As interest in Caribbean Citizenship by Investment (CBI) continues to grow, so does the scrutiny. Concerns about program legitimacy, resale limitations, and real estate project reliability are common—and valid. This article aims to unpack these issues, offering clarity on what investors should realistically expect and how to navigate the market with confidence.
Caribbean CBI Programs are Shifting, not Closing
Yes, citizenship by investment programs are subjected to external pressures. The U.S. and EU periodically review their cooperation with CBI jurisdictions, programs change, legislations change, countries close their programs, others join and open programs of their own. It is a shifting landscape, but a landscape that has existed for 40 years and counting and Caribbean CBI programs remain resilient.
In fact, 2024 marked a turning point. The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the core Caribbean nations (Antigua&Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia and St. Kitts&Nevis) brought greater alignment on minimum investment thresholds and elevated due diligence standards across the region. These reforms were not symbolic; they are already being implemented not only when it comes to price points but as regional elevation of programs that benefits jurisdictions and investors as well.
The Caribbean Five has taken steps to achieve greater transparency and automation when it comes to application process sharing information between jurisdictions and acting as a unit. This creates a safety net for both investors and jurisdictions and improves both regional relations as well as Caribbean relations with the world.
The Real Estate Reality: Proper Guidance and Research are Non-Negotiable
The challenges of the second citizenship are their own, the real estate component challenges deserve equal attention. Investors must evaluate not just the pathway to citizenship, but the assets they are acquiring.
Construction Risk
Several developments remain unfinished long after launch, creating uncertainty around timelines and investor outcomes. These delays may jeopardize the investment, citizenship timeline, or both. Identifying developers with proven track records and confirmed government approvals is crucial.
Shared Ownership Models
Many CBI developments offer fractional ownership or share-based investment structures. While this lowers the entry point, it introduces layers of complexity. These models need clear and thorough research when it comes to transparency in dividend distribution, decision-making rights, and resale pathways.
The Resale Dilemma
After the required holding period, typically five to seven years, investors are in a position to resell their property. Resale liquidity varies across jurisdictions and project types. All of the Caribbean Five jurisdictions have sound systems in place that offer a clear path when it comes to reselling your property. The risks are the same anywhere in the world when it comes to property ownership. Going with real estate CBI route offers more structure when it comes to reselling and your advisor can help you have a clear idea how to achieve it if you decide to do so.
What happens to my Real Estate if the CBI Program Closes?
CBI programs list evolves every year – some programs close and new ones open. On average there are more programs opening than closing across all markets, and the Caribbean Five has been a steady industry leader since the 1980s without any of the Caribbean Five jurisdictions closing. Also, most jurisdictions allow current investors to remain under original terms, even if the program close which in the case of Caribbean real estate and its upward market trajectory, possesses a very small chance.
Additionally, jurisdictions have introduced adjustments to their minimum thresholds and program criteria over time. This evolving framework requires ongoing monitoring and a deep understanding of how national policies and international diplomacy influence program rules. The rise of prices only indicates the popularity of the programs and future mark ups so the prime time to make the move to Caribbean is now.
How NTL Trust Helps Clients Navigate the Market
Caribbean CBI real estate remains a compelling option for investors seeking asset-backed second citizenship. However, navigating the grey areas: valuation, resale, regulatory change, all requires more than surface-level knowledge. With the right guidance and due diligence, the risks are manageable, and the benefits considerable.
Investing in Caribbean CBI real estate route is not overtly more risky than any other investment trajectory. Any investment route comes with it’s challenges but the best part about real estate CBI route is the objective: main purpose of this investment is gaining the Caribbean second citizenship, and the real estate is the tangible asset that facilitates achieving this main goal in the span of 3-9 months. This route brings returns in tiers, first tier is gaining citizenship, second tier is enjoying the property and third tier is the potential reselling.
In order to make this path to citizenship as smooth as possible, find the right advisor is a must. NTL Trust has been on the ground in the Caribbean for decades, providing clients with strategic guidance through a curated portfolio of government-approved properties. We have the knowledge and hands on expertise that will guide you through the complexity of the process with ease and clarity.
We evaluate projects based not only on their citizenship by investment eligibility, but on fundamental investment criteria: build quality, developer reputation, valuation accuracy, potential rental income, and long-term resale viability.
Our Real Estate Hub was developed in direct response to the need for clarity and quality assurance in this space. It provides access to vetted opportunities, supported by legal, financial, and regulatory insight. NTL Trust is here to help you invest wisely, protect your interests, and secure a second citizenship through real estate that holds real value.
