The St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program stands out as one of the most established and reliable pathways to acquire a second passport. Known for streamlined procedures, global travel advantages, and a favorable tax regime, the CBI program appeals to high-net-worth individuals seeking greater freedom, security, and financial flexibility. With multiple government-approved investment options available, including contributions, commercial real estate investment, and private home purchases, this citizenship through investment program offers you and your family a path to citizenship that suits you.

Investment migration is increasingly popular in an unstable world. It offers security, as by acquiring an alternative citizenship, your world becomes bigger, and you have more freedom and opportunities, all in return for a foreign investment. Citizenship by investment benefits you and your family as well. Becoming a St Kitts and Nevis citizen via investment is a highly respectable option, as it is one of the longest standing citizenship by investment programs, and there are options for citizenship acquisition.
As new regulatory updates come into effect, prospective applicants are encouraged to act promptly to secure their Saint Kitts and Nevis passport and citizenship under the current favorable terms and avoid potential future restrictions. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship, and help you navigate the program’s qualifying investment options, requirements, and procedures with confidence and clarity. If you are interested in becoming a citizen of St Kitts and Nevis, contact us for a complimentary consultation, and we will help you at every step of the St Kitts and Nevis CBI application process.
Key Benefits of St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship
St Kitts and Nevis offers one of the world’s oldest citizenship by investment programs not to mention one of the fastest and most respected. But the advantages and unique features for St Kitts and Nevis passport holders don’t stop there. Let’s explore the benefits of the St Kitts and Nevis CBI program and citizenship.
- Global Mobility: St Kitts and Nevis citizenship opens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries and territories, including the UK, the Schengen Zone, Singapore, Kazakhstan, and Hong Kong. This level of travel freedom makes it a valuable tool for international entrepreneurs and frequent travelers.
- No Language Requirements: The main applicant and his family members are not required to pass language tests or cultural exams to obtain full citizenship. There are no education/experience thresholds either.
- Fast and Secure Process: Citizenship can be obtained in as little as 6 months or even faster via the Accelerated Application Process (AAP). The St Kitts citizenship by investment program is backed by strict due diligence, ensuring global recognition and legitimacy.
- Family Inclusion: Not only can you get citizenship by investment, the main applicant may include close family members in the same citizenship application, namely, spouse and dependent children up to 25 years old.
- Dual Citizenship is Permitted: St Kitts and Nevis imposes no restrictions on dual nationality. Applicants aren’t required to renounce their current citizenship.
- Attractive Tax Environment: There are no personal income taxes on worldwide income, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and no wealth tax for residents. Relocating to St Kitts and Nevis after obtaining its citizenship by investment offers significant legal tax planning opportunities for global investors.
- Privacy and Stability: The citizenship by investment program is known for confidential application processing. The identity of successful or rejected applicants is not disclosed. Since St Kitts and Nevis is a member of the British commonwealth, and a democratic, diplomatic, and politically stable state, its citizenship by investment serves as a solid basis for a secure backup plan. St Kitts and Nevis economic stability and pro-business environment is also a huge draw.
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship By Investment Requirements
The St Kitts and Nevis CBI program offers multiple options for you to acquire citizenship. Applicants may choose from four official investment routes, each approved and regulated by the St Kitts and Nevis government. These options cater to a variety of investor profiles, whether seeking pure donation-based paths or real estate ownership with resale potential.
- Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC): This is a non-refundable donation to the government’s fund. There is a minimum investment of at least $250,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four. Funds donated in exchange for citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis support infrastructure development, healthcare, and education projects across the islands.
- Public Good Investment Option (PGIO): Introduced in 2023, this option allows applicants to contribute $250,000 to approved public-benefit projects, such as real estate initiatives. It’s designed to create jobs and boost St Kitts and Nevis’s economy. PGIO is particularly cost-effective for larger families.
- Government-Approved Real Estate: Applicants can qualify for citizenship by making a $325,000 investment in approved real estate developments (typically luxury resorts in Nevis or St Kitts). This investment must be held for at least seven years before it can be resold. Real estate owners may earn rental income during the holding period.
