In Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, several Caribbean nations have become top destinations for global investors seeking a second passport. Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Saint Lucia have long been favored choices. Investors are drawn to their scenic beauty and economic advantages. However, these nations have recently taken a major step forward. They have introduced mandatory interviews as part of their CBI programs.
This article explains what to expect with the new mandatory interviews in Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and Saint Lucia. It covers who they apply to. It also covers why this change matters.
Mandatory interviews are now part of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in:
This change aims to strengthen due diligence. It helps ensure that people who obtain citizenship will represent the country well.
The main goal is to improve transparency, integrity, and security within each CBI program. Interviews help governments gather more information. They also help confirm that applicants have legitimate intentions.
These interviews also show a commitment to international standards. They help prevent misuse of citizenship for illegal purposes. Each nation wants genuine investors. Those investors should contribute positively to growth and development.
During his Budget Speech in July, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, the Prime Minister of Dominica, unveiled new plans. Dominica will engage a globally vetted management consulting firm. That firm will supervise and administer the Citizenship by Investment Programme.
Dominica’s proactive due diligence process is well-established. The government remains committed to improving it. It affirmed “to leave no stone unturned to strengthen it.”
“We take this matter very seriously and will increase our efforts in showcasing our robust due diligence and risk mitigation efforts on all fronts.” the Prime Minister affirmed.
Key interview and due diligence points include:
Under these rules, the Unit will assess an application only after a full enhanced due diligence check. This helps ensure the applicant poses no real or potential threat to Dominica’s national security or interests. Enhanced due diligence applies to all applicants from July 17, 2023. Revised application fees apply.
Dominica has also classified specific countries for intensified due diligence. Higher fees apply as follows:
For other applicants not from a specified country and above 16 years old, the interview fee is USD 1000 per interview. This is in addition to regular due diligence fees:
St Kitts and Nevis’ Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) announced major program changes in a press release on the 27th of July. These include mandatory interviews. The changes aim to uphold national integrity. They also aim to protect the Program’s sustainability. Another goal is to maintain the prestige of St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship.
“Today, St Kitts and Nevis takes another bold step in reaffirming our intention to not only offer the best Citizenship by Investment Programme in the world, but also to offer a programme held together by a tight regulatory system designed to be a best-in-practice defence mechanism against illicit actors and those who try to bypass our high-end investment and contribution options. We are continuously committed to preserving the exclusivity and prestige associated with being a citizen of St Kitts and Nevis,” stated Prime Minister the Hon. Dr Terrence Drew in the said press release.
Essential requirements include:
These adjustments build on changes from December 2022. They support integrity, sustainability, and the status of St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship.
Under the new rules:
Due diligence fees have been revised:
On August 1, 2023, the Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CIU) Unit announced that mandatory interviews will start on September 4, 2023, for all prospective applicants.
“We thank you for your understanding in this matter as we strive to preserve the integrity and reputation of the Grenada CBI programme,” said the unit in a statement.
Under the Applicant Interview and Identification Verification Process, these people must complete the Interview Application Form:
That form must be included in the application package. Applicants will also receive an email with a questionnaire link. The questionnaire is in English. Screening interview instructions will be given in the interviewee’s native language, as shown on their Interview Application Form.
A USD 1,000 Interview Fee applies across all applicant categories, including:
Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Unit released an official memorandum on September 4, 2023. It announced a new interview requirement for the Main Applicant only. Starting at the Due Diligence Process stage, applicants undergo both in-person and virtual interviews. This adds protection to the program.
“We thank you for your usual cooperation as we continue to enhance our Program through seamless processes and operations,” said Mr. Mc Claude Emmanuel, the Chief Executive Officer of Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Unit in the official memorandum.
Trained specialists and advanced technology will help authenticate critical bio-data. They also aim to close information gaps. This interview and identity verification process applies to all applications received from September 4, 2023. It adds a USD 500 fee on top of the USD 7,500 due diligence fee.
Mandatory interviews in these Caribbean CBI programs are a major step toward stronger integrity and transparency. They show these nations’ dedication to addressing international concerns. They also show a commitment to a trustworthy environment for global investors seeking a second passport.
Applicants should prepare for the interview stage. It is part of moving forward in the CBI process.
Reach out to one of our experts to learn what awaits you with mandatory interviews in these Caribbean CBI programs. Embark on your journey toward a brighter and more secure future.
