Program Overview
Saint Lucia's Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) was established in 2015 under the Citizenship by Investment Act (No. 14 of 2015). It is administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) and allows qualifying individuals to obtain Saint Lucian citizenship through an approved economic contribution.
Programme Under Reform After Galaxy Scandal
Saint Lucia's CBI programme is undergoing its most significant overhaul since inception, following the Caribbean Galaxy scandal — the largest CBI scandal in Caribbean history (~5,000 passports sold below minimum thresholds). The government is proposing to restore the 2015 CBI structure with a 500-application annual cap, US$3M net worth requirement, and enhanced due diligence. Despite this, Saint Lucia was not included in the US December 2025 visa restrictions (unlike Antigua and Dominica), which strengthens its competitive position. Biometric ePassports (machine-readable, ICAO-compliant) continue rolling out through 2026. See Galaxy Scandal, Reforms & 2026 Rules, and US Visa Restrictions for full details.
July 2024 Threshold Increase & 2026 Harmonized Reforms
Following the Caribbean CBI Memorandum of Understanding signed in early 2024, Saint Lucia raised its minimum investment thresholds effective July 2024. Effective 2026, all five Caribbean CBI nations have implemented harmonized reforms: new CBI citizens receive an initial 5-year passport; to obtain the full 10-year passport, applicants must complete a short orientation programme, spend 30 days in Saint Lucia, and register biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans). A regional regulatory body is now operational with uniform standards. All applications can be filed via digital CBI platform. See Reforms & 2026 Rules for full details. Always confirm current pricing and requirements at cipsaintlucia.com.
Key Advantages
30-day orientation & residency requirement for 10-year passport upgrade. Dual citizenship allowed. Include spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and siblings. Visa-free access to 145+ countries including UK, EU Schengen, Singapore, Hong Kong. Only Caribbean CBI with a refundable government bond option. CBI revenue channeled to newly established Sovereign Wealth Fund (Feb 2025). Biometric ePassports (machine-readable, ICAO-compliant) rolling out through 2026: 5-year initial validity, 10-year after orientation. Not included in US Dec 2025 visa restrictions (unlike Antigua and Dominica). Family members can be added within 5 years. Digital application filing available. CBI investors exempt from Alien Landholding License and stamp duty/transfer tax (~12% savings).
Caribbean Galaxy Scandal & CBI Controversy
Largest CBI Scandal in Caribbean History
The Caribbean Galaxy scandal is the most significant controversy in the history of Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programmes. Chinese-linked firm Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate Ltd. sold approximately 5,000 Saint Lucia passports at roughly US$65,000 each — far below the official minimum of US$100,000 (the NEF donation threshold at the time). This massive underpricing raises serious questions about programme oversight, due diligence standards, and the disposition of CBI funds during the period in question.
Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Entity involved | Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate Ltd. (Galaxy Group) — Chinese-linked firm |
| Estimated passports sold | ~5,000 |
| Price per passport | ~US$65,000 (official minimum was US$100,000 donation) |
| Linked CBI project | Canelles Resort, Anse Canelles, Micoud — SUSPENDED |
| Legal proceedings | MSR Media filed RICO lawsuit (2024) against Caribbean Galaxy and named government officials; dismissed without prejudice Dec 2024; underlying disputes unresolved |
| Court ruling | Hilaire-Chastanet CIP court ruling regarding prior programme administration |
| CBI application surge | Applications surged 424% to 5,642 in 2023–2024 period |
| CBI revenue | EC$240.3 million (US$89 million) in 2023–2024 |
Impact & Implications
- The scandal has severely damaged confidence in the Saint Lucia CBI programme's historical oversight
- The 424% surge in applications (to 5,642) during 2023–2024 is now viewed through the lens of the Galaxy controversy, with questions about how many of those applications went through proper channels
- The Canelles Resort — Galaxy's flagship CBI real estate project — is suspended with no timeline for resolution
- Political controversy continues into 2025–2026, with the Hilaire-Chastanet CIP court ruling adding a legal dimension to the dispute over prior programme administration
- The scandal has accelerated reform proposals, including the 500-application annual cap and US$3 million net worth requirement (see Reforms)
- International scrutiny has increased, including from the United States government (see US Visa Restrictions)
Investor Advisory
Prospective CBI applicants should be aware that the Galaxy scandal has placed the Saint Lucia programme under heightened international scrutiny. The government's response — proposing aggressive reforms and establishing the Sovereign Wealth Fund — suggests a commitment to restoring programme integrity. However, applicants should conduct independent legal due diligence, use only CIU-authorized agents, and avoid any intermediaries offering discounted or expedited processing outside official channels. Verify all programme details at cipsaintlucia.com.
