Joe Rice Caribbean immigration services can be highly beneficial in helping you navigate your immigration journey. Relocating can be stressful, and figuring out which Caribbean territory or nation to move to, your immigration route, the documents needed, the application process, and more can quickly become overwhelming. With the help of a Caribbean immigration law firm, however, the immigration process becomes straightforward and hassle-free.
With this ultimate guide, discover everything you need to know about employing a Caribbean citizenship by investment authorized agency and relocating to the Caribbean.
Why immigrate to the Caribbean?
Quality of life
If you’re looking for a change of pace and scenery, the Caribbean can offer exactly that. The beautiful weather, unpolluted natural environment, slower pace, safety, and security provide a better quality of life. With a wealth of locations to choose from, you’ll find a variety of lifestyles, cultures, languages, activities, and more to your needs and interests. From hiking in luscious rainforests to surfing at some of the world’s best beaches, you’ll discover a new way of life when moving to the Caribbean.
Retirement
The Caribbean region offers a variety of options for retirees looking to spend their golden years in a tropical paradise. With various cultures and cuisines, friendly locals, and breathtaking and diverse landscapes, the Caribbean has something for everyone seeking the perfect retirement destination.
Work
More than a tourist paradise, the Caribbean is a thriving hub for various industries. Expatriate workers are drawn to opportunities in sectors ranging from hospitality to finance. Exploring the world as a digital nomad is another popular route for many, as it allows you to live in different countries while you work remotely under their digital nomad visas. In the Caribbean, popular destinations for digital nomads include Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Curacao, and Dominica.
Business opportunities
The Caribbean is a fertile ground for business, and investment opportunities abound. Entrepreneurs and investors will find the thriving real estate and tourism sectors particularly lucrative. Investors can establish renewable energy and high-tech agribusinesses to obtain Caribbean citizenship by investment. Favorable tax incentives, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and offshore financial services also create an environment conducive to profitable enterprise.
Cost and standard of living
The favorable currency exchange rates (EC$2.70 = US$1) and the structure for Caribbean taxes make the cost of living in the region comparatively lower for expats earning foreign income. This affordability makes enjoying a high-quality standard of living in this attractive destination possible.
Citizenship by investment
Several Caribbean islands offer Caribbean programs whereby individuals and their families can use Caribbean citizenship by investment agents to streamline consular processing to obtain second citizenship and a second passport in exchange for capital investment in the island’s development.
The investment programs vary from island to island and usually include. All offer the option to make a non-refundable donation. The St Lucia citizenship by investment program allows investors to acquire refundable government bonds. Applicants can buy a home to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment.
How to Immigrate to the Caribbean
Visa and citizenship
To immigrate to the Caribbean, you must first obtain residency rights. There are a few ways to do this:
- Obtain a digital nomad visa
- Find a local job or start a business
- Be married to a Caribbean citizen
- Obtain citizenship
Investment is one of the most popular ways to obtain second citizenship in the Caribbean. The Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment programs provide a path to citizenship.
Caribbean investment programs
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda- $230,000 minimum contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF)
- $300,000 minimum investment in pre-approved real estate
- $260,000 minimum contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund (UWI)
- $1.5 million minimum contribution to a business venture as a solo investor
- $400,000 minimum contribution in a joint $5 million enterprise
Dominica
Dominica- $200,000 minimum investment in the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
- $200,000 minimum investment in pre-approved real estate
Grenada
Grenada- $235,000 minimum investment in the National Transformation Fund (NTF)
- $270,000 minimum investment in pre-approved real estate shares
- $350,000 minimum investment in pre-approved real estate as the sole owner
St Kitts and Nevis
St Kitts and Nevis- $250,000 minimum contribution to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- $325000 minimum investment in a unit in an approved real estate development
- $600,000 minimum investment in a single-family private dwelling
- $250,000 minimum investment in the Public Benefit Option (PBO)
St Lucia
St Lucia- $240,000 minimum contribution to the National Economic Fund (NEF)
- $300,000 minimum investment in pre-approved real estate
- $3.5 million minimum investment in a local enterprise as a solo investor
- $250,000 investment in a joint $6 million enterprise
- $300,000 minimum contribution government bonds
Take a look at out Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Comparison Guide
Why use a Caribbean Immigration Service
Once you’ve decided to relocate to the Caribbean, a seasoned Caribbean immigration consultant can help make your immigration process as smooth as possible.
