Frequently Asked Questions
What is the citizenship by investment program?
The Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis established the Citizenship by Investment program in 1984 to encourage resort development, stimulate the growth of the tourism industry, and attract investors. By making a qualifying purchase in an approved project under the Citizenship by Investment program, such as Wyndham Grand Nevis, investors become eligible to apply for citizenship.
Can I retain my existing Citizenship?
Yes, you can retain your existing citizenship. The St. Kitts & Nevis government allows dual citizenship and will not publish any information about persons acquiring citizenship nor will they inform your present country of citizenship.
Does my family also qualify for citizenship?
Yes, your family can also obtain citizenship under your application. Qualifying dependents include parents above the age of 65 and children up to 25 years of age. Additional government fees apply.
What must I do to qualify for this program?
To qualify for the Citizenship by Investment program, you are required to make an investment in a designated real estate project approved by the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis, such as Wyndham Grand Nevis. In addition, you will need to pay other fees and taxes as applicable, and fulfill the formal requirements as identified by the Government.
When do I get my passport?
Government approvals and processing usually takes 60-90 days from the submission of your application.
What are the benefits of Citizenship?
The various benefits of having a passport issued by the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, which includes visa-free travel to over 150 countries and territories, tax free status, tax-free trade with Canada, duty-free trade within the Caribbean, and more.
Is a government interview required for citizenship?
No interview is required with the Government. There is, however, a stringent due diligence program that is carried out by the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis.
How long is the passport valid for?
The passport is valid for 10 years for people over 16 years of age. For those under 16, it is valid for 5 years and is easily renewable thereafter.
What costs are associated with the application?
The cost of the fractional shares starts at $430,000USD. Other Government fees include $50,000 for the main applicant, $25,000 for the applicant’s spouse, plus $25,000 for each dependent, including children under 18 years of age and parents of the main applicant over 65 years of age. There are also Governmental Due Diligence fees of $7,500 for the main applicant and $4,000 for a spouse. There is no Due Diligence fee for dependents. For more details, please see Schedule A.
When do I pay the investment for the designated real estate project approved by the Government?
Upon submitting the application, a $10,000 USD deposit must be paid. For clients applying for Citizenship by Investment, final payment of the balance of the purchase will be due upon issuance of the Approval in Principle by the Government. For all other clients, at various points during the application and construction process, milestone percentage payments will be due.
Can I permanently reside in St. Kitts and Nevis and will I have to pay tax?
Yes, you can reside in St. Kitts & Nevis at any time, and for any length of time. You are not liable to pay tax if you chose to reside in St. Kitts & Nevis.