Recently, the European Parliament approved a new mechanism allowing the suspension of visa-free travel. While this does not mean an immediate end to Schengen visa-free access for any country, it creates a legal foundation for such action in the future.
Under the new rules, the presence of a citizenship-by-investment (CBI) program will be one of the factors that can trigger visa-free suspension. Other reasons include security risks, migration issues, or human rights concerns.
Could the EU Suspend Visa-Free Travel for Caribbean Countries?
Yes — that possibility is real and has been under discussion for several years. The Caribbean Five (Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, and St Lucia) have already tightened due diligence procedures and raised the minimum investment threshold from $100,000 to $200,000 in 2024. These steps aim to meet EU expectations and preserve visa-free access, though it remains unclear how long such access can be maintained.
How to Maintain Free Access to the Schengen Area and Remain Independent of European Commission Decisions?
The most effective strategy in this case is to combine a Caribbean passport with European residency. Caribbean citizenship ensures global mobility, tax flexibility, and privacy, while a European residence permit (for example, through the Greece or Portugal Golden Visa programs) provides permanent access to the Schengen Zone and the right to live, invest, and bank in the EU.
