I
n the Caribbean, a new trend is emerging where property ownership can lead to global mobility. Several island nations offer Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs that grant nationality in exchange for real estate purchases, providing benefits such as visa-free entry to over 150 countries.

    Caribbean islands offering citizenship through property investment include Antigua & Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Dominica. Each country has a unique framework that grants citizenship to investors who commit at least $200,000 to approved real estate projects.

    Antigua & Barbuda offers citizenship in as little as four to six months with an entry point of $200,000, while St. Kitts & Nevis requires a minimum investment of $250,000 to $325,000 and typically takes six months. Grenada's program allows citizens to apply for the U.S. E-2 investor visa, providing access to live and operate business in the United States.

    Interest in these programs has surged globally, with American citizens among the top applicants. Motivations range from seeking greater freedom of movement to tax planning and security considerations. Applications have risen by 12% since the fourth quarter of 2024, reflecting a global trend where individuals seek a second passport as a safeguard against uncertainty.

    For governments in the Caribbean, these citizenship schemes are a revenue stream that funds infrastructure, tourism, and social development. For investors, they represent a pragmatic shortcut to a second passport, often with no residency or language requirements. The real estate component offers a tangible asset, allowing buyers to rent, manage, or sell properties after a required holding period.

    However, the popularity of CBI programs has raised concerns about border security and oversight. Caribbean nations have tightened due diligence and introduced mandatory interviews to address these concerns. For many buyers, the appeal is as much about lifestyle as mobility, offering access to year-round sun, direct flights to North and South America, and growing luxury tourism markets.

    As demand climbs, these programs are reshaping how small island nations engage with global wealth. Buying a home in the Caribbean can be more than just a dream of retirement by the sea; it's a ticket to the world.