Caribbean Citizenship and the Top 5 Options for Obtaining a Strong Passport

Caribbean Citizenship by Investment: Common Misconceptions and Benefits

Have you ever heard of someone who managed to obtain Caribbean citizenship? Perhaps if you told someone that you got Caribbean citizenship through investment, they might mock you.

This is because many people believe that passports from places like Dominica or Antigua are fake or illegitimate because you can acquire them relatively quickly by making a simple investment in the country.

However, this is not the case at all. Caribbean citizenship is completely legitimate and represents a great opportunity. Despite what you might have heard about the Caribbean citizenship by investment programs, they are 100% legal, and the passports they provide are real and highly beneficial.

In this article, we will discuss the truth about the Caribbean citizenship by investment program and clear up some misconceptions that circulate online. We will also explore all the benefits of this program and how to apply for it.

Caribbean Citizenship by Investment

Obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment is a highly valuable, easy, and quick opportunity. It involves making a series of investments, and in return, you can acquire citizenship from one of the Caribbean islands.

It can be said that the least valuable Caribbean passport allows you to travel to at least 130 countries around the world, either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access. The procedures to obtain Caribbean citizenship by investment are straightforward and can be completed in just a few months.

However, there are some misconceptions about Caribbean citizenship, and it is important to clarify these misconceptions and understand the advantages of the program and the available options for obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment.

Common Misconceptions About Caribbean Citizenship

Here are some of the most common misconceptions about Caribbean citizenship by investment:

1. Are Caribbean Passports Fake?

One of the misconceptions about Caribbean passports is that they are fake and will not allow you to travel anywhere. This is completely false.

These Caribbean countries are legitimate countries with genuine passports that will serve you just like any other passport from a larger country. It is understandable for someone from a major country to have concerns about the size of these Caribbean countries, but the truth is that the size of the country does not make its passport any less legitimate.

In fact, even the least valuable Caribbean passport allows you to travel to at least 130 destinations worldwide, either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access.

1. Is Residency Required to Obtain Caribbean Citizenship?

Another misconception about Caribbean citizenship is that you cannot acquire it without residing in one of these countries for a certain period. However, this is not the case at all. The Caribbean citizenship by investment program does not work that way, and you can obtain citizenship without any residency requirement.

In fact, some of these countries do not even require you to have visited them at all.

1. Does Caribbean Citizenship Lead to Criminal Charges?

Another concern for people holding Caribbean passports is that they might be accused of criminal activity when presenting their passport at international borders. People who are used to presenting a US passport or a famous passport may wonder what will happen when they present a passport from a small island country at customs.

This concern is also unfounded because the country you are visiting does not care as much about the type of passport as it does about the validity of the passport.

1. Do Caribbean Passport Holders Receive Poor Treatment?

A very common misconception is that passports from certain countries are better than others, and for example, travelers with a US passport will always receive better treatment in any country, while most Caribbean passport holders do not receive the same treatment.

The truth is that it is not always the case that someone is treated based on the type of passport they carry, but rather the quality of the passport and whether it allows you to travel visa-free to a particular country.

Now that we’ve clarified some of the common misconceptions about Caribbean citizenship by investment, here's the truth: the Caribbean citizenship by investment program is real, legitimate, and a great option for the right person.

Key Reasons and Benefits for Acquiring Caribbean Citizenship

Here are some reasons why we believe the Caribbean citizenship by investment program is a strong investment and a significant opportunity that should not be missed:

1. Rapid Improvement in Visa-Free Travel

Regarding passports, Caribbean passports continue to increase in strength, with the number of countries you can visit without a visa steadily growing.

China, which is one of the most closed countries in the world in terms of visa policies, has granted visa-free travel to Grenada, one of the Caribbean countries. Other Caribbean nations may also be added to the list.

Many Caribbean passports also allow visa-free entry to Russia, another country known for its strict visa policies.

Caribbean passports are already strong, and an increasing number of countries see it as a valid passport for entry, especially for those who have the means to obtain Caribbean citizenship through investment.

However, it is unlikely that you will ever be able to travel visa-free to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, but this is not a drawback for Caribbean citizenship, as most European countries do not offer visa-free access to these countries either.

It’s important to note that the level B passports you obtain through the Caribbean citizenship by investment program represent a future opportunity.

