Officially known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis are some of the most beautiful tropical island countries in the Caribbean. While these two islands have so much to offer, they’re most known for their stunning beaches and majestic tropical forests.
Because of this, they attract millions of international visitors each year, all looking to benefit from the relaxing and tranquil atmosphere prevalent in this country. For some, they love the country so much, so they choose to apply for a St. Kitts and Nevis nationality.
If you’re among those interested in having dual citizenship in this country, check out this in-depth guide to obtaining a St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship.
Why a St. Kitts and Nevis Nationality: The Benefits
Before we dive into the details of St. Kitts and Nevis passport requirements, learn more about the various benefits and why choose St. Kitts and Nevis. Check them out below.
Long-term Visas to Travel to the US and Canada
With a St. Kitts and Nevis nationality, it will be easier to obtain long-term visas to the Northern American countries, Canada, and the US. Besides this, you also get to enjoy visa-free travel to over 150 countries worldwide including the UK and all the Schengen countries. This allows you to enjoy this tropical paradise and enjoy what other countries have to offer.
Living in a Tropical Paradise
St. Kitts and Nevis have more to offer than just their fantastic beaches and other stunning natural sceneries. They also have numerous historical sites that you can visit and learn more about the country’s rich and colorful history and cultural background.
Moreover, this country is a tropical paradise that allows you to enjoy a deeply relaxing and serene ambiance daily.
Tax Benefits
Another significant benefit of having a passport in this country is that you get to enjoy their tax system, considered as one of the most favorable worldwide.
For example, you don’t have to pay income, gift, or inheritance taxes. This allows you to maximize your income without worrying that most of it go to your annual taxes.
Simpler and Easier Application Process
If you’re interested in having dual citizenship in this country, you’ll have an easier time gaining it as they offer a simpler and more straightforward application process.
For example, some countries require you to live there for a certain period, but St. Kitts and Nevis don’t. Moreover, you can also apply for citizenship from your home country; you just need to meet the requirements.
St. Kitts and Nevis’s Citizenship by Investment Options
If you’re interested in getting a St. Kitts and Nevis passport this way, you have two options to choose from – contributing to the country’s Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) or invest in government-approved real estate properties.
Contributing to the Sustainable Growth Fund
Considered the most secure and straightforward way of obtaining a St. Kitts and Nevis nationality, this method entails making a non-refundable contribution of 150,000 USD, minimum.
This amount is for single applicants, while interested applicants with up to 3 dependents need to contribute around 195,000 USD and 10,000 USD for each additional dependent. Besides this, applicants also need to pay the processing and due diligence fees.
Investing in Real Estate Properties
Another way is by investing in government-approved real estate properties in the country. These properties can be villas, condominium units, or even hotel shares. The property must meet the minimum price of 200,000 USD or 400,000 USD, which can be sold after 7 years and 5 years, respectively.
Applicants must also pay for all processing and due diligence fees, including those for any dependents. Interested parties must also pay government fees, depending on whether you’re a single applicant or have dependents.
How to qualify for St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship
Some of the requirements to qualify for St. Kitts and Nevis CBI program include being aged 18 and above and investing the required amount to either the Sustainable Growth Fund or any of the government-approved properties.
Applicants must hold no criminal record and prove the source of funds for the investment.
Applicants must also be able to provide the required documents such as a medical certificate which includes a recent HIV test, 12 months’ worth of bank statements, military records, and a police clearance certificate, among others. If you’re a business owner, you must also provide a copy of your business license or incorporation documents.
How to Apply for St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship
Contact your authorized agent
The first step of applying for a St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship is to contact your authorized agent who can help you with the process. Authorized agents are registered entities who are certified by the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis to handle the citizenship application process.
Your authorized agent will provide you with all the information you need to proceed with the application process. Your authorized agent will be your official point of contact during the citizenship application process.
Prepare all the required documents
Next, you will need to prepare all the required documents. Your authorized agent will work with you to collect, translate and notarize the documents required.
Application submission and due diligence procedures
Once you have all the necessary documents and other requirements, you can now submit your citizenship application to your authorized agent. They will then handle your application’s submission to the Citizenship by Investment Unit. St. Kitts and Nevis’s law requires an authorized agent to handle the final submission. Moreover the application undergo a due diligence checks to gain approval.
Approval and Finalization
Once your application has been approved, you just need to finalize everything and send your investment payment. After this, you’ll receive your certificate of citizenship, and your agent will apply for your St. Kitts & Nevis passport and deliver it to you.