St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment (CBI) allows foreign nationals to directly qualify for citizenship by investing in the country’s social and economic development.
The program rolled out in 1984 and includes four qualifying investments: A non-refundable contribution to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC), an investment in shares of approved luxury resorts or condominium units, a purchase of an approved single-family home, or a donation to an Approved Public Benefit Option (PBO). The minimum investment threshold is $250,000, and investors complete the process in 12 months.
This guide lays out the details you should know about citizenship by investment in St Kitts and Nevis, including the eligibility criteria, application process, government fees, and dual citizenship benefits.
Overview of St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
Historical insight
The St Kitts citizenship by investment (CBI) program is the world’s oldest. It was introduced into the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship Act in 1984. The CBI program was established to develop the country’s social and economic growth by granting foreign investors second citizenship in exchange for their foreign direct financial investment.
This investment can be made through four investment opportunities starting from $250,000, including a donation to fund government projects supporting healthcare, education, and infrastructure, investment in approved projects of various real estate developers, purchasing a private home, or a contribution to fund public benefit projects.
Under regulation 3 of SRO 52 of 2011 from the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship by Substantial Investment Regulations, the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) was established as the government authority to oversee the country’s citizenship program. The CIU’s tasks include approving qualifying investments, carrying out due diligence checks, and supervising Authorized Agents.
Key amendments to the program
June 2011: St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) established under 3 of SRO 52 of 2011 of the Citizenship Act.
October 2016: Introduced 60-day Accelerated Application Process (AAP)
October 2017: Introduced Hurricane Relief Fund (HRF) non-refundable contribution option.
November 2017: Introduced CBI Escrow Accounts legislation.
April 2018: Introduced Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) non-refundable contribution option.
July 2023: Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) replaces Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF).
August 2023: Raises minimum investment threshold from $175,000 to $250,000.
September 2023: Mandatory citizenship interview requirement introduced for applicants 17 and over.
March 2024: Signs the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
July 2024: Reduces the minimum $350,000 non-refundable contribution requirement for up to four family members to $250,000.
Ten Benefits of the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program
Short citizenship timeline
The Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship application process takes just 12 months.
Citizenship for your family members
Dependent family members, including a spouse, children, and parents, qualify for citizenship by investment.
Great tax benefits
The St Kitts and Nevis tax regime does not impose personal income tax, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
No residency requirements
No minimum residency is required to start the citizenship by investment application process.
Enhanced travel freedom
St Kitts and Nevis passport holders can travel visa free to 153 countries, including EU Schengen states, the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, and Saudi Arabia.
No in-person interviews
Applicants can apply for citizenship remotely, and the mandatory interview takes place virtually.
Security of a Plan B
St Kitts and Nevis provides a solid Plan B to ensure financial stability and access to a safer, more politically stable environment.
Investment only required after pre-approval
The qualifying investment is made after receiving pre-approval, increasing confidence and reducing risk.
Member of CARICOM and OECS
St Kitts and Nevis is a committed member of CARICOM and OECS, advancing regional cooperation and economic progress in the Caribbean.
Dual citizenship allowed
St Kitts and Nevis recognizes dual citizenship, allowing successful applicants to maintain multiple citizenships and all privileges of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship.St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Eligibility Criteria
The St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment requirements are listed in Part II, Section 3 (5) of the Citizenship Act, 1984, and the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Regulations, 2011. These regulations enable the St Kitts government to operate the program and grant citizenship and a St Kitts and Nevis passport to applicants who qualify under criteria decided by the cabinet.
Requirements for the main applicant
In order to fulfill the St Kitts citizenship by investment program requirements, the main applicant must:
- Be over 18 years old
- Have no criminal record
- Be of excellent character (proved through bank statements and employer references)
- Be able to make a qualifying investment
Requirements for family members
The following dependents can be included in the application and obtain lifelong St Kitts and Nevis citizenship:
- Spouse
- Children of the main applicant or spouse, under 18; aged between 18 and 25, in full-time education and financially supported by the main applicant or spouse; or aged 18 or over and physically/mentally challenged
- Parents of the main applicant or the spouse aged 65 or above, living with and fully supported by the applicant
The St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Act treats biological, stepchildren, and legally adopted children equally. The Act allows financially dependent stepchildren and legally adopted children of the main applicant or their spouse to obtain citizenship.
Restricted countries
- Iran
- North Korea
- Afghanistan
- Russia
- Belarus
- Ukraine
Nationals of these countries are not accepted in the citizenship program. To qualify, nationals from these countries must not have been living in that country for over ten years, as well as have no ties to it.
The St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment official website, ciu.gov.kn, has more information about the program and what’s required for each applicant and qualified dependent.
