A Guide to St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment

This is a comprehensive guide to obtaining St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment.

Saint Kitts and Nevis, a beautiful twin-island nation in the Caribbean, is home to the world’s oldest and most respected Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

This program, overseen by the government of St. Kitts, allows individuals and their families to obtain citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis by making a qualifying investment in the country.

By participating in this program, investors gain numerous benefits, including visa-free travel, tax advantages, and a higher quality of life.

Investment Options

The Saint Kitts and Nevis CBI program offers two main investment options:

Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)

The SISC is a non-refundable contribution that directly supports the nation’s development projects, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and tourism. This fund was introduced to provide a streamlined path to citizenship while benefiting the nation’s growth. The minimum contribution for a single applicant is $250,000. For a family of up to four, the required contribution is $350,000.

A prior program called the SGF or Sustainable Growth Fund is no longer active.

Real Estate Investment

Another popular option is investing in government-approved real estate projects. These include approved resort hotel shares, condominium units, and private homes. The minimum investment for real estate is $400,000 for approved resort hotel shares or condominiums, or $800,000 for a single-family private dwelling (private home). All real estate investments must be held for at least seven years.

Both the SISC and real estate options have their own advantages. The SISC option is quicker and simpler, while the real estate option allows you to acquire a tangible asset in Saint Kitts and Nevis, potentially offering a return on investment.

This revision accurately reflects the current investment requirements and holding periods for the real estate option in the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program.

Public Benefit Option Investment Amount

The Public Benefit Option is a third investment route for obtaining St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship. Under the terms this option, the investment amount starts at $250,000, which is contributed to an approved public benefit project. These projects typically focus on national development initiatives such as infrastructure improvements, education, healthcare, or environmental conservation. This investment amount allows applicants to directly contribute to the country's growth while gaining citizenship. The specific projects and their associated investment amounts may vary, and applicants should consult with authorized agents for the most current list of approved public benefit initiatives and their corresponding investment requirements. This option provides a unique opportunity for investors to make a tangible impact on the nation's development while securing their citizenship.

British Commonwealth Benefits

As a member of the British Commonwealth, St. Kitts and Nevis citizens enjoy several unique advantages. Commonwealth citizenship grants certain privileges in the UK and other member nations, including preferential treatment for UK visa applications and the right to vote in some Commonwealth countries if residing there. Commonwealth citizens can also seek consular assistance from British embassies in countries where St. Kitts and Nevis doesn't have diplomatic representation. Additionally, they have access to Commonwealth scholarships and fellowships, enhancing educational and professional opportunities. The shared legal and administrative systems among Commonwealth nations also facilitate easier business and travel experiences for St. Kitts and Nevis passport holders.

USA Applicants

The St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program welcomes applicants from the United States. For USA citizens, this program offers an attractive opportunity to obtain a second citizenship without relinquishing their American nationality, as both countries allow dual citizenship. US applicants can benefit from the tax advantages of St. Kitts and Nevis, which does not impose income tax on worldwide earnings. However, US citizens should be aware that they remain obligated to file US tax returns regardless of their place of residence. The program can be particularly appealing for Americans seeking increased global mobility, as the St. Kitts and Nevis passport offers visa-free access to several countries that require visas for US passport holders, such as Russia and Venezuela.

Average Processing Time

11.4

Months

As of Q4 2024, the time it takes to process a citizenship application in Saint Kitts and Nevis is, on average, 11.4 months, with the fastest applications getting approved in as little as 5 months. The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) is responsible for processing applications, conducting due diligence checks, and ensuring all requirements are met.

Standard Processing : Typically, the standard processing time is three to six months. This includes submitting your application, undergoing due diligence checks, and making your investment.
Accelerated Application Process (AAP): For those who need citizenship more quickly, the CIU offers an Accelerated Application Process, which can reduce the processing time to as little as 45 days with the accelerated processing time. This expedited service comes with additional fees but provides a fast-tracked route to citizenship.

The overall processing time can vary depending on the completeness of your application and the efficiency of the due diligence checks.

