Your Ultimate 2024 Guide to St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment: Unlocking Opportunities for a Second Passport
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The esteemed St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program provides an opportunity for international investors to secure second citizenship through substantial contributions to the nation’s economy. Established in December 2015, this program offers four distinct investment paths for obtaining a St. Lucia passport, starting from $240,000. The options include a donation to the National Economic Fund, purchasing approved real estate, acquiring government bonds, or investing in authorized enterprise projects.
This guide covers the steps to achieve St. Lucian citizenship, from eligible investments and the application process to the benefits of holding a St. Lucia passport, such as extensive visa-free travel and tax incentives.
St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program Overview
The St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program allows investors to gain citizenship by contributing to the country’s economy, benefiting both foreign nationals and St. Lucia’s economic development. This initiative, which grants applicants a second passport through several investment routes, has been in place since December 2015, operating under the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015. The program is administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
Investment Options
The St. Lucia CBI program provides four primary investment avenues, starting from $240,000 for individual applicants or a family of four:
National Economic Fund (NEF): A donation to support national projects.
Approved Real Estate: Investment in pre-approved real estate developments.
Government Bonds: Acquisition of government bonds with varying conditions.
Enterprise Investment: Contributions to government-approved business projects.
Notable Program Changes
January 2017: The minimum investment threshold was lowered from $200,000 to $100,000, and the previous annual cap of 500 applications was removed.
May 2020: A temporary Special COVID-19 Relief Bond option was introduced.
June 2020: Family eligibility was expanded, allowing dependent children up to age 21, parents from age 55, and unmarried siblings to qualify.
September 2023: A mandatory interview requirement was introduced for applicants aged 17 and older.
February 2024: Added an “Infrastructure Option” to the investment choices.
June 2024: St. Lucia joined the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding Agreement (MoA).
July 2024: The minimum non-refundable contribution was increased to $240,000, in alignment with MoA terms.
Why Choose St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment?
Why Choose St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment?
Tax-Friendly Environment
St. Lucia offers favorable tax conditions, including no income, inheritance, or capital gains tax.
Quick Application Process
Obtain citizenship within 10-12 months through a smooth, fast-tracked process.
No Residency Requirements
Enjoy the benefits of citizenship without the need to reside or visit St. Lucia.
Family Coverage
Include your spouse, children, and dependent parents in your citizenship application.
Extensive Visa-Free Travel
Access over 140 countries without a visa, including the EU, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Affordable Investment
St. Lucia's program offers competitive investment requirements, starting at $240,000.
Why opt for St. Lucia’s citizenship through investment?
Acquiring a St. Lucia passport grants you visa-free access to 148 destinations worldwide, including major regions such as the European Union, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. This program provides a strategic opportunity to diversify your assets while taking advantage of the country’s favorable tax policies, which include exemptions from global income, inheritance, and capital gains taxes.
St. Lucia allows dual citizenship, enabling you to retain your current nationality while gaining the benefits of St. Lucian citizenship. Investors have the option to purchase luxury real estate and earn a second citizenship, benefiting from the country’s vibrant tourism sector.
By securing citizenship in St. Lucia, you create a safety net for your family and future generations within the Caribbean, particularly as a member state of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This program also enhances your lifestyle, offering the possibility to retire in a tranquil, sunny environment.
The St. Lucian Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is accessible without any minimum net worth criteria, allowing individuals or families (up to four members) to qualify for dual citizenship with an investment starting at $240,000.
Eligibility Criteria for St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment (CIP) program, the main applicant must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement: The principal applicant must be at least 18 years old.
Criminal Record: Applicants must have no criminal history and provide documentation verifying a clean background.
Good Character: The applicant needs to demonstrate an upstanding character through financial records, such as bank statements and professional references.
Investment Capability: Must have the ability to make an eligible investment as required by the program.
Background Verification: Applicants are subject to detailed background checks as part of the due diligence process.
Health and Background Checks
Thorough health and security checks are necessary to maintain the program’s integrity:
Medical Requirements: Applicants must be in good health, with medical tests confirming the absence of contagious diseases or any health risks to public safety.
Police Clearance: A clean criminal record is required for all countries of residence during the last ten years to continue the application process.
Eligible Dependent Family Members
The following relatives can be included in the St. Lucia citizenship application:
Spouse: The main applicant’s spouse is eligible for inclusion.
