St Kitts and Nevis boasts one of the world’s lowest inflation rates, at -2.3 for 2015. It also posted a 5% growth rate in 2015. This Caribbean paradise is an attractive destination for investors. Many want a business-friendly jurisdiction with exceptional potential. The island-nation offers a vibrant environment in which to start a venture. It also compounds its investment offerings with one of today’s most sophisticated citizenship by investment programmes.
St Kitts and Nevis devised the world’s first-ever citizenship by investment programme in 1984. It immediately made its mark as a leader and innovator in economic citizenship. The country’s commitment to its Programme has lasted over 30 years. That makes it one of the most stable and secure options for second citizenship.
The secret to the success of the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme has been continuous excellence. The country also recalibrates when necessary. In September 2016, for example, the Prime Minister announced the appointment of Les Khan as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Citizenship by Investment Unit. That Government body processes citizenship applications. Mr Khan has a long history of working in regulatory compliance. For 18 months prior to his assignment, he worked to restructure the Unit. He heightened its security measures. He also trained staff in anti-money laundering. His appointment denotes St Kitts and Nevis’ dedication to due diligence and integrity.
Prime Minister Timothy Harris and the Head of CIU Les Khan
At the same time, the twin islands have been improving their internal procedures. The aim is to lower processing times. The aim is also to assess applications efficiently. Currently, St Kitts and Nevis will return an approval in principle on a successful application in as little as 45 working days. That is one of the fastest turnaround periods across the citizenship by investment arena. Furthermore, the St Kitts and Nevis Unit is the first to implement a 24/7 Case Management System. It enables online tracking of applications. It also enables easy access to information held electronically.
The goal is to provide a service that is the ‘platinum standard’ of citizenship by investment. That means the highest level of competency, transparency, and effectiveness. The aim is to continue to inspire trust in the Programme and citizenship of St Kitts and Nevis.
There are two options for citizenship by investment in St Kitts and Nevis. The first is to contribute to the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF). That is a Government-run charitable organisation. The second is to invest in pre-approved real estate on the islands.
The SIDF solution is the quickest and most straightforward path to gaining citizenship. It requires a one-time contribution. Funds derived from the SIDF are used to empower Kittitians and Nevisians through social and economic reform.
Real estate under the Programme encompasses hotel developments or residential properties. That includes luxury villas or condominiums. Property purchasers may avail themselves of a holiday home in a tropical haven. They may also buy real estate to rent to the islands’ growing number of tourists. Or they may simply add a lucrative investment to an existing global portfolio. The property can be resold after a short five-year wait.
One of the most trusted names in citizenship by investment, St Kitts and Nevis provides an alluring alternative for second citizenship. It upholds a platinum standard for citizenship applications. It also compels applicants, particularly those with an eye for profit and entrepreneurship, to invest in the nation’s prosperous economy.
