St Kitts and Nevis has one of the world’s most reputable Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. Investors can secure citizenship through various financial contributions, gaining numerous benefits without residency requirements or lengthy processes.
Lyle Julien, an immigration program expert at Immigrant Invest, explains how it works.
Eligibility criteria
To be considered for the St Kitts and Nevis CBI program, applicants must meet several criteria:
- be at least 18;
- have financial stability and the ability to make the required investment;
- have no criminal record, as proven by a strict Due Diligence process;
- be in good health, as proven by medical reports.
The program allows bringing a family: a spouse, children under 18, dependent children under 30, dependent parents or grandparents over 55.
Investment options
St Kitts and Nevis CBI program has several investment options to choose from, refundable and non-refundable.
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) option:
- minimum contribution is $250,000 for the main applicant or a family of four;
- for additional dependents: $25,000 per person under 18 and $50,000 per person over 18;
This contribution is non-refundable. The funds go toward the country’s economic and environmental initiatives.
- Real estate option
- minimum $400,000 in government-approved projects, such as a resort; minimum $400,000 in an Approved Private Home condominium unit;
- minimum investment of $800,000 in a single-family Approved Private Home.
This investment can be returned after seven years.
- Public Benefit option — minimum $250,000 in an approved project. This could include investments in infrastructure, healthcare, or education
Application fees and additional costs
Along with the investment, several fees arise. For example, the processing fee is $250 per applicant. Due diligence fees are $10,000 for the investor and $7,500 per person for other applicants.
Post-approval fees:
- main applicant: $25,000 for real estate and public benefit options (not applicable under SISC);
- spouse: $15,000;
- minor dependent: $10,000;
- adult dependent: $15,000;
Benefits of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship
No residency requirements. Investors do not have to live in or visit St Kitts and Nevis during or after the application process.
Profitable real estate. Over the past decade, property values have grown by 3 to 5% annually. In key areas like Frigate Bay and Christophe Harbour, properties have seen 4% annual appreciation.
Rental yields are strong, averaging 4 to 6%, with short-term rentals in tourist areas offering higher returns.
Economic stability. St Kitts and Nevis has a solid economy driven by tourism, real estate, and financial services. The country has a steady GDP growth rate and a stable currency tied to the US dollar.
Privacy and investment protection. St Kitts and Nevis retains strong privacy for investors. Citizenship information is kept confidential. The country also has legal frameworks in place to protect investments and property rights.
Climate. St Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate with year-round warm temperatures and ocean. It has a distinct wet and dry season, with the dry season from December to April being the most popular with visitors.
Safety. St Kitts and Nevis is considered a safe country with low crime rates, particularly in tourist areas. The government is diligent about safety. There are measures in place that ensure the well-being of residents, citizens, and visitors.
Application process under the St Kitts and Nevis CBI
Before beginning, investors must choose a licensed agent of the Caribbean programs and apply through them. Direct application is prohibited by St Kitts and Nevis.
The application process involves several steps, with varying timelines depending on the chosen investment option.
- Pre-application Due Diligence. There are licensed agents who can conduct their own preliminary Due Diligence.
- Document preparation. Applicants gather and submit the necessary documents, including proof of investment, medical reports, police clearance, and passport copies.
- Investment fulfilment. The investment must be made from a bank account in the applicant’s name.
- Submission of application. The application is sent by your licensed agent to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) for processing.
- Biometrics and interview. Applicants are typically required to submit biometrics or attend an interview.
- Approval. The CIU reviews the application and, upon approval, issues a Certificate of Citizenship. This process can take several months.
- Oath of allegiance. Successful applicants must take an oath of allegiance to St Kitts and Nevis.
- Issuance of the passport. After taking the oath, the applicant receives their St Kitts and Nevis passport.
Key takeaways
- Obtaining dual citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis grants visa-free access to over 150 countries, tax benefits, and no residency requirements.
- The process involves meeting eligibility criteria, making the required investment, and following the structured application steps.
- One must find a licensed agent of the Caribbean programs in order to apply for St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme, since applying directly is prohibited.
