In a major shift for the Caribbean’s investment migration landscape, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Dominica have announced sweeping reforms to their Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. These changes, prompted by growing concerns from the United States over investor migration, mark a new era of stricter compliance, transparency, and regulation in the region.
Saint Kitts Introduces Mandatory Residency Clause
In a landmark move, Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis has confirmed that a residency requirement will soon become law for all future applicants to the country’s CBI program.
“A residency clause and biometrics will be part of the new law, which is expected to pass very soon,” Drew announced in a ZIZ Radio interview.
This significant shift marks the end of an era where wealthy individuals could obtain a second passport without ever setting foot in the country. Under the new legislation, applicants will need to either reside physically or verify residency through approved virtual means as part of the citizenship process.
Why Are These Changes Happening?
The reforms come in response to a leaked U.S. State Department memo suggesting possible travel bans for 36 countries offering CBI without a physical presence requirement. The memo specifically highlighted the sale of citizenship without residency obligations as a security concern.
To protect the integrity of its passport and maintain visa-free access to key global destinations, Saint Kitts is acting quickly. Prime Minister Drew stated:
“This is not a reactionary move — it’s a strategic direction we’ve been pursuing from the beginning.”
The upcoming law will also include mandatory biometric data collection, in-person or secure virtual interviews, and enhanced due diligence for all applicants.
Dominica Breaks Silence, Announces Swift Legal Action
After days of silence while neighboring CBI countries issued public responses, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit held a press conference to address the issue directly.
“There is no need to panic,” Skerrit assured Dominican citizens. “The government is taking this matter seriously and is working through appropriate diplomatic channels.”
Among the proposed reforms is a new regulation that prohibits African nationals from changing their names during or after the CBI process.
“Once you receive citizenship under the program, you will not be allowed to change your name to benefit from it,” Skerrit stated.
He also hinted at additional administrative and legislative changes that will be made public in the coming days. Skerrit emphasized that these reforms are in line with a broader regional consensus among Caribbean leaders on tightening CBI regulations.
Commitment to Transparency and International Cooperation
Both Saint Kitts and Dominica stressed that these reforms are not merely reactive, but part of a long-term commitment to uphold the credibility and strength of their CBI programs.
In Saint Kitts, despite having received nine deportees from the U.S. this year, the government has pledged to welcome its citizens while maintaining public safety. Drew added that current visa applications and travel procedures remain unchanged and fully operational.
Diplomatic outreach has already begun, with Saint Kitts contacting the U.S. Embassy in Barbados for clarification. While no official notice has yet been received, both countries are taking a proactive stance.
Dominica, for its part, acknowledged that U.S. concerns include issues like illegal overstays by Dominican nationals in the United States. Skerrit confirmed that his government is open to dialogue and cooperation:
“We are prepared to address the concerns raised by our international partners through diplomatic and cooperative means.”
He also promised full transparency with the Dominican public, pledging to share any new information and upcoming policy measures.
What Do These Changes Mean for Investors?
For prospective CBI applicants, these policy shifts represent a new reality. The key benefit of Caribbean CBI programs — fast-track second citizenship without the need to relocate — is changing.
Saint Kitts is leading the charge by making physical or verified virtual residency a legal requirement. Dominica is following suit with stricter controls on identity management and future legislative updates expected soon.
These changes, while introducing new compliance requirements, aim to enhance the global reputation of Caribbean passports and ensure long-term access to visa-free travel in key regions like the EU and Schengen Area.
Conclusion
The recent announcements by Saint Kitts and Dominica signal a major transformation in the CBI sector. While investors may face a more structured and regulated process moving forward, these reforms are crucial for preserving the value, credibility, and global access associated with Caribbean citizenship.
If you’re considering second citizenship through investment, now is the time to stay informed, review the evolving requirements, and consult with a trusted advisor to ensure your application aligns with the latest legal and residency standards.