Investment Options
| Option | Minimum Investment | Return | Holding Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Economic Fund (NEF) | USD $240,000 (single applicant, as of July 2024) | Non-refundable donation | N/A |
| Real Estate | USD $300,000 (increased from $200K in 2024) | Resalable after hold period; ALHL & stamp duty exempt (~12% savings) | 5 years (10-12 mo. processing) |
| Government Bonds | USD $300,000 | Non-interest bearing, returned after hold | 5 years |
| Enterprise Project | USD $3,500,000 (solo) / $1,000,000 (joint, min. total $6M) | Business investment | Varies |
Option 1: National Economic Fund (NEF)
Most Popular & Lowest Cost Option
A non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund, which finances government-sponsored projects in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and other national development priorities.
| Applicant Type | Contribution (as of July 2024) |
|---|---|
| Single applicant | USD $240,000 |
| Applicant + spouse | USD $275,000 |
| Family of 4 (applicant + spouse + 2 dependents) | USD $300,000 |
| Each additional dependent | USD $15,000 - $25,000 |
Why Choose NEF?
Lowest total cost. Simplest process. No property management required. No holding period. Fastest processing. Best option for individuals and small families primarily seeking passport benefits.
Option 2: Real Estate Investment
Purchase an approved real estate development. The property must be pre-approved by the CIU. The investment must be maintained for a minimum of 5 years before the property can be resold (and the next buyer may also qualify for CBI).
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum investment | USD $300,000 (increased from $200,000 in 2024) |
| Holding period | 5 years minimum |
| Processing time | 10–12 months |
| ALHL exemption | CIP investors exempt from Alien Landholding License |
| Tax exemption | Exempt from stamp duty and transfer tax (~12% savings) |
| Rental income | Permitted during holding period |
| Resale | After 5 years; next buyer may also qualify for CBI |
Approved Real Estate Projects
The CIU maintains a list of approved developments. These typically include luxury resorts, hotel developments, and branded residences. Projects must meet strict criteria including:
- Pre-approval by the CIU Board
- Located in Saint Lucia
- Minimum project value thresholds
- Developer track record and financial backing
Check the CIU official website for the current list of approved projects.
CIU-Approved Real Estate Developments
The following projects have been approved by the Citizenship by Investment Unit. Project availability and status change periodically — always confirm with the CIU or an authorized agent before committing funds.
A'ILA Resorts, Villas & Residences — ACTIVE (Only Current CBI Project)
Developer: Global Capital Caribbean LLC / Atlas Group (Texas) | Location: Mount Pimard, Rodney Bay | Total Investment: US$1.3 billion
| Phase | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | TheLifeCo Wellness Hotel (65 rooms) | Opened Summer 2025 |
| Phase 2 | A'ila Palm family hotel (153 rooms), Blue Zones Shopping Center, spa/fitness | 2026 |
| Phase 3 | A'ila Cove adults-only hotel (320 rooms), Sunset Residences (312 residential units), 90 luxury villas, Zenith Art & Conference Center, marina, 21 restaurants | 2027 |
CBI Investment: USD $300,000 (fractional) / $600,000 (full ownership). Projected 4% annual rental return. This is the only project actively accepting CBI investors as of early 2026. PM Pierre and Tourism Minister Hilaire toured the site in May 2025, affirming government support.
Canelles Resort — SUSPENDED (Caribbean Galaxy Scandal)
Developer: Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate Ltd. (Galaxy Group) | Location: Anse Canelles, Micoud | Planned: 330 rooms + 380 apartments (160 acres)
Status: Suspended. This project is at the centre of the Caribbean Galaxy scandal — the largest CBI scandal in Caribbean history. Caribbean Galaxy reportedly sold approximately 5,000 passports at ~US$65,000 each, well below the official US$100K minimum donation. MSR Media (a former marketing partner) filed a RICO lawsuit in 2024 against Caribbean Galaxy and named government officials, alleging fraud and mismanagement of CBI investor funds. The lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice in December 2024 but the underlying dispute remains unresolved. The project remains nominally listed on the CIU website but is not actively accepting new CBI investors. Political controversy continues into 2025–2026.
