Saint Lucia Citizenship – A Gateway to a World of Possibilities
License IMA SL
Safe haven
For the whole family
$100,000
Minimum investment
$150,000
Family of four
3+ months
Obtainment period
The St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program is a way for foreign investors to obtain citizenship in the popular Caribbean country of Saint Lucia. Investment options include a $100,000 donation to the National Economic Fund, a $200,000 investment in government-approved real estate, a $300,000 investment in non-interest-bearing government bonds, or an enterprise investment of $3,500,000 as a solo investor or $1,000,000 as part of a joint venture.
In this article, we’re taking you through everything from eligibility and document requirements to the application process you’ll need to follow during your St Lucia citizenship by investment journey. So, keep reading to find out exactly how to go about obtaining citizenship on an island boasting a high quality of life and that is widely considered to be one of the world’s best honeymoon destinations.
Why choose a Caribbean passport?
- To access greater global mobility. As a St Lucia passport holder, you can enjoy visa-free travel to more than 140 countries, including Hong Kong, the Schengen Zone, the UK, and Singapore.
- To obtain second citizenship for yourself and your family members in a country that offers stability and opportunity
- To benefit from a favorable tax environment. St Lucia has no income tax on worldwide income, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, providing an optimal environment for you to diversify your investment portfolio.
- To benefit from St Lucia’s thriving tourism industry by making a high-end tourist real estate investment.
- To enjoy your golden years of retirement in a peaceful, bright, and beautiful slice of Caribbean paradise as a Saint Lucia citizenship by investment applicant.
Citizenship by Investment – What You Need to Know
Citizenship by investment (CBI) is a term used to refer to programs that offer investors a route to obtain citizenship of a country by making a financial contribution to its economy. Also known as economic citizenship, there are five Caribbean countries that offer citizenship by investment programs: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia.
Each of these countries has a Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) that oversees and regulates its CBI program in accordance with each country’s laws and Citizenship by Investment Act. The Investment Unit processes each application, assessing the documentation provided and conducting stringent due diligence checks to confirm the identity, financial profile, and security profile of all applicants aged 16 and over. This due diligence process is crucial for ensuring the program’s credibility and longevity.
The investment routes under a Caribbean CBI program are generally a non-refundable donation to a government fund or a real estate investment. Some countries offer additional options, such as creating a business enterprise, contributing to an educational institution, or even government bonds. Family members can be included in your application, and once granted, citizenship is lifelong and passed down to future generations.
10 Benefits of the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
1
Ultimate plan B
Having a second citizenship in Saint Lucia gives you and your family the freedom and flexibility of global mobility. You also have more residence options, as St Lucia citizenship means you and your family can live in any of the 11 countries that are part of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
2
Whole family included
Your spouse, siblings, children, parents, and grandparents can be included in your St Lucia citizenship by investment application.
3
St Lucia dual citizenship
St Lucia recognizes dual citizenship, meaning you can retain your existing nationality. Additionally, St Lucia citizenship is lifelong and can be passed down to future generations.
4
Affordable investment options
The St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program offers affordable investment options starting from a $100,000 National Economic Fund donation.
5
Quick application process
Your Saint Lucia citizenship application will be processed, and citizenship granted within an average of three to four months.
6
Great tax benefits
St Lucia citizens benefit from no income, wealth, or inheritance tax.
7
No residency requirements
You do not need to visit St Lucia at any point during your application process, which can be completed remotely. There is also no requirement to visit Saint Lucia to maintain your citizenship once granted.
8
No language tests or academic requirements
Neither the main applicant nor dependents need to pass any kind of test or language requirement to be granted St Lucia citizenship.
9
Visa-free travel
St Lucia passport holders enjoy visa-free access to over 140 countries, such as the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore, as well as the Schengen Zone.
10
US visa opportunity
Antigua and Barbuda citizens are eligible to apply for a ten-year B-1/B-2 Visa to the US. This visa enables you to spend up to 180 days each year in the US.
Who can obtain St Lucia citizenship?
Individual investors and their family members can acquire St Lucia citizenship by investment. To apply for citizenship through the St Lucia CBI program, applicants must fulfill certain requirements.
