Dominica Revokes 68 Passports

Overview of Dominica's CBI Program

Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program was established in 1993 as a key part of the country’s economic development strategy. By offering citizenship to foreign investors who contribute to the country’s growth, whether through real estate or donations to the Economic Diversification Fund, Dominica has attracted thousands of applicants from all over the world. This influx of funds has not only grown the economy but also put Dominica on the global map.

Events Triggering Dominica Passport Revocations

The Dominica government made a bold move by issuing a Citizenship Deprivation Order (CDO) to strip 68 individuals of their citizenship gained through its citizenship by investment program.

The order, signed by Minister of Citizenship Miriam Blanchard and published on 6 June 2024, states that the individuals acquired their Dominica certificate of naturalization through fraud, including misrepresentation or withholding significant facts. The decree states that these individuals are no longer entitled to retain their citizenship or hold a Dominica passport.

Contain within the Citizenship Deprivation Order are the names and nationalities of 68 individuals who were granted citizenship between November 2019 and May 2022:

• 53 percent Iraqi
• 22 percent Pakistani
• 6 percent Egyptian
• 6 percent Iranian
• 4 percent Nigerian
• 4 percent Syrian
• 3 percent Afghani
• 1 percent Sudanese
• 1 percent Jordanian

Why did Dominica revoke 68 CBI passports?

The reasons for the CDO and Dominica passport revocation came in response to a warning from Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, at the Caribbean Investment Summit, where he revealed new legislation addressing fraudulent citizenship applications, specifically targeting those who failed to meet the official investment criteria.

Prime Minister Skerrit’s comments follow the Memorandum of Understanding Agreement (MoA) signed by all five Caribbean countries offering citizenship programs: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia.

Dominica’s decision reflects one of the commitments outlined in the MoA, which includes improved due diligence over applicants and authorized agents, increased information sharing, greater transparency, and post-citizenship screening.

Insights from industry experts

Philippe May, CEO of EC Holdings, stated the new Dominica passport revocation policy and procedures are a good move to restore the reputation of Caribbean citizenship by investment programs. Many of the fraudulent applicants were misled by questionable agents who offered unrealistically low fees.

May added that the impact of passport revocation in Dominica might go beyond losing citizenship; individuals could encounter visa and banking issues due to their names being entered into global financial databases.

Impact on Existing CBI Citizens and Future Investors

What existing CBI passport holders need to know

For current CBI passport holders, this is a reminder to continue complying with the program requirements. The Dominican government has shown it will take action to protect its reputation and the credibility of its CBI program. All passport holders must ensure they are fully compliant with citizenship laws. Nevertheless, Dominica’s decisive measures are a positive step toward improving the global mobility of its citizens and rebuilding diplomatic ties.

What lies ahead for prospective investors?

For future investors, this is a wake-up call to work with reputable firms like Global Citizen Solutions when considering applying for citizenship by investing in Dominica. The CBI process is complex, and due diligence is rigorous, so working with experts to guide you through each step ensures your application is accurate and compliant.