Investor warning: Do not commit funds to this project. The Galaxy scandal has made this project non-viable for CBI investment. Seek independent legal advice before engaging with any Galaxy-affiliated entities.
Black Bay (Range Developments / Ritz-Carlton) — DEFUNCT
Developer: Range Developments | Location: Black Bay, Laborie (SW coast) | Planned: Ritz-Carlton-branded luxury resort
Status: Defunct. Range Developments has threatened legal action against the government of Saint Lucia for the return of invested funds. The developer has shifted its focus to the Six Senses St Kitts project instead. This project is no longer viable for CBI investment and should not be considered by prospective applicants.
Alpina Saint Lucia Hotel & Alpina Square — UNCERTAIN
Developer: Desert Star Holdings (DSH) / Alpina Management AG | Location: Vieux Fort (part of Pearl of the Caribbean master plan) | Planned: 231-room hotel + 17 serviced apartments + mixed-use commercial (34 SOHO units)
Status: Uncertain. Part of the larger Pearl of the Caribbean integrated resort. While a horse-racing track is operational, the hotel development approvals were never officially promulgated. Construction progress has been extremely limited. The viability of the overall DSH master plan remains unclear.
Investor warning: Verify current acceptance status directly with the CIU before considering this project.
Cabot Saint Lucia (Luxury Golf Resort) — NOT a CBI Project
Developer: Cabot Collection | Location: Point Hardy, Cap Estate (north) | Type: Luxury golf resort & residential community
Status: Active development. Cabot Saint Lucia features a world-class golf course ranked #76 in the world, with luxury villas priced at US$5.6M–$12M. While this is a notable high-end real estate development, it is not a CBI-approved project. Buyers do not qualify for citizenship through purchasing Cabot properties. The project contributes to Saint Lucia's positioning as a luxury destination and adds to the island's ~2,000 new hotel rooms in the development pipeline.
Key Points for Real Estate Investors
- As of early 2026, A'ILA Resorts is the ONLY project actively under construction and accepting new CBI investors.
- Canelles Resort is suspended due to the Caribbean Galaxy scandal; Black Bay / Ritz-Carlton is defunct; Alpina Hotel has uncertain status with no meaningful construction progress.
- Previously discussed projects such as Fairmont, Harbor Club (Curio by Hilton), Sugar Beach, Royalton, and Cabot Saint Lucia are not CBI-approved real estate projects — they are independent hotel/resort developments.
- Total hotel pipeline across the island: approximately ~2,000 new rooms across various projects (Secrets, Cas en Bas, A'ILA, Cabot, and others).
- The Saint Lucia government is proposing aggressive CBI reforms in response to the Galaxy scandal (see Reforms).
- CBI real estate investors are exempt from the Alien Landholding License and stamp duty / transfer tax (~12% cost savings).
- Always verify the current approved project list at cipsaintlucia.com and engage only CIU-authorized agents.
Option 3: Government Bonds
Purchase non-interest-bearing government bonds with a minimum investment of USD $300,000. The bonds are held for 5 years and the principal is returned after the holding period (minus administrative fees). Saint Lucia is the only Caribbean CBI programme offering a fully refundable investment option.
| Minimum investment | USD $300,000 |
| Interest rate | 0% (non-interest bearing) |
| Holding period | 5 years |
| Additional fees per dependent | USD $25,000 - $35,000 |
| Administration fee | USD $50,000 |
Option 4: Enterprise Projects
Invest in an approved enterprise project in a priority sector. This option is designed for significant business investments that create jobs and contribute to economic development.
