Strengthening CBI: New Residency in St Kitts and Dominica’s Diplomatic Reforms

The Caribbean’s citizenship-by-investment (CBI) industry is reinforcing its integrity and transparency after reports of possible U.S. visa restrictions. Governments in St. Kitts & Nevis and Dominica have each unveiled swift reforms to bolster investor confidence and safeguard passport value.

St. Kitts & Nevis Adds a Residency Requirement

For years, St. Kitts & Nevis’s CBI program attracted investors by offering a second passport without ever setting foot on the islands. That will change soon: Prime Minister Terrance Drew confirmed that the next law will require applicants to complete a minimum period of residency and submit biometric data—via in-person or secure virtual interviews. These measures reinforce a genuine connection and align the program with global vetting standards.

Dominica Addresses U.S. Travel-Ban Rumors

A leaked U.S. State Department memo hinting at possible visa restrictions prompted quick diplomatic outreach from Dominica. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit reassured citizens that no formal travel-ban notice has been received. He also announced upcoming legislation to tighten name-change rules for new citizens and introduce additional administrative safeguards—part of a region-wide effort to strengthen CBI integrity.

A Unified Regional Approach

In a recent summit, leaders of the region’s Caribbean CIP programs agreed to:

• Introduce residency clauses where absent

• Roll out biometric enrollment and verified interviews

• Restrict post-citizenship name changes

• Establish a regional regulatory authority

This coordinated strategy aims to pre-empt external sanctions and reaffirm the Caribbean’s status as a trusted destination for economic citizenship.

What It Means for You

• Stronger Vetting: Residency and biometrics confirm your genuine link.

• Greater Stability: Harmonized reforms reduce the risk of abrupt policy shifts.

• Peace of Mind: Transparent, standardized rules protect your investment and travel freedom.

Whether you seek a second passport for business agility, lifestyle diversification, or family planning, Citizens International is here to guide you every step of the way. Explore all our Citizenship by Investment Programs, then:

• Book a free consultation: https://citizensinternational.com/consultation/

• Email our team: [email protected]

Our licensed specialists will tailor a strategy that meets your goals and evolve with any future updates.