The St Kitts and Nevis citizenship program (CBI) has been the golden standard for a diverse range of individuals seeking second citizenship since its introduction in 1984. With its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and enticing investment opportunities, this tropical paradise is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for both property seekers, particularly due to the option to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship through real estate investment.
This article will highlight the country’s CBI program, key changes that came into effect in July 2023 in response to recommendations by the UK government and European Union, and how St Kitts and Nevis continues to offer one of the world’s most reputable and compliant citizenship programs.
Eligible investment options under St Kitts and Nevis’ citizenship by investment program are categorized into one of four investment areas:
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
- Developer Real Estate Investment Option (REO)
- Private Home Sales Option (PHO)
- Public Benefit Option (PBO)
Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious waterfront villa or considering the advantages of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment, the nation’s real estate market offers a tantalizing blend of natural beauty and lucrative prospects (both residential and commercial property) that cannot be ignored.
Citizenship by Investment in St Kitts and Nevis
Sustainable Island State Contribution requirements
The primary investment option for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment is making a $250,000 non-refundable contribution to the state’s federal consolidated fund, formally called the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC). SISC was established at the end of July 2023 by the St Kitts and Nevis government to replace the old Sustainable Growth Fund.
Investors must make an additional non-refundable contribution to apply for second citizenship for family members. A total contribution of $300,000 is required to include a spouse and $350,000 to include two or three dependants.
Real estate citizenship requirements
The St Kitts and Nevis real estate investment option includes both the Approved Private Home Sales Option (PHO) and the Developer Real Estate Investment Option (REO). For a property purchase to qualify as an investment for St Kitts’ citizenship program, it must be a government-approved private home or government-approved real estate development. The minimum investment needed is as follows:
- Make a minimum investment of $400,000 in one of the government-approved real estate development
- Purchase a real estate unit for a minimum investment of $400,000
- Purchase a single-family approved private home for a minimum contribution of $800,000 (a CBI applicant cannot make a joint investment with another CBI applicant for this alternative investment option)
Besides the required investment, St Kitts and Nevis real estate citizenship fees include a government fee and due diligence fee. International investors looking to earn rental income can choose to rent out their investment property and expect annual returns of between two and five percent. Additionally, if you intend to resell the property, you can do so after the minimum holding period of seven years.
It is important to note that the investment unit can only be resold once by the original owner. In addition to this, you cannot resell the investment property to another investor looking to obtain citizenship by investment unless they invest more into the property, for example, through further construction and renovation.
Public Benefit Option requirements
Investors can qualify for second citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis with a third investment option, the Public Benefit Option. This investment route requires contributing $250,000 to approved public benefit projects supporting the well-being of the population of St Kitts and Nevis, which can include projects such as those providing local employment.
Unlike the SISC, there is no requirement for the main applicant to make additional contributions to include one or two dependants; however, there are higher government fees for each applicant, including the main applicant.
St Kitts and Nevis Approved Real Estate Projects
The following is a list of pre-approved property developments and projects that investors can choose from under the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program, with each location approved by the government.
St Kitts approved development projects: | Nevis approved development projects: |
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St Kitts and Nevis Real Estate Investment Benefits
Laidback island lifestyle
Political and economic stability
Favorable tax benefits
Multiple citizenships
Visa-free access to over 140 countries
Family inclusion
St Kitts and Nevis Real Estate Citizenship Requirements
The St Kitts and Nevis real estate citizenship requirements require applicants to:
- Be older than 18
- Have a clean criminal record
- Be of excellent character
- Be able to make a qualifying investment of $400,000 or $800,000, depending on the real estate route
Citizenship by investment process
The following outlines the steps you will follow as a CBI applicant:
- Contact Global Citizen Solutions: Contact our specialized team for a consultation regarding your CBI application.
- Initial due diligence checks: Global Citizen Solutions will perform initial due diligence checks at no additional cost to ensure a successful application.
- Client agreement and retainer payment: The client agreement contains details regarding the entire process to help put your mind at ease.
- Document gathering and form completion: Gather necessary documentation and complete all forms Global Citizen Solutions provides.
- Submit your application: Your dedicated Investment Migration Specialist will submit your application on your behalf*.
- Due diligence checks commissioned by the CIU: The Citizenship by Investment Unit will process your application and carry out all due diligence checks.
- Mandatory interview: All main applicants must attend mandatory interviews (virtual or in person). The CIU may ask dependents aged 16 years and older to attend an interview. Interviews will be conducted by an independent professional firm commissioned by the CIU.
- Receive ‘approval in principle’ from the CIU: Successful applicants will receive an approval letter from the CIU within 120 days stating their application is ‘approved in principle’.
- 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.
- Become a St Kitts and Nevis Citizen: You and your family members will be granted citizenship of St Kitts and Nevis and receive your passports at an address of your choice.
- Collect Certificate of Registration: The CIU will issue your Certificate of Registration, which must be collected in person either in St Kitts and Nevis or at an approved Consulate or Embassy specified by the CIU.
- Full citizenship received: You are now a fully registered citizen of St Kitts and Nevis!
*By law, the CIU doesn’t accept applications directly from applicants but only from Authorized Agents, like Global Citizen Solutions, who have been licensed by the government and St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit.
Take a look at our St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
Why invest in St Kitts real estate?