| Solo investment | USD $3,500,000 minimum |
| Joint investment (per person) | USD $1,000,000 minimum (total project min. $6,000,000) |
| Priority sectors | Specialty restaurants, cruise ports/marinas, agro-processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, ports/bridges/roads, research institutions, offshore universities |
CBI Reforms & 2026 Harmonized Rules
CARICOM-Wide Harmonized Reforms (Effective 2026)
Effective 2026, all five CARICOM CBI programmes (Saint Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda) have implemented harmonized reforms under the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding. These changes apply to all new CBI applicants:
| Reform | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial passport validity | New CBI citizens receive a 5-year passport (previously 10 years). To obtain the full 10-year passport, applicants must complete the orientation and residency requirements below. |
| 30-day orientation programme | All CBI citizens must complete a short orientation programme and spend a minimum of 30 days in Saint Lucia to upgrade to a 10-year passport. |
| Biometric registration | All CBI applicants must provide fingerprints and facial scans. New passports are biometric ePassports (machine-readable, ICAO-compliant) with embedded biometric chips, continuing rollout through 2026. |
| Enhanced due diligence | More rigorous checks on source of funds and expanded security background checks across all jurisdictions. |
| Real estate sustainability standards | Real estate investments must be in approved, high-quality, eco-friendly projects meeting new sustainability criteria. |
| Family additions | Family members can be added within 5 years of the principal’s citizenship grant — including newborn children and new spouses. |
| Digital filing | All applications can now be filed online through a dedicated digital CBI platform. |
Key Change: 5-Year Initial Passport
The most significant reform for applicants is the new two-tier passport system. CBI citizens initially receive a 5-year passport. To upgrade to the standard 10-year passport, they must: (1) complete the orientation programme, (2) spend at least 30 days in Saint Lucia, and (3) register biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans). This requirement applies uniformly across all five Caribbean CBI programmes effective 2026. Sources: North Immigration, Immigrant Invest, Global Citizen Solutions.
Saint Lucia-Specific Proposed Reforms (2025–2026)
In the wake of the Caribbean Galaxy scandal and growing international pressure, the government is proposing to restore the original 2015 CBI structure with significantly tighter controls. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Ernest Hilaire announced plans to amend the Citizenship by Investment Act with the goal of restoring the programme's "exclusive high-end" status. The proposed reforms represent a dramatic tightening:
| Reform | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual quota | Cap of 500 applications per year (compared to 5,642 applications and 1,171 approvals in 2023–24) |
| Net worth requirement | Minimum net worth of US$3 million for all applicants |
| 5-year initial passport | New CBI citizens receive a 5-year passport, not a lifetime document; renewal subject to compliance checks |
| Biometric data collection | Mandatory fingerprints and facial scans for all applicants; biometric ePassports |
| Physical residency | 30-day physical residency requirement in Saint Lucia for passport upgrade to 10-year validity |
| Enhanced due diligence | Strengthened source-of-funds verification, expanded security checks, and mandatory interviews |
| Mandatory escrow | Investment funds must be held in escrow accounts within Saint Lucia (not offshore) |
| Programme structure | Return to the original 2015 CBI framework with modernized oversight and accountability measures |
Impact on Applicants
If enacted, the Saint Lucia-specific reforms would dramatically reduce the number of eligible applicants. The US$3 million net worth requirement alone would disqualify the vast majority of current CBI applicants globally. The 500-application annual cap — compared to 5,642 applications received in the most recent fiscal year — means competition for limited slots will be intense. The reforms are a direct response to the Caribbean Galaxy scandal and US government pressure on Caribbean CBI programmes. Prospective investors should monitor cipsaintlucia.com for legislative updates.
Regional Regulatory Body (2026)
A regional regulatory body is now operational (2026) with:
- Uniform due diligence and compliance standards across all 5 programmes
- Annual compliance reports for each jurisdiction
- 30-day minimum residency/orientation requirement across all programmes
- Coordinated restricted-nationality policies
- Biometric e-passports with 5-year initial validity (10 years after orientation)
- Digital application filing across all jurisdictions
US Visa Restrictions & International Context
The international environment for Caribbean CBI programmes has shifted significantly in 2025–2026, with the United States expressing growing concerns about programme integrity and national security implications.