It’s important to make sure that all documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

12 Program Benefits

Citizens gain visa-free access to many countries, including most of Europe.
Settlement rights in multiple countries (beyond the program country itself)
Freedom of movement (but not settlement) within Schengen
Minimal physical presence requirements
Permits dual/multiple citizenship
Ability to include three or more generations of family members in the application
Lower taxes
Lower cost of living
Safety and security
Warm climate
Short processing time
English as official language

6 Key Benefits of St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship

Obtaining citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis through investment offers several key benefits:

Visa-Free Travel

Saint Kitts and Nevis citizens and passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 157 destinations and territories, including popular destinations like the European Union, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Singapore. This global mobility is a significant advantage for frequent travelers.

Tax Advantages

Saint Kitts and Nevis is known for its favorable tax regime. The country does not impose personal income tax , inheritance tax, wealth tax, or capital gains tax. This possibly makes it the best 2nd passport for an immigrant investor according to Forbes.

Security and Stability

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a stable, peaceful country with a strong legal system. It is part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which adds an additional layer of security and recognition for its citizens.

Quality of Life

The country offers a high standard of living with beautiful natural surroundings, a warm climate, and a welcoming community. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, making them an ideal place to live or visit.

Family Inclusion

The Saint Kitts and Nevis CBI program allows you to include family members in your application. This includes your spouse, children under the age of 31, and parents or grandparents aged 55 or older. This means your entire family can benefit from the advantages of Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship.

No Residency Requirements

Unlike some other CBI programs, Saint Kitts and Nevis does not require you to reside in the country before or after obtaining citizenship. This offers great flexibility, allowing you to maintain your primary residence elsewhere while still enjoying the benefits of Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship.

St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program

Saint Kitts and Nevis offers the second best Citizenship by Investment program in the world.

This program has been running since 1984, making it a pioneer in Citizen by Investment program according to CNN. The program’s longevity and success are a testament to its rigorous standards and the benefits it offers to investors.

Background and Legal Considerations

The Citizenship by Investment Program in Saint Kitts and Nevis is governed by the Citizenship Act of 1984. This legal framework sets out the requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment and ensures that the program is conducted in a transparent and secure manner. The program was initially created to attract foreign investment and boost the country’s economy, particularly in the areas of tourism, real estate, and infrastructure.

These checks are conducted by independent international agencies, which assess the background, financial standing, and integrity of each applicant.

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) is the government body responsible for managing the program. The CIU reviews all applications, conducts due diligence, and ultimately approves or denies citizenship.

The CIU’s rigorous processes ensure that only individuals of good character and financial standing are granted citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

5 Investment Requirements for a St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship

To qualify for the Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program, applicants must meet several criteria.

These requirements are designed to ensure that only high-caliber individuals are granted citizenship. Here’s what you need to know:

Age

The main applicant must be at least 18 years old. This is a standard requirement across most CBI programs.

Clean Criminal Record

All applicants must have a clean criminal record. This is verified through extensive due diligence checks, which include background investigations by international agencies. This requirement helps maintain the integrity and security of the program.

Good Health

Applicants must make a qualifying investment in Saint Kitts and Nevis. As mentioned before, the two main options are:

Qualifying Investment

The CIU will conduct comprehensive due diligence checks on all applicants. These checks include verifying your identity, assessing your financial background, and ensuring you have no criminal record. The due diligence process is crucial for maintaining the program’s integrity.

Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC): A non-refundable contribution starting at $250,000 for a single applicant. This option is popular for its simplicity and speed.

Real Estate Investment: Purchasing government-approved real estate with a minimum value of $400,000. The property must be held for at least seven years. Alternatively, you can invest $400,000 in real estate, which must be held for five years.

Source of Funds

Applicants must prove that their investment funds come from a legitimate source. This typically requires providing detailed financial statements, bank records, and other documentation to verify the origin of the funds.

Dependent Eligibility

The program allows the inclusion of dependents, such as your spouse, children under 31, and parents or grandparents aged 55 or older. Dependents must also meet certain criteria, such as being financially dependent on the main applicant.