Immigration services simplify the process
A Caribbean immigration law firm will have expert knowledge of the requirements you need to meet and can advise you on the best route for immigration for your circumstances. They will also ensure you do not make costly mistakes that can delay your application.
The Caribbean visa consultant deals directly with the country you are immigrating to, rather than you having to do it alone. For example, when choosing the citizenship by investment route, Global Citizen Solutions holds a St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua CIP license to liaise with the Citizenship by Investment Unit on your behalf.
Functions of an immigration services provider
Whether you’re a retiree, an investor, or even a family, using the services of a Caribbean immigration law firm can make for a more efficient, simplified process. You can generally expect the following relocation and immigration consultancy:
- Preliminary discussion and proposal tailored to your circumstances
- Onboarding services
- Application review
- Documentation checking
- Application submission
- Liaising with the relevant Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Unit
Benefits of Using Immigration Services in the Caribbean
There are several advantages to using a Caribbean immigration service, including:
- Compliance and accuracy – the firm will check your documents to ensure they are notarized and legalized as necessary and meet the requirements.
- Application submission – the firm will submit your application to the relevant immigration unit, ensuring a streamlined process. In the case of citizenship by investment applications, these must be submitted by a registered Caribbean citizenship agent on your behalf.
- Tailored advice and guidance – the firm will analyze your individual case and provide advice tailored to your circumstances, helping to make the process as stress-free as possible.
- Expert knowledge – the firm will have expert knowledge of the immigration law specific to your chosen destination in the Caribbean. As such, they will provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding the requirements you need to meet and the application process. Their expertise is multidisciplinary, encompassing complementary areas such as starting a business in Caribbean jurisdictions, taxation, and real estate either in-house or through collaboration with specialist partners.
Caribbean Immigration Agencies: Additional Services
Real estate services
Immigration agencies can help you find and make the perfect real estate investment to help you obtain Caribbean citizenship. For example, Global Citizen Solutions uses statistical data from market transactions, real estate intelligence, and trusted partners to provide you with personalized property investment services.
Retirement services
If you plan to retire to the Caribbean, immigration agencies can help you with the following:
- Goal-setting: Creating realistic financial goals that will enable you to live your ideal life in the Caribbean.
- Tax efficiency: Steps to take to ensure you benefit from the tax systems in the Caribbean.
- Legacy planning: Preparing financial strategies in accordance with the tax laws of the Caribbean to ensure your family is looked after.
Business banking
Ensuring you are aware of the available options for onshore and offshore financial services and the accompanying rules and regulations regarding businesses that operate in the Caribbean.
Business incorporation
Ensuring you are aware of the process of setting up a business in the Caribbean, as well as the rules and regulations that need to be complied with.
Choosing the Right Caribbean Immigration Service
Factors to consider
Ensure that the immigration service provider is a Caribbean citizenship by investment authorized agent licensed to market and promote the country’s citizenship by investment program. Global Citizen Solutions has been granted licenses for St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia CIP license.
Evaluating experience, expertise, and track record: You can speak to the company by phone, email, or video call about their experience handling cases like yours.
Reviewing customer testimonials and references: Visit their website and read reviews from former clients. You can also search for company reviews online, for example, on Facebook immigration groups or speak to former clients.
Ensuring compliance with immigration laws and regulations: You can ask the company for proof of its registration as a Caribbean citizenship authorized agent, look for this evidence on its website, or look for proof of its compliance on official Caribbean immigration websites.
Transparency in fees and services: Ask for an invoice or quote at the start of your application process that details all the fees you must pay. Ensure that this includes service fees for the immigration services in addition to the cost of the actual application.
Why choose an immigration lawyer?
Using an immigration lawyer can make all the difference in the complex and bewildering Caribbean immigration process. An experienced immigration lawyer will provide immigration legal assistance with visas, residence permits, citizenship, and compliance according to immigration laws, ensuring consular processing is completed efficiently.