The principal applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have an excellent character, proven using bank statements and employer references.
- Be able to make the necessary qualifying investment
As the main applicant, you can include the following family members in your application for St Lucia citizenship:
- Spouse
- Children of the main applicant or spouse who are:
– Under 21 years of age
– Aged between 21 and 30 and supported by the main applicant or spouse
- Aged 21 or over and physically/mentally challenged
- Parents and grandparents of the main applicant or spouse aged 55 and older
- Siblings of the main applicant or spouse who:
– Are unmarried
– Have no children
– Are aged 18 years old or younger
– Have consent from their parent/guardian to apply to the citizenship by investment program
Get in touch with a Citizenship by Investment Specialist
Our team of industry-leading experts will help you with everything from filing your immigration application to providing professional legal and tax advice. We are wholly committed to your success.
Qualifying Investment Options
St Lucia offers four investment routes under the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program: A donation to the National Economic Fund, a real estate investment, an enterprise investment, or the purchase of government bonds. The following section will outline the Saint Lucia passport cost under each route, including the qualifying investment amounts, due diligence fees, processing fees, government fees, and passport fees.
Option 1
National Economic Fund (NEF)
Established under Section 33 of the Citizenship by Investment Act, the NEF was created to support the government’s national development agenda.
The required contribution starts at $100,000 for a single applicant, making it a rather affordable investment option. In addition to this, applicants must pay processing fees, due diligence fees, and passport fees, as seen in the table below.
Single applicant | Applicant and spouse | Family of up to four | Additional dependent (to a family of four) | Additional dependent (in a family without spouse) | |
Minimum donation | $100,000 | $140,000 | $150,000 | $15,000 each | $25,000 each |
Processing fee | $2,000 | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant |
Due diligence fee | $8,000 | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older |
Passport fee | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport |
Option 2
Real estate
If you are interested in making an investment that has the potential to be recovered or generate passive income, then the real estate investment route may be ideal for you.
Single applicant | Applicant and spouse | Additional dependent over 18 | Additional dependent under 18 | |
Minimum investment | $200,000 | $200,000 | $200,000 | $200,000 |
Government application fee | $30,000 | $45,000 | $10,000 each | $5,000 each |
Due diligence fee | $8,000 | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older |
Passport fee | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport |
Option 3
Enterprise investment
Investing in a local business enterprise is a great way to ensure that the island and its inhabitants directly benefit from your investment. You have two options under this route: Applying as a solo investor, in which case the qualifying investment amount is $3,500,000, or applying as part of a joint venture worth a minimum of $6,000,000, in which case your contribution must be at least $1,000,000.
Single applicant | Applicant and spouse | Additional dependent over 18 | Additional dependent under 18 | |
Minimum enterprise investment | Option 1: $3,500,000 as a solo investor $1,000,000 in a joint $6,000,000 enterprise | Option 1: $3,500,000 as a solo investor $1,000,000 in a joint $6,000,000 enterprise | Option 1: $3,500,000 as a solo investor $1,000,000 in a joint $6,000,000 enterprise | Option 1: $3,500,000 as a solo investor $1,000,000 in a joint $6,000,000 enterprise |
Government fee | Option 1: $50,000 | Option 1: $85,000 | $35,000 each | $25,000 each |
Processing fee | $2,000 | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant |
Due diligence fee | $8,000 | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older |
Passport fee | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport |
Option 4
Government bonds
The fourth route under the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program is to invest in government bonds. The main applicant must make a minimum investment of $300,000 in National Action Government Bonds (NAB). These non-interest-bearing bonds can be fully recovered after five years.
Single applicant | Applicant and spouse | Family of up to four | Additional dependent | |
Minimum bond investment | $300,000 | $300,000 | $300,000 | $300,000 |
Government fee | $50,000 | $50,000 | $50,000 | $50,000 |
Processing fee | $2,000 | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant | $1,000 per applicant |
Due diligence fee | $8,000 | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older | $5,000 per family member aged 16 and older |
Passport fee | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport | $500 per passport |
Calculate the cost of citizenship for you and your family, including all associated fees.