1. Tax Haven

Due to increasing pressure on investors in many European countries and the United States regarding taxes on their investments, many investors see Caribbean citizenship as a tax haven.

The tax levels and systems in the Caribbean countries are exceptionally favorable, making them an attractive option for many investors.

1. Ease and Speed of Obtaining Caribbean Citizenship

Many people believe that obtaining Caribbean citizenship may not be as appealing compared to obtaining citizenship in other countries like Paraguay, where you can get Paraguayan citizenship by depositing $100,000 in a Paraguayan bank.

However, after analyzing the statistics, acquiring Caribbean citizenship is worth the investment. For example, in Paraguay, you would have to wait three years to obtain citizenship, while Caribbean citizenship can be completed in about six months.

Best Options for Acquiring Caribbean Citizenship by Investment

If you are looking for the best Caribbean citizenship programs, you have come to the right article. Here, we will compare five different programs for obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment so that you can decide where to go for the best deal.

Continue reading to understand the subtle differences between the available citizenships, and if you want to explore the factors that will help you choose between these countries, more detailed information is available in the dedicated articles for each of these countries.

The citizenships we will talk about are:

• Grenada Citizenship
• Saint Lucia Citizenship
• Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship
• Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
• Dominica Citizenship

Getting Dominican Citizenship by Investment

Dominica, known as the "Nature Island" in the Caribbean, is famous for its tropical rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls. Once you reach Dominica's shores, you will immediately be transported to a world of natural wonders. It is a jewel in the Caribbean, captivating over 200,000 travelers each year with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

But the natural wonders are not the only attraction this island offers. Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Program has been operating for nearly three decades, and since it generates significant revenue, it continues to attract investors to its shores.

Let’s take a closer look at the key benefits of obtaining Caribbean citizenship from Dominica and the essential requirements for acquiring it.

Benefits of Obtaining Dominican Citizenship by Investment

As with most things, you should not base your decision on the price alone. Dominica is the best option in terms of value and is relatively inexpensive compared to obtaining European citizenship, for example, from Malta. However, there are other factors beyond cost that should be considered, including:

• Cheapest Option: As mentioned, obtaining Dominican citizenship by investment is the most affordable option for acquiring Caribbean citizenship.
• Tax System: One of the key benefits of obtaining Dominican citizenship is that you will not be required to pay taxes on income and wealth generated outside of Dominica, as long as you are not a tax resident in the country.
• Increased Travel Opportunities: As a Dominican citizen, you can visit all Schengen European countries, the UK, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and Turkey.
• Fast Processing: There is no need to pass history or language exams, nor do you need to attend an interview to acquire a Dominican passport. Citizenship can be obtained quickly, in less than a year.
• Inheritance of Citizenship: You and your children can transfer Dominican citizenship to all descendants, and the citizenship is permanent and cannot be revoked.
• Dual Citizenship Allowed: You can enjoy Dominican citizenship while retaining your citizenship in other countries. You will also have the ability to vote, buy property, and live and work in Dominica.
• Family Inclusion: Dependent children under the age of 30 can be added to the Dominican citizenship application by investment, and you can also include dependent parents and grandparents over 55 years old.
• Tax Level: Dominica has no wealth, gift, inheritance, or capital gains taxes. It has signed tax treaties with the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and there are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital. Additionally, there are many business tax incentives, as well as exemptions on exports and imports.
• Strong Embassy Network: Dominica has 17 embassies and consulates worldwide, with 14 in North America and Europe, and three others in Morocco, India, and China.

Getting Dominican Citizenship by Investment

What Are the Downsides of Obtaining Dominican Citizenship by Investment?

As mentioned earlier, Dominica offers some significant advantages when it comes to its Citizenship by Investment Program. However, as with any option, there are two sides to the coin. Here are some of the downsides you should consider when obtaining Caribbean citizenship through Dominica:

• Expensive for Families: While the price for an individual applicant is one of the best rates in the field, the Dominican Citizenship by Investment Program can be costly for families. You can obtain citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda for a family of five for a donation of $100,000 USD plus processing fees of $30,000 USD, compared to a donation of $175,000 USD and fees of around $25,000 USD for a family of five in Dominica.
• Dominican Passport Level B: Dominican citizenship grants you a Level B passport, which may not be as strong as passports from other countries.
• Reputation Issues: Despite being one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs, there have been some concerns about the program’s reputation at times.
• Revocation of Citizenship: While Dominican law technically offers lifetime, irrevocable citizenship in exchange for a donation, the government has the authority to revoke passports. There has been one instance in the early 2000s where citizenship was revoked, and while Dominica is working on upgrading to biometric passports, this means they can revoke a passport remotely if necessary.
• Blacklisted by the EU: Dominica was once placed on the EU’s list of non-compliant jurisdictions, although it has since been cleared. This means that the Dominican government at one point chose not to participate in tax and financial information exchanges with the European Union.

