Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programmes provide a lawful route to obtaining a second nationality through a qualifying contribution or investment in a participating state. Unlike residency-based pathways in Europe, these programmes are administrative rather than lifestyle-driven: there is no requirement to relocate, meet language conditions, or establish cultural ties.
For globally mobile individuals, entrepreneurs, and families planning for long-term security, a second citizenship can reduce dependence on single-country travel or residence rights. It also offers a structured way to safeguard continuity for future generations, particularly in times of political or economic uncertainty.
In short, Caribbean citizenship is not about relocation or reinvention, but optionality, the ability to choose where you go, how you structure your affairs, and what level of resilience you build for your family’s future.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment: How the Programmes Compare
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs are sometimes presented interchangeably, but their differences are significant. Each jurisdiction sets its legislation, fee schedules, due diligence standards, family eligibility rules, and investment pathways. These variations influence both the practical advantages of holding the passport and the long-term stability of the status.
This analysis relies exclusively on official government materials: statutory acts, Citizenship by Investment Unit circulars, published fee schedules, and application regulations. It does not use commercial ranking tables or consultancy marketing claims.
A recurring question is whether someone can “buy Caribbean citizenship” or “buy a Caribbean passport”.
In practice, you are not purchasing a passport. You are making a qualifying contribution or investment that entitles you to apply for naturalisation under the country’s nationality law. Once approved and sworn in, you are a citizen, and the passport is issued to you on that basis, not as a product.
Why Consider Caribbean Citizenship by Investment?
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programmes appeal to applicants who want greater mobility, a reliable secondary nationality, and flexibility in how they structure their personal or business affairs. Unlike residency programmes in Europe, these routes do not require relocation, language integration, or long-stay commitments. The process is administrative rather than lifestyle-based.
A Caribbean passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to major business, transit, and leisure hubs, including the EU Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong. For investors who travel frequently or work across multiple jurisdictions, this reduces administrative friction and long-term uncertainty.
Many Caribbean jurisdictions also operate territorial tax systems, meaning foreign income is not taxed unless earned locally. While personal tax planning depends on individual circumstances, this structure can provide strategic advantages for those managing global assets or planning intergenerational wealth.
In essence, Caribbean citizenship offers practical sovereignty: the ability to choose where you go, how you structure your affairs, and how you protect your family’s options over time.
The 10 Benefits of Carribean Citizenship
In short, it is about choice: where you go, how you live, and what you safeguard for your family.
Which Countries Offer Citizenship by Investment in the Caribbean?
Five sovereign Caribbean nations operate official, government-regulated citizenship-by-investment programmes:
- Antigua and Barbuda — Family-friendly fee structures, especially for larger households.
- Dominica — Historically the lowest entry donation for single applicants, though recent UK visa-access changes may affect mobility considerations.
- Grenada — The only jurisdiction in the region with an active treaty route to the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
- Saint Kitts and Nevis — The longest-running programme, noted for strong due diligence and regulatory continuity.
- Saint Lucia — Distinct for offering a refundable government bond option alongside donations and real estate.
Each program enables naturalisation via a qualified contribution or investment; however, the structure, outcomes, and total cost of ownership differ.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Comparison
While each Caribbean CBI programme leads to the same outcome, full citizenship, the cost structure, family rules, processing times, and long-term conditions differ.
The table below summarises these key distinctions to help you identify which programme aligns with your priorities. Detailed programme breakdowns follow in the sections ahead.