Procedures and Time Frame of the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program

The process of obtaining citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis through the CBI program is straightforward but involves several important steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Choose Your Investment Option

First, decide whether you will make a contribution to the SISC or invest in real estate. Your choice will depend on your financial goals and preferences.

Engage an Authorized Agent

All CBI applications must be submitted through a government-authorized agent. These agents are professionals who specialize in handling citizenship applications. They will assist you in preparing your documents, submitting your application, and guiding you through the process.

Submit Your Application

Your authorized agent will prepare and submit your application to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). Along with the application, you must provide supporting documents, including your passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificate, medical report, and proof of investment.

Due Diligence Checks

Approval in Principle

If your application passes the due diligence checks, you will receive an approval in principle. This means your application has been accepted, but you must complete your investment before citizenship is granted.

Make the Investment

After receiving approval in principle, you must complete your investment. For real estate, this means finalizing the purchase of your property. For the SISC, this means transferring the required funds to the government.

Receive Your Citizenship and Passport

Once your investment is confirmed, you will be issued a Certificate of Registration, which confirms your Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship. You can then apply for your passport, which will be issued by the government.

Start the process now

Join the future of citizenship and apply to become a citizen in your next homeland.

The entire process generally takes between three to six months. However, if you choose the Accelerated Application Process, it can be completed in as little as 60 days.

Fees and Costs you Should Consider

Gaining citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis through investment involves several fees and costs beyond the primary investment. Here's an overview:

Government Fees In addition to your investment, you must pay government fees. For the SISC option, the processing fees are typically included in the contribution amount. For the real estate option, government fees start at $35,050 USD for the main applicant.

Due Diligence Fees These fees cover the cost of the background checks conducted by the CIU. The due diligence fees have been revised for the SISC option:

Single applicant: $10,000 USD
Family of two: $17,500 USD
Family of four: $32,500 USD (for those aged 16+)

For the real estate option, due diligence fees remain $7,500 USD for the main applicant, with additional fees for dependents.

Legal Fees If you engage legal services to assist with your application, you will need to pay legal fees. These fees vary depending on the complexity of your application and the services provided.

Passport Fees Once your citizenship is approved, there is a fee for issuing your passport. This is typically around $500 USD per passport.

Real Estate Transaction Costs If you choose the real estate option, there may be additional costs related to the purchase of property, such as legal fees, stamp duty, and property registration fees.

Mandatory Interview Costs As part of the new requirements, applicants must attend a mandatory interview. While the interview itself doesn't have a fee, applicants should consider potential travel costs if an in-person interview is required.

Dual Citizenship

One of the key advantages of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program is that the country allows dual citizenship .

This means that you do not have to renounce your current nationality when you obtain Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship. In fact, it is considered one of the best countries to have dual citizenship in 2024.

A second citizenship can provide additional flexibility and security, allowing you to maintain ties with your home country while enjoying the benefits of being a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Why Choose CitizenX for a St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship

Choosing the right platform for your St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment is essential. CitizenX stands out as the most trusted and efficient option. Here’s why:

1. Trusted and Secure

CitizenX is a secure platform, ensuring your investment is handled with care and transparency. Your path to citizenship is safe with CitizenX.

2. Fully Online Process

CitizenX offers a 100% online application process, making it easy to apply from anywhere. You can start and track your application without leaving home.

3. Fast Processing

With an average processing time of just 14 weeks, CitizenX ensures a quick transition to your new citizenship, allowing you to enjoy your benefits sooner.

4. Clear Investment Options

CitizenX provides straightforward investment options, starting at $250,000. The platform guides you through the costs and helps you make informed decisions.

5. Global Mobility

St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 156 destinations. CitizenX helps you maximize this global reach, including access to 87% of European countries.

6. Expert Support

CitizenX offers personalized guidance throughout the process, making citizenship by investment simple and stress-free.

7. Tax Benefits

With 0% income, capital gains, inheritance, and net worth taxes, CitizenX helps you protect and grow your wealth in a favorable tax environment.

8. Dual Citizenship

CitizenX allows you to retain your current nationality while securing lifelong benefits for you and your family in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Invest in your future confidently with CitizenX. Begin your St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment application today and unlock a world of opportunities.