Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs have emerged as a popular choice among high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility and risk mitigation.
These programs offer individuals the opportunity to obtain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment, providing a pathway to a second passport and all the associated benefits. Over the years, CBI programs have transitioned from being seen as a luxury to a necessity for many affluent individuals looking to secure their future and expand their opportunities.
The Caribbean CBI programs have garnered international recognition for their attractive investment options, streamlined application processes, and the ability to grant citizenship in a relatively short timeframe. Countries in the Caribbean, such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and Saint Lucia, have established themselves as key players in the CBI landscape.
These programs offer investors various investment routes, including real estate investment, donation to a national development fund, or investment in a government-approved business. In return, participants gain access to visa-free travel to numerous countries, increased business opportunities, and a sense of security in an ever-changing global landscape.
As the demand for second citizenship continues to rise, the Caribbean CBI programs remain at the forefront of providing a secure and expedited pathway to citizenship for eligible individuals.
With their reputation for efficiency, credibility, and desirable benefits, these programs continue to attract a diverse range of investors seeking to enhance their global mobility and secure their future.
St Kitts and Nevis: Pioneers in Citizenship by Investment is considered to be the pioneer of citizenship by investment programs in the Caribbean.
The average processing time to obtain St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship is 6 to 8 months, and passport holders can access 156 countries without visas making it the 26th most powerful passport in the world.
The minimum cost to obtain Saint Kitts & Nevis citizenship is USD 250,000. There are also a number of investment options available, through the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC), Real Estate Investment or Public Benefit Option. This can be extended to spouses, dependent children and parents.
Grenada: A Gateway to the World
Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle,” has gained attention for its CBI Program since its launch in August 2013. Grenada’s program stands out for providing access to the United States through the E-2 visa treaty.
The average processing time to obtain Grenada citizenship is five months, with passport-holders granted instant visa-free travel to 145 countries, including the Schengen countries, China, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The cost for Grenada citizenship starts from USD 150,000. This can be obtained via contribution to Grenada’s government or investment in Grenada’s Government-Approved Real Estate Projects. The Family Dependents can include spouses, children, elderly parents and siblings 18 years and above.
People who acquire citizenship through Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Program enjoy the identical rights as any other Grenadian citizen.
Dominica: The Nature Isle’s Citizenship Haven
Dominica, often called the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean”, has offered Citizenship by Investment since 1993.
The average processing time to obtain Dominican citizenship is four months, and passport holders have instant visa-free access to 144 countries, including the Schengen States, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China. This can be achieved through a donation to Dominica’s Government Fund or Real Estate Investment with the investment cost starting from Family dependents can include a spouse, children, as well as parents and grandparents. The minimum cost to receive the Dominican citizenship is from USD 100,000 for a single applicant or USD 175,000 for a family of 4.
St Lucia: A Serene Haven for Investors
Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, St Lucia introduced its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2015 to bolster economic growth while allowing investors to be part of its thriving nation.
The average processing time to obtain Saint Lucia citizenship is 4 months, and it will grant passport holders instant visa-free travel to 146 countries, including the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong. The minimum cost to obtain Saint Lucian passport is USD 100,000, one of the most cost-effective options for single applicants. This can be done through a contribution to Saint Lucia’s Government Fund, Real Estate Investment, Government Bonds, or Infrastructure Option. Family Dependents can include spouses, children, elderly parents and siblings.
Antigua and Barbuda: A Dual-Island Paradise Beckoning Investors
Antigua and Barbuda, a dual-island nation with a rich maritime history, have been attracting investors through its CBI Program since 2013. The program aims to stimulate economic growth and provide investors with a gateway to the Caribbean’s treasures.
The average processing time to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is six months, granting passport holders instant visa-free travel to 152 countries, including the Schengen countries, United Kingdom, Singapore, China and Hong Kong. The investment types available include an economic contribution to Antigua’s National Development Fund (NDF), Real Estate investment, or investment in the University of the West Indies (UWI). Antigua and Barbuda offers families a more-cost effective citizenship where the Economic contribution amounts from USD 130,000 for a family of 4, while the Real Estate Investment could cost up to USD 200,000, in addition to government fees. Family Dependents can include spouses, children, parents, grandparents and siblings without age restrictions.
The Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs stand as a testament to the growing trend of individuals seeking alternative citizenship options for personal and professional reasons.
By offering a combination of investment opportunities and citizenship benefits, these programs have established themselves as prominent players in the realm of global citizenship solutions.
This article is by Veronica Cotdemiey,
CEO Citizenship Invest
