New Residency Rules Proposed for Caribbean CBI Programs

dual citizenship
Citizenship by Investment
Published Date: 30.07.2025

Big changes may be coming to the Caribbean’s popular Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. Five Caribbean countries—Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia—have jointly proposed a new rule: a 30‑day residency requirement for all new CBI applicants.

This marks a major shift in how Caribbean CBI programs work. Until now, most programs had no physical presence requirement, making them attractive for busy global investors. If passed, this new rule would be the first regional residency requirement for citizenship applicants in the Caribbean.

What Is the Proposed Residency Requirement?

The Caribbean CBI Programs Residency Requirement means that:

  1. New citizens must spend at least 30 days in the country that granted them citizenship.
  2. This 30-day stay can be spread out over five years—it does not have to be all at once.
  3. The residency requirement applies after citizenship is granted, not during the application phase.
  4. The stay can be fulfilled through multiple visits, giving flexibility to investors.

This rule is part of a broader agreement among the five nations to create a regional CBI authority, improve program credibility, and protect visa-free travel rights with the EU and other countries.

Why Introduce a Residency Requirement?

The proposed residency rule aims to address international concerns. Many global partners have criticized Caribbean CBI programs for giving out citizenships too easily, especially without requiring any real connection to the country.

Key goals behind the reform include:

  1. Improving international trust in the programs
  2. Showing genuine ties between new citizens and their Caribbean nations
  3. Protecting visa-free access to the Schengen Area and other key regions
  4. Encouraging investment and tourism through actual visits

Additional Proposed Reforms Alongside Residency

Along with the 30‑day stay, the new agreement proposes other major changes:

  1. Application Caps: Each country would have a yearly limit on how many CBI applications can be approved, based on program capacity and risk.
  2. Cultural Integration Program: New citizens must take part in a program that teaches them about the country’s culture, history, and civic duties.
  3. Passport Validity Rules: Initial passports might only last five years. A ten-year passport would be granted only after the 30‑day residency and other conditions are met.
  4. Regional Oversight Body – EC‑CIRA: A new body called the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (EC-CIRA) would manage due diligence, share information, and ensure all countries follow the same standards.

When Will This Take Effect?

As of August 2025:

  1. These changes are still proposals and must be approved by the parliaments of each country.
  2. The reforms will go into effect only after at least five countries ratify the agreement.
  3. If passed, the agreement would be enforced 30 days after final ratification.

So far, Saint Kitts & Nevis has signaled strong support. The other nations are expected to review and decide in the coming months.

What Should Investors Do Now?

If you’re considering applying for Caribbean citizenship, here’s what to keep in mind:

  1. Act Fast: If you want to avoid the new residency rule, consider applying before the changes become law.
  2. Plan for Visits: Future applicants should prepare to visit their chosen country for a total of 30 days over five years.
  3. Consider Real Estate Options: Owning property can make it easier to complete the stay and enjoy your investment.
  4. Check Program Updates: Follow official announcements to see when the rule is passed and how it is implemented.

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Conclusion

The Caribbean CBI Programs Residency Requirement may soon change how citizenship by investment works in the region. For those looking for second citizenship without a travel requirement, now may be the time to act. For others, the 30-day stay could be a small price to pay for stronger, more credible citizenship.

Either way, staying informed and planning ahead is key.

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