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship Investment Options
To qualify for the St Kitts CBI program, you must choose one of the four investment routes, which include two options for real estate:
- Donation to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- Real estate investment in an approved real estate development
- Purchase of an approved private home
- Contribution to approved public benefit projects
Investors should note that besides the minimum contribution or St Kitts and Nevis real estate purchase costs, due diligence fees apply for all applicants.
1. Donation to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
The Sustainable Island State Contribution is a government fund to which investors can make a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 to qualify for citizenship.
The minimum is designed for prospective applicants seeking the most affordable, fastest, and most straightforward route to qualify for citizenship by investment.
Sustainable Island State Contribution | Single | Family of Up to Four | Additional (Under 18 years old) | Additional (Over 18 years old) |
Minimum Donation | $250,000 | +$25,000 each | +$50,000 each | |
Due Diligence Fee | $10,000 | $7,500 for each family member aged 16 or over | ||
Application Form | $250 per set of forms | |||
Passport Fee | $350 per passport | |||
2. Purchase of shares in approved real estate projects
Buying real estate shares worth at least $325,000 in a government-approved real estate project is a route to second citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis.
Approved real estate investment applicants benefit from a recoverable investment through rental income or reselling the shares after seven years. Approved projects for St Kitts and Nevis real estate citizenship include luxury resorts, villas, or condominium resorts.
Real Estate | Single Applicant | Applicant + Spouse | Additional (over 18 years old) | Additional Dependent (under 18 years old) |
Minimum Investment | $325,000 | |||
Government Application Fee | $25,000 | $40,000 | +$15,000 each | +$10,000 each |
Due Diligence Fee | $10,000 | $7,500 for each family member aged 16 or over | ||
Application Form | $250 per set of forms | |||
Passport Fee | $350 per passport | |||
3. Purchase of a single-family private house
The second real estate option is purchasing a single-family private dwelling valued at least $600,000
An approved private home investment is designed for applicants looking to relocate to St Kitts and Nevis with their family members. The investment is recoverable with the option to sell after seven years.
Real Estate | Single Applicant | Applicant + Spouse | Additional (over 18 years old) | Additional Dependent (under 18 years old) |
Minimum Investment | $600,000 | |||
Government Application Fee | $25,000 | $40,000 | +$15,000 each | +$10,000 each |
Due Diligence Fee | $10,000 | $7,500 for each family member aged 16 or over | ||
Application Form | $250 per set of forms | |||
Passport Fee | $350 per passport | |||
4. Public Benefit Option (PBO) Contribution
A minimum contribution of $250,000 to the Public Benefit Option qualifies as an investment for St Kitts and Nevis and Nevis citizenship.
Applicants benefit from second citizenship and supporting government-approved public benefit projects to improve education, health, or infrastructure initiatives.
Public Benefit Option | Single | Applicant | Additional (Over 18 years old) | Additional (under 18 years old) |
Minimum Donation | $250,000 | |||
Government Application Fee | $25,000 | $40,000 | +$15,000 each | +$10,000 each |
Due Diligence Fee | $10,000 | $7,500 for each family member aged 16 or over | ||
Application Form | $250 per set of forms | |||
Passport Fee | $350 per passport | |||
Fees and processing charges
Besides the minimum investment, applicants must pay fees to directly qualify for citizenship. Fees include:
- Government fee (processing fee)
- Due diligence fee
- Passport fee
- Application form fee
The total amount depends on the number of applicants. Contributions to the SISC require a due diligence fee of $10,000 plus $7,500 for each additional applicant. Approved real estate investments require processing fees of $25,000 for the main applicant, $40,000 to include a spouse, and $10,000 to $15,000 for each additional applicant, depending on their age. All other applicable fees are fixed amounts, which are $250 per application form and $350 per passport.
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Required Documents
During the application, all documentation provided will go through a due diligence process. This is a vital step in a St Kitts and Nevis CBI application, as it means the documents and information will be checked to confirm the identity, financial profile, and security profile of the applicant and all accompanying family members aged 16 or over. This is crucial to guarantee the credibility of the application.
This is a list for reference. The CIU may request additional documents if necessary.
Citizenship application forms
Applicants are charged $250 for each set of forms issued.
For reference, the following forms in this guide are referred to as:
- Application for registration as a Citizen (Form C1)
- Photograph and Signature Certificate (Form C2)
- Medical Certificate (Form C3) including original results of HIV Test (HIV test is required for all persons applying for citizenship, including children over 12 years). Note: The HIV test results must not be older than three months.