US Government Actions (2025)
| Date | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | US memo on Caribbean CBI | United States issued a formal memo expressing concerns about the integrity of Caribbean CBI programmes, citing national security and due diligence gaps |
| December 2025 | Visa restrictions imposed | US imposed visa restrictions on Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica CBI passport holders, effectively downgrading the travel value of those passports |
| December 2025 | Saint Lucia NOT included | Saint Lucia was spared from the US visa restrictions — creating a significant competitive advantage for the reformed programme |
Competitive Advantage for Saint Lucia
The US decision to exclude Saint Lucia from CBI visa restrictions is a major positive signal for the programme's credibility. While Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica passport holders now face additional US visa hurdles, Saint Lucia CBI citizens retain their existing travel privileges. This positions Saint Lucia favourably among the five Caribbean CBI jurisdictions, particularly for applicants who value US travel access. The government's proactive reform proposals (500-application cap, US$3M net worth, enhanced due diligence) likely contributed to this favourable treatment.
Ongoing Risk
Saint Lucia's favourable status is not guaranteed. The US continues to monitor all Caribbean CBI programmes. Further scandals, inadequate reform implementation, or failure to address Galaxy-related concerns could result in Saint Lucia being added to future restriction lists. The programme's long-term viability depends on the government's ability to implement and enforce the proposed reforms credibly.
Impact on Caribbean CBI Landscape
- Antigua & Barbuda: US visa restrictions imposed Dec 2025; programme under pressure
- Dominica: US visa restrictions imposed Dec 2025; programme under pressure
- Saint Lucia: Not included in restrictions; competitive advantage; reform proposals underway
- St. Kitts & Nevis: Monitoring situation; previously experienced similar scrutiny
- Grenada: E-2 treaty with US remains a unique selling point; monitoring situation
Sovereign Wealth Fund
In February 2025, the Cabinet of Saint Lucia approved the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) funded primarily by CBI/CIP proceeds. This represents a structural shift in how citizenship-by-investment revenue is managed.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | February 2025 (Cabinet approval) |
| Funding source | CBI/CIP programme proceeds |
| Objective 1 | Sustainable economic development |
| Objective 2 | Intergenerational wealth preservation |
| Objective 3 | Climate resilience and adaptation |
| Governance | Independent board; ESG investment principles |
Why This Matters for CBI Investors
The SWF provides assurance that CBI contributions finance durable national development rather than recurrent government spending. This model follows international best practice (comparable to Norway's Government Pension Fund and Trinidad & Tobago's Heritage and Stabilisation Fund) and enhances the long-term credibility and sustainability of Saint Lucia's CBI programme.
Application Process
Step 1: Engage Authorized Agent
Applications must be submitted through a CIU-authorized agent (licensed law firm or service provider). The agent prepares and reviews all documentation.
Step 2: Compile Documents
Gather required documents: passport copies, birth certificates, police clearance, medical certificates, bank reference letters, proof of source of funds, professional references, CV/resume.
Step 3: Submit Application
Agent submits the complete application package to the CIU along with application and due diligence fees. All forms must be notarized.
Step 4: Mandatory Interview
Since September 2023, all applicants aged 16+ must attend a mandatory interview (virtual or in-person). Interview fee: USD $500 per person. The interview assesses the applicant's background, source of funds, and motivations.
Step 5: Due Diligence
The CIU conducts thorough due diligence through international agencies. Background checks cover criminal history, financial history, security risks, and source of funds. Enhanced due diligence under the 2024 MOU has extended this phase to 4-5 months on average.
Step 6: Approval Decision
The CIU Board reviews the application and due diligence results. If approved, the applicant receives an Approval in Principle letter.
Step 7: Make Investment
Within a specified period after approval, the applicant must complete the qualifying investment (NEF payment, real estate purchase, bond purchase, or enterprise investment).
Step 8: Certificate of Citizenship
Upon confirmation of investment, the Certificate of Registration as a Citizen is issued. Passport application can then be submitted.
Step 9: Passport Issuance
Saint Lucian biometric ePassport issued with an initial validity of 5 years. To upgrade to the full 10-year passport, new CBI citizens must complete the orientation programme, spend at least 30 days in Saint Lucia, and register biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans). Visa-free access to 145+ countries. Total end-to-end timeline is typically 6-12 months (10-12 months for real estate route).
