The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme of St. Kitts and Nevis is the longest-running and most successful CBI initiative globally. It offers investors and their families the opportunity to obtain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment. The Programme, launched in 1984, provides numerous benefits, including a stable political and economic environment, access to a peaceful lifestyle in the Caribbean, robust business opportunities and enhanced global mobility. Let’s explore St. Kitts and Nevis’ various CBI options…
St. Kitts and Nevis CBI
The St. Kitts and Nevis CBI Programme is designed to attract foreign investors who wish to obtain citizenship while contributing to the nation’s development.
Investing in an approved option can secure citizenship, offering benefits like favourable tax regulations, an exclusive and solid CBI programme, business opportunities and more.
It is widely regarded for its efficiency and transparency, making it popular for those seeking alternative citizenship.
Who Can Apply for St. Kitts and Nevis CBI?
The Programme is open to individuals over 18 who meet the financial requirements and pass a comprehensive due diligence process.
Applicants must have a clean criminal record and be of good character.
Additionally, the investment funds used must come from legal sources. There are no language, education, or residency requirements, making the Programme accessible to many applicants globally.
Which Family Members can be Added?
One key benefit of the St. Kitts and Nevis CBI Programme is that it allows applicants to include their spouse, children under the age of 18, children aged 18-25 financially dependent on the main applicant, or children aged 18 or older who are physically or mentally challenged, and the parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse who are 65 or older and financially dependent on the applicant in their citizenship application.
This makes it ideal for families seeking alternative citizenship.
The Due Diligence Process
St. Kitts and Nevis implements a robust due diligence process to ensure the integrity of its CBI Programme.
All applicants undergo a thorough background check conducted by independent agencies. It is designed to verify that applicants do not pose any security or reputational risks to the country.
All CBI applicants must undergo a compulsory interview. Dependants aged 16 and above may also be required to attend an interview at the discretion of the CIU.
St. Kitts and Nevis CBI Options
Citizenship by Investment in St. Kitts and Nevis can be obtained through four distinct avenues:
Sustainable Island State Contribution
One of the most popular options under the St. Kitts and Nevis CBI Programme is the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC).
This straightforward option requires a non-refundable contribution to the Government’s fund, which supports the sustainable development of the twin-island Federation.
It is often chosen by individuals looking for a quick and hassle-free route to citizenship but that simultaneously want to make a difference in the country they are looking to invest in.
The SISC was created to promote economic growth and enhance social conditions in St. Kitts and Nevis.
The contribution amounts are as follows:
- US$250,000 for the main applicant or family (up to four).
- For each additional dependant under 18: US$25,000.
- For each additional dependant aged 18 or older: US$50,000
Developer’s Real Estate Investment Option
The real estate investment option allows applicants to purchase government-approved properties in St. Kitts and Nevis. It provides investors with the potential for capital appreciation and rental income, in addition to obtaining citizenship.
Prospective investors need to invest a minimum of US$325,000, which can be resold after holding for at least seven years.
Additional costs associated with real estate purchases typically include mandatory insurance contributions and legal fees.
Private Real Estate Sale
In addition to the general real estate investment option, applicants can explore private real estate sales. This allows investors to purchase privately owned property, provided it meets the government’s minimum investment threshold.
For a condominium unit or share in an approved development, the minimum investment is US$325,000, also resaleable after a seven-year period.
If seeking a single-family home categorised as Approved Private Real Estate, the minimum investment rises to US$600,000, similarly subject to the seven-year resale requirement.
Public Benefit Option
The Public Benefit Option (PBO) is another avenue for obtaining citizenship under the St. Kitts and Nevis CBI Programme.
It involves investing in projects that benefit the public, such as;
- infrastructure development,
- healthcare, or
- education.
This allows investors to directly contribute to the country’s growth while securing citizenship.
Through the PBO, applicants can secure citizenship by contributing at least US$250,000 to an Approved Public Benefit Project, with payments directed to the relevant unit.
Post-approval, application and due diligence fees may apply in each option.