- Approved Private Home (APH): This citizenship by investment option allows the purchase of private residential property starting at $325,000 for condominiums or $600,000 for single-family homes in St Kitts and Nevis. Properties must meet specific valuation and usage criteria, including a ban on fractional ownership. The investment holding period is 7 years, as well.
Each route to St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment includes government processing fees, due diligence fees, and agent service charges. Those fees vary depending on family composition, investment route, and application complexity. If you apply with us, we will clarify what is included in our package price, and any anticipated complexities or fees in advance.
St Kitts and Nevis citizenship laws allow proving the source of wealth with cryptocurrency, subject to enhanced due diligence. Third-party financial sponsorship (e.g., from a parent or child) is permitted with supporting documents and background checks. Licensed agent’s support is a must — direct citizenship and passport applications to the st Kitts and Nevis government aren’t accepted.
Eligible Applicants & Dependents
St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program is open to individuals who meet the government’s eligibility criteria and can demonstrate a clean background and a lawful source of funds. The program also allows the inclusion of select family members, offering a path to second citizenship and passports for the entire household.
Main Applicant Requirements
To qualify for citizenship by investment as the principal applicant, the individual must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Have no criminal record and no pending legal proceedings (same for family members).
- Successfully pass multi-tiered due diligence checks as required by St Kitts and Nevis legislation (same for family members).
- Provide medical certification confirming good health and absence of communicable diseases (same for family members).
- Prove the legal origin of investment funds used for the passport application.
Applications from citizens of the following countries aren’t accepted:
- Afghanistan.
- Belarus.
- Iran.
- Iraq.
- North Korea.
- Russia.
Key Requirements for Eligible Dependents
The following family members may be included in a single citizenship by investment application:
- Spouse of the main applicant.
- Biological or adopted children of either the applicant or spouse, provided they’re under 25 years old and financially dependent on the applicant.
- Children born after application submission may be added later, subject to specific fees and approval.
Parents, grandparents, and siblings are currently not eligible as dependents under the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship program.
Post-Citizenship Additions
Family members may also be added after the main applicant obtains citizenship:
- A spouse married before the citizenship grant can be added with full due diligence and a government fee of $30,000.
- A spouse married after citizenship is granted may be added through two routes:
- Via the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), with the same due diligence and fee structure.
- Via the National Security Secretariat, subject to a strict marriage verification and a longer processing time.
Spouses born in or being nationals of Iraq, Iran, Russia, Belarus, North Korea, or Afghanistan may be restricted from inclusion.
Children born before or after the main applicant’s citizenship approval may also be added later. Requirements and fees vary depending on the child’s age and date of birth in relation to the original citizenship by investment application. For children under age 3, fees are lower and processing is simpler. For older children, full due diligence and government fees apply.
Investment Amounts & Processing Times
The total cost of acquiring St Kitts and Nevis citizenship depends on the selected investment route, family composition, and optional services such as expedited processing. Below is a breakdown of financial commitments for each path.
| Parameter / Option | SISC | PGIO | Government-Approved Real Estate | Approved Private Home (APH) |
| Base Amount | $250,000 (single applicant or family of up to four) | $250,000 | $325,000 + $25,000 government fee (main applicant) | $325,000 (condo) or $600,000 (single-family home) |
| Type of Investment | Non-refundable donation to the state fund | Contribution to public-benefit projects | Investment in government-approved real estate | Purchase of private residential property |
| Resale Eligibility | Not applicable | Not applicable | Yes, but the next buyer isn’t eligible for a passport and citizenship | Yes, but the next buyer isn’t eligible for a passport and citizenship |
| Holding Period | None | None | 7 years | 7 years |
| Best Suited For | Individuals and small families | Larger families (lower total incremental fees) | Investors seeking resale/rental potential | End-users seeking private property ownership |
| Spouse Add-On Fee | $0 | $15,000 | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Child Under 18 Add-On Fee | $25,000 (5th+ family member) | $10,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| Dependent 18+ Add-On Fee | $50,000 (5th+ family member) | $15,000 | $15,000 | $15,000 |
Due Diligence & Application Fees
- Main applicant due diligence: $10,000;
- Dependents aged 15.5+ due diligence: $7,500;
- Application fee: $250 per person;
- St Kitts and Nevis citizenship certificate issuance: $50 per person.
