Established in 2015, the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) offers a structured pathway for investors to acquire citizenship through significant economic contributions. This initiative is governed by the Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015, ensuring a transparent and regulated process.
Investment Options
National Economic Fund (NEF) Contribution:
- Investment: A non-refundable donation of USD 240,000 for the main applicant and up to three dependents. Additional dependents require extra contributions: USD 20,000 for each aged 18 or older, and USD 10,000 for those under 18.
- Purpose: Funds are allocated to government-approved projects aimed at national development.
2. Real Estate Investment:
- Investment: A minimum of USD 300,000 in a government-approved real estate project.
- Holding Period: The property must be retained for at least five years.
- Note: This option may incur additional administrative fees.
3. Government Bonds:
- Investment: Purchase non-interest-bearing government bonds valued at a minimum of USD 300,000.
- Holding Period: Bonds must be held for five years.
- Administrative Fee: A non-refundable fee of USD 50,000 applies.
4. Enterprise Investment:
- Investment: Individual Investment: Minimum investment of USD 3,500,000 plus a non-refundable administrative fee of USD 50,000. Create a minimum of three permanent jobs
- Joint Venture: Minimum total investment of USD 6,000,000, with each investor contributing at least USD 1,000,000. An additional non-refundable administrative fee of USD 50,000 applies. Create a minimum of six permanent jobs
Eligibility Criteria
Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Character: A clean criminal record is mandatory.
Health: Applicants should be in good health.
Financial Commitment: Ability to make the required investment and pay associated fees.
Benefits of St. Lucian Citizenship
Global Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Tax Advantages: No taxes on worldwide income, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance.
Family Inclusion: Applicants can include spouses, children under 31, siblings under 18, and parents aged 55 and over.
No Residency Requirement: There is no obligation to reside or visit St. Lucia before or after obtaining citizenship.
Dual Citizenship: St. Lucia permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality.
Application Process
1.Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of investment, personal identification, and health records.
2. Submission: Applications must be submitted through authorized agents in both electronic and printed formats.
3. Due Diligence: A thorough background check is conducted to ensure the integrity of applicants.
4. Approval: Upon approval, applicants are notified to proceed with the investment within 90 days.
5. Oath of Allegiance: Successful applicants must take an oath before a legal official.
6. Citizenship Grant: After completing the above steps, a certificate of citizenship is issued.
Navigating the complexities of the CIP requires expertise and local insight. McNamara Citizenship Services Inc. stands out as a premier advisory agency in this domain. As an approved Authorized Agent under the Citizenship by Investment Program of St. Lucia, they offer comprehensive services to guide clients through every step of the application process. Their deep understanding of the program ensures a streamlined and efficient experience for applicants.
Choosing the right partner is crucial for a successful application. With McNamara Citizenship Services Inc., clients benefit from personalized guidance, ensuring that all requirements are met with precision and efficiency. Their commitment to excellence makes them a trusted ally for those seeking St. Lucian citizenship.
The St. Lucia CIP is designed for discerning investors seeking a strategic addition to their global portfolio. Its structured investment avenues, combined with the benefits of St. Lucian citizenship, make it a compelling choice for those aiming to enhance their international mobility and secure a foothold in a stable Caribbean nation.
