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If you're exploring the idea of a second passport, you're likely looking for more than just convenience. Our clients come to us seeking flexibility, travel freedom, asset protection, and long-term peace of mind, and for many, Caribbean citizenship by investment (CBI) has delivered just that. These programs have earned global recognition for providing efficient, secure, and respected pathways to dual citizenship.
Drawing from years of direct experience helping families and investors navigate this process, we’ve crafted this guide to help you make a well-informed, confident decision.
This is one of the most frequent questions we receive. The truth is, all five Caribbean citizenship by investment programs—Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts & Nevis—offer clear and straightforward pathways with very similar application processes. That’s why these jurisdictions remain so attractive to global investors.
That said, what makes a program “easiest” will depend on your individual circumstances, such as family size, budget, timeline, and preference amongst the investment options. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we’ll explore the key variables in the next sections so you can identify the most suitable route for your specific goals.
Dominica offers the most affordable Caribbean citizenship by investment program, with donation options starting at just US$200,000 for a main applicant.
Among the Caribbean citizenship by investment programs, Dominica consistently offers the lowest entry point for investors.
The Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) donation option requires US$200,000 for a single applicant, making it significantly more accessible than other Caribbean programs.
For families, Dominica's pricing structure remains competitive:
- Main applicant plus up to three dependents: US$250,000
- Each additional dependent under 18: US$25,000
- Each additional dependent 18 or older: US$40,000
There is no administrative fee for the donation option; however, processing fees of US$1,000 per application and due diligence fees are applicable.
The real estate investment option in Dominica requires US$200,000, held for three years from citizenship grant date (or five years if selling to another CBI applicant). This shorter holding period provides more liquidity compared to other Caribbean programs that typically require five-year commitments.
Beyond the investment amount, Dominica's government and processing fees are also reasonable. The main applicant pays US$75,000 in government fees, with additional US$25,000 for up to 3 dependents. Due diligence fees start at US$7,500 for the main applicant, with additional fees for dependents aged 16 and above.
Processing typically takes eight months with no language requirements or minimum stay obligations, making Dominica an attractive option for investors seeking straightforward, cost-effective Caribbean citizenship.
St. Kitts & Nevis offers the best overall Caribbean citizenship by investment program, combining the strongest passport (147 visa-free destinations), established program credibility, and comprehensive investment options.
Established in 1984, St. Kitts & Nevis operates the world's oldest citizenship by investment program, providing unmatched experience and stability. The program offers three distinct investment pathways:
Real Estate Investment: US$325,000 for approved developments (held seven years) or US$600,000 for private dwellings (held seven years). This flexibility allows investors to choose between hotel-style developments or private residential properties.
Donation Option: US$250,000 for a main applicant with up to three dependents, with additional dependents costing US$25,000 (under 18) or US$50,000 (18+).
Public Benefit Option: US$250,000 contribution to approved public benefit projects, providing investors an opportunity to contribute directly to national development initiatives.
The St. Kitts & Nevis passport provides access to 147 destinations visa-free, including all Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, and most Commonwealth nations. This represents the strongest travel freedom among Caribbean programs.
Processing takes approximately six months with no language requirements or physical presence obligations. The program's long-standing reputation, combined with rigorous due diligence procedures, ensures international recognition and acceptance of citizenship.
Government fees are competitive at US$25,000 for the main applicant, US$15,000 for spouses, and US$10,000-15,000 for dependents depending on age. Due diligence fees range from US$7,500 to US$10,000 per applicant aged 16 or older.
As previously mentioned, St. Kitts & Nevis currently holds the strongest passport among Caribbean CBI countries, but Grenada offers a unique benefit: access to the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa Treaty, allowing Grenadian citizens to operate a business in the United States.
Highlights:
- St. Kitts: Best global access (147 countries according to https://www.passportindex.org)
- Grenada: E-2 Treaty access to the U.S. for business
According to the U.S. Department of State, Grenada is one of the few Caribbean nations whose citizens are eligible for the E-2 Visa program, which provides a renewable pathway for investors to live and work in the United States based on a qualifying investment. You can review the full list of treaty countries and eligibility details directly from the U.S. Department of State.
Caribbean citizenship provides visa-free travel to 135-147 destinations, tax optimization opportunities, business expansion possibilities, and valuable insurance against political or economic instability in your home country.
Key Benefits:
- Visa-free travel: Over 135–147 countries depending on the nation with Full Schengen area access for tourism and business.
- No global income tax: Most Caribbean nations operate territorial tax systems, meaning they typically only tax income generated within their borders. This can provide significant advantages for:
a) International business income
b) Investment returns from foreign assets
c) Offshore banking relationships
d) Estate planning strategies
- Fast processing: 6–9 months, sometimes faster
- Family security and inclusion: Spouse, children, and in many cases, parents or siblings can be included. They also offer:
a) Multi-generational Benefits: Citizenship passes to future generations
b) Educational Opportunities: Access to different educational systems and scholarship programs
c) Healthcare Access: Rights to healthcare services in your new country of citizenship
d) Political Stability Insurance: A backup plan during times of political or economic uncertainty
We’ve supported families relocating during conflicts and professionals seeking to unlock travel routes otherwise closed to them. This is real value beyond just paperwork. If you are interested in finding out more, our team will be happy to guide you.