Requirements for Obtaining Dominican Citizenship by Investment

In 2015, Dominica gained access to the Schengen Area, becoming one of the only passports truly available for sale with unrestricted access to the European Union.

As a result of this added benefit, Dominica raised its price from $100,000 USD for an individual applicant to $175,000 USD in August 2016.

However, after some Caribbean countries decided to join the Citizenship by Investment Program, Dominica reduced its price back to $100,000 USD.

Now that there are five programs available in the region, the governments of these countries have lowered their prices for both donation and real estate options to attract investors from their competitors. Let’s talk in more detail about how to acquire Caribbean citizenship in Dominica.

Donation for Citizenship in Dominica

The donation is the oldest option, and with this option, the investor is required to donate to the Economic Diversification Fund, which supports both public and private projects within Dominica.

While most people are familiar with the $100,000 USD price, there are some variations depending on whether you are applying alone, with a spouse, children, or other dependents. The final price distribution is as follows:

• Single Applicant: $100,000 USD non-refundable contribution
• Spouse of the Main Applicant: $50,000 USD
• Main Applicant and Up to Three Dependents: $175,000 USD
• Additional Dependents Over 18: $50,000 USD each
• Additional Dependents Under 18: $25,000 USD each

Additionally, there are some extra fees, such as due diligence fees, which can reach about $10,000 USD.

Getting Dominican Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment

Another option for obtaining Dominican citizenship is through real estate investment, but this is a longer and more complicated process. Like other Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs, Dominica offers economic citizenship to those wishing to purchase approved real estate in the country for a minimum of $200,000 USD. The property can be resold after three years.

Two or more applicants can apply together through a single purchase, as long as each applicant contributes at least $200,000 USD to the investment.

However, since these funds essentially go to developers, the government imposes additional fees to recover some of the funds from the process. With that in mind, the final price distribution for the real estate option is as follows:

• Purchase of Approved Property for $200,000 USD Minimum, plus Government Fees:
  • Single Applicant: $25,000 USD
  • Main Applicant and Up to Three Dependents: $35,000 USD
  • Main Applicant and Up to Five Dependents: $50,000 USD
  • Additional Dependents: $25,000 USD each

The main advantage of the real estate option is that you can eventually resell the property and recover your investment. However, to do this, you must hold the property for at least three years.

Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Investment

The Citizenship by Investment Program is another option to acquire Caribbean citizenship through investment. The government of Grenada aims to attract more foreign investments through this program.

Grenada, also known as the "Island of Spice," was once one of the largest exporters of nutmeg in the world. The island is renowned for its pristine natural environments, including attractions like the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park and the Seven Sisters Waterfalls located near the country's center.

Tourists from all over the world visit Grenada to enjoy year-round sunshine. Additionally, the island is considered a tax haven for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth investors.

So, what can Grenada offer those seeking Caribbean citizenship through investment?

Advantages of Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Investment

Grenada's citizenship-by-investment program offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Visa-Free Travel to 145 Countries: With Grenada’s citizenship program, you can access all Schengen Area countries in Europe, the United Kingdom, certain Balkan countries, and some Latin American nations without a visa.
2. Visa-Free Travel to China: Access one of the world's largest markets and travel opportunities.
3. E-2 Visa Treaty: The ability to apply for the U.S. investor visa, available to all Grenadian citizens.
4. Fast Processing: The government has streamlined the application process by introducing a pre-screening step.
5. Transferable Citizenship: Grenadian citizenship can be passed on to your children and grandchildren.
6. Dual Citizenship Allowed: Grenadian citizenship allows you to live and work in the country for as long as you want. Grenada recognizes dual citizenship and places no restrictions on retaining your current nationalities.
7. No Language Requirements: The application process is straightforward and does not require a language test.
8. Fully Digital Process: From submitting documents to receiving your passport, the entire process is fully digital, and you do not need to travel to Grenada at any stage.
9. No Restrictions Based on Nationality: People from anywhere in the world can apply for Grenadian citizenship. However, as of 2022, the Grenadian government temporarily suspended new applications from Russian and Belarusian nationals.
10. Eligibility for Family Members: The main applicant can include their entire family under a single application, including children, parents, grandparents, and siblings.
11. Attractive Tax Regime: Grenada has long been considered a tax haven. The country imposes no taxes on foreign income, wealth, gifts, inheritance, or capital gains.
12. No Residency Requirement: You are not required to visit or live in Grenada for any period of time.
13. Confidential Process: Your personal information will not be shared with any third party, and the entire application process is confidential.

