Saint Kitts Citizenship by Investment

Why Choose Saint Kitts CBI for a Second Passport? 3 Main Aspects

1. Extensive Travel Freedom: With a Saint Kitts passport, you gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations, including sought-after regions like Schengen Zone, India, Russia, and Brazil. In general, Saint Kitts citizenship an excellent choice for global travellers.

2. Streamlined Application Process: The Saint Kitts Citizenship by Investment programme is renowned for its fast and efficient application process, offering citizenship approvals within 3-4 months. With no mandatory physical residency, the process is designed for convenience, ensuring a smooth pathway to your second passport.

3.  Affordable Investment Choices: Saint Kitts’s CBI programme caters to various investor needs with options such as contributions to the Economy Diversification Fund or investments in government-approved real estate. Whether applying solo or with family, both pathways offer cost-effective solutions, granting the lifelong advantages of Saint Kitts citizenship.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship – Overview of the Country

Saint Kitts and Nevis, situated in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean, is a two-island nation separated by a 3-kilometre-wide channel called The Narrows. The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, a parliamentary democracy within the British Commonwealth, gained independence in 1983. Its capital, Basseterre, is located on the island of Saint Kitts.

Saint Kitts lies within the tropical hurricane belt, with the hurricane season typically spanning August to October. The island's landscape is defined by a volcanic mountainous ridge along its centre, forming a semicircle around a southeastern plain. The highest point is Mount Liamuiga, a 1,156-metre peak featuring a forested crater with a lake. Nevis, the smaller of the two islands, is nearly circular and is surrounded by coral reefs. Its terrain is dominated by Nevis Peak, a mountain standing at 985 metres, flanked by Round Hill (309 metres) to the north and Saddle Hill (564 metres) to the south.

Saint Kitts and Nevis were among the first Caribbean islands to be colonised by Europeans. English and French settlers arrived in the 1620s, engaging in a three-year conflict with the indigenous Caribs. The settlers then established sugar plantations, which was the largest industry and employer for a long time until completely closed in 2005. Tourism, offshore finance, and service industries are the primary economic drivers currently.

Since independence in 1983, the two islands have maintained an uneasy federation. A 1998 referendum on Nevis's secession failed to achieve the required two-thirds majority. However, Nevis currently enjoys significant autonomy, with its own island assembly, premier, and deputy governor-general.

Choosing Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship 

When selecting Saint Kitts and Nevis for second citizenship, there are several factors to weigh. These include family inclusion, investment options, travel freedom, and tax benefits.

Dual Citizenship

Saint Kitts and Nevis recognises dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your existing nationality while enjoying the benefits of your second passport.

Family Inclusion Criteria

Saint Kitts and Nevis provides the following family inclusion options:

• Spouse
• Children under 18
• Children aged 18-25 attending higher education and supported by the main applicant
• Mentally challenged children
• Dependent parents or grandparents aged 55 or above

Passport Strength

Saint Kitts and Nevis provides access to over 150 destinations.

Residency Requirements

Saint Kitts and Nevis permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality while taking advantage of the benefits offered by their second passport.

Tax Benefits

• No worldwide income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax.
• Residents and non-residents alike are exempt from personal income tax.
• Property tax is charged at rates of 0.2% to 0.3% of the property value.

Check our Taxation in Caribbean article for further details.

Real Estate Investment Opportunities and Costs

Saint Kitts and Nevis requires a minimum real estate investment of $400,000 for a single applicant or a family of four.

For detailed comparisons and to estimate costs for your family, visit the Saint Kitts and Nevis CBI country page or use the Passport Cost Calculator.

Citizenship Validity and Renewability

The programmes provides irrevocable lifetime citizenship that can be passed on to future generations.

Processing Times for Citizenship Applications

Citizenship applications are typically processed within a 3-6 month timeframe. Saint Kitts stands out for its slightly faster application timeline. The process is typically as follows:

• Month 1: This stage focuses on preparation, including selecting the qualifying investment, choosing an authorised agent, and gathering the required documents.
• Months 2-3: During this period, background due diligence checks are conducted, and, in some cases, virtual interviews are held. Approval, in principle, is usually granted by the end of this phase.
• Months 4-6: Applicants complete the qualifying investment, pay the required fees, and await the issuance of their new passport.

Required Documentation

Among other things, the applicants must prepare and submit the following supporting documents:

• Certified Colour Copy of Passport(s)
• Birth Certificate
• Marriage or Divorce Certificates, as applicable
• Proof of Address
• Source of Funds Documentation
• Bank Statements
• Reference Letters
• Police Certificate.
• Medical Health Certificate
• Military Records

These requirements ensure a transparent application process and reflect the rigorous due diligence conducted by both programmes. For further details, refer to our comprehensive Due Diligence Check guide.

Application Process and Flexibility

Applications can be completed remotely. Mandatory interviews are conducted online, and the Oath of Allegiance can be taken remotely or in person in either jurisdiction. 

Final Thoughts

Saint Kitts CBI programme offers strong pathways to obtaining a second passport, enabling global mobility, access to the CARICOM region, tax advantages, business and banking opportunities. Ultimately, the choice of Saint Kitts citizenship depends on your individual goal as it  provides a viable path to a Caribbean second passport via Caribbean Citizenship by Investment.

Who is eligible to apply for citizenship under St. Kitts & Nevis CBI programmes?

Anyone meeting the programme's eligibility requirements, including passing due diligence checks, can apply. 

What happens if my application does not succeed?

Rejected applications mean that citizenship will not be granted, and processing fees paid earlier are non-refundable. To avoid such risks, ensure your documentation and eligibility are thoroughly verified before applying.

Are CBI programmes only affordable for very wealthy individuals?

No, while these programmes do require a financial commitment, they are structured to be accessible.

Must I demonstrate fluency in the English language to qualify?

No, there are no language proficiency requirements, which makes the process accessible to applicants worldwide.

Which other Caribbean nations offer citizenship by investment?

There are five Caribbean countries offering CBI programmes.  Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia, and Dominica are additional options to consider, alongside Grenada and St. Kitts & Nevis.

What factors should I consider when deciding between CBI options?

When deciding, consider the following:

• Cost Per Passport: Compare costs for your family using the passport cost calculator.
• Global mobility
• Investment Options: Evaluate the quality of investment projects in each country.

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