Which island offers citizenship by investment?
Legally recognized Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs are available in the following islands:
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Dominica
- Grenada
- St. Lucia
- St. Kitts & Nevis
Each has been vetted and approved through government channels. We strongly advise against unregulated options that promise shortcuts—they carry legal and reputational risks. If you want to verify the validity of a program, our team will be happy to help. Contact us here.
|
Island |
Dual Citizenship Allowed? |
Key Detail |
|
Antigua & Barbuda |
Yes |
Permitted under 1981 Constitution; no renunciation required for any acquisition method. |
|
Dominica |
Yes |
No renunciation needed for any citizenship path (birth, investment, etc.). |
|
Grenada |
Yes |
Recognizes dual citizenship; original nationality can be retained. |
|
St. Lucia |
Yes |
Allowed for all acquisition methods (marriage, descent, investment). |
|
St. Kitts & Nevis |
Yes |
The Constitution permits dual/multiple citizenships, including via investment. |
From our direct advisory experience, we recommend proceeding with caution when considering real estate investment under Caribbean CBI programs. While there are legitimate, government-approved projects, there are also ventures with elevated financial risk or limited resale potential.
For those prioritizing real estate investment, Antigua & Barbuda is one of the more reliable options. The program requires a minimum investment of US$300,000 in a government-approved real estate project, which must be held for five years.
An alternative worth highlighting is St. Lucia's government bond option. This non-interest-bearing investment is fully refundable after a fixed term and offers a risk-averse route to citizenship, especially for investors less focused on real estate returns.
We’ve helped investors acquire government-approved properties that not only fulfilled their CBI requirements but also generated long-term returns. If you are interested in exploring some options please contact us here.
Choose the Right Country
Select a nation that best matches your priorities—such as investment cost, visa-free travel access, and family inclusion policies.
Select Your Investment Option
Decide on the type of investment:
a) Real estate purchase
b) National development donation
c) Government bonds
d) Public benefit contribution
Engage a Licensed Agent - Reach out to Ingwe.ca
All Caribbean CBI programs require applicants to work with a government-authorized agent to guide you through the process.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather essential documents, including:
a) Valid passport copies
b) Police clearance certificates
c) Proof of funds and source of wealth
d) Medical insurance and health certificates (in most cases)
Submit Application & Pay Fees
File your application along with the required processing and due diligence fees.
Due Diligence & Interview
Undergo background checks. Some countries may also require a personal interview as part of the vetting process.
Receive Approval-in-Principle
If your application is approved, you may proceed with fulfilling your investment commitment.
Complete the Investment
Make the required investment—whether through donation or real estate—as outlined in your application.
Obtain Citizenship & Passport
Upon final approval, you’ll first receive a certificate of citizenship (which must be collected in person), followed by your new passport.
Selecting the optimal Caribbean citizenship by investment program requires careful evaluation of your specific priorities:
Budget Considerations: Programs range from US$200,000 (Dominica) to US$325,000+ (St. Kitts & Nevis), with significant differences in family pricing and additional fees.
Passport Strength: Visa-free destinations vary from 135 (Dominica) to 147 (St. Kitts & Nevis), impacting travel flexibility and business opportunities.
Investment Preferences: Consider whether you prefer donations (non-refundable but lower commitment), government bonds or real estate (potentially appreciating but longer holding periods).
Processing Timeline: Most programs require 8-9 months, but specific documentation and due diligence requirements vary.
Family Size: Programs have different pricing structures for dependents, significantly impacting total investment for larger families.
Future Plans: Consider whether you need specific benefits like US E-2 visa access (Grenada only) or maximum global mobility (St. Kitts & Nevis).
Comparison Table of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs
|
Country |
Donation Minimum (USD) |
Real Estate Minimum (USD) |
Passport Strength (Visa-Free Countries) |
Physical Presence Requirement |
|
Dominica |
$200,000 (includes up to 3 dependents) |
$200,000 (3-5 year hold) |
135 |
⚠️None |
|
Antigua & Barbuda |
$230,000 (up to 4 people) |
$300,000 (5-year hold) |
143 |
⚠️5 days over 5 years |
|
Grenada |
$235,000 (includes 3 dependents) |
$270,000 - $350,000 (5-year hold) |
138 |
⚠️None |
|
St. Lucia |
$240,000 (includes 3 dependents) |
$300,000 (5-year hold) |
139 |
⚠️None
|
|
St. Kitts & Nevis |
$250,000 (public benefit option) |
$325,000 (7-year hold) |
147 |
⚠️None
|
Caribbean citizenship by investment programs offer compelling opportunities for global mobility, tax optimization, and family security. Whether you prioritize affordability (Dominica), passport strength (St. Kitts & Nevis), investment diversity (St. Lucia), or US business access (Grenada), the Caribbean provides established, reputable pathways to dual citizenship.
Success requires careful program selection, expert guidance, and thorough planning. With proper preparation and professional support, Caribbean citizenship can provide valuable benefits for generations to come.
Ready to explore Caribbean citizenship options?
Contact our experienced team for personalized guidance on selecting and navigating the right program for your specific needs and goals.