Sustainable Fund forms
- Investment Confirmation/Escrow Agreement (Form C4)
Real estate forms
- Completed Purchase and Sales Agreement (Approved Real Estate Investment Option)
Forms C1, C2, C3, and C4 will be supplied by your local authorized agent. (Only original application forms are accepted)
Required documents for submission:
- Completed C1, C2, AND C3 forms
- Original excerpt of full birth record or certified copy of the birth certificate
- Certified copy of proof of name change (Deed Polls or jurisdictional equivalent, if applicable)
- Certified copy of current national identity card(s) (children under the age of 16 are exempt)
- Certified copy of valid passport(s) showing name, photo citizenship/nationality, date and place of issue, expiry date, passport number, and issuing country
- HIV Test Results must be no older than three months (children under the age of 12 are exempt)
- Police Certificate “certificate of no criminal record” or “police clearance certificate” from the country of citizenship and any country where you have lived for more than one year over the past ten years (children under the age of 16 are exempt)
- Six photographs approximately 35 x 45mm in size, taken within the past six (6) months (N.B. one of the photographs must be certified and attached to the C2 form)
Other supporting documents required from the main applicant:
- At least one original professional reference (e.g., from an attorney, notary public, official accountant, or other professionals of similar standing) not older than six months.
- Bank Statements for a 12-month period from the date of submission of the application
- At least one original bank reference letter issued by an internationally recognized bank, not older than six months
- Certified copy of Military Records or exemption from military service (if applicable)
- One original document of evidence of residential address (e.g., a certified copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement showing full name and address, or written confirmation from a bank, attorney, chartered accountant, or notary public)
- Employment Letter(s) stating the start of employment, position held, and salary earned
- Certified copy of Business License or Incorporation documents
- One original excerpt of marriage record or certified copy of marriage certificate(s) if applicable (i.e., if married persons apply together).
- Certified copy of divorce documents (if applicable)
- Statement and evidence of source of fund to be invested in St Kitts and Nevis
- Affidavit of Financial Support for applicants between the ages of 18 -30
- Certified copy of University Degrees (if applicable)
- Limited Power of Attorney
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship Application Process and Timeline
The entire application process to obtain St Kitts and Nevis takes 12 months:
- Contact Authorized Agent: Contact an Authorized Agent licensed by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) to submit your citizenship application.
- Initial due diligence checks: Your licensed agent will perform preliminary due diligence checks to ensure a successful application.
- Gather documents and complete forms: Gather necessary documentation and complete all forms.
- Submit your application: Your dedicated Authorized Agent will submit your application on your behalf*.
- Due diligence checks: The (CIU) will process your application and carry out comprehensive due diligence checks.
- Attend citizenship interview: The main applicant and dependents over 16 must attend a mandatory virtual interview with CIU-approved professionals.
- Receive Approval in Principle: Successful applicants will receive an approval letter from the CIU within 120 days stating their application has received pre-approval.
- Make your investment: Once you have received your government approval letter, you must make your qualifying investment, pay the government administration fees, and send proof to the CIU.
- Receive citizen approval: You and your family will be granted citizenship by the CIU.
- Collect Certificate of Registration: The CIU will issue your Certificate of Registration, which must be collected in person either in the country or at an approved Consulate or Embassy.
- Full citizenship received: You are now a fully registered citizen of St Kitts and Nevis and can retrieve your citizenship certificate and passport.
*Only applications submitted by an Authorized Agent licensed by the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit are accepted.
Mandatory interview
All citizenship applicants over 16 must attend a mandatory citizenship interview as part of the application process. The interview can be conducted virtually or in person in St Kitts or at a location approved by the Board of Governors. There is no requirement to visit St Kitts.
The interview will be conducted by independent professional due diligence agents and law firms commissioned by the CIU. They also provide a certified translator in cases where applicants do not speak English or English is not their first language.
Calculate the cost of citizenship for you and your family, including all associated fees.
Compliance and Legal Structure
As outlined in the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship by Substantial Investment Regulations, the CIU was formed as the government authority responsible for St Kitts and Nevis’s CBI program and enforcing its requirements.
Core requirements include:
- Minimum investment thresholds
- Due diligence procedures
- Application fees
- Application process and timeline
- Grounds for citizenship denial, revocation, and renouncement
- Rights and responsibilities of new citizens
The CIU collaborates with government authorities, including the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), to ensure regulation adherence.
Dual citizenship law
St Kitts and Nevis allows dual citizenship, permitting citizens to maintain multiple citizenships and preserve the right to vote, access social services, and maintain a passport in St Kitts and Nevis.
Pros and Cons of St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment
Pros
Fast application process: It takes 12 months to receive a St Kitts and Nevis passport.
Reliable: This CBI program is the longest-running in the world, becoming the global benchmark for reliability.
Confidential: The CIU doesn’t publish a list of applicants of in the CBI program.
Payment after pre-approval: You are only required to invest in St Kitts and Nevis once your application has been approved in principle.
Benefits in other countries: As a member of CARICOM and OECS, St Kitts and Nevis citizens enjoy privileges in member states.
Cons
High cost: St Kitts and Nevis has the most expensive Caribbean citizenship program.
