A true gem of the Caribbean, St Kitts and Nevis real estate investment is a viable opportunity for international investors looking to diversify their assets. Not only is the island’s tourist industry booming, with the economy providing optimal investment returns, but the country also runs a very successful Citizenship by Investment Program. Buying St Kitts and Nevis government-approved property offers the unique opportunity to receive a St Kitts and Nevis passport in just four months.
Why St Kitts Property Investment Is a Good Idea
Eight fantastic reasons to buy property in St Kitts and Nevis:
- Enjoy a beautiful island in the Caribbean
- Great airport connection to the rest of the world
- Get high-return investment schemes in a privileged tourist destination
- Get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by purchasing approved real estate property
- Availability of a variety of property types
- Get a St Kitts and Nevis passport for you and your family in four months
- Opportunity to purchase property as a single applicant or in joint ownership
- Low tax regime – no income, inheritance, gift, or capital gains tax
Real Estate Market History and Overview
St Kitts and Nevis is a Caribbean country situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It is composed of two sister islands: St Kitts – the bustling heart of the country’s economy – and Nevis – the smaller island, peaceful and charming. Blessed with incredible landscapes and stunning beaches, the country has successfully developed its tourism and real estate industries. From luxury villas and apartments to international hotels and classy resorts, the country has a wide range of real estate options.
In 1984, St Kitts and Nevis introduced the Citizenship by Investment Program, allowing foreigners to make an economic contribution to the nation and receive citizenship. Foreigners can invest in the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) which has replaced the Sustainable Growth Fund as the fund investment option. The second option applicants have is to invest in approved real estate in exchange for a St Kitts and Nevis passport. The final option is to make a contribution to an Approved Public Benefit Project. The economic citizenship program dramatically propelled the country’s economy on the world market and continues to do so.
How to buy real estate in St Kitts and Nevis
There are two ways to buy real estate in St Kitts and Nevis as a foreigner:
- Apply for the Alien Landholding License – required for all non-nationals wishing to purchase property, OR
- Buy a pre-approved property through the Citizenship by Investment Program. The Alien Landholding License is not required in this case, and the investment must be held for seven years. When choosing this route, investors have the following options:
- Buy a real estate unit in an Approved Development worth a minimum of $400,000
- Buy a condominium unit worth $400,000
- Buy a single-family private dwelling worth at least $800,000
If you choose to rent out your real estate investment, you can expect returns of around two to five percent annually.
Take a look at our St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship Ultimate Guide by local experts
What are St Kitts and Nevis’ real estate prices?
In order to get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by purchasing real estate, you need to make an investment of at least $400,000, either in an Approved Development or a condominium unit. If you choose to buy a single-family private home instead, you will need to make an investment of at least $800,000. Once you are granted citizenship, you are not required to use your investment property as your permanent residence in St Kitts and Nevis to maintain it. This attractive benefit is a great advantage for investors, particularly those who are interested in acquiring citizenship but who may travel frequently for business.
If you do not want to be part of the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program, you can purchase property at any price. You will also not be required to adhere to the program’s requirements of purchasing an approved property, and can instead purchase any beautiful property you desire, such as a luxury villa or private estate on the beach. However, you will need to apply for the Alien Landholding License, which amounts to 10 percent of the property value. Apartments can range between $4,000 and $5,000 per square meter, while houses can range between $5,000 and $8,000 per square meter. Of course, prices will be influenced by the location of the property and any extra amenities, such as having uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean, easy access to beaches for surfing or scuba diving opportunities, or being within walking distance of the marina at Christophe Harbour.
What type of properties can I find?
On this stunning twin-island federation, you will find a range of properties available for purchase, from stunning beachside properties within walking distance of the ocean to modern homes with amazing views and contemporary finishings. Real estate listings on property websites are a great place to begin your search. You can also use the services of real estate agents who have access to properties not listed on public platforms. Whether you’re in the market for properties with ample space to accommodate a large family, cozy homes with panoramic views, or charming cottages where you can enjoy your golden years of retirement, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
Where should I look?
St Kitts and Nevis has maintained its reputation as an excellent holiday destination thanks to its pristine beaches, beautiful mountains, breathtaking views, and tropical temperatures. Over the last few decades, however, the government has worked to revitalize the nation’s real estate industry, with more foreign investors across the globe taking a greater interest in the nation for this reason. Its real estate section boasts everything from tourist accommodation and high-class residential properties – such as cottages surrounded by local plants and natural beauty and mansions with an open living area and large pool ideal for entertaining guests – to commercial properties such as bars, offices, and restaurants.
Whether you’re looking to accommodate a single person, a family, or an office of workers, there are plenty of excellent locations to choose from. Frigate Bay is popular among expats, while Basseterre, Bath, Charlestown, and Sandy Point Town are considered some of the best cities to live in. These cities offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities to keep you entertained, as well as a glimpse into the nation’s rich culture and history. For example, Brimstone Hill Fortress and National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly well-preserved and worth a visit. If your idea of a perfect home is something with a bit more grandeur, Christophe Harbour offers a diverse selection of luxury real estate. If sustainability is important to you, then Kittitian Hill provides a great opportunity to find a selection of real estate listings that showcase the area’s blend of charm, luxury, and environmental sustainability.