Disadvantages of Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Investment

There are few drawbacks to obtaining Grenadian citizenship by investment, but certain issues may arise, especially when compared to other Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs:

1. High Cost: Acquiring Grenadian citizenship is not the cheapest option among Caribbean citizenship programs. You will undoubtedly pay more when choosing Grenada for citizenship through investment.
2. Passport Renewal Issues: There have been reports of investors facing difficulties renewing their passports online. While this may not necessarily happen to you, it is something to keep in mind.

Requirements for Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Investment

Although the citizenship-by-investment program has undergone significant changes, the investment types remain the same and are similar across many available options.

You must use a government-authorized local agent to apply for your citizenship through either the donation or real estate investment routes.

Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Donation to the National Transformation Fund

Grenada offers applicants the option to contribute a predetermined amount to its National Transformation Fund, which finances infrastructure projects across the islands.

• The required amount is $150,000 USD for a single applicant.
• For a family of up to four members (excluding siblings), the cost is $200,000 USD.
• Each additional dependent beyond the third adds $25,000 USD.
• Parents add $50,000 USD per person, while siblings (over 18, unmarried, and without children) add $75,000 USD per person.

Additionally, there are other fees to consider:

1. Application Fee: $1,500 USD per person, regardless of the number of applicants.
2. Processing Fee: $1,500 USD per person for a main applicant or couple. For each dependent over 18, add $1,500 USD, and for children under 18, add $500 USD.
3. Due Diligence Fee: $5,000 USD per person for the main applicant or couple. Each additional person aged 17 or older adds $5,000 USD to the total.
4. Interview Fee: $1,000 USD per adult.

Overall, a single applicant opting for the donation route will pay approximately $159,000 USD, while a family of four with two young children will pay at least $220,000 USD.

Obtaining Grenada Citizenship by Real Estate Investment

Investing in real estate is another option for those seeking Caribbean citizenship through Grenada. The required amount depends on your situation:

• To qualify for a Grenadian passport, you must invest $350,000 USD in real estate as a single investor.
• If investing with a partner, the minimum investment drops to $220,000 USD, plus $50,000 USD in government fees.

This recent reduction in prices for co-investors reflects similar price cuts in other Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs.

As with the donation route, you can expect to pay application, processing, due diligence, and interview fees. However, these fees vary based on the applicant's age (in the case of family applications).

While you may not wish to live in Grenada permanently, this is certainly possible, with weekly direct flights to New York, Miami, London, Frankfurt, and other major hubs.

Typically, investors choosing the real estate route aim to generate rental income over five years post-citizenship since the property must be held to retain citizenship.

It is important to note that you can only invest in pre-approved real estate projects such as luxury resorts, villas, and hotels.

If you choose the real estate option, government fees are significantly higher than the donation route:

• Whether applying as an individual, a couple, or a family of four, the real estate investment route requires $50,000 USD in administrative fees.
• Additional individuals add $25,000 USD each to the total.

Other fees include:

1. Application Fee: $1,500 USD per person, regardless of the number of applicants.
2. Processing Fee: $1,500 USD per person for a main applicant or couple. Add $1,500 USD for each dependent over 18, and $500 USD for each child under 18.
3. Due Diligence Fee: $5,000 USD per person for the main applicant or couple. Each additional person aged 17 or older adds $5,000 USD to the total.
4. Interview Fee: $1,000 USD per adult.

After the five-year retention period, you can sell your property.

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Antigua and Barbuda is one of the hidden gems in the Caribbean. It offers more than turquoise beaches and beautiful landscapes, making it a suitable choice for obtaining Caribbean citizenship.

