New EU Policy Threatens Visa-Free Travel from CBI Programs

On October 7, 2025, the European Parliament passed a major reform giving the EU stronger authority to suspend visa‑free travel for countries that run Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs or violate human rights.

This change could shift how many small nations structure their CBI programs and how attractive they are to wealthy investors. In this post, we’ll break down what the new mechanism does, why it matters, and what the possible effects are for CBI jurisdictions.

Features of the reform include:

1. The EU can suspend visa-free access to target CBI programs, not just entire countries.
2. New grounds for suspension include:
   • human rights or humanitarian law violations
   • ignoring international court rulings
   • increased overstays, entry refusals, or crime
   • low asylum approval rates
3. Lower thresholds for triggering action e.g. a 30 % rise in overstays or crime
4. Initial suspension term increased to 12 months, extendable to 24 months
5. The EU can now suspend visa-free access for specific groups, not entire populations
6. The reform takes effect 20 days after formal adoption by the Council of the EU

In short: the EU is giving itself sharper, more targeted tools to respond to visa risks and CBI abuse.

Several goals drive the EU’s push:

1. Security and control. The EU wants to protect the Schengen area from abuse.
2. Targeting CBI risks. Some CBI programs are seen as loopholes in border control.
3. Flexible enforcement. Tailored sanctions avoid broad diplomatic fallout.
4. Discouragement. By tightening access, the EU hopes to curb misuse of visa-free travel.

Caribbean CBI Programs

Countries like Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia have made reforms in recent months—introducing interviews, new due diligence standards, and better oversight. These efforts may help avoid future sanctions.

Investors from Lower-Tier Passports

For those from countries with limited mobility, EU visa access is a key draw. If that disappears, some may avoid CBI entirely or shift to EU residency programs.

CBI Programs Beyond the Caribbean

Any program that grants citizenship with visa-free EU access is potentially affected. The spotlight is now global, and compliance must be top-tier.

Risks

• Suspension danger: Visa-free access may be revoked with little warning
• Uncertainty: Lower thresholds mean even small issues could trigger action
• Less appeal: Programs without EU access may lose investor interest

Opportunities

• Stronger programs: Those with better controls may stand out
• Focus shift: Investors may consider EU residency or Golden Visas
• Broader value: CBI countries can develop benefits beyond visa access

To stay ahead of the curve:

• Upgrade due diligence: Ensure thorough background checks
• Boost transparency: Publish clear rules and oversight practices
• Add genuine ties: Require physical presence or economic connections
• Segment risk: Be ready for targeted suspensions
• Educate investors: Communicate changes and reforms clearly

The EU’s visa waiver reform isn’t just another policy tweak it’s a major shift in how the bloc approaches global mobility and border control.

For CBI nations, the message is clear: visa-free travel is no longer guaranteed. It must be earned and safeguarded through transparency, accountability, and cooperation. Programs that adapt quickly and invest in strong governance will not only survive but may come out stronger.