In a significant policy shift, five Eastern Caribbean nations – Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia – have announced comprehensive reforms to their Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. The proposed changes, published in a regional draft agreement on July 1, 2025, are designed to strengthen integrity, enhance compliance, and reinforce the credibility of Caribbean Residency pathways.
These updates respond to increasing international scrutiny over the perceived transactional nature of CBI schemes, commonly criticized as “passport-for-sale” programs. The reforms seek to move beyond this reputation by introducing structured requirements that create stronger ties between investors and the host nations.
Key Objectives of the New Caribbean Residency Approach
At the core of the proposed changes is the introduction of a mandatory 30-day physical residency requirement within the first five years after citizenship is granted. This marks a notable departure from previous models that allowed investors to obtain citizenship with little or no physical presence.
In addition to the residency requirement, the draft agreement outlines several strategic changes:
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Annual caps on the number of citizenships granted
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Civic integration measures including interviews and education
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A five-year initial passport validity period, renewable only after residency requirements are met
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Establishment of a regional oversight body to ensure compliance and policy alignment
These collective actions signal a move toward meaningful Caribbean Residency, where investors are expected to demonstrate a real connection to their country of citizenship.
The 30-Day Residency Rule: A New Standard
Under the draft framework, approved applicants must be physically present in their host country for at least 30 days within a five-year period following the acquisition of citizenship. These days do not have to be consecutive but must be verifiable through immigration records or biometric systems.
Failure to comply with this requirement could result in penalties, including a fine of up to 10 percent of the initial investment or even revocation of citizenship. This introduces a new level of accountability into the Caribbean Residency process, reinforcing the expectation that citizenship is accompanied by personal and geographic engagement.
Annual Caps and Quality Control
To limit excessive program use and safeguard the region’s reputation, the draft proposes setting annual caps on citizenship approvals. The limits would be set according to national priorities and regional assessments, with oversight provided by a newly established regulatory authority.
This shift from quantity to quality aims to build public trust and align with evolving international due diligence standards. It also helps ensure that the growth of Caribbean Residency programs remains sustainable and guided by integrity.
Integration Measures for Stronger Civic Connection
Applicants aged 16 and older would take part in a standardized civic orientation process. This will include an interview and educational modules covering national values, the legal system, and cultural heritage.
By including civic education and engagement, Caribbean countries emphasize that citizenship involves responsibilities as well as benefits. These efforts aim to build stronger connections between new citizens and their adopted countries, helping shape Caribbean Residency into a more meaningful and lasting status.
Regional Oversight Through EC-CIRA
To promote consistency and effective governance, the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (EC-CIRA) is being proposed as a central body. This authority will be responsible for:
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Enforcing application caps
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Overseeing compliance with residency and integration rules
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Standardizing due diligence across all participating countries
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Publishing transparent compliance reports
A regional regulatory framework is likely to build greater trust and strengthen coordination among member states. This approach will help the region meet rising expectations from international partners and regulatory bodies.
Areas Requiring Clarification
While the draft outlines clear objectives, several details remain under discussion:
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Whether the new rules will apply retroactively to existing citizens or only to future applicants
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Whether the 30-day residency must be completed before naturalization or can occur afterward
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Whether dependents such as spouses or minor children must meet the residency requirement individually
Public consultation on the draft is open through mid-July 2025, with the aim of finalizing legislation in each participating country before the end of the year.
Strategic Importance of Caribbean Residency Reforms
These proposed reforms come at an important moment, as the world increasingly emphasizes transparency and accountability in investor migration programs.. By aligning Caribbean Residency programs with international best practices, the region aims to:
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Protect the integrity of its passports
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Maintain visa-free agreements with key global partners
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Ensure the long-term economic and political sustainability of CBI initiatives
The added requirements may reduce the appeal for some purely transactional applicants. They are, however, anticipated to appeal to more committed, long-term investors interested in global mobility and meaningful regional involvement.
Conclusion
The draft reforms represent a pivotal shift in the direction of Caribbean Residency policy. By introducing physical presence, civic engagement, and regional oversight, Eastern Caribbean nations are moving toward more robust and sustainable models of citizenship.
As public input is reviewed and legislative steps progress, the coming months will help shape the direction of Caribbean Residency. These changes underscore the region’s commitment to quality, integrity, and responsible citizenship in a competitive global investment landscape.
