More and more people dreaming of a second home in paradise are realizing they can get even more than that — a passport! The Caribbean islands are now attracting adventurous buyers because they offer citizenship if you purchase property.
Countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia are on the list, with investments starting as low as $200,000 (£145,000). This means that not only will you have a new home, but you'll also gain access to visa-free travel to up to 150 countries including the UK and schengen area!
The appeal of these islands has skyrocketed, especially from US buyers concerned about their country’s political climate. Estate agent Nadia Dyson reports that around 70% of buyers are looking for citizenship, a significant shift from last year when most were just wanting a vacation home. “People are saying they want a house with citizenship,” she explains.
Interestingly, many CBI applicants, such as Robert Taylor from Canada, see citizenship as a safer option that allows freedom in travel and business opportunities. Nonetheless, these programs are not without their critics. Critics argue that selling citizenship could compromise national identity and lead to security risks. Some nations are even calling for stricter oversight to ensure applicants are thoroughly vetted.
In response to international concerns, Caribbean leaders have pledged to tighten regulations and ensure quality control in their citizenship programs. With CBI popularity surging, it looks like the islands have found a unique way to attract investment while providing an attractive escape for many!