Limited investment routes: There is no option to make a qualifying business investment
Extreme weather: The region is vulnerable to hurricanes and natural disasters.
CBI Comparison between St Kitts and Nevis and Other Caribbean Countries
- St Kitts and Nevis: The first nation to introduce citizenship by investment and grants the most powerful Caribbean passport, facilitating visa free access to 153 countries.
- Antigua and Barbuda: The cheapest Caribbean citizenship program for a family of four.
- Dominica: The most affordable citizenship by real estate investment.
- Grenada: The only Caribbean nation offering eligibility for the US E2 Visa through citizenship by investment.
- St Lucia: Offers the most diverse qualifying investments, including the opportunity to invest in infrastructure projects with a minimum value of $250,000.
Why use Global Citizen Solutions?
Global Citizen Solutions is a multidisciplinary firm offering bespoke residence and citizenship solutions in Europe and the Caribbean. In a world where the economy and politics are unpredictable, having a second citizenship opens up opportunities and creates flexibility for you and your family.
So, why work with Global Citizen Solutions to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship?
- Authorized International Marketing Agent. Global Citizen Solutions have official certification by the Government of St Kitts and Nevis to promote and market their Citizenship by Investment program. You can find a copy of our certificate by clicking the image on the right
- Global approach by local experts. We are corporate members of the Investment Migration Council, with local expertise in all five Caribbean CBI programs.
- 100 percent approval rate. We have never had a case rejected and will offer you an initial, free-of-charge, due diligence assessment before signing any contract.
- Independent service and full transparency. We will present to you all the investment options available, and all expenses will be discussed in advance, with no hidden fees.
- An all-encompassing solution. A multidisciplinary team of immigration lawyers, investment specialists, and tax experts will take into consideration all your and your family's mobility, tax, and lifestyle needs.
- Confidential service and secure data management. All private data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
Frequently Asked Questions about St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI)
How to get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment?
You can obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment by making a non-refundable contribution of $250,000 to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) or a Public Benefit Project, or a real estate investment of at least $325,000 or $600,000.
What is the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit?
The St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) is a government body assigned to manage the St Kitts and Nevis economic citizenship scheme, process applications, and regulate Authorized Agents.
What is the economic citizenship program in St Kitts?
The St Kitts economic citizenship program is another term for the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program, allowing investors to obtain citizenship by investing in the economy.
How much does Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship cost?
The minimum investment amount for the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program starts at $250,000 for a single applicant or a family of four, excluding government fees. The total cost includes government, application, and passport fees and depends on the investment option and the number of dependents included in the application.
How long is the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship application process?
Once you have submitted your St Kitts and Nevis citizen application, you will receive your approval letter within four months and citizenship within 12 months.
What is the minimum investment required under the real estate investment option?
The minimum real estate investment in the St Kitts and Nevis CBI program is $325,000 to acquire shares in an approved real estate project and $600,000 to purchase an approved private home.
Can two or more applicants apply for citizenship by investment together?
Two or more applicants can apply for citizenship by investment in St Kitts and Nevis, provided additional applicants are qualified dependents of the main applicant.
Is St Kitts citizenship worth it?
Lifetime citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis is more than worth it, given that its passport allows visa free travel to over 150 countries, including the UK and EU Schengen countries. There are no income, inheritance, capital gains, or wealth taxes for tax residents, and the country is politically stable and a member of several regional alliances.
What is the St Kitts and Nevis Investment Programme?
The St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme, also known as the St Kitts Golden Visa, is the longest-standing CBI scheme in the world. Introduced in 1984, it allows foreigners to obtain citizenship by making a significant economic contribution.
How do I immigrate to St Kitts and Nevis?
You can immigrate to St Kitts and Nevis through the country’s CBI scheme. The government of St Kitts and Nevis has a citizenship by investment (CBI) program granting citizenship to foreigners who make a substantial contribution to the country through real estate investment and fund donations.
Can you buy St Kitts and Nevis citizenship?
You cannot buy citizenship or a passport in St Kitts and Nevis. St Kitts and Nevis’ citizenship program is not based on a transactional exchange of funds; rather, it represents a collaborative endeavor. This program enables foreign nationals to contribute to the economic and social progress of the country by participating in thoughtfully curated investments designed to maximize both the nation’s economic growth and social advancement.
Can St Kitts and Nevis citizenship be revoked?
Successful applicants of the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program may have their citizenship revoked if it was acquired through fraudulent tactics such as misrepresentation or the withholding of information during the application process. Furthermore, citizens who pose a threat to national security or engage in activities deemed detrimental to national interests may face citizenship revocation.
Can unmarried or same-sex couples apply for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment?
Couples applying for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment must be legally married and submit an authorized marriage certificate to qualify. St Kitts and Nevis does not recognize same-sex relations or marriage, therefore excluding same-sex couples as qualified applicants for its citizenship.
