In 1984, the Caribbean’s two-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis gained full independence from the UK and it launched an innovative program to attract foreign investment. The nation’s citizenship by investment program (CIP) opened a whole new world of options for investors worldwide. Now the Saint Kitts and Nevis CIP has undergone systematic updates to streamline the application process while maintaining a high standard of checks and balances.

Under the Saint Kitts and Nevis CIP there are several options for investors to gain a second citizenship while promoting growth in the islands. Of particular interest are the nation’s emphasis on encouraging investments in sustainable development. Originally, single applicants could donate $250,000 in the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation or commit to a pre-approved real estate investment of $400,000 for at least five years.

Now the most popular options are to contribute $150,000 to the country’s Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) or make a pre-approved $200,000 joint investment in real estate. The SGF is particularly popular for investors with larger families. The main applicant’s spouse must contribute $25,000 and additional family members only require a $10,000 donation per person.

The nation’s expedited application procedures allow the thorough vetting and investment process to be completed and second citizenship obtained in as little as 60 days, although most cases take around three months. Saint Kitts and Nevis citizenship offers investors many opportunities without requiring residency in the lovely dual-island nation. These enticing citizenship by investment programs are increasingly attracting investors from around the world.