The St.Kitts and Nevis CIU led by new chairman, has laid a robust foundation for a world-class Citizenship by Investment experience, effectively accomplishing major initiatives by implementing 10 week(2.5 months) turnaround for a decision on all submitted applications, under the newly reformed citizenship by investment program. Over 1000 CIU staff will be working towards expedited processing of applications.
The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme of St. Kitts and Nevis is the longest-running and most successful CBI initiative globally. It offers investors and their families the opportunity to obtain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment. The Programme, launched in 1984, provides numerous benefits, including a stable political and economic environment, access to a peaceful lifestyle in the Caribbean, robust business opportunities and enhanced global mobility.
The CIU Unit’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and continuous improvement in serving stakeholders and fostering economic resilience for St. Kitts and Nevis:
Streamlined Applications
- 10-Week Decision Turnaround: Processing enhancements now allow decisions on applications to be completed in 10 weeks.
- Updated Regulations and Forms: New application forms were issued, and regulatory updates were made to streamline processes and reflect new investment thresholds.
- Minimum Investment Adjustments: Approved Development, Private Real Estate, and single-family home minimum investments were redefined to ensure alignment with the latest market conditions. The new regulations introduced in October have adjusted the minimum investment threshold for real estate in an Approved Development, lowering it from US$400,000 to US$325,000. The minimum investment for a single-family private residence has been reduced from US$800,000 to US$600,000.
Operational and Technology Enhancements
- 24-Hour Response Time: A 24-hour response benchmark was introduced to increase service reliability and responsiveness.
- Backlog Task Force: A specialised team was assigned to address and resolve the backlog of applications, expediting processes for all stakeholders.
- Technology Upgrades: Advanced technology is being implemented to track processing times and manage applications with improved accuracy.
- Robust Due Diligence – St. Kitts and Nevis implements a robust due diligence process to ensure the integrity of its CBI Programme. All applicants undergo a thorough background check conducted by independent agencies. It is designed to verify that applicants do not pose any security or reputational risks to the country. All CBI applicants must undergo a compulsory interview. Dependants aged 16 and above may also be required to attend an interview at the discretion of the CIU.
- Outreach Team – A dedicated team was established to provide accurate, timely updates to stakeholders. First in-person and virtual meetings with Authorised Agents, International Marketing Agents, and Promoters were held to improve transparency and alignment.
Expanded Benefits for Investor Families
- Reduced Age of Eligibility for Dependants: Main Applicants can now sponsor dependent parents from age 55, lowering the previous threshold.
- Post-Citizenship Additions: Newborns can now be added at a reduced fee of US$7,500, making it easier for families to grow within the citizenship Programme.
St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit embarks on this new chapter, beginning of a long-term commitment to excellence, transparency, and innovation. With a clear vision and strategic milestones in place, the CIU is poised to drive meaningful economic growth and continue providing unparalleled service to investors and citizens alike. These changes mark a significant step in aligning the CIU’s mission with the broader goals of national prosperity and resilience.
EACH INITIATIVE WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED AIMS TO CREATE A SEAMLESS, EFFICIENT PROCESS FOR APPLICANTS AND DELIVER EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO STAKEHOLDERS.
– Calvin St.Juste, Chairman
The CIU Unit will be reinforcing its dedication to uphold the global reputation of St. Kitts and Nevis as a premier Citizenship by Investment Programme.