Children: Children can qualify if they are under 21, between 21 and 30 and financially dependent, or any age if they have physical or mental disabilities.
Parents and Grandparents: Must be at least 55 years old to be included.
Siblings: Unmarried brothers or sisters who are under 18 years old and do not have children may be included with parental or guardian consent.
St. Lucia Citizenship Investment Options
St. Lucia Citizenship Investment Options
To acquire citizenship in St. Lucia, applicants can choose from four investment options, as outlined by the official St. Lucia citizenship by investment program website:
1. National Economic Fund Donation
Make a non-refundable financial contribution to the National Economic Fund, starting at $240,000 for a single applicant or family of up to four.
2. Real Estate Investment
Invest in government-approved real estate projects with a minimum investment of $300,000, offering an opportunity to invest in high-end tourism properties.
3. Enterprise Investment
Invest in authorized business ventures or projects within the country, which can include infrastructure projects, agricultural developments, or other economic initiatives.
4. Government Bonds
Purchase government bonds designated for the citizenship program, starting at $500,000 for a five-year holding period.
Investment Option
Single Applicant or Family of Up to Four
Additional Dependent (Under 18)
Additional Dependent (Over 18)
New Child of Citizen (12 Months or Below)
Spouse of a Citizen
Dependent of Citizen other than Spouse
National Economic Fund
$240,000
+$10,000 each
+$20,000 each
+$5,000 each
+$35,000 each
+$25,000 each
Processing Fee
$2,000
$1,000 per applicant
$1,000 per applicant
$1,000 per applicant
$1,000 per applicant
$1,000 per applicant
Due Diligence Fee
$8,000
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
Passport Fee
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
2. Approved Real Estate Purchase
If you prefer to take the real estate route, you can make an investment in St Lucia's government-approved properties. The minimum investment required is $300,000, and the investment must be held for at least five years. These properties typically consist of high-end projects like resorts or villas, offering you a chance to invest in the thriving Caribbean real estate market.
Investing in St Lucia real estate can provide a more affordable option compared to other regions while potentially offering returns on your investment.
Real Estate Investment
Single Applicant
Applicant + Spouse
Additional Dependent (Over 18)
Additional Dependent (Under 18)
Minimum Investment
$300,000
$300,000
+ $10,000 each
+ $5,000 each
Government Application Fee
$30,000
$45,000
+ $10,000 each
+ $5,000 each
Due Diligence Fee
$8,000
$8,000
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
Passport Fee
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
3. Approved Enterprise Investment
St. Lucia provides the opportunity to invest a minimum of $3.5 million as a solo investor or $250,000 as part of a joint venture worth $6 million. Applicants can choose from various enterprise projects such as:
Specialty restaurants
Cruise ports and marinas
Agro-processing plants
Pharmaceutical products
Ports, bridges, roads, and highways
Research institutions and facilities
Offshore universities
Housing projects
Social development projects
Investment services
Enterprise Investment
Single Applicant
Applicant + Spouse
Additional Dependent (Over Age 18)
Additional Dependent (Under Age 18)
Minimum Enterprise Investment
OPTION 1: $3.5 million as a solo investor OPTION 2: $250,000 (joint $6 million investment)
OPTION 1: $3.5 million as a solo investor OPTION 2: $250,000 (joint $6 million investment)
+ $35,000 each
+ $25,000 each
Government Fee
OPTION 1: $50,000 OPTION 2: $75,000
OPTION 1: $85,000 OPTION 2: $110,000
+ $35,000 each
+ $25,000 each
Processing Fee
$2,000
$1,000 for each applicant
$1,000 for each applicant
$1,000 for each applicant
Due Diligence Fee
$8,000
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
Passport Fee
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
Government Bonds Acquisition - St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
4. Government Bonds Acquisition
The St. Lucia citizenship program allows applicants to invest in government bonds specifically designated for the Citizenship by Investment initiative. The minimum investment starts at $300,000, with a mandatory holding period of five years. This option is ideal for investors seeking a low-risk and secure path to obtaining St. Lucian citizenship.
