Citizenship by Investment Programme: Government Takes Decisive Action

Introduction

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, April 7, 2025 – The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) have taken decisive actions to preserve the integrity and international reputation of the Federation’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.

Investigation and Findings

Following a comprehensive investigation by the Ministry of National Security, Immigration, and Citizenship, the Government has issued the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship (Deprivation of Citizenship) Order, 2025. This Order has resulted in the revocation of citizenship from 13 individuals and their dependents who were found to have failed to pay the statutory minimum investment required under the CBI Programme, despite having indicated otherwise in their applications.

Key Statistics

The investigation stemmed from a review of 158 redacted applications and contracts with 2 International Marketing Agents linked to suspicious practices. The Ministry contacted 158 identified individuals. Of these:

32 individuals paid their outstanding investment balance,
13 admitted to non-payment of the required sums and took no corrective action,
1 individual requested a hearing before a Commission of Inquiry, and
the remaining individuals are in dialogue with the Ministry to settle outstanding investment balances.

Consequences and Actions

After careful consideration, exercising powers under Sections 8 and 10 of the Citizenship Act to issue deprivation orders in March 2025, the Ministry issued the Saint Christopher and Nevis Citizenship (Deprivation of Citizenship) Order, 2025 on the basis of false representation and willful concealment of material facts, and in the interest of the public good.

In tandem with these efforts, the CIU has permanently blacklisted 2 International Marketing Agents – Latitude Consultancy and RIF Trust – for their role in marketing the CBI Programme at investment amounts below the statutory minimum and misleading clients, clear violations of the laws governing the programme.

Termination of Investment Agreement

Additionally, the Government has terminated its investment agreement with MSR Media SKN Ltd and MSR Hotels & Co. Ltd, following multiple breaches of their contractual obligations. These include failures to renovate and operate key hospitality and tourism infrastructure, employ agreed numbers of local citizens, and deliver promised film productions.

Conclusion

The Government reiterates its zero-tolerance policy toward abuse of the CBI Programme and remains resolute in enforcing its regulations to ensure that only credible, compliant investors benefit from citizenship of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the Citizenship by Investment Programme?

A: The Citizenship by Investment Programme is a programme that allows individuals to obtain citizenship of! Saint Kitts and Nevis in exchange for a minimum investment in the country.

Q: What are the consequences of failing to pay the statutory minimum investment?

A: Individuals who fail to pay the statutory minimum investment may have their citizenship revoked and may face other penalties.

Q: How can I stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments regarding the CBI Programme?

A: You can subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media to stay informed about the latest news and developments regarding the CBI Programme.