How to Get Citizenship By Buying Property in the Caribbean

In a world of global opportunities, Caribbean nations offer an enticing route into second citizenship through real estate investment. This guide will lead you through Caribbean Citizenship by Investment program property-buying options in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and Saint Lucia.

In this definitive guide to buying property in the Caribbean as part of Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPs), discover the opportunities available, eligibility criteria, application processes and a wealth of CIP knowledge.

The Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs: Where Can I Invest?

The Caribbean is a prime destination for those seeking second citizenship through real estate investment. As well as allowing you to buy exclusive properties in outstanding settings, Citizenship by Investment in the Caribbean also offers:

• Access to an incredible lifestyle

• Dual citizenship

• Family sponsorship to bring loved ones

• Visa-free travel across multiple countries

 

1. Antigua and Barbuda

With Antigua and Barbuda’s property CIP,  immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this welcoming nation. The real estate path to citizenship here allows investors choices such as modern beachfront properties and high-end vacation homes that capture the essence of Caribbean living.

This program stands out because:

• It offers the fastest processing speed of all Caribbean CIPs

• You can include many family members in your application, including a spouse, unmarried siblings, children under 29 and parents over 55

• For overall value, it is considered to be the best Caribbean island to invest in real estate for CIPs given the buoyant property market and for future tax planning with no personal income tax

• Only a one-time 5-day visit is required at some point in the first five years of citizenship at which time you can take your oath of allegiance and visit your second citizenship nation.

 

2. Dominica

Dominica’s citizenship program is set against the backdrop of unspoiled rainforests and waterfalls. By investing in approved real estate projects, applicants will contribute to the sustainable development of this eco-friendly haven. 

This program stands out because:

• It is one of the most successful CIP programs, having run since 1993

• It does not require physical residency by the investor.

 

3. Grenada

Grenada is known as the ‘Island of Spice’. It is a warm, welcoming destination for overseas investors where properties nestle in friendly communities and lush, dramatic landscapes. 

This program stands out because:

• It has the most comprehensive visa-free travel privileges of all Caribbean CIPs, with China and Russia currently included

• It features no capital gains or estate taxes

 

4. Saint Kitts and Nevis

The real estate landscape of Saint Kitts and Nevis is renowned for its understated, unhurried lifestyle amid incredible natural beauty. This nation has an abundance of upscale, colorful beachside properties. 

This program stands out because:

• It offers investment opportunities in luxury tourism developments

• It does not require a visit during the application process or after citizenship is granted

 

5. Saint Lucia

The romantic landscapes of Saint Lucia feature its iconic Pitons, a pair of spectacular, jagged volcanic peaks and pristine beaches. This nation is one of the world’s most vibrant and beautiful travel destinations. Saint Lucia’s CIP offers investors the opportunity to buy into a large-scale government led tourism development. 

This program stands out because:

• It features no tax on worldwide incomes

• It does not require residency

 

Eligibility and Requirements

All Caribbean CIPs include:

1. A minimum financial investment

Here’s an overview of the current minimum investments in Caribbean real estate across the five CIPs. 

• US $200,000 and up: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and St Lucia

• US $220,000 and up: Grenada (shared property)

• US $350,000 and up: Grenada (whole property

• US $400,000 and up: St Kitts and Nevis

2. Legitimacy and background checks

All CIPs will ask you to provide documentation that demonstrates the legitimacy of your funds. You will also be required to undergo criminal record checks and financial background investigations. 

You will need to provide:

• Statements and a reference letter from your bank

• Evidence of where your investment funds came from i.e., salary or pension certification or a business license

For all members of your family, you must provide: 

• A passport, birth certificate and marriage certificate (if relevant to your application)

• Evidence of your residential address

• Affidavits of financial support where relevant

3. A minimum duration of investment 

In general across the five Caribbean CIPs, the minimum requirement for property ownership is five years. However, Dominican rules currently allow investors to sell after three years to a non-CIP buyer. 

4. Health requirements

When applying for any of these five CIP programs, you must demonstrate that you are in good health. You and your family members over 12 years old will need to go through a medical exam and provide a report of its results. 

5. Additional fees

As well as releasing the funds for your property investment, there will be additional costs associated with application and processing fees. You may need to factor in property-buying taxes, depending on the location. 

 

Other Important Considerations

Make sure you have also considered these points before starting an application. 

Other paths to Citizenship by Investment in the Caribbean

Caribbean CIPs offer other routes to citizenship, such as through a donation to a government fund or a business investment. While property investment is considered to be the best way to maximize returns, other routes usually require a smaller initial investment. Before investing, it is important to consider which is the right route for you.

Processing speed and time to citizenship

The processing of your application will take 3-6 months on any of the five CIPs discussed here. 

However, you must allow additional time to locate the right property. If you opt to work with an experienced property agent specializing in helping CIP investors, their expertise and local knowledge will ensure the process is as quick and efficient as possible. 

A solid plan

Your investment objectives will guide the purchase of your Caribbean property. Do you need an opportunity that will immediately provide good rental returns? Are you looking for a permanent home-from-home for yourself? Are you looking to make a long-term investment to protect your wealth?

Whatever your goal, buying a property in the Caribbean that appeals to overseas visitors is typically the best way to make sure your investment holds or increases its value, and that you have an accessible exit route. Always seek professional guidance on real estate investments from a trusted advisor.   

 

How to Apply for Citizenship By Investment in the Caribbean

You must apply through a government licensed agent. Citizens International can guide you through the process of gaining second citizenship in the Caribbean. Their licensed team and experience and knowledge of the programs, and the local property market, will streamline the process and make it stress-free.

With our assistance every step of the way, you need to:

• Make contact to discuss your requirements

• Choose your investment property from our extensive portfolio of exclusive properties perfectly matched to the requirements of international investors

• Submit your CIP application via your licensed agent and provide the relevant documentation

• Wait for due diligence checks to complete

• Obtain your approval decision before completing your investment transaction

With our assistance, you can enjoy your Caribbean property and second passport less than six months after submitting your application. 

Get in touch with us for friendly, professional Caribbean CIP advice. We can talk you through the CIP programs, detail our current property portfolio, and tell you about our rewarding discovery trips to see incredible Caribbean investment properties for yourself.