Antigua and Barbuda is a country located in the West Indies, consisting of two large islands and several smaller ones. A short direct flight from North America or a slightly longer journey from Europe is all it takes to experience what these islands offer foreign investors firsthand.

Antigua and Barbuda have beautifully utilized their beaches, bays, and lagoons. Antigua has built some of the world’s most exclusive resorts, while Barbuda continues to attract people with its raw natural beauty.

So, does Antigua and Barbuda have more to offer beyond its stunning natural landscapes?

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Although similar to other programs like Saint Lucia or Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda has a unique advantage if you are not applying as an individual.

If you have a spouse and children, Antigua is the cheapest country in the world to obtain Caribbean citizenship in particular or a second passport in general.

While other programs charge additional fees for each family member, Antigua allows a family of four to apply for Caribbean citizenship at the same price.

In addition, there are other benefits to Antigua and Barbuda citizenship:

• Visa-Free Travel to 150 Countries: The Antigua and Barbuda passport allows you to travel to 150 countries without needing to apply for a visa. These include the Schengen area, South Africa, Hong Kong, and Brazil.
• Access and Other Privileges in the UK: As Antigua and Barbuda is part of the Commonwealth, its citizens are entitled to certain privileges in the UK and other member countries.
• Lifetime Dual Citizenship: You will enjoy citizenship for life, and the same applies to your children. You will have the right to live and work in the country; however, you will not automatically have the right to vote in elections.
• Quick Passport Processing: The total time from submitting your application to receiving your passport is relatively quick, especially compared to European citizenship by investment programs.
• No Residency Requirement: You are not required to live or even visit Antigua and Barbuda to obtain your passport. You can submit your application, and you only need to spend five days annually in the country to retain your citizenship after obtaining the passport.
• Tax-Friendly Environment: While you cannot get tax exemption in Antigua and Barbuda if you choose to become a resident, the overall tax environment is very favorable. There is no tax on capital gains, gifts, wealth, inheritance, or real estate. Income earned outside the country is not subject to income tax.
• Living in One of the World’s Most Beautiful Islands: There’s no denying that Antigua and Barbuda is one of the best holiday destinations in the world. You can own a second home there with easy access to major airports in North America and Europe.

Requirements for Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

So, how can you obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment?

The government of Antigua has defined four options, but in reality, it’s much simpler than that. While you can invest in real estate or local businesses, the vast majority of applicants (97%) choose to contribute to the National Development Fund.

This is because it requires the least amount of investment, although it is possible to see a return on your real estate or business investment.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, but we strongly encourage you to consider the donation to keep things simple.

Let’s dive into each of the three investment options and discuss the costs associated with Antigua’s citizenship.

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Donating to the National Development Fund

Although it may seem counterintuitive to donate instead of investing your money in tangible assets, there is a reason why this route is the most popular in Antigua’s citizenship-by-investment program.

It is the least expensive way to gain Caribbean citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda and is one of the most affordable options in the world for a family of four. The costs required for citizenship through this option are as follows:

• Investment Costs: A $100,000 USD donation to the National Development Fund in Antigua for a family of up to four members. The cost for additional dependents is $25,000 USD per person.
• Government Fees: Processing fees of $30,000 USD for up to four family members, with additional payments of $15,000 USD per extra dependent.

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Real Estate Investment

The second option to obtain Caribbean citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda is through real estate investment. However, only 1-2% of applicants choose this option.

It is unlikely that property values will rise significantly in Antigua and Barbuda. Moreover, investing in a country that relies solely on tourism and foreign investment carries risks.

However, you may be able to recoup your money after the five-year holding period ends. The costs for obtaining citizenship through this route are as follows:

• Investment Costs: $200,000 USD in purchasing a property individually or $200,000 USD per investor in a joint investment. The property must be held for at least five years before it can be sold and can only be sold once to another citizenship-by-investment applicant.

  Only pre-approved properties by the Cabinet can be purchased, meaning you will look at high-end luxury real estate.

• Government Fees: $30,000 USD for a family of up to four, with additional payments of $15,000 USD per extra dependent.

In total, real estate investment in Antigua and Barbuda amounts to $230,000 USD. If you can wait a full five years, this option could be attractive for those looking to recover all their investments. You will still retain your citizenship if you sell the property after five years.

