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2026 Program Guide

Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment

Saint Kitts and Nevis has been running the world's most established citizenship-by-investment program since 1984. With a donation of USD 250,000 to the SISC or an approved real estate investment from USD 325,000, it offers a passport in about 4-6 months, with no residence requirement, and visa-free travel to more than 150 countries.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program type
Citizenship by investment (established since 1984, the most established program)
Minimum donation
USD 250,000 (SISC, up to 4 people)
Real estate option
From USD 325,000 (approved project, 7 years)
Processing time
Approximately 4-6 months (expedited option available)
Visa-free travel
150+ countries (Schengen, UK, Singapore)
Residence requirement
None

Who is it for?

  • Investors who prefer the most established and respected CBI program (since 1984).
  • Those needing an urgent passport through the expedited process (for an additional fee).
  • Those prioritizing tax advantages and broad visa-free access.
  • Families wishing to apply together with a spouse, children, parents, and grandparents.

Why St Kitts? The Most Established Program

Saint Kitts and Nevis has the world's first and most respected citizenship-by-investment program, running since 1984. Its long track record, predictable processes, and rigorous due diligence practices keep the passport's international reputation strong. This provides advantages in terms of visa-free access and banking.

Donation or Real Estate?

A USD 250,000 donation to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) is the simplest and most predictable route for a family of up to four; it is non-refundable. Alternatively, you can invest from USD 325,000 in an approved real estate project (7-year holding period) or from USD 600,000 in a single-family home; these routes offer the chance to recover capital over time.

Expedited Process

In addition to the standard 4-6 month process, St Kitts offers an expedited due diligence option for an additional fee; this can significantly shorten the processing time for applicants with an urgent need for a passport.

Benefits

  • Visa-free travel to more than 150 countries, including Schengen, the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
  • The world's oldest and most respected citizenship program (since 1984).
  • No residence requirement; the process is completed remotely.
  • No income, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance tax.
  • Broad family coverage and dual citizenship rights.

Requirements

  • Be over 18 with a clean criminal record.
  • Donation to the SISC or an approved real estate investment.
  • Documentation of a legal source of funds.
  • Pass due diligence checks.

Costs

SISC donation (up to 4 people)
USD 250,000
Real estate (approved project)
From USD 325,000
Single-family home
From USD 600,000
Government and due diligence fees
Varies by applicant

Process

  1. Preliminary assessment

    Eligibility check and selection of the investment option.

  2. Document preparation

    Preparation of the application file and source-of-funds documents.

  3. Application and due diligence

    Official application and government review process.

  4. Investment and passport

    Completion of the investment after approval and receipt of the passport.

FAQ

Why is the Saint Kitts and Nevis program preferred?
It is the most established program, running since 1984; its strong reputation, broad visa-free access, and tax advantages stand out.
Can I sell the real estate investment later?
Yes, but approved real estate investments are generally subject to a 7-year holding requirement.
Is it possible to speed up the process?
Yes, an expedited due diligence option is offered for an additional fee.
Do I pay tax in St Kitts?
Saint Kitts and Nevis does not levy income, capital gains, wealth, or inheritance tax. Your tax liability depends mainly on your country of residence.
Who from my family can be included?
A spouse, dependent children, parents, and grandparents; under certain conditions, dependent siblings can also be included in the application.
How strong is the passport?
The St Kitts passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to more than 150 countries, including the Schengen area, the UK, and Singapore.

Sources

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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