Why Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Is Changing and What It Means for You

Caribbean citizenship by investment programs have long provided a fast and reliable path to a second passport. Investors are drawn to these programs for global mobility, tax planning, and lifestyle flexibility. For years, countries such as Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St.Lucia offered accessible requirements and competitive investment options.

That landscape is now evolving.

Between 2025 and 2026, a series of coordinated reforms is reshaping the Caribbean citizenship by investment environment. These changes aim to improve transparency, strengthen due diligence, and align programs with international standards. At the same time, they introduce new considerations for applicants. Understanding these updates is essential before moving forward.

1. A New Regulatory Framework Across the Caribbean

One of the most significant developments is the introduction of a regional oversight body known as the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA). This authority was established by the five main Caribbean citizenship by investment jurisdictions.

ECCIRA is designed to create consistency and accountability across programs that previously operated independently. Expected outcomes include:

• A unified due diligence framework
• Standardized application rules across member states
• Central monitoring of agents and service providers
• Stronger enforcement and compliance measures

The objective is to reinforce the credibility of Caribbean citizenship programs globally. For applicants, this means more structure and closer scrutiny throughout the process.

2. Introduction of Physical Presence Requirements

Traditionally, Caribbean citizenship by investment programs did not require applicants to reside in the country before or after receiving citizenship. This approach is now changing.

Under new guidelines, investors may be required to meet a minimum physical presence obligation. In several jurisdictions, this is expected to

include:

• Approximately 30 days of physical presence within the first five years after citizenship approval

This requirement does not imply permanent relocation. Instead, it reflects a shift toward establishing a tangible connection between new citizens and their chosen country.

3. Enhanced Due Diligence and Identity Verification

Another major reform involves tighter screening standards. Governments are placing increased emphasis on transparency and security to protect the long- term integrity of their programs.

Key updates may include:

• Mandatory biometric data collection
• More extensive background and source-of-funds checks
• Interviews with main applicants and eligible dependents

While these measures may extend preparation time, they strengthen international confidence in Caribbean passports and reduce the risk of program misuse.

4. Changes to Investment Thresholds and Application Limits

Although investment requirements vary by country, a more coordinated baseline is emerging across the region.

• Minimum investment amounts are commonly set around USD 200,000, depending on the selected option

Some jurisdictions are also considering annual application caps to control demand and manage program sustainability. These limits may increase competition and processing timelines, making early planning more important for prospective applicants.

5. Why This Is Still a Strategic Opportunity

Despite the upcoming reforms, Caribbean citizenship by investment remains one of the most efficient routes to second citizenship. Key advantages continue to include:

• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries
• Favorable tax environments, often with no tax on foreign income
• Lifetime citizenship that can be extended to family members
• Stable legal systems and established investment frameworks

Because changes are being introduced gradually, applicants who begin the process sooner may still benefit from current conditions before stricter rules are fully implemented.