St Lucia CBI Pros and Cons
When relocating to any country, there will be pros and cons for you to consider. It will be up to you to determine whether these factors are manageable for you and your family when starting your new life on this stunning Caribbean island.
Pros
Excellent flight access
The St Lucia Hewanorra International Airport is a great example of the Caribbean’s well-developed air travel infrastructure. As the largest airport in St Lucia, it accommodates passengers worldwide with flights to and from places like London, Miami, and New York.
Multiple investment options
St Lucia’s CBI program offers four investment routes: National Economic Fund donation, real estate investment, government bond investment, and business investment. Having diverse options attracts investors interested in diversifying their portfolio of assets.
Affordable CBI program for solo applicants
A single applicant donating to the National Economic Fund will pay less than $120,000, including the processing fee, passport fee, and due diligence fee.
Important note: This excludes the bank fees, translations, notary, and other service fees you may encounter.
Safety
St Lucia is generally considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Crime rates are generally low, and public transport is safe and easy to use for all ages. As with any country, it’s best to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.
Outdoor activities
Living in Saint Lucia exposes you to a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore the fabulous marine life, which includes turtles, fish, dolphins, and coral reefs, when you go snorkeling or diving, and you can hike, surf, relax in hot springs, go on boat cruises, kayak, parasail, and much more.
Friendly locals
English is the main language spoken in St Lucia. This, along with the friendly local population, makes it relatively easy to adapt to your new life on the island. With a culture rich in art, literature, music, and more, St Lucia has plenty for newcomers to experience.
Favorable tax environment
The tax environment in St Lucia allows both individuals and companies to benefit from tax incentives and exemptions.
Cons
No visa-free access to China or Russia
Unlike Dominica and Grenada, St Lucia does not give its citizens visa-free access to China or Russia. If it is important for you to have easy access to these countries for work purposes, for example, then you may prefer to apply to a different citizenship by investment program.
Limited real estate options
As mentioned above, real estate projects under the real estate investment route must be pre-approved by the St Lucia government.
Costly inter-regional travel
Travel between Caribbean islands is easily done by plane or ferry. However, it can become quite costly, which is essential to consider if you plan to island-hop.
Natural disasters
Living in the Caribbean means being aware of the high risk of natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes. Hurricane season typically runs from June to November, and fortunately, St Lucia’s disaster and emergency management legislation is strong. If you plan on relocating to the island or investing in real estate, this is important to note.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Once you decide to apply for the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program, our team of experts at Global Citizen Solutions will take you through each step of the application process.
1. Choose your investment route
The first step is to choose your citizenship by investment route. This can depend on whether you are a solo applicant or wish to include dependent family members in your investment application. The four investment routes are a non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund (NEF), investing in approved enterprise projects, investing in shares of government-approved real estate projects, or purchasing government bonds.
2. Gather documents and complete all application forms
Once you have chosen your investment route, Global Citizen Solutions will provide you with all the documents you need to complete. You must also gather the necessary supporting documents for your chosen route.
3. Submit your application through Global Citizen Solutions
St Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) does not accept applications submitted directly by applicants and will only accept those submitted by Authorized Agents. As such, Global Citizen Solutions will submit your application on your behalf.
4. Receive approval from the CIU
The CIU will assess your application and conduct stringent due diligence checks, which include a virtual interview. Successful applicants will receive an ‘approved in principle’ confirmation letter within 60-90 days of applying.
5. Make your investment and send confirmation
Once you have received your approval letter, you make the required investment and submit proof to the CIU.
6. Become a St Lucia citizen
Once your investment has been received, you and your family members will be granted St Lucia citizenship. Your Saint Lucia passport will be delivered to you at your chosen address.
Documents Required for Citizenship by Investment
The following section outlines the documents required when applying for citizenship through St Lucia’s citizenship by investment program. While the list is extensive, it is not exhaustive, and the CIU may request additional documents from applicants as required.
General Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment required document
- Original excerpt of full birth record or certified copy of birth certificate
- Certified copy of proof of name change (if applicable)
- Permanent residence card (if applicable)
- National identity card (if applicable)
- Certified color copy of current passport/s showing:
- Name
- Photo
- Citizenship/nationality
- Date and place of issue
- Issuing country
- Expiry date
- Passport number
- Photograph and signature certificate (for dependent children or children under 18, insert N/A in designated signature slot)
- Six original passport-sized photos of each applicant (must be taken within the last six months):
- Face must be neutral
- One photo must be affixed to the Medical Examiner Declaration
- Proof of residential address, e.g., certified copy of recent utility bill for address or bank statement showing full name and address. Must be valid within the last three months.
- Marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Copy of military service card (if applicable)
- Affidavit from spouse or former spouse in relation to children (if applicable)
- Affidavit of support from dependents
- Education certificates and transcripts
- Professional and academic certificates (submit for children over 18 as well)
- Professional reference letter from an attorney, chartered accountant, or another professional of similar standing (valid within the last six months or immediately before application submission)
- Certified copy of current and expired visas
- Police certificate of country of birth (no older than six months)
- Police certificate from any other countries where you have resided for at least a year (no older than six months)
- Custody or legal guardianship records
- Statutory declaration of a non-accompanying parent of a qualifying dependent below 18, stating no objection to the child obtaining St Lucia citizenship.
- Certified copy of a photo ID of a non-accompanying parent bearing their signature
Translation and certification of documents
- If any of your documents are not in English, they will need to be translated.
- The translator must be a member of a professional order or authorized to act professionally in the capacity of a translator.
- The translation must be complete and faithful to the original document, meaning that the text, seals, and signatures must all be translated. When submitting your application, the original documents and certified translations must both be included.
- Documents must be certified and authenticated in accordance with the law of the jurisdiction from which they originate.
Taxes in St Lucia
Residents and citizens of St Lucia enjoy a favorable tax environment. In St Lucia, citizens are exempt from paying capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax on worldwide income or assets. Legal entities are exempt from paying taxes on capital gains, dividends, and sometimes even value-added tax (VAT).
As a CARICOM (Caribbean Community) member, St Lucia has double tax treaties with several countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
There are some local considerations to take into account, such as personal income tax (PIT), which residents pay on income derived from domestic activities.
Why choose St Lucia?
St Lucia is an island in the West Indies, bordered by the Eastern Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The island is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and CARICOM.
The island’s capital city is Castries, a popular location for tourists and cruise ships. The official language in St Lucia is English, but you’ll find that French Creole is also widely spoken. The island uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), and its economy is mainly supported by tourism, which accounts for around 65 percent of the island’s GDP. Agriculture is also a large part of the economy.
The island doesn’t only offer a stable economy and political climate. St Lucia has been awarded many accolades over the years, such as “The Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination” and “The World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination”. When visiting here, you’ll find some of the world’s most sought-after, stunning beaches in the world, refreshing waterfalls, spectacular hiking trails, exclusive restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
St Lucia: Your gateway to international travel
St Lucia is well-connected to the rest of the world, allowing easy travel for all. Flights run from St Lucia to North America, Canada, the UK, Germany, and France, thanks to Hewanorra International Airport. Traveling to other Caribbean locations is also easy, thanks to George F.L. Charles Airport, St Lucia’s inter-island airport just outside the city of Castries.
If you prefer to travel by water, you’ll be happy to learn that St Lucia is well-serviced by ferries that make for easy day trips and island-hopping adventures. On the island itself, it’s possible to get around by boarding a minibus, hiring a car, or hailing a taxi.
St Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Program stands as a beacon of opportunity for those seeking to secure a brighter future for themselves and their family members. Whether you’re drawn to its pristine beaches, profitable business environment, or simply the promise of dual citizenship and a second home in paradise, St Lucia offers a life enriched by natural beauty and economic stability. As you consider your options for global citizenship, the allure of the St Lucia CBI program cannot be denied, promising a world of possibilities for those who dare to dream beyond borders.
Why work with Global Citizen Solutions?