Accelerated Application Process (Optional)
For those seeking faster processing (within 45 business days), the following fees apply:
- Main applicant: $42,500;
- Spouse: $32,500;
- Child under 18: $22,500;
- Dependent 18+: $37,500.
Documents Required
To apply for citizenship by investment in St Kitts and Nevis, applicants must submit a comprehensive set of personal, financial, and legal documents. These requirements ensure compliance with the program’s strict due diligence standards and support a smooth application process.
The Main Applicant and Dependents
- Completed application forms (C1–C3).
- Certified copy of valid passport(s) (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond submission).
- Birth certificate (certified copy).
- National ID (if applicable; certified copy).
- Proof of residential address (utility bill, lease, etc., dated within 6 months).
- Six passport-sized photos (at least one certified).
- Police certificate from the country of residence (dated within 6 months).
- HIV test results (for applicants aged 12+, dated within 3 months).
- Medical certificate stating the applicant is in good health.
- Marriage certificate (if applying with a spouse).
- Divorce certificate or Deed Poll (if applicable).
Financial Documentation
- Affidavit of financial support (for dependents aged 18 or older).
- Bank statements covering the last 12 months (dated within 6 months of submission).
- Employment letter and/or business registration documents.
- Source of funds documentation (especially if using cryptocurrency or third-party sponsors).
Children Added After the Main Application
Depending on the child’s age and time of birth relative to the parent’s citizenship status, additional documentation may include:
- Parent’s citizenship certificate and St Kitts and Nevis passport.
- Child’s passport and birth certificate.
- Medical report.
- Minor registration form (for young children).
- Marriage verification papers (if required for spouse’s inclusion).
Additional Notes
- All documents not in English must be officially translated and certified.
- All government and due diligence fees must be paid to the appropriate St Kitts and Nevis authority.
- CIU reserves the right to request further documentation during review.
Step-by-Step Application Process
St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program follows a transparent, government-supervised procedure. Each stage is designed to ensure compliance with international standards and provide clarity for the applicant throughout the process.
- Due Diligence & Pre-Screening: Before submitting any documents, the applicant undergoes a pre-screening evaluation through a selected licensed agent. This includes an initial assessment of eligibility, background, and source of funds. Early-stage due diligence minimizes the risk of rejection and ensures readiness for formal submission.
- Document Checklist: Once eligibility is confirmed, the applicant with the help of professionals such as ours, gathers all required documents for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship and passport, and arranges for notarization and any necessary translation. The agent provides a personalized checklist All forms (C1–C3) must be completed accurately. If a third-party sponsor or cryptocurrency is involved, additional documents are required. We help you as much as possible with this.
- Submission. The agent submits the full application package to the Citizenship by Investment Unit. An in-depth due diligence is performed.
- Approval in Principle and Investment Execution. Once the citizenship by investment application receives approval in principle, the applicant proceeds to the required investment or contribution through one of the four authorized options. Funds are transferred to the designated government account or escrow (in the case of St Kitts and Nevis real estate) under strict compliance protocols.
- Passport Issuance. Upon approval, the certificate of registration and passports are issued and delivered securely to the applicant.
Passport Features & Visa-Free Access
As a politically and economically stable country, St Kitts and Nevis provides its citizens with a non-controversial travel identity, especially valuable for individuals from countries with high mobility restrictions. Additionally, the St Kitts and Nevis passport is one of the most travel-friendly documents in the Caribbean. It offers a wide range of benefits for international mobility, residency planning, and lifestyle flexibility.
Global Travel Access
Holders of a St Kitts and Nevis passport enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries and territories, including:
- The United Kingdom (up to 180 days per year).
- Schengen Area (up to 90 days within any 180-day period).
- Hong Kong and Singapore.
- Ireland, South Korea, and dozens of others.