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.
- 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.
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Acquire St Kitts Property
Requirements for non-nationals
Non-nationals need to follow several steps in order to acquire real estate for sale in St Kitts and Nevis:
1. Look for property and make an offer
2. Hire a local attorney to review the purchase
3. Pay a 10 to 15 percent deposit
4. Apply for the Alien Landholding License
5. Make the full property payment
- Look for property and make an offer upon finding your dream home.
- Once your offer has been accepted, it is recommended to hire a local attorney to review the Purchase and Sale Agreement, which should be contingent on approval of the application for an Alien Landholding License.
- Pay a 10 percent to 15 percent deposit upon signing.
- Apply for the Alien Landholding License – it takes two to three months to get approved and amounts to 10 percent of the property value.
- Once you’ve received the Alien Landholding License, make the full property payment and receive a property certificate of title.
St Kitts and Nevis transaction costs
Below are the buyers’ required fees to purchase St Kitts and Nevis real estate based on the property value:
- Alien Landholding License = 10 percent
- Legal fees = 1 percent to 2.5 percent
- Land assurance fund = 0.20 percent
Is it worth obtaining real estate in St Kitts and Nevis?
Not only is the island a true jewel of the Caribbean with booming tourism and real estate sectors, but it also provides foreigners with the incredible opportunity to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship. With a St Kitts and Nevis passport, you get favorable tax exemptions and the freedom of visa-free access to more than 140 countries. St Kitts and Nevis also recognizes dual citizenship, allowing you to get the best of both worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Kitts and Nevis Property
How can I get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship?
In order to get St Kitts and Nevis citizenship, you need to participate in the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program. An investment has to be made in either the government’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) or approved real estate. Additionally, you can contribute to an Approved Public Benefit Project.
Do I need to be a St Kitts and Nevis citizen to purchase St Kitts and Nevis property?
No, you do not need to be a St Kitts and Nevis citizen to purchase property on the islands. However, you will need to apply for the Alien Landholding License in order to buy real estate or land.
Is there a St Kitts and Nevis property tax?
Property taxes in St Kitts are determined based on the market value of the property. The taxes rate ranges from 0.2 percent to 0.3 percent, depending on the use and location of the property.
Is St Kitts and Nevis real estate citizenship expensive?
St Kitts real estate citizenship price starts at $400,000 if you buy shares of high-end tourist properties, which can be resold in seven years. You can also choose to invest at least $400,000 in a condominium unit. Alternatively, you may choose the private homes sale option, in which case the minimum investment is $800,000, to be kept for seven years.
What type of real estate can you buy in Saint Kitts?
When looking at St Kitts and Nevis real estate listings, you will see that the twin-island federation offers a wide variety of properties both for rent and sale. It is possible to find commercial land in the South East Peninsula and other regions, as well as luxury villas for St Kitts vacations.
Residential and commercial property is also available. You can find family villas with stunning views, apartments overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, boutique hotels, condos, and luxury resorts and villas. You can decide to buy the property individually or jointly with somebody else. However, a joint purchase is not permitted under the CBI program.
Can foreigners buy property in St Kitts?
Yes, non-nationals may buy real estate in St Kitts and Nevis. You would have to apply for the Alien Landholding License or, alternatively, buy government-pre-approved real estate as part of the process of Citizenship by Investment. To find your ideal property, the first step is to search the country’s real estate listings and see what is available or contact a local real estate agent.
Can you own property in St Kitts?
Yes, it is possible to buy residential or commercial property in St Kitts and Nevis. Suppose you’re looking for a St Kitts and Nevis beachfront private villa, commercial land, or the perfect vacation rental villa – you are sure to find it in this beautiful island nation.
Is St Kitts a good place to live?
Advantages of living in St Kitts, a tiny island nation in the Caribbean, include the amazing nature and weather, slower pace of life, favorable tax regime and convenient proximity to the US.
Are there golf courses in St Kitts?
The country has two golf courses, one on each island. If you are a keen golfer, you can choose between the gold courses in Frigate Bay, in St Kitts, or Pinney’s Beach, in Nevis.
What are the popular areas to buy real estate in St Kitts and Nevis?
There are many popular areas to live in on the sister islands. Frigate Bay is a sought-after neighborhood among expats. Other popular locations include Basseterre and Sandy Point in St Kitts, and Bath and Charlestown in Nevis.
Can I sell my investment after obtaining citizenship?
Yes, you can sell your investment property after obtaining citizenship. However, there are some key points to consider. If you invest in a unit in an Approved Development, you can resell it once if you are the original purchaser. If you purchase a condominium unit or a private home, you can’t sell the property to a fellow CBI investor unless they invest significantly more in the property through further construction or renovation. In both cases, the investment must be held for a minimum of seven years.