- Global approach by local experts. We are corporate members of the Investment Migration Council, with local expertise in all five Caribbean CBI programs.
- 100 percent approval rate. We have never had a case rejected and will offer you an initial, free-of-charge, due diligence assessment before signing any contract.
- Independent service and full transparency. We will present to you all the investment options available, and all expenses will be discussed in advance, with no hidden fees.
- An all-encompassing solution. A multidisciplinary team of immigration lawyers, investment specialists, and tax experts will take into consideration all of your and your family’s mobility, tax, and lifestyle needs.
- Confidential service and secure data management. All private data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
- Authorized International Marketing Agent. Global Citizen Solutions is licensed by the Antigua and Barbuda government to promote the country’s CBI program and act as a CIP International Marketing Agent for Antigua and Barbuda.
Get in touch with a Caribbean Citizenship by Investment specialist
Frequently Asked Questions About St Lucia Citizenship by Investment
Can you buy citizenship in St Lucia?
The Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program offers four routes to citizenship by investment, which allows you to obtain Saint Lucia citizenship in exchange for a financial investment in the country. The minimum investment required under each route of Saint Lucia’s citizenship program is as follows:
- $100,000 to the National Economic Fund (one-time non-refundable contribution)
- $200,000 in approved real estate projects (hotels, resorts, boutiques, holiday homes)
- $300,000 in non-interest-bearing Government bonds (fully refunded after five years)
- $3,500,000 solo investment or $1,000,000 investment in a joint venture in an approved enterprise project
Is St Lucia citizenship worth it?
Whether it is worth it to obtain St Lucia citizenship will depend on your individual circumstances and reason for pursuing it. Overall, a St Lucia passport provides the holder with many benefits, such as increased mobility with visa-free access to over 140 countries, access to a favorable tax environment, the ability to live on a Caribbean island, and the ability to pass St Lucia citizenship down to future generations. If, however, you desire visa-free access to certain countries for business purposes (for example, China or Russia), then it may not be beneficial for you to obtain dual citizenship here.
What is the cheapest country to buy citizenship in?
Antigua and Barbuda is the most affordable citizenship by investment option, as the minimum investment required for an individual or a family of up to four is $100,000. St Lucia is a close second, offering individuals the opportunity to obtain St Lucia citizenship for a minimum investment of $100,000, while a family of four is required to contribute at least $150,000. The cheapest country for you will depend on the investment route you would like to pursue, as well as the number of dependents you intend to include in your application.
Can you buy a St Lucia passport?
No, you cannot simply buy a St Lucia passport. If you would like to obtain citizenship in St Lucia, you can do so through the island’s Citizenship by Investment Program, which allows foreign investors to obtain St Lucia citizenship (and therefore, a St Lucia passport) in exchange for an economic investment in the country. To qualify for the program, investors must meet the necessary requirements, such as being older than 18 and having a clean criminal background.
Can a US citizen move to St Lucia?
Yes, it is possible for a US citizen to move to St Lucia, provided they have the correct visa or residency permit. As a US citizen, you have several options:
- Single entry visa: Allows you to stay in St Lucia for up to three months
- Multiple entry visa: Allows you to live in St Lucia for up to one year. If you intend to work in the country, you must also apply for a work permit.
- Permanent residency: You can apply for permanent residency in St Lucia after you have renewed your single entry/multiple entry visa for two years.
- Citizenship: You can apply for citizenship after seven years of permanent residency on the island.
- Citizenship by investment: St Lucia’s citizenship by investment (CBI) program allows you to obtain citizenship for a minimum contribution of $100,000. The process takes roughly four months.
How much does it cost to invest in St Lucia citizenship?
The minimum investment for the St Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program is $100,000 for an individual applicant, $140,000 for a couple, or $150,000 for a family of four under the government fund donation option. Other investment options under the citizenship program include:
- Investing in an approved enterprise project
- Making a government bond investment
- Investing in approved St Lucia real estate.
Additional fees apply, such as government fees and due diligence fees.
How long does it take to get St Lucian citizenship by investment?
It takes an average of three to four months to get Saint Lucia citizenship by investment.