| Programme | Minimum Investment Route (From) | Family Eligibility | Time until Citizenship | Best For | Real Estate Hold Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Antigua & Barbuda
|
From ~USD 230,000 (Government Contribution) | Spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings (conditions apply) | ~6 months | Best for larger families due to favorable dependent fees | Typically 5 years |
Dominica
|
From ~USD 200,000 (Government Contribution) | Spouse, children, parents, grandparents | ~6–9 months | Best entry-level donation (note recent UK visa access changes) | 3–7 years depending on project |
Grenada
|
From ~USD 235,000 (Government Contribution) | Wide family scope incl. parents & siblings (conditions apply) | ~6 months | Only CBI with U.S. E-2 Treaty access | 5 years |
Saint Kitts & Nevis
|
From ~USD 250,000 (Sustainable Island State Contribution) | Spouse, children, parents (under defined dependency) | ~4–6 months | Strong due diligence / longest-running programme | 7 years (private home) / 5 years (condo shares) |
Saint Lucia
|
From ~USD 240,000 (National Economic Fund) OR refundable Government Bonds | Spouse, children, parents, siblings (conditions apply) | ~10–12 months | Only programme with refundable government bonds option | 5 years (real estate) / fixed maturity (bonds) |
Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
Established in 1984, Saint Kitts and Nevis operates the oldest citizenship-by-investment programme globally. It is regarded as the region’s benchmark for regulatory continuity and due-diligence standards.
Applications are generally processed within four to six months, with no residency or visitation requirements. The program appeals to applicants seeking a stable, well-established framework with international recognition and clear long-term policy directions.
Investment Routes
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (Donation): From $250,000; direct path for individuals or families.
- Approved Real Estate Investment: From $325,000; investment in government-approved developments, holding period applies.
- Private Home Purchase: Starting at $600,000; full ownership of a standalone property, longer holding period.
- Public Benefit Option: From $250,000; participation in approved public interest projects under regulated channels.
Benefits of Obtaining Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship
- One of the longest-operating and most reputable CBI frameworks globally.
- Strong due-diligence standards enhance the long-term credibility of the passport.
- The passport provides visa-free access to major business and leisure hubs, including the UK and Schengen Area.
- No residency, relocation, language, or interview commitments.
- Clear regulatory history with consistent updates and transparent programme communication.
- Private home ownership is available, as opposed to solely focussing on hotel-based projects.
- Citizenship is permanent, with provisions for inheritance across future generations.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Launched in 2013, Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship-by-investment programme is widely recognised for providing cost-efficient routes for families.
The application process typically takes around six months, and there is no requirement to relocate, though citizens must complete a short five-day visit within the first five years.
The program is structured for applicants who prioritise value, family inclusion, and straightforward application administration.
Investment Routes
- National Development Fund Contribution: From $230,000; a cost-effective route for families applying together.
- University of the West Indies Fund Contribution: From $260,000; includes a one-year tuition benefit for one dependent.
- Approved Real Estate Investment: From $300,000 in approved developments; holding period applies before resale.
- Approved Business Investment: Starting at $400,000; typically suited to consortium or joint business applicants.
Benefits of Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
- Generally, this is the most cost-efficient program for families with multiple dependents.
- Visa-free access to the UK, the EU Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and other key travel hubs.
- Straightforward administration with clear documentation requirements and processing steps.
- The UWI Fund option provides an education benefit, uncommon among CBI programmes.
- No tax on foreign-sourced income under the territorial tax framework.
Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Established in 1993, Dominica operates one of the longest-standing citizenship-by-investment programmes in the Caribbean.
It is traditionally known for offering one of the lowest entry points for single applicants through a contribution to the state fund.
Processing typically takes six to nine months, with no residency or travel requirements during or after application.
Investment Routes
- Economic Diversification Fund Contribution: From $200,000; direct, cost-effective route for individual applicants.
- Approved Real Estate Investment requires a minimum of $200,000 and involves investing in government-approved projects, which have a specified holding period.
Benefits of Obtaining Dominica Citizenship
- One of the most accessible entry contribution levels for individual applicants.
- Straightforward application structure with clear documentation and due diligence pathways.
- No relocation, residency, or language requirements at any stage.
- Citizenship is permanent and may be passed to future generations.
- Note: Visa-free access to the United Kingdom and Ireland changed under 2023 policy adjustments; travel to those destinations now requires a visa.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment
Launched in 2013, Grenada’s citizenship-by-investment program is distinguished by its eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, which allows qualified applicants to establish and operate businesses in the United States.