Over the years, the St Kitts and Nevis real estate market has been driven by development projects and real estate sales linked to the nation’s investment program. Under the program’s option to invest in real estate investment, investors can choose from high-quality luxury villas and homes, beachfront apartments, and hotel suites.
Outside of the citizenship by investment program, this twin-island federation enables relatively easy property ownership to both citizens and foreigners, good value for the cost of properties, and tax advantages. In fact, citizens can benefit from no personal income tax, wealth tax, gift tax, or capital gains tax. In addition, the nation’s thriving tourism sector provides great potential for income generation among property owners who make their homes available for rent. However, if your intention is to enjoy the property yourself – be it as a family, retiree, digital nomad, or frequent traveler – the nation’s many sites and activities are sure to keep you entertained.
Regarding access, there are direct international flights to St Kitts from both the UK and the US. A popular option is for visitors to then take a ferry from St Kitts to Nevis. This lets travelers enjoy the nation’s world-class offerings (resorts, golf courses, water activities, landmarks, restaurants, and spas) throughout the year. As you can imagine, each of these factors has resulted in a growing real estate sector.
Real estate in St Kitts vs Nevis
St Kitts is the larger and more developed island, while Nevis is slightly wilder and offers a more laidback environment with pristine beaches and hiking trails. When it comes to real estate, each island offers something unique, meaning investors have a variety of options to choose from.
If you’re interested in freehold real estate – having the full rights of ownership of a property – then the private homes sale option of the program is for you. Both islands offer a variety of property types suitable for individuals, families, and couples, such as villas, apartments, houses, condos, and more. You’re likely to find more high-end properties in St Kitts, while Nevis offers charming properties with a bit more character.
Cost of living in St Kitts and Nevis
The cost of living in St Kitts and Nevis is moderate, as the Caribbean country imports a lot of goods but is balanced by a favorable tax system. General expenses here tend to be lower than on other Caribbean islands. The average price per square meter to purchase an apartment in the city center is $5,000, while outside the center, it falls to about $4,000. Popular areas to purchase property include Basseterre, Frigate Bay, Sandy Point Town, Charlestown, and Bath.
St Kitts citizenship benefits
There are many benefits to obtaining citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis. The main applicant can include their family members in their citizenship by investment application, meaning they can also obtain a St Kitts and Nevis passport. The nation’s dual citizenship policies mean that you can hold dual citizenship in St Kitts alongside your existing nationality. Additionally, you benefit from lifetime citizenship that can be passed down to future generations.
With a St Kitts and Nevis passport, you can enjoy visa-free travel to over 140 countries, such as the UK, Hong Kong, and the Schengen Zone. You can also apply for long-term visas to the US and Canada, live in St Kitts (or any member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States), and benefit from favorable tax policies, such as no capital gains or inheritance tax.
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 Real Estate Citizenship
Can I buy property in St Kitts and Nevis?
Yes, non-nationals can purchase real estate in St Kitts and Nevis. You must apply for the Alien Landholding License. Alternatively, non-nationals acquiring citizenship through the country’s citizenship by investment program do not need an Alien Landholding License when buying approved St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment properties.
Are there St Kitts and Nevis property taxes?
In St Kitts and Nevis, property taxes are charged annually. The residential property is charged at 0.2 percent of its value, and commercial property is 0.3 percent per year.
Is St Kitts and Nevis real estate citizenship expensive?
For investors seeking affordable real estate for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship, the minimum investment required is $400,000 for a condominium unit or shares in approved real estate projects. The cost of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship through real estate investment in a single-family home is at least $800,000. In addition to this, applicants must pay due diligence fees, application fees, government fees, and passport fees, the cost of which will depend on the number of dependents included in the application.
Can I get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship through real estate investment?
Yes, obtaining citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis by investing in real estate is possible. The main applicant must meet the program’s eligibility requirements, such as being over 18 and having a clean criminal record. The overall St Kitts and Nevis citizenship cost will depend on the number of family members included in the application, but the minimum real estate investment amount starts at $400,000.
You can also obtain citizenship by donating to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) – the new Sustainable Growth Fund – or Public Benefit Option (PBO) – where the qualifying investment is paid to the relevant approved public benefactor – and then make a real estate purchase as a citizen anywhere in the country without having to adhere to the requirement of choosing a government-approved property. In some cases, you may even be able to find a better deal, as you will not have to have the property location approved by the government.
Where should I buy property in St Kitts and Nevis?
Popular areas to purchase property and invest in St Kitts and Nevis include Basseterre, Charlestown, Bath, Frigate Bay, and Sandy Point Town.
How long does the citizenship application process take when investing in real estate in St Kitts and Nevis?
The entire application process length will depend on whether you visit St Kitts before choosing your investment property under the citizenship by investment program. The application process time after receiving the complete application forms and documents, undergoing the mandatory interviews conducted by an independent professional firm commissioned by the CIU, as well as paying the qualifying investment, due diligence fees, etc., is four months.
Is dual citizenship allowed for those obtaining citizenship through real estate investment in St Kitts and Nevis?
Yes, dual citizenship is permitted for St Kitts citizenship applicants, no matter the investment route – Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC), Approved Public Benefit Project, or real estate investment (approved private homes, units, or projects).
