailed requirements of many citizenship by investment programs.
Which is the best Caribbean country for Citizenship by Investment?
There is no single best Caribbean nation for Citizenship by Investment. It depends on the personal preferences, needs and desires of an investor. The best Caribbean country to obtain citizenship can be selected on any number of criteria. The best course of action is to schedule a call or Zoom meeting with your NTL Trust expert and based on that, to choose the Caribbean citizenship program that is most appropriate for you.
Why is the Caribbean passport so strong?
Remember there is no single Caribbean passport. Each country within the Caribbean region that has a Citizenship by Investment program issues its own passports and they are all slightly different. The power of the passport is often judged based on visa-free travel. This varies because countries’ government are constantly signing agreements with other countries. Which means that they are growing the number of visa-free destinations. That is why Caribbean passports are so strong! On the other hand, visa-free travel is not the only consideration. Many people choose a country based on lifestyle or business considerations. The only smart thing to do is sit down with an expert who is familiar with all the different options and figure out your own Passport Power Index!
Is Caribbean real estate a good investment?
Generally, yes. First, you’ll have a property that you will be able to rent out and have passive income. After the mandatory holding period, you can re-sell your real estate and possibly even gain a profit! Either way, your Citizenship in a new country is the biggest and most important return on investment.
How can you rent out real estate bought under the Citizenship by Investment Program?
Yes, indeed! You can rent out your property and/or re-sell it after the mandatory holding period.
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