Applications are typically processed in four to six months, with no residency or visitation requirements. The program is suitable for entrepreneurs and global mobile families seeking strategic business flexibility.
Investment Routes
- National Transformation Fund Contribution: From $235,000; direct route for individuals or families.
- Approved Real Estate Investment: From $270,000 (joint) or $350,000 (sole); holding period applies before resale.
Benefits of Obtaining Grenada Citizenship
- Access to apply for the U.S. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, enabling U.S. residence for business purposes.
- Broad family eligibility, including spouse, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and siblings under qualifying conditions.
- No residency, physical presence, or language requirements at any stage.
- Territorial tax system — foreign-sourced income is not taxed unless earned in Grenada.
- Recognised travel document with visa-free access to key regions, including the Schengen Area and China.
- Clear, centralised application processing under the Grenada Investment Migration Authority.
Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment
Introduced in 2015, St. Lucia's citizenship-by-investment program is known for its structured investment framework and its unique refundable government bond option.
Processing generally takes between eight and twelve months, and there is no requirement to relocate or maintain residence.
The programme suits applicants who prefer a defined, government-backed investment route rather than a solely contribution-based approach.
Investment Routes
- National Economic Fund Contribution: From $240,000; straightforward donation-based approval route.
- Approved Real Estate Investment: From $300,000 in government-approved developments; holding period applies.
- Government Bond Option: From $300,000 (National Action Bonds); principal is returned after the fixed holding period.
- Approved Enterprise Investment: Starting at $250,000 in qualifying local business ventures.
Benefits of Obtaining Saint Lucia Citizenship
- Only Caribbean CBI programme with a refundable bond route, reducing risk of capital loss.
- Multiple investment formats, offering greater flexibility for applicant preferences.
- No residency or language requirements, and citizenship is permanent.
- Visa-free access to key commercial and leisure destinations, including the EU Schengen Area and Singapore.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Cost Comparison
Caribbean CBI programmes now share broadly aligned minimum contribution levels, though due diligence, processing, and family fees vary by jurisdiction.
The tables below show the current standardised donation requirements, along with estimated total costs for both single applicants and families of four.
Single Applicant (Donation Route)
Summary
Dominica remains the most cost-efficient option for single applicants, while Saint Kitts & Nevis and Grenada command higher pricing based on programme reputation and strategic advantages.
Family of Four (Donation Route)
(Primary applicant, spouse, and two dependent children)
Summary
Antigua & Barbuda is the most cost-effective choice for families, while Saint Lucia offers a balanced option where refundable bonds or enterprise investments are preferred.
Investment Routes Explained (Pros/Cons + Who It Suits)
Donation / Contribution (all five programmes)
What it is
A non-refundable contribution to a state fund.
Pros
- Fastest and cleanest route; minimal post-approval obligations
- No asset management, tenants, or resale risk
- Predictable government fee stack
Cons
- Sunk cost (no capital return)
- Still subject to full due diligence and interview rules
Who it suits
- Time-sensitive solo applicants and couples who want a low-friction process
- Applicants who value certainty over capital recovery
Government-Approved Real Estate (all five, terms vary)
What it is
Purchase into an approved development (hotel/condo/shares) with a statutory holding period.
Pros
- Potential rental yield or usage nights (project-specific)
- Exit after holding period; in some states resale to another CBI buyer is possible
- Diversification into a hospitality asset
Cons
- Developer and market risk; quality and delivery timelines vary
- Carrying costs (HOA, insurance, taxes) and closing fees
- Liquidity depends on project demand and programme policy at exit
Who it suits
- Investors comfortable with hospitality exposure who want a potential partial cost offset
- Applicants planning occasional personal use of the asset
Saint Lucia Government Bonds (refundable capital)
What it is
Subscription to qualifying Saint Lucia government bonds with a fixed term; principal repaid at maturity (fees apply).
