On 11 March 2025, His Excellency, Executive Chairman Calvin St. Juste, hosted an exclusive breakfast with the Authorised Agents of St. Kitts and Nevis, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing development of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.
This gathering underscored the importance of a strong partnership between the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) and its Authorised Agents.
The discussions highlighted the central role of collaboration, transparency, and innovation in the continued success of the programme.
A VISION OF UNITY: PRIME MINISTER’S KEY INSIGHTS
The meeting was graced by the presence of The Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, who delivered a key address focusing on the broader national context in which the CBI programme operates.
The Prime Minister emphasised the numerous challenges faced by the Federation and reiterated the critical importance of maintaining St. Kitts and Nevis’ sovereignty.
He reminded the everyone that actions are continually monitored to ensure accountability and compliance with existing laws.
He emphasised that Authorised Agents are partners of the CIU, and their input is vital for the continued success of the programme.
Efforts are underway to enhance communication mechanisms, ensuring that Authorised Agents remain well-informed, and their feedback is valued.
The Prime Minister reiterated that he had tasked the new Board of Governors in September last year to set up a world class business unit.
FOSTERING OPEN COMMUNICATION FOR PROGRAMME EXCELLENCE
The Prime Minister reiterated the importance of transparent and open communication between all stakeholders.
He expressed his confidence that such transparency would ensure that St. Kitts and Nevis’ CBI Programme continues to be the premier option in the global market.
He also noted that the CBI programme operates in a dynamic international business environment, and as such, must always be responsive to market demands.
Central to the Prime Minister’s vision is the commitment to exceptional customer service, which he identified as the foundation of the programme’s ongoing success.
He also touched on the use of cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, giving St. Kitts and Nevis a competitive edge in the CBI industry.
STRENGTHENING THE PARTNERSHIP: EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS
Building on the Prime Minister’s remarks, His Excellency, Executive Chairman Calvin St. Juste underscored the vital role of Authorised Agents in the success of St. Kitts and Nevis’ CBI Programme.
He emphasised that the relationship between the CIU and its Authorised Agents is a partnership that thrives on mutual collaboration and shared goals.
The Chairman committed to continuously supporting Authorised Agents by providing up-to-date information on regulations and ensuring that they are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to succeed.
A NEW ERA OF EFFICIENCY: DIGITAL SYSTEM UPDATE
One of the most anticipated announcements was the introduction of a new digital system aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing transparency in the application process.
In response to questions from Authorised Agents about the status of applications, Chairman St. Juste explained that the new system would offer real-time access to a comprehensive dashboard displaying the progress of all applications.
Authorised Agents will also receive alerts when additional information or documentation is needed, allowing them to address any issues promptly.
This system is designed to reduce redundancy, eliminate inefficiencies, and expedite the overall process by cutting down on up to 20 days of wasted time.
A pilot test of the new system is already underway, with a full launch expected by the end of March or early April 2025.
STRENGTHENING REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT OVERSIGHT
Chairman St. Juste also expanded on the recent introduction of the Office of the Chairman, which focuses on real estate and development within the CBI programme.
The office ensures that all developments meet international standards and are progressing according to plan.
Damille James, who manages this office, ensures that milestones are met and that developments align with both the investment objectives and the overarching goals of the programme.
ACKNOWLEDGING THE CIU TEAM’S EFFORTS
The Chairman took a moment to praise the efforts of the CIU executive team, calling them a “hidden treasure.”
He commended the task force for their dedication in addressing the backlog of files and maintaining a high level of service despite the challenges.
UPCOMING INITIATIVES: TRAINING AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
In a move aimed at further enhancing the quality of service provided by agents, Chairman St. Juste announced a complimentary customer service training for all Authorised Agents.
This training will focus on cultural engagement and conflict management, ensuring that Authorised Agents can deliver exceptional service in every interaction.
Additionally, he reassured Authorised Agents that policy updates would continue to be communicated regularly to ensure that they are always informed of any changes.
A NEW ERA FOR THE CIU
Finally, Chairman St. Juste shared exciting news about the CIU’s new building, which has been designed to foster a productive and collaborative environment.
This new facility will help streamline operations and ensure that the CIU continues to deliver world-class service to investors and partners alike.
The meeting between the CIU and the Authorised Agents on 11 March 2025 underscored the importance of a collaborative approach in advancing the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme.
With a strong emphasis on transparency, communication, and innovation, the future of the programme looks bright, and the partnership between the CIU and its Authorised Agents will be crucial in ensuring its continued success.