They will help you avoid costly mistakes, minimize delays, and increase your chances of success. Immigration lawyers are always up to date with changing laws and policies, so you can have peace of mind knowing you’re following the correct process.
How much does an immigration lawyer cost?
Immigration lawyer fees can vary greatly depending on the case’s complexity, the lawyer, and where you are located. On average, immigration lawyers charge between $100 and $500 per hour; some offer flat fees for specific services like visa or Green Card applications.
Flat fees can range from $1,000 to $5,000 for simple cases. Authorized Agents with a St Kitts CIP license can combine their agent fees with associated immigration lawyer costs. Asylum claims or deportation defense for deferred action to obtain temporary protected status can be $10,000 or more.
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 Caribbean citizenship?
- 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.
You may find these articles useful:
- St Lucia vs Dominica Citizenship
- St Kitts and Nevis vs Dominica Passport
- Grenada vs St Kitts Citizenship
- Grenada vs St Lucia Citizenship
- St Kitts vs St Lucia Citizenship
- Grenada vs Dominica Citizenship
- Antigua vs St Lucia Citizenship
- Antigua vs St Kitts Citizenship
- Antigua vs Dominica Citizenship
- Antigua vs Grenada Citizenship
Frequently Asked Questions about a Caribbean Immigration Service
Why should I use a Caribbean immigration service?
Caribbean immigration agencies or immigration services have expert, up-to-date knowledge of the requirements and provide impartial advice tailored to your circumstances to help you navigate complex application processes.
Do Caribbean immigration agencies assist with document preparation and submission?
A Caribbean citizenship-authorized agency can provide a list of reputable Caribbean immigration law firms to provide legal assistance and advise on the required documents, review your application prior to submission, and submit your citizenship application for you.
Can a Caribbean immigration agency help me with family-based immigration matters?
A Caribbean immigration law firm can help you include family members on your citizenship application and advise on the requirements they need to meet.
What retirement services do Caribbean immigration agencies offer?
Retirement services offered by a Caribbean immigration service typically include:
- Legal assistance with permanent residency or citizenship by investment applications
- Navigating the legal requirements for retirees in specific Caribbean countries
- Guidance on selecting the most suitable healthcare options
How can immigration services simplify the process of relocating to the Caribbean?
A Caribbean immigration service offers comprehensive assistance throughout the entire immigration process. They provide insight into pathways based on individual needs and circumstances and connect applicants to trusted professionals for legal assistance, real estate purchases, and other essential service providers.
What is the difference between an immigration law firm and an immigration agency in the Caribbean?
Caribbean immigration law firms are legal practices staffed by qualified attorneys specializing in immigration law. They offer legal advice, assistance with visa applications and work permits, and legal representation for matters related to Caribbean immigration. In contrast, Caribbean immigration agencies act as intermediaries between clients and government authorities, helping streamline application processes.
What services can I expect from a Caribbean immigration law firm?
The services you can expect from Caribbean immigration law firms include helping you understand immigration laws, legal advice and representation for Caribbean visas, residence permits, and citizenship, preparation of immigration applications, and legalizing documents.
What is the easiest Caribbean island to get residency?
St Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Antigua and Barbuda are three of the easiest countries to get Caribbean residency due to their citizenship by investment programs. These Caribbean immigration programs allow investors to gain citizenship by investing a minimum sum in their economies.
How do Caribbean immigration services assist with visa applications?
The top Caribbean immigration service assists with visa applications by providing support throughout the immigration process. They guide applicants on the specific visa requirements, help gather the necessary documents, and provide guidance for Caribbean citizenship interviews. These relocation services through a Caribbean immigration advisor often include consultations to assess the best Caribbean visa options based on the applicant’s needs and eligibility.
Is it worth hiring an immigration lawyer?
Hiring an immigration lawyer is not only worth it but may even be a necessity in some situations when dealing with complex applications, appeals, or potential legal issues that could jeopardize your status. Their expertise ensures documentation is accurate, deadlines are met, and any legal roadblocks are addressed.