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Business Investment

You can also invest in an approved business to obtain an Antigua passport. This can be done individually or with another person, in which case you can split the costs.

The two options for business investment are:

• Invest at least $1,500,000 USD in an approved business as a single applicant.
• Make a joint investment (with another applicant) in an approved business project with a total value of at least $5,000,000 USD, with each person contributing a minimum of $400,000 USD.
• Processing Fees: $30,000 USD for a family of up to four, with additional payments of $15,000 USD per extra dependent.

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Donating to the University Fund

As of May 2020, Antigua and Barbuda introduced a new donation option available only to families of six or more members through a donation to the University of the West Indies.

This option allows a family of up to six members to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. One family member will also receive a one-year scholarship to the University of the West Indies.

• Investment Costs: A one-time donation of $150,000 USD to the University of the West Indies Fund.
• Government Fees: All processing fees are included in the $150,000 USD donation, but additional family members require an extra donation of $15,000 USD per person.

Obtaining Citizenship of Saint Kitts and Nevis Through Investment

This nation, also known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, consists of two islands located in the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea, specifically in the Lesser Antilles.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is an independent British Commonwealth country. The islands were the first home to English and French settlers, earning it the nickname "The Mother Colony of the West Indies."

It is also the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere in terms of both size and population, with approximately 48,000 inhabitants.

Interestingly, the climate on the two islands differs.
Saint Kitts is classified as having a tropical savanna climate, while Nevis, by comparison, is classified as having a tropical monsoon climate.

In both cases, the islands' mountainous areas are stunning, and the ocean views are breathtaking, making them a great place to spend time.

For these reasons, many investors seek to obtain Caribbean citizenship from Saint Kitts and Nevis, with additional benefits accompanying this citizenship.

What Are the Benefits of Obtaining Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship?

There are numerous advantages to choosing this citizenship-by-investment program, including:

1. Reasonable Cost: While it is not the cheapest citizenship-by-investment program, many consider the $250,000 investment worthwhile as the program is reliable and trustworthy.
2. Passport Ranking: The Saint Kitts and Nevis passport ranks 49th globally, ahead of countries with similar programs like Turkey (87th) and Montenegro (76th). It grants visa-free access to the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Russia.
3. Dependent Inclusion: Dependents under 25 years old can be added to the application, as can parents and grandparents over 55 years old.
4. Lifetime Citizenship: Once obtained, the economic citizenship is for life and can be passed on to your descendants.
5. Real Estate Investment Flexibility: You are required to retain your real estate investment for seven years. After that, you can resell it and recover at least part of your investment.
6. Tax Benefits: Saint Kitts and Nevis impose no income, wealth, or inheritance tax. As a citizen, you are not taxed on your global income. Among Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs, Saint Kitts and Nevis is the only one entirely exempt from taxation.
7. No Residency Requirements: You do not need to visit Saint Kitts and Nevis before applying for citizenship or afterward. You can become a citizen without ever setting foot on the islands.
8. Payment Upon Approval: You only need to invest or pay funds after receiving approval for your citizenship application.

What Are the Disadvantages of Obtaining Citizenship by Investment in Saint Kitts and Nevis?

While there are many benefits, it’s essential to consider the downsides of the Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship-by-investment program:

1. Cost: Although the program is reasonably priced, it is not the cheapest option in the Caribbean. If you're looking for the most affordable citizenship-by-investment program, you might consider Dominica, Saint Lucia, or Antigua and Barbuda.
2. Overpriced Real Estate: As with other citizenship-by-investment programs, real estate prices in Saint Kitts and Nevis can be inflated. You are unlikely to get market value for your investment.
3. Small Population: While not a disadvantage for everyone, Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country among those offering citizenship-by-investment programs in the Caribbean, which means limited economic potential.
4. Natural Disasters: Hurricanes and tropical storms regularly impact Saint Kitts and Nevis. This is an important consideration if you're investing in real estate.

Requirements for Obtaining Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship

All Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs require a non-refundable donation. Saint Kitts and Nevis is no exception.

The Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) was established to support the economic and social development of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Under this option, you are expected to contribute $250,000, plus fees, as a single applicant.