Rememember, St Kitts and Nevis recognizes dual citizenship, so this is combined with your initial nationality, even though you obtain a second passport.
Validity and Renewability
The passport is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. Renewal is a straightforward administrative process. It doesn’t require maintaining any residence or extra investment in St Kitts and Nevis.
How to Choose a Licensed Agent
Working with a licensed agent is mandatory for applying to the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program. Only professionals accredited by the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit are authorized to submit applications.
We can help you with this process. Our experts in secondary passports, investment regulations, citizenship acts, and the options available around the world, and our professional network, can help you apply, follow any regulations, and get the flexibility and freedom you and your family need.
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program Changes 2025
In June 2025, the government of St Kitts and Nevis announced a set of major reforms to its citizenship by investment program aimed at aligning with international compliance standards and enhancing long-term program sustainability.
A new legal proposal is expected to introduce a physical presence requirement for all future citizenship applicants. While exact details are pending, authorities have hinted at a model requiring 30 to 90 days of residence per year or demonstrating genuine ties to St Kitts and Nevis. This marks a shift from the previous model, which allowed obtaining citizenship by investment with no physical presence at all.
This legal proposal builds on recent enhancements, such as:
- Mandatory applicant interviews, conducted in person or via secure video call.
- Stricter enforcement of source of funds verification, including for crypto assets and sponsored applications.
- Updated protocols for high-risk nationalities and post-approval dependents.
Conclusion & Next Steps
St Kitts and Nevis offers one of the world’s most established and secure citizenship by investment programs, combining global mobility, tax efficiency, and a fast and discreet application process. The citizenship by investment program offers different routes for you and your family. However, with upcoming reforms on the horizon, now is the time to apply for citizenship under the current rules, before the rules change for granting citizenship. Contact us today for a personalized consultation with a licensed agent and take the first step toward a new passport for you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program in 2025
What is the minimum investment required for St Kitts and Nevis citizenship in 2025?
The minimum investment required for St Kitts and Nevis economic citizenship in 2025 is $250,000. This amount applies to both the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) and the Public Good Investment Option (PGIO). But in the case of SISC, it covers a family of up to four, while in the case of PGIO, only a single applicant (dependents’ add-on fees apply). These are both non-refundable contributions aimed at national development or public-benefit projects. Other routes to Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship require higher minimum investments starting at $325,000 for a minimum real estate investment or private home purchase.
Can I include my spouse, children, and parents in the citizenship application?
You can include your spouse and children in the same St Kitts and Nevis citizenship application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. E.g., children must be under 25 years old and financially dependent on the main applicant. Children with a disability can be added regardless of age limit. However, parents, grandparents, and siblings aren’t eligible for inclusion under the current rules of St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program (since June 2025). Only spouses and dependent children are recognized as qualifying family members.
Is real estate investment in St Kitts and Nevis refundable?
Real estate purchase under the St Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program isn’t refundable in the traditional sense, but this program does allow for resale after a holding period. Real estate must be held for at least 7 years. This property can generate rental income during that time. There’s a con: a resold asset doesn’t entitle its new owner to St Kitts and Nevis citizenship. This limits the resale market to investors not seeking citizenship, which may negatively affect liquidity and resale value.
How long does it take to get a St Kitts and Nevis passport?
The standard processing time to obtain a St Kitts and Nevis passport through the citizenship by investment program is approximately 6 months. However, applicants can opt for the Accelerated Application Process (AAP), which shortens the timeline to as little as 45 business days, provided all documents are in order and due diligence is completed. Additional fees apply for the expedited option. The timeline includes application review by Saint Kitts and Nevis authorities, investment transfer, and passport issuance.
Do I need to live in or visit St Kitts and Nevis to obtain citizenship?
As of 2025, there is no mandatory physical presence requirement to obtain citizenship in St Kitts and Nevis. Applicants can complete the entire process remotely through a licensed agent. However, upcoming legal reforms may introduce a requirement for future applicants to spend between 30 and 90 days per year in the country or demonstrate genuine ties. These changes aren’t yet in effect but signal a shift toward increased physical and personal connection with St Kitts and Nevis in the near future.
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