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St. Kitts & Nevis – Citizenship by Investment
St. Kitts and Nevis, a twin-island Caribbean nation and member of the Commonwealth, operates the world’s longest-running Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme. Originally launched in 1984 and modernised under the 2023 Citizenship by Substantial Investment Regulations (SRO No. 26 of 2023), the programme provides a structured and government-regulated pathway to full citizenship and a passport in exchange for a qualifying economic contribution to the country.
What Is the Citizenship by Investment Programme?
The Citizenship by Investment Programme allows foreign investors to obtain citizenship of St. Kitts and Nevis by making an approved economic contribution, such as a direct contribution, real estate acquisition, or a public benefit investment.
The programme is administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), a dedicated government body that oversees applications under the supervision of the Board of Governors and the Technical Committee, conducts due diligence checks (for applicants aged 16+), and manages the approval process. Final approval authority rests with the Minister responsible for National Security.
Applications must be submitted exclusively through an Authorised Agent licensed by the government.
Investment Routes and Requirements
1. Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
A direct government contribution supporting the nation’s social and economic development by funding key initiatives that strengthen St. Kitts and Nevis’ economic, social, and environmental landscape across seven priority sectors.
• Minimum starting investment: US$250,000 for a main applicant.
• Additional dependants are subject to government fees based on age at the time of application (e.g., approximately US$25,000 for minors and approximately US$50,000 for adult dependants).
• This option helps support national development priorities and social programmes.
2. Private Real Estate Investment
This option allows the purchase of units in government-approved developments designated by the CIU.
• Investors may acquire condominium units with a minimum eligible investment of US$325,000.
• Larger units or single-family private dwelling homes are typically priced at US$600,000 or more.
• The property must be held for a mandatory seven-year holding period before it can be resold.
3. Public Benefit Option
Investors may contribute to government-approved Public Benefit Projects that support national infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community development initiatives.
• Minimum contribution amounts are aligned with existing investment thresholds (starting at ~US$250,000).
• These projects promote employment, capacity building, and local growth.
Key Benefits of Citizenship
Obtaining citizenship through the CBI programme grants significant advantages for both individuals and families:
Full Lifelong Citizenship
• Citizenship is granted for life and may be passed down to future generations by descent.
• Dual citizenship is permitted.
Family Inclusion
• Applicants can include a spouse, dependent children, and eligible parents (typically aged 55 and over) in their application.
• Additional family members may also be added after citizenship is granted under set conditions.
Global Mobility & Passport Power
• A St. Kitts and Nevis passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 150+ countries and territories, including the Schengen Area, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
No Physical Residency Requirement
• There is currently no minimum physical residence requirement under the regulations.
Business and Lifestyle Advantages
• Citizenship offers access to a stable Caribbean economy, a favourable tax regime (including no personal income tax in many scenarios), and quality of life benefits.
Application Process & Timeline
The CBI application process involves several structured steps managed by the CIU:
1. Select an Investment Option – Choose between SISC, Real Estate Option, or Public Benefit Option(PBO).
2. Submit Application & Eligibility Verification: Submit Application Through an Authorised Agent – All applications must be prepared and submitted by a licensed Authorised Agent. Required documentation typically includes identity documents, police clearance certificates, medical certificates, and comprehensive source-of-funds evidence.
3. Due Diligence and Background Checks (3-4 months):
Pay Due Diligence Fee (same for all three options):
Main Applicant: US$10,000
Each Dependant (aged 16 or over): US$7,500
All applicants aged 16 and above are subject to enhanced due diligence and may be required to attend an interview if deemed necessary by an independent, Government-approved due diligence firm. Biometric data collection (including fingerprints) may also be required. Interviews may be conducted virtually in English (online) (interprepeter will be provided if necessary), in Saint Kitts & Nevis or at another approved international location.
4. Investment Completion – Upon successful completion, you will receive an approval-in-principle letter from the CIU is forwarded to you, as well as payment instructions on how to make your investment capital contribution and pay any remaining post-approval fees. Client wires investment amount directly to CIU and post-approval fees to the Authorised Agent account. Upon clearance of funds, the CIU will issue Certificate(s) of Registration (COR) and supporting documents for the St. Kitts and Nevis passport application (2-4 weeks).
• SISC Contribution: US$250,000.
• Public Benefit Option (PBO): US$250,000 contribution + post-approval fee (US$15,000(for applicants aged 18+)/US$10,000(for dependents aged under 18))
• Real Estate Option: US$325,000 contribution + post-approval fee: US$25,000 (main applicant), ((US$15,000 (for dependents aged 18+)/US$10,000(for dependents aged under 18)))
5. Certificate & Passport Issuance – Scanned copies of the Citizenship Registration Certificate emailed to the applicant for confirmation, after which a physical passport can be issued in 4-10 working days and shipped to you by postmail.
The total processing timeline varies between 4 and 6 months, depending on the investment option and the completeness of the documentation.
Why Choose St. Kitts & Nevis CBI?
The St. Kitts & Nevis CBI programme remains one of the longest-running and most trusted in the world, known for its structured legal framework, transparent vetting, and efficient processing. With its combination of global mobility, family inclusiveness, investment opportunities, and lifestyle benefits, it continues to attract global investors seeking security, flexibility, and a second passport option. We assist qualified investors in preparing applications in cooperation with a licensed Authorised Agent in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Investment thresholds, government fees, and eligibility criteria are subject to change by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. All applications must be submitted through a licensed Authorised Agent.