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Saint Lucia is one of the newest and most transparent Caribbean citizenship programs, combining reliability, a wide choice of investment options, and visa-free travel to more than 145 countries. The program was launched in 2016 and quickly became one of the most reputable in the region thanks to its strict due diligence standards and clear legal framework.


A Saint Lucia passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Citizenship is lifelong, can be passed on to descendants, and does not require renouncing previous nationality or residing on the island.


The program is managed by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of Saint Lucia, which is responsible for evaluating applications, verifying the legality of funds, and ensuring full compliance with international standards.

Legal Framework for Obtaining Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment

The legal framework for the Citizenship by Investment Program of Saint Lucia is set out in the Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015 and the corresponding regulations. The program is intended to attract foreign investment for national development, including tourism, renewable energy, infrastructure, and local business.


To apply, an investor must:


– Be at least 18 years old;

– Have a clean criminal record;

– Provide proof of the legal source of funds;

– Pass due diligence checks by the CIU and international partners;

– Not be under international sanctions or subject to criminal prosecution.


Applications must be submitted only through an authorised agent. Direct submission to the CIU is not accepted.


Investment Options for Saint Lucia Citizenship:


1. National Economic Fund (NEF) Contribution

A non-refundable donation to the National Economic Fund is the simplest and most popular route to citizenship.

– For a single applicant: $240,000;

– For a main applicant with a spouse: $250,000;

– For a family of up to four: $250,000;

– For each additional dependent: $15,000.


Funds from the NEF are directed to infrastructure, tourism, and social projects.


2. Real Estate Investment

Applicants can invest in approved real estate projects such as hotels or resorts.

– Minimum investment: $300,000;

– The property must be held for at least 5 years;

– After resale, citizenship remains valid.


This option is suitable for those who want to combine citizenship with an income-generating asset.


3. Government Bonds

Applicants can purchase non-interest-bearing government bonds under the “National Action Bond” option.

– Minimum investment: $300,000;

– Holding period: 5 years;

– Administrative fee: $50,000 per application.


The bond amount is fully refundable after the holding period, making this route attractive for investors seeking capital preservation.


4. Enterprise Project Investment

An applicant can invest in an approved enterprise contributing to Saint Lucia’s economic growth — for example, in tourism, agriculture, or energy projects.

– Minimum investment: $3,500,000 for a single investor;

– Or $1,000,000 per person in a joint investment project totaling at least $6,000,000.

Advantages of Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment

  • Visa-Free Travel
    Holders of Saint Lucia passports can travel without visas or with visa-on-arrival access to more than 145 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, and major Asian destinations.
  • Tax Advantages
    Saint Lucia offers a favorable tax environment:
    – No tax on worldwide income;
    – No wealth, inheritance, or capital gains tax;
    – No restrictions on repatriation of profits.
  • Dual Citizenship
    Saint Lucia allows dual and multiple citizenships, so you do not have to renounce your current nationality.
  • Citizenship for the Whole Family
    Applicants can include their spouse, children under 18, children up to 30 if in higher education or financially dependent, as well as parents over 55. Citizenship is lifelong and can be passed on to descendants.
  • Transparency and International Reputation
    The Saint Lucia program is one of the most transparent in the Caribbean, known for strict due diligence and compliance with FATF and OECD standards. The country enjoys political stability and a solid international reputation, which makes its passport highly respected.
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How to obtain Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment:
Step-by-Step Guide

Choose an Authorised Agent
Applications must be submitted exclusively through an authorised agent approved by the government. The agent provides guidance, verifies the documents, and prepares the application file.
Collect and Prepare Documents
The required documents include:
– Passports and ID cards;
– Birth and marriage certificates;
– Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence;
– Medical certificate;
– Proof of address and source of funds (bank statements, corporate documents, income proof).

All documents must be translated into English and notarised.
Submit the Application and Pay Fees
The agent submits the completed file to the CIU and pays the due diligence fees:
– $8,000 for the main applicant;
– $5,000 for each dependent aged 16 or older.

The CIU registers the application and initiates a background check.
Due Diligence and Review
The CIU, together with international agencies, conducts background verification. This process ensures transparency and protection against financial or reputational risks. The review typically takes 3–5 months.
Approval and Investment
After approval-in-principle, the applicant makes the selected investment — donation, real estate purchase, or bond acquisition.
The investment must be completed within 90 days after approval.

After payment confirmation, the applicant receives a Certificate of Citizenship and can apply for a passport. Passports are issued within 2–3 weeks and can be delivered through the authorised agent.

FAQs about Saint Lucia Citizenship