Frequently Asked Questions

No, you do not need to visit Saint Lucia in person to register a company. The entire incorporation process for an International Business Company (IBC) can be completed remotely through a licensed registered agent based on the island. You will need to provide notarized copies of your passport, proof of address, and a bank reference letter, all of which can be submitted electronically or by courier. A local attorney-at-law must sign a Statutory Declaration confirming compliance with the International Business Companies Act, but your registered agent handles this on your behalf.

Company registration in Saint Lucia is fast by regional standards. Registration documents are typically processed within 2 business days, and the Certificate of Incorporation is issued within 3 to 7 business days. An IBC can often be fully registered in as little as 48 to 72 hours if all documents are in order. Post-registration steps such as obtaining a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Inland Revenue Department and registering with the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) may add a few additional days.

No. Saint Lucia imposes no residency or nationality restrictions on directors or shareholders for either domestic companies or IBCs. You need a minimum of one director and one shareholder, and the same person can fill both roles. Directors and shareholders may be individuals or corporate entities of any nationality. However, every company must appoint a registered agent and maintain a registered office within Saint Lucia -- these are typically provided by licensed corporate service providers for an annual fee.

There is no minimum paid-up capital requirement for an IBC in Saint Lucia -- you only need to issue at least one share. The standard authorized share capital is typically set at USD 50,000 divided into 50,000 shares of USD 1.00 each, but this is a nominal figure and can be adjusted to suit your needs. Government registration fees are based on the authorized share capital amount, so keeping it at the standard level minimizes costs. For domestic companies limited by shares, there is similarly no mandated minimum capital.

Yes, several banks in Saint Lucia allow non-residents to open accounts remotely, though the process requires thorough documentation. You will typically need a valid passport, proof of residential address, a bank reference letter from your current bank, proof of source of funds, and your company incorporation documents. Some banks may also require a video verification call. Major institutions such as the Bank of Saint Lucia, 1st National Bank, and the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB) all offer corporate banking services to foreign-owned companies, including online banking access.

Saint Lucia offers several business structures: the International Business Company (IBC), which is the most popular for foreign investors due to its tax advantages and privacy protections; the Company Limited by Shares (public or private), which is the standard structure for local trading; the Limited Liability Company (LLC); the sole proprietorship; and the partnership. IBCs are governed by the International Business Companies Act and cannot conduct business with Saint Lucian residents or own real estate on the island. If you plan to operate locally, a domestic company limited by shares is the appropriate choice.

Yes. Every company incorporated in Saint Lucia, including IBCs, must appoint a licensed registered agent who maintains a registered office on the island. The registered agent is responsible for filing statutory documents, maintaining the company register, and serving as the official point of contact with the Registry of Companies and Intellectual Property (ROCIP). A local attorney-at-law must also sign a Statutory Declaration as part of the incorporation filing. Annual registered agent fees typically range from USD 500 to USD 1,500 depending on the provider and services included.

Several programmes exist: BOOST Saint Lucia (virtual incubator by Invest Saint Lucia), the Youth Economy Agency (grants, loans, mentorship for ages 18–35), the MSME Loan-Grant Facility (70% grant / 30% loan, no collateral required), the OECS Global Startup Hub (with Draper University Silicon Valley pathway), and FirstAngels Caribbean (angel investment network). The Creative Economy Grant Fund offers EC$5,000–$10,000 for creative sector entrepreneurs.

A domestic company operating in Saint Lucia is subject to corporate income tax at a flat rate of 30% on locally sourced income. In addition, businesses must charge Value Added Tax (VAT) at the standard rate of 12.5% (7% for tourism accommodation, 10% for hotel food/beverage and related tourism services). Employers are required to contribute to the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) at 5% of each employee's insurable earnings, while employees contribute 5% as well. There is no capital gains tax, no wealth tax, and no inheritance tax in Saint Lucia, which makes the overall tax burden comparatively favorable.

A domestic