Government Bonds
Single Applicant
Applicant + Spouse
Family up to Four
Additional Dependent
Bond Minimum Investment
$300,000
$300,000
$300,000
+ $25,000 each
Government Fee
$50,000
$50,000
$50,000
+ $5,000 each
Processing Fee
$2,000
$1,000
$1,000 per applicant
$1,000 per applicant
Due Diligence Fee
$8,000
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
$5,000 for each family member aged 16 or over
Passport Fee
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
$500 per passport
St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment: Essential Documentation
When applying for St. Lucia citizenship through investment, several documents are required to complete the process. The list below covers the main documents typically needed, although the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) may request additional documentation based on individual cases. Recently, the government has simplified the application process, reducing the documentation requirements.
General Documentation Needed
Birth Certificate or Birth Record: Provide an original or certified copy of your full birth certificate.
Proof of Name Change: If applicable, submit a certified document showing any official name change.
Permanent Residence Documentation: Include a copy if applicable.
National Identity Card: Submit a certified copy if you possess one.
Current Passport Copy: Provide a certified color copy of all current passports, including details such as name, photo, citizenship status, date and place of issue, expiration date, passport number, and issuing country.
Photograph and Signature Certificate: For applicants under 18, complete the form accordingly, or write “N/A” where applicable.
Passport Photos: Six recent passport-sized photos for each applicant, taken within the last six months, with one photo attached to the Medical Examiner’s Declaration form.
Proof of Address: Submit a recent document (within the last three months) showing your current residential address, such as a utility bill or a bank statement listing your name and address.
Marriage or Divorce Certificate: Provide a certified copy if applicable.
Military Service Card: Include if applicable.
Affidavit for Children: If children are applying, an affidavit from a spouse or former spouse may be required.
Dependent Support Affidavit: Provide if you are supporting qualifying dependents.
Educational Records: Submit copies of education certificates and transcripts, especially for applicants over 18.
Professional References: A reference letter from a recognized professional, such as an attorney or accountant, dated within the last six months.
Additional Supporting Documents
Certified Visa Copies: Include copies of both current and expired visas.
Police Clearance Certificate: Provide certificates from the country of birth and any other countries where you have resided for a year or more within the past ten years. The clearance should not be older than six months.
Custody or Guardianship Records: Submit if applicable.
Non-Accompanying Parent’s Declaration: For dependents under 18, provide a legal declaration from a non-accompanying parent granting consent for the child to acquire St. Lucian citizenship.
Non-Accompanying Parent’s Photo ID: A certified copy of the ID, including the signature, should be provided.
Translation and Certification
Documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator. The translation must be complete and accurate, including seals and signatures from the original document.
All documents should be certified and authenticated according to the legal requirements of the country of origin.
Steps to Become a Citizen of St. Lucia Through Investment
As a licensed agent for St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, we offer a complimentary pre-assessment to help ensure your application is successful. Here’s how you can gain St. Lucian citizenship step by step:
Select Your Investment Option: Choose from four paths—making a non-refundable donation to the National Economic Fund (NEF), investing in government-approved real estate, funding an approved enterprise project, or purchasing government bonds.
Prepare Your Documents and Forms: Collect and complete all necessary paperwork as per the guidelines provided by our expert team.
Submit Your Application: Our specialized team will submit the application on your behalf. Applicants aged 16 and older must participate in a mandatory interview, which can be conducted either in-person or virtually.
Approval from the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU): Within 60 to 90 days, you’ll receive a letter stating whether your application has been “approved in principle.”
Make the Investment and Confirm: After approval, complete your investment and provide proof to the CIU.
Receive Citizenship: Once the process is finalized, you and your family will be granted citizenship, and passports will be delivered to your specified address.
Note: St. Lucia’s CIU only accepts applications submitted by authorized agents.
Timeline for St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
Typically, the citizenship process takes around 10 to 12 months from start to finish. The length of time can vary based on the applicant’s circumstances, including how quickly required documents are submitted and the results of the due diligence checks.
Recent updates have reduced document requirements, which are expected to speed up processing times in 2024.
St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Compliance and Oversight
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) is the regulatory body overseeing St. Lucia’s CBI program. It ensures adherence to international standards on anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations. The CIU works closely with global agencies, such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), to maintain high compliance standards.
St. Lucia has strengthened its CBI program through a Memorandum of Understanding, signed by the Prime Minister in June 2024. This agreement aims to enhance the consistency and quality of citizenship programs across the Caribbean.
