Caribbean islands offer citizenship by investment through home purchases

Five Caribbean island nations offer citizenship by investment (CBI) through property purchases, starting at $200,000. The US is the primary source of CBI applicants, with instability in the country fueling interest. Estate agents in Antigua report a significant increase in demand for homes with CBI. The CBI programs offer visa-free access to up to 150 countries and tax benefits, including no capital gains, inheritance, or income taxes in some cases.

Five Caribbean island nations are offering citizenship by investment (CBI) programs through property purchases, with starting prices as low as $200,000. The United States remains the primary source of CBI applicants, driven by political instability in the country. Estate agents in Antigua report a significant increase in demand for homes that qualify for CBI. These programs offer visa-free access to up to 150 countries and tax benefits, including no capital gains, inheritance, or income taxes in some cases.

Antigua and Barbuda's CBI program, launched in 2013, allows foreign investors to obtain a second citizenship and a Caribbean passport by making a significant economic contribution to the nation. The primary requirement is a non-refundable donation of $230,000 to the country’s government fund, supporting national development projects. This investment grants applicants and their families visa-free travel to 151 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen Area, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, and China. The program also offers dual citizenship, allowing successful applicants to maintain multiple citizenships and all privileges of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship [1].

The benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program include membership in CARICOM and OECS, a favorable tax regime with no personal income taxes, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes, and extensive family inclusion. The program has a fast processing time of six months and allows applicants to live, work, and study in Antigua and Barbuda and other member states of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Additionally, Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can apply for a ten-year US visitor visa [1].

Other Caribbean nations offering CBI programs include Grenada, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. Each program has its own requirements and benefits. For instance, Grenada's CBI program offers visa-free access to 140 countries and a minimum investment of $200,000 in real estate. Dominica's program, known as the Commonwealth of Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program, provides visa-free access to 150 countries and a minimum investment of $200,000 in real estate or a $100,000 donation to the Dominica Economic Diversification Fund. St. Kitts and Nevis offers visa-free access to 135 countries and a minimum investment of $200,000 in real estate or a $150,000 donation to the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation [2].

The increasing demand for CBI programs can be attributed to several factors, including political instability in the US, the desire for global mobility, and tax optimization opportunities. Estate agents in Antigua report a significant increase in demand for homes that qualify for CBI, driven by the program's benefits and the growing interest in Caribbean citizenship.

In conclusion, Caribbean citizenship by investment programs offer a range of benefits, including visa-free travel, tax optimization, and global mobility. With starting prices as low as $200,000, these programs are an attractive option for investors seeking a second citizenship. However, it is essential to research each program thoroughly and consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with all requirements and regulations.

References:
[1] https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/antigua-and-barbuda-citizenship-by-investment/
[2] https://www.citizenshipbyinvestment.com/countries/grenada/