Citizenship by Investment Program
The St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program is one of the oldest, most established programs of its kind in the world.
In 1984, the Citizenship by Investment Program of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis was created to encourage resort development, stimulate growth of the tourism industry, and attract investors.
Program Qualifications
Foreign investors may become eligible* to apply for citizenship by making a qualifying investment in a designated real estate project, such as Christophe Harbour, which is approved under the real estate option. While the Federation’s program requires all applicants to undergo a thorough background check, approval for citizenship usually takes only about 12 weeks.
- $400,000 USD or greater real estate investment within a qualifying project, plus application fees paid to Government.
- The real estate investment is a recoverable investment. You can sell it after 5 years, and the next buyer will qualify for citizenship.
- No build requirement
- Applicants are not required to visit the country personally but will need to retain services of a government-approved intermediary to assist in the application process.
- The granting of citizenship is at the sole discretion of the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, and approval is not guaranteed for any applicant.
*Investment criteria and citizenship benefits are subject to change at any time by the Government. Prospective purchasers are advised to consult with a government-approved intermediary to determine the minimum investment that may apply to their eligibility, the Government fees they will be required to pay, and the current benefits of citizenship. In addition, prospective purchasers are advised to consult with an attorney in their home country regarding the benefits and restrictions with respect to applying for citizenship in St. Kitts.
Program Benefits
Citizenship is not a requirement for purchasing real estate at Christophe Harbour; however, the associated benefits may be far reaching. Depending upon the laws of one’s home country, having citizenship in another country may be advantageous for purposes of tax planning, personal security, and general convenience. Citizenship does not include voting rights, but does currently entitle the recipient to receive a St. Kitts and Nevis passport and other benefits.
- Visa-free travel to more than 120 countries, including: Switzerland, the entire European Union, and most British Commonwealth member countries.
- St. Kitts currently has no wealth, income, or inheritance taxes.
- Dual and lifetime citizenship for applicant and all eligible family members is permitted by St. Kitts, allowing successful applicants to maintain citizenship in their home country (unless not permitted by home country).
- Full-residency status with the right to work in St. Kitts and Nevis and no permanent residence requirement.
- Potential preferential treatment in the United States and United Kingdom (e.g., children may enter the UK to study without obtaining a student visa and may work in the UK for two years after studying without a work permit).
- Such benefits make St. Kitts and Nevis a safe haven, and Christophe Harbour an investment in a way of life for future generations
Qualifying Christophe Harbour Product
Qualifying purchase options at Christophe Harbour include:†
- Custom homesites from $700,000 USD
- Luxury residences from $3 million USD
- Ocean Grove villas from $865,000 USD
- All inclusive, fractional ownership at Windswept Residence Club from $450,000 USD
- Freehold ownership marina berths from $1.5 million USD
† Purchasers of real property will incur additional expenses associated with their real estate closing, including stamp taxes, land tax, and property insurance. Service and legal fees of the government-approved intermediary also apply.