In September 2025, St Kitts and Nevis announced significant proposed reforms to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme. The changes, outlined in a pre‑enactment notice, are designed to modernise the eligibility framework for dependents and align the programme with evolving family dynamics. These reforms mark one of the most substantial updates in recent years.
Dependent Age Limit Raised
The proposed amendments extend the maximum age for dependent children from 25 to 30 years. This applies provided that the application is submitted before the dependent reaches their 30th birthday. This extension acknowledges the reality that many young adults remain financially connected to their parents beyond the age of 25, particularly in global families where education and career paths can be prolonged.
Removal of Education Requirement
Another major change is the elimination of the full‑time education requirement for dependents aged 18–25. Previously, applicants were required to show that their adult children were enrolled in higher or full‑time education. Under the new proposal, this is no longer necessary. Instead, dependents must demonstrate financial reliance on the main applicant through evidence such as bank transfers, affidavits of support, or similar documentation.
Updated Definition Under Regulation 2(b)
The reform also updates the legal definition of a dependent under Regulation 2(b). A dependent child is now defined as: “a child aged 18–30 who is unmarried and substantially supported by the main applicant.” This simplifies the framework and removes the link between dependency status and educational enrolment.
Broader Significance of the Reform
Industry observers note that these changes strengthen the competitiveness of St Kitts and Nevis in the global investment migration sector. By accommodating a wider age range of dependents and removing restrictive education requirements, the programme becomes more attractive to international families. The reforms also arrive shortly before the planned launch of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA), signalling the government’s intention to stay ahead of regional policy developments.
In Summary
The proposed reforms to the St Kitts and Nevis CBI programme represent a practical adjustment to modern family realities. Raising the dependent age to 30 and removing the education condition simplify the process while keeping the focus on financial support. For applicants, these updates expand opportunities for including family members and highlight the federation’s continued commitment to maintaining a flexible, competitive, and globally relevant investment migration framework.