Fees & Cost Breakdown
| Fee Type | Main Applicant | Spouse | Dependent (under 18) | Dependent (18+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $2,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Due diligence fee | $8,000 | $5,000 | $0 | $5,000 |
| Interview fee | $500 | $500 | $0 (under 16) | $500 |
| Processing fee | $2,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Passport fee | $250 | $250 | $250 | $250 |
Example: Total Cost for Family of 4 (NEF Route, post July 2024)
NEF contribution: ~$300,000 + Application fees: $5,000 + Due diligence: $13,000 + Interviews: $1,500 + Processing: $5,000 + Passports: $1,000 + Agent fees: $10,000-$25,000 = Total: ~$337,000 - $352,000
Benefits of St. Lucian Citizenship
Visa-Free Travel
Access 145+ countries visa-free or visa-on-arrival, including UK, EU Schengen zone, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, and most of the Caribbean, Central and South America.
Minimal Residency
No requirement to live in Saint Lucia before or during the application. A ~30-day physical presence requirement within 5 years of citizenship has been agreed by all 5 Caribbean CBI nations and is being codified into legislation. Currently still primarily investment-based.
Tax Optimization
No tax on foreign-sourced income, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, no wealth tax. Territorial tax system.
Dual Citizenship
Saint Lucia allows dual citizenship. No need to renounce existing nationality. Your current citizenship is not affected.
Family Inclusion
Include spouse, children (up to 30 if in full-time education or financially dependent), parents (65+), grandparents, and unmarried siblings (under 18).
Business Access
Right to live, work, and do business in Saint Lucia and CARICOM member states. Easier access to banking and financial services.
Eligibility & Restrictions
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have no criminal record, and demonstrate a legitimate source of funds. Since the 2024 MOU, enhanced due diligence standards apply across all Caribbean CBI programmes.
Restricted Nationalities
The following nationalities are prohibited from applying to the Saint Lucia CBI programme:
- Russia — suspended 15 February 2023
- Belarus — suspended 15 February 2023
- Iran — suspended 21 February 2023
- Ukraine — restricted due to conflict-zone verification challenges
Reason: inability to complete full background checks and international sanctions compliance. Additional nationalities may face enhanced screening. Confirm current restrictions with the CIU.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum age 18 (main applicant)
- Clean criminal record (no convictions, no pending charges)
- Legitimate, documented source of funds
- Good health (medical certificate required)
- No prior visa refusal to a country with which St. Lucia has visa-free travel (unless explained)
- Not a national of a restricted country
- Mandatory interview for all applicants aged 16+ (since September 2023)
Programme Statistics (2023–2024)
| Metric | 2022–2023 | 2023–2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applications received | 1,076 | 5,642 | +424% |
| Applications approved | 544 | 1,171 | +115% |
| Applications denied | — | 77 | — |
| Revenue | — | EC$240.3M | +296% |
| Most popular route | Real estate (~70% of applications) | ||
Rapid Growth Context & Galaxy Scandal
The unprecedented 424% surge in applications is now viewed in the context of the Caribbean Galaxy scandal. While some of the increase was driven by anticipation of the July 2024 threshold increases (applicants rushing to lock in the $100,000 NEF rate), a significant portion of the volume is linked to Caribbean Galaxy's operations, which reportedly sold ~5,000 passports at ~US$65,000 — below the official minimum. The EC$240.3 million (US$89M) in revenue represents a record for the programme, but questions remain about how much passed through proper channels. Following the proposed reforms (500 annual cap, $3M net worth requirement), application volumes are expected to drop dramatically.
Sovereign Wealth Fund (Est. February 2025)
CBI revenue is now being channeled into Saint Lucia's newly established Sovereign Wealth Fund, approved by Cabinet in February 2025. The fund supports climate adaptation, sustainable economic development, and intergenerational wealth preservation under ESG principles. See the dedicated SWF section above for full details.
Turkish Citizens & CBI
Turkey fully allows dual and multiple citizenship, making Turkish nationals eligible for Saint Lucia's CBI programme without any requirement to renounce their Turkish passport. Saint Lucia likewise permits dual citizenship with no renunciation requirement. Turkish citizens represent approximately 4% of global CBI applications across all Caribbean programmes, with growing interest since 2020 driven by Turkish lira depreciation and geopolitical considerations.