Pros and Cons of St. Lucia’s CBI Program
Pros:
Diverse Investment Options: Choose from four paths, allowing flexibility to fit different investment preferences.
Affordable Option: Costs for an individual applicant start below $240,000, excluding additional fees.
Top-Ranked Program: St. Lucia was recognized as the best CBI program in 2021.
Refundable Bond Option: St. Lucia is unique in the Caribbean for offering a fully refundable government bond route.
Proximity to the US: The island is less than a four-hour flight from the United States, with expanding flight routes, including a new one launching in December 2024.
Cons:
Limited Real Estate Projects: Currently, options are limited, with only one approved project located near Micoud.
No Visa-Free Access to China or Russia: If travel to these countries is a priority, another Caribbean passport might be more suitable.
St. Lucia Citizenship Investment Options
National Economic Fund Donation: Make a non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund.
Real Estate Investment: Purchase shares in approved real estate developments.
Enterprise Investment: Invest in approved business ventures across various sectors.
Government Bonds: Purchase designated government bonds as part of the program.
Each option has different fees and investment thresholds, allowing applicants to choose based on their preferences and financial situation.
St Lucia Citizenship Comparison with other Caribbean CBI Programs
St Lucia is one of five Caribbean countries offering citizenship by investment programs. Here is a brief comparison of the highlights of each Caribbean citizenship program:
St Lucia: Provides the most investment routes among Caribbean programs, including a refundable government bon option and the option to make a business investment of $250,000 in St Lucia infrastructure projects.
Antigua and Barbuda: Has the lowest investment requirement among Caribbean citizenship programs for a family of four.
Dominica: Provides the cheapest real estate prices for real estate citizenship in the Caribbean.
Grenada: The only CBI country in the Caribbean offering eligibility to the US E-2 Visa Program
St Kitts and Nevis: The first country to offer economic citizenship in the Caribbean. According to the Global Passport Index, it provides the most powerful Caribbean passport by investment.
About St Lucia
St Lucia has been an independent Commonwealth country since 1979. An island country of the West Indies in the eastern Caribbean, St Lucia is nicknamed “Helen of the West.” The country’s official language is English, but the French-based St Lucian Creole is also widely spoken.
With its natural beauty, it’s unsurprising that St Lucia has amassed accolades, including “The World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” and “The Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination.”
St Lucia has a total area of 617 square kilometers. There are several small islands off the coast, the largest being the Maria Islands. Iconic landmarks include the famous Pitons, two mountainous volcanic plugs, and the world’s only drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs, where you can dive into the mud baths.
Tourism is Saint Lucia’s primary source of employment and income — accounting for 65 percent of its GDP — and the industry has been recovering well following the pandemic. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reports that visitor arrivals for the Caribbean in July 2022 were almost at the same level as in July 2019. The country has excellent connections worldwide, offering direct flights to London, Toronto, and Miami, Chicago, Boston, and flight paths are constantly expanding, with American Airlines opening a new route between JFK and UVF (Hewanorra International Airport) in December 2024.
About St Lucia
About St Lucia
St Lucia, often known as the "Helen of the West Indies," is a stunning island nation renowned for its volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, and luxury resorts. The island features two prominent peaks, the Pitons, which rise dramatically from the sea, and boasts a mix of French and British influences in its history and culture.
Covering an area of 617 square kilometers, St Lucia is home to several small islands, with the Maria Islands being the largest. Iconic attractions include the Sulphur Springs—often referred to as the world's only drive-in volcano—where visitors can dive into mud baths, as well as the Botanical Gardens, and Diamond Falls.
Tourism plays a crucial role in St Lucia's economy, accounting for about 65% of the country's GDP. The island has made significant strides in welcoming tourists back post-pandemic, with visitor levels now approaching those of 2019. St Lucia's excellent flight connectivity, including direct flights to major destinations like London, Toronto, Miami, and New York, continues to expand.
Population: 181,889
Location: Caribbean
Climate: Warm, tropical climate year-round (Hurricane season: June to November)
Capital City: Castries
Language: English and French Creole
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Economy: Tourism, real estate, and transport industry
Why Choose World of Citizens?
World of Citizens is a trusted firm specializing in personalized residency and citizenship solutions across Europe and the Caribbean. In today’s unpredictable world, obtaining a second citizenship provides security, flexibility, and numerous opportunities for you and your family.