For a family of four, citizenship can be obtained for a $350,000 contribution to the SGF.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the total cost for the donation option:

• Single Applicant: $250,000
• Main Applicant and Spouse: $300,000
• Family of Four: $350,000
• Additional Dependent Under 18: $50,000
• Additional Dependent Over 18: $75,000

Additional fees apply, including due diligence costs:

• Main Applicant: $10,000
• Dependent Over 16 Years: $7,500

Real Estate Investment for Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship

There are two paths for real estate investment:

1. Through a Developer: Applicants can purchase shares in hotel rooms or properties with a minimum investment of $400,000. Ownership must be retained for seven years.
2. Private Residential Purchase: The recently updated program allows investment in single-family homes or residential units, with a minimum investment of $400,000.

While real estate investment is more expensive, it offers the opportunity to recover your investment.

To qualify for Caribbean citizenship through real estate in Saint Kitts and Nevis, you need a minimum $400,000 investment in government-approved property. Additionally, note the program's high government fees:

• Post-Approval Fee for Main Applicant: $25,000
• Additional Fee for Spouse: $15,000
• Fee for Each Child, Regardless of Age: $10,000

For a single applicant purchasing property, the total cost will be at least $435,000. This means only a portion of the donation amount can be saved compared to the direct donation option.

What Are the Easiest Ways to Obtain Caribbean Citizenship?

Citizenship by investment programs offer a way to turn a dream vacation into a permanent reality. By obtaining Caribbean citizenship, you can travel to those countries or other tourist destinations easily and visa-free.

While there are excellent citizenship-by-investment options worldwide, Caribbean citizenship stands out as one of the best in the world.

If you are looking to obtain Caribbean citizenship and settle in the Caribbean region, consider one of the top five Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs discussed in previous sections. If you want to strategize for any of these options, the best approach would be to contact the Zajel team via WhatsApp from here. We are ready to assist you.

You can also access all our services by downloading the Zajel app, where you'll find detailed information about our available services and pricing.

FAQ

Can Citizenship Be Purchased?
Yes, anyone can acquire foreign citizenship in many countries around the world. There are several ways to obtain foreign citizenship, the most popular and significant being citizenship by investment, through lineage, or by residing in a country for a specified period.

Additionally, there are numerous options for acquiring citizenship, whether European, Caribbean, or from other regions and continents.

Can Anyone Obtain Caribbean Citizenship?
Yes, anyone can acquire Caribbean citizenship. It is one of the easiest and fastest citizenship-by-investment options. Caribbean citizenship can typically be obtained within 6 months to 1 year maximum.

What Are the Key Advantages of Obtaining Caribbean Citizenship?
There are numerous benefits to obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment, including:

1. Increased Travel Opportunities
   Caribbean passports provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries worldwide. The weakest Caribbean passport grants access to at least 130 countries, with the number continually increasing.
2. Tax Benefits
   Caribbean countries are considered tax havens for many investors facing heavy tax burdens in their countries of residence. Most Caribbean nations have favorable tax systems and lower taxes compared to many European countries.
3. Speed and Simplicity of the Process
   The process for obtaining Caribbean citizenship is quick and straightforward. It typically takes around six months, and the citizenship is lifelong and can be passed on to descendants.

Which Caribbean Citizenship Can Be Obtained Through Investment?
There are five main options for obtaining Caribbean citizenship:

1. Grenada Citizenship
2. Saint Lucia Citizenship
3. Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship
4. Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
5. Dominica Citizenship

Are Caribbean Citizenships Fake?
One common misconception about Caribbean passports is that they are fake and will not grant access anywhere. This is entirely false.

Caribbean nations are legitimate countries with genuine passports that serve their holders just like any other nationality.

It’s understandable for someone from a major country to have concerns about the size of these Caribbean nations. However, the truth is, the size of a country does not diminish the legitimacy of its passport.

The weakest Caribbean passport grants access to at least 130 destinations worldwide, either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival.

Does Obtaining Caribbean Citizenship Require Residency in a Caribbean Country?
A common myth is that one must reside in a Caribbean country for a certain period to acquire its citizenship. On the contrary, Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs do not operate this way.

You can obtain Caribbean citizenship without any residency requirements. Some of these nations don’t even require you to have visited the country in the first place.

Do Caribbean Passport Holders Face Poor Treatment at Airports?
No, on the contrary. Citizenship does not affect the treatment passport holders receive at airports.

The only downside with Caribbean passports is that, occasionally, airport officials may need to verify whether the passport holder is eligible for visa-free entry, potentially causing a slight delay upon arrival.