Dual Citizenship — Turkey & Saint Lucia
| Item | Turkey | Saint Lucia |
|---|---|---|
| Allows dual citizenship | Yes, fully | Yes, fully |
| Renunciation required | No | No |
| Citizenship to children | Yes, automatic | Yes, CBI citizens can pass citizenship to future children |
| Notification obligation | Not required for dual citizenship holders (Blue Card / mavi kart system applies only to those who previously renounced Turkish citizenship) | None |
Passport Power Comparison
| Metric | Saint Lucia Passport | Turkey Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Global ranking | 27th–32nd (varies by index) | ~94th |
| Visa-free destinations | 145+ | ~110 |
| Schengen visa-free | Yes | No |
| UK visa-free | Yes (6 months) | No |
| Singapore visa-free | Yes | No |
| South Korea visa-free | Yes | No |
| Hong Kong visa-free | Yes | No |
Key Travel Gains for Turkish Citizens
A Saint Lucia passport provides Turkish citizens with visa-free access to the Schengen Area, United Kingdom, Singapore, South Korea, and Hong Kong — all destinations that currently require a visa for Turkish passport holders. Saint Lucia is popular among Turkish applicants for its lower cost compared to Antigua and St. Kitts, clean programme reputation, and strong visa-free travel coverage.
Important Considerations for Turkish Applicants
Turkish Military Service Obligations
Turkish male citizens retain military service obligations even as dual citizens. Acquiring Saint Lucian citizenship does not exempt Turkish males from military service. Options include completing service or paying the exemption fee (dövizle askerlik) of approximately €8,000–€10,000 for those who have lived abroad for 3+ years. This is an important consideration for male CBI applicants under age 41.
Tax Implications
Turkey taxes based on residency, not citizenship. Becoming a Saint Lucian citizen does not trigger Turkish tax obligations if the individual is not tax-resident in Turkey. Saint Lucia has no personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no wealth tax — offering potential tax planning benefits for Turkish business owners who relocate their tax residency. The EC$/US$ peg (EC$2.70 = US$1.00) also provides currency stability compared to the volatile Turkish lira.
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Turkish CBI share globally | ~4% of all Caribbean CBI applications |
| SLU passport rank | 27th–32nd globally |
| Turkey passport rank | ~94th globally |
| SLU visa-free destinations | 145+ |
| SLU personal income tax | None (territorial system) |
| Turkish military exemption fee | €8,000–€10,000 |
| Dual citizenship permitted | Yes (both countries) |
Sources: Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CBI Index, Henley Passport Index.
Caribbean CBI Comparison
| Country | Min. Donation | Min. Real Estate | Processing Time | Visa-Free Countries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Lucia | $240,000 | $300,000 | 6-12 months | 145+ |
| Dominica | $200,000 | $200,000 | 4-8 months | 145+ |
| Grenada | $235,000 | $270,000 | 4-8 months | 145+ |
| St. Kitts & Nevis | $250,000 | $325,000 | 4-8 months | 156+ |
| Antigua & Barbuda | $230,000 | $300,000 | 4-8 months | 150+ |
US Visa Restrictions (December 2025)
In December 2025, the United States imposed visa restrictions on Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica CBI passport holders. Saint Lucia, Grenada, and St. Kitts & Nevis were NOT included in these restrictions. This is a critical factor for applicants who value US travel access — it significantly impacts the comparison above.
Post-MOU Landscape (2024–2026)
Following the Caribbean CBI MOU signed in early 2024, all five Caribbean CBI nations raised their thresholds. Saint Lucia remains competitive with strong due diligence, a growing economy, and comparable visa-free travel. Unlike Grenada, it does not have an E-2 treaty with the US. Key regional developments:
- US visa restrictions (Dec 2025): Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica CBI passport holders affected; Saint Lucia spared (see US Visa Restrictions)
- Caribbean Galaxy scandal: ~5,000 passports sold below threshold in Saint Lucia; programme undergoing major reforms (see Galaxy Scandal)
- ~30-day residency requirement agreed across all 5 nations
- Regional regulatory body operational in 2026 with uniform standards and annual compliance reports
- ePassports: machine-readable, ICAO-compliant; 5-year initial validity for CBI citizens; 10-year after completing 30-day orientation and biometric registration
- Saint Lucia proposing additional reforms: 500-application annual cap, $3M net worth requirement, and return to 2015 structure (see Reforms)
- Only Caribbean CBI with a refundable bond option and newly established Sovereign Wealth Fund
Thresholds are subject to change — always verify at cipsaintlucia.com.