Pros
- Capital preservation (principal back at term) vs. donation sunk cost
- No developer or tenant risk
- Straightforward compliance once subscribed
Cons
- Cash tied up for the holding period; opportunity cost
- Up-front/processing fees are non-refundable
Who it suits
- Capital-conservative HNW applicants who prioritise principal protection
- Families comparing total cost of ownership over 5–7 years
Enterprise Investment (Saint Lucia) / PBO & Private Home (Saint Kitts & Nevis)
What it is
- SLU Enterprise: Investment into an approved enterprise project (solo or joint).
- SKN PBO: Contribution to an approved public-benefit project (non-equity).
- SKN Private Home: Purchase of a stand-alone private home meeting programme criteria.
Pros
- Tailored fit for applicants seeking direct project exposure (SLU)
- SKN private home offers a true freehold-style asset, not just hotel shares
- Can align with personal lifestyle/brand objectives
Cons
- Higher tickets and narrower project lists
- More diligence on project viability (enterprise/private home)
- Resale/exit rules are stricter and programme-specific
Who it suits
- Applicants with a clear project-or-property thesis (use, status, or impact)
- Buyers who specifically want a private residence in SKN
How to Choose the Right Path
The best investment route depends less on the program's marketing and more on your priorities. If your goal is speed and simplicity, a contribution (donation) route is usually the most direct, since there are no ongoing obligations or resale considerations. Families looking to keep their total costs predictable also tend to favour this option, particularly in jurisdictions with more favourable family pricing.
If preserving capital matters more than keeping upfront costs low, Saint Lucia’s refundable government bond route offers a structured way to secure citizenship while retaining the principal, acknowledging that funds remain locked for a fixed term.
Meanwhile, applicants who want a tangible asset, for personal use or rental income, may prefer government-approved real estate, with the understanding that exit timing and project quality vary. Entrepreneurs considering U.S. market access should take note of Grenada’s unique E-2 treaty eligibility.
In short, the “best” route is the one that aligns with your objectives: speed, capital preservation, property ownership, or strategic mobility. The next sections outline precisely how each country structures its investment paths so you can make a decision grounded in policy, not promotion.
How to Get a Caribbean Passport
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programmes do not require relocation, language tests, or cultural integration. The process is administrative and conducted by licensed, government-authorised agents.
Applicants submit documentation, undergo due diligence screening, and, once approved and naturalised, receive a passport as citizens of the country.
Key Steps
- Select a programme and investment route
Choose between a government contribution, approved real estate, or, in Saint Lucia’s case, refundable government bonds. - Engage an authorised local agent.
Direct applications to the government are not permitted. Only licensed agents can prepare and lodge files. - Collect supporting documents
This includes identification documents, financial records, proof of address, police certificates, and medical forms. - Undergo due diligence checks.
The government conducts background screening to verify identity, source of funds, and security risk status. - Receive Approval in Principle
If the application is successful, the applicant receives a formal approval before transferring investment funds. - Complete the qualifying investment
Funds are transferred only after approval has been granted, not before. - Take the Oath / Sign Naturalisation Documents
Some jurisdictions allow remote oath-taking; others require a short in-person visit. - Receive citizenship certificates and passports. Once naturalised, the passport is issued on the same legal basis as any other citizen.
Caribbean Citizenship Application Process
Applying for Caribbean citizenship by investment is a structured, administrative procedure. You do not apply directly to the government; applications must be prepared and authorised governmenticensed authorised agent.
Once due diligence is completed and approval is granted, the qualifying investment is made, followed by naturalisation and passport issuance.
The timeline below reflects the typical process across the five Caribbean CBI programmes.
Citizenship by Investment Processing Time
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment applications typically take four to nine months from file submission to passport issuance, depending on the program and the completeness of the applicant's documentation.
All applications must be submitted through a licensed, authorised agent, after which the government conducts independent due diligence checks and, where applicable, a brief security interview.
If the application is approved, an approval-in-principle is issued before any investment funds are transferred. The final steps are the oath of allegiance (which may be completed remotely in some jurisdictions) and the issuance of the citizenship certificate and passport.
Delays most commonly arise from incomplete documentation, missing apostilles, inter-jurisdictional source-of-funds verification, and translation inconsistencies. Ensuring accuracy at submission reduces processing time significantly.
Caribbean CBI: Physical Presence & Passport Renewals
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs have historically not required physical residency, either during the application process or after approval.
That remains true in most cases; however, there is a regional trend toward minimal presence requirements. For example, Antigua and Barbuda requires citizens to spend five days in the country within the first five years to renew the passport.
Other jurisdictions currently allow renewals without travel, provided the applicant remains in excellent standing and has no changes to their background or security status.
Passports are normally issued for five years initially, then renewed for ten years once ongoing compliance is confirmed. Renewal issues typically arise if:
- The original investment was sold before the holding period ended.
- The applicant became a tax resident in a high-risk jurisdiction.
- There were undisclosed legal or financial changes post-approval.
Visa-Free Travel: How to Verify Officially
Visa policy is dynamic, and mobility varies by destination country. Instead of relying on third-party “passport rankings”, travellers should verify entry conditions with official government sources. This is particularly important following recent UK visa policy changes affecting some Caribbean passports.
The table below shows where to check for the most accurate and current entry permissions.
As of the most recent UK Home Office notice, Dominica and Saint Lucia passport holders require a visa to enter the United Kingdom.
Always check the publication date when referencing this information, as policy updates can occur without long transition periods.
Real Estate Track: What to Know Before Investing
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment real estate routes are highly regulated. Only government-approved developments qualify, and each program sets rules on minimum investment amounts, holding periods, and resale eligibility.
These rules are designed to prevent speculative flipping and to ensure that investment contributes meaningfully to the local economy.
Key Guardrails for Real Estate Investors
Grenada Compliance Note (Official Sources)
The Investment Migration Authority of Grenada has issued formal circulars reinforcing compliance expectations, particularly regarding discounting, financing, and restricted nationalities.
These are not "guidelines"; they are enforceable programme rules.
Every Grenada real estate investment must be structured exactly in line with these directives.
No exception is “quietly allowed”; compliance is audited at the approval and renewal stages.
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs Compliance, Risks, and Common Misconceptions
Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programmes are governed by statute and regulated through dedicated government units.
While the application process is administrative, it is not automatic. All applicants undergo independent due diligence checks, security screenings, and verification of their source of funds.
Using authorised agents is mandatory because applications cannot be filed directly with the government.
Key Misconceptions to Avoid
1. You are buying a passport.
You are applying for citizenship under law, following due diligence, approval, and oath procedures. The passport is issued because you become a citizen, not as a product.
2. Real estate discounts are allowed if the developer agrees.
They are not. Rebate schemes, side agreements, or owner-financing arrangements designed to reduce the true investment value can lead to application refusal or later citizenship revocation.
3. Any family member can be added.
Each program defines dependents differently (age, financial dependency, and marital status). Eligibility varies and must be confirmed before submission.
Grounds for Refusal or Loss of Citizenship
- Misrepresentation or concealed information
- Unexplained source of funds or unverifiable wealth origin
- Security or sanctions risk
- Serious criminal history or ongoing investigations
- Violation of investment holding requirements (selling too early)
- Involvement in prohibited discounting or financing schemes
Why Compliance Matters
Approval depends on clear documentation, a clean financial history, and consistency across jurisdictions.
Preparing an application audit-ready, with transparent source-of-funds records and properly legalised documents, reduces delays and protects long-term citizenship security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Work with Movingto?
Selecting a Caribbean citizenship programme is a legal and financial decision, not a marketing exercise. At Movingto, we provide independent, compliance-driven guidance backed by licensed immigration lawyers and regulated local partners in each jurisdiction.
Working with Movingto means:
- Independent guidance
We compared all five programs using only official government sources. - Compliance-first process
Applications are prepared to meet international AML and source-of-funds standards. - Clear cost structure
All fees are disclosed upfront, with no hidden commissions. - Support beyond approval
We assist with passport renewals, family additions, and ongoing planning. - Our goal is simple
Reduce risk, remove guesswork, and help you secure lasting citizenship with clarity and confidence.
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