Here’s why you should work with World of Citizens to secure St. Lucia citizenship:
Certified Expertise: As an official marketing agent for St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, we have been recognized and certified by the government to promote the program. Our experience in navigating the CBI landscape ensures a smooth and professional process.
Local Knowledge, Global Reach: We are corporate members of the Investment Migration Council, with an in-depth understanding of the Caribbean CBI programs. Our local expertise covers all five major programs, giving you access to the best options available.
Proven Success Rate: We boast a 100% approval rate, meaning no client has ever faced rejection. Additionally, we provide a complimentary due diligence assessment before any agreement is made, giving you peace of mind and confidence in our process.
Transparent and Independent Service: At World of Citizens, we present all investment options openly, ensuring that you understand every aspect of the process. All fees and expenses are discussed upfront, with no hidden costs.
Comprehensive Solutions: Our team comprises immigration lawyers, investment advisors, and tax experts who will evaluate your mobility, tax, and lifestyle requirements to craft a solution that meets all your family’s needs.
Data Security and Confidentiality: We prioritize your privacy, storing all sensitive information in a GDPR-compliant database on an SSL-encrypted server to ensure your data is kept secure.
Choose World of Citizens to guide you through the St. Lucia CBI program and enjoy a seamless, secure, and successful path to second citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions about St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
How can I acquire St. Lucia citizenship? St. Lucia offers citizenship through four main pathways: birth, marriage, naturalization, or investment. For citizenship by investment, applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a clean criminal record, exhibit good character, complete due diligence checks, and make a qualifying financial investment. Options include:
A non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund ($240,000).
Real estate investment ($300,000 minimum).
Investment in an approved enterprise project ($250,000).
Government bond purchase ($300,000 minimum).
What is the cost of St. Lucia citizenship by investment? The starting cost for a single applicant is $240,000. For a family of up to four, additional expenses such as administrative, due diligence, processing, and passport fees may total around $14,000. The exact cost will depend on the number of dependents and the chosen investment route.
What is the process for applying for St. Lucia citizenship by investment?
Submit the necessary documents and complete forms with the help of a licensed agent.
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) reviews the application and conducts due diligence.
Upon approval, make the required investment.
Citizenship and a naturalization certificate are granted, typically within 10 to 12 months.
How does the donation route work? Through the donation pathway, applicants contribute to the National Economic Fund. This non-refundable donation starts at $240,000 and covers the applicant, spouse, or a family of up to four.
Can my family members apply for citizenship too? Yes, family members, including a spouse, dependent children up to age 30, parents or grandparents over age 55, mentally or physically challenged dependents, and unmarried siblings under 18, can be included.
Is dual citizenship permitted? St. Lucia allows dual citizenship, meaning you can maintain your current nationality alongside St. Lucian citizenship.
What is the Citizenship by Investment Act? The Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015 governs St. Lucia’s program, establishing pathways for individuals to gain citizenship through investment. The Act also founded the National Economic Fund to manage the received contributions.
How long does the process take? It typically takes between 10 to 12 months from application submission to the issuance of a passport.
In which language should supporting documents be submitted? Documents must be submitted in their original language, along with an authenticated English translation if the original language is not English.
What happens if my application is denied? If an application is denied, you may appeal the decision. Your agent will guide you through the appeal process.
What is the National Economic Fund? Created in 2015, the fund receives donations from the citizenship program to support national development projects.
Is St. Lucia a good investment destination? Yes, St. Lucia offers many advantages, including a stable political environment, strategic location in the Caribbean, and attractive tax policies (no worldwide income, capital gains, or inheritance tax). The citizenship program is also ideal for global mobility, with visa-free access to many destinations.
Can I “buy” a St. Lucian passport? While you cannot directly purchase a passport, you can qualify for citizenship through an economic contribution to the country. The program is often referred to as the “St. Lucia Golden Visa.”
Is St. Lucia citizenship worth it? Yes, it provides benefits such as visa-free travel to 148 countries, no global income tax, and affordable investment options starting at $240,000. The country’s stability and expanding international flight routes add to its appeal.
Are there background checks involved? Yes, all applicants must pass due diligence checks, including a mandatory interview for those aged 16 and over.
