Grenada’s Golden Passport Shift: Less Volume, More Value

Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is approving fewer applications in 2025, yet each approval is bringing in more government revenue than ever before. This “less volume, more value” trend signals a major shift in how Grenada is positioning its CBI program focusing on higher-quality applicants, stronger compliance, and sustainable long-term growth.

Recent government data shows that the number of applications for Grenada’s CBI program has dropped by about 45%, while revenue per approved application has reached an all-time high. In the second quarter of 2025, the program received around 68 new applications, similar to last year’s levels but far below the surge years between 2021 and 2023.

At the same time, Grenada processed more files than it received 119 approvals in Q2 and 191 in the first half of 2025, continuing to reduce its backlog efficiently.

Key 2025 trends include:

• Rental yields: Recent data show apartments in Dubai can deliver around 6 %–7 % average yields, with some pockets exceeding 8 %.
• Compared with many traditional hubs, where gross yields may hover much lower, this makes Dubai appealing.
• On the tax front: Income tax, capital gains tax, and many of the property‑ownership taxes that apply in other jurisdictions are either zero or very low in Dubai. This allows more of the returns to stay in the investor’s hands.

1. The Backlog Was Cleared
   • Grenada made significant progress in 2024 to process older applications, clearing much of its pending workload. With the backlog largely resolved, the pace of new filings has naturally slowed, while each approved application now represents higher revenue and stronger documentation.
2. Stricter Real Estate Requirements
   • As of July 1, 2024, Grenada raised the minimum investment in approved real estate projects from US$220,000 to US$270,000, maintaining the five-year holding period. The government also banned discounting, rebates, and guaranteed buy-backs, which helps protect the integrity of the program but filters out speculative investors. These policy updates have contributed to a higher average investment per applicant.
3. Steady Donation Option with Higher All-In Costs
   • Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF) donation remains US$235,000 for a single applicant (and for a family of up to four under current rules). However, once due diligence, government fees, and other costs are added, the total investment per application has increased, again lifting the program’s overall revenue per approval.

• The Program Is Becoming More Selective
  • With tighter vetting and an estimated 13% rejection rate, Grenada is signaling that only well-documented, transparent applicants will be approved. Investors should be ready to provide detailed source of funds evidence and partner with experienced, government-authorized agents to ensure a smooth process.
• Real Estate Dominates, But Quality Matters
  • Despite the new minimums, real estate continues to lead accounting for roughly two-thirds of successful applications. Investors are focusing on reputable projects backed by credible developers. With discounting now banned, the focus has shifted to long-term value, real ownership, and compliance with CBI regulations.
• The US E-2 Treaty Advantage Still Shines
  • Grenada is still one of the few Caribbean nations with an active E-2 treaty with the United States, allowing its citizens to apply for an E-2 Investor Visa. This visa enables investors and their families to live and work in the US through a qualifying business investment. For entrepreneurs seeking both global mobility and US market access, this remains one of Grenada’s strongest differentiators.

Choose the NTF Donation Route if You Want:

• A simpler, faster path to citizenship.
• No property management or resale risk.
• Fixed costs and predictable timelines.
• (Expect total costs starting around US$235,000 plus fees.)

Choose the Real Estate Route if You Want:

• A tangible asset that may generate returns.
• To align with the majority of investors choosing this option.
• To meet the new US$270,000 minimum investment and hold the property for five years.
  (Select projects with transparent budgets, escrow safeguards, and credible development timelines.)

• Efficient Processing: Grenada continues to process more files than it receives, proof of strong operational efficiency.
• Lower Volume, Higher Value: The 2025 trend shows fewer applications but higher revenue, suggesting that Grenada is focusing on sustainable, high-quality growth rather than chasing numbers.
• Best Time to Apply: With improved processing times and reduced backlogs, now is an excellent time to submit a well-prepared application before further demand returns.

• Entrepreneurs Seeking US Access: Grenadian citizenship paired with the E-2 visa offers a flexible route to live and work in the US.
• Families Prioritizing Simplicity: The donation option offers speed and minimal complexity for those seeking global mobility.
• Property Investors with Patience: Those willing to invest in quality hospitality or development projects can find solid long-term opportunities at the new US$270,000 level.

• Define your goal: Travel freedom, US E-2 access, or real estate investment.
• Select your route: Donation vs. real estate share.
• Plan your budget: Include due diligence and government fees.
• Choose a licensed agent: Verify credentials before engaging.
• Prepare documentation: Especially source of funds and personal background.
• For E-2 applicants: Have a clear US business plan and active investment strategy.

Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Program in 2025 has clearly evolved into a premium, high-value pathway. With stricter regulations, higher investment thresholds, and faster processing, the program now attracts investors who value credibility, efficiency, and global access.

Whether you’re pursuing greater travel freedom, secure asset diversification, or the option to live and work in the United States through the E-2 Visa, Grenada offers a balanced combination of opportunity and stability.

Now is the time to take advantage of this new phase before further demand drives longer timelines or higher entry requirements.

Ready to Begin Your Grenada Citizenship Journey?

Our expert advisors can guide you through every step of the process from choosing the right investment route to preparing your application with precision and compliance.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and explore how Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Program can open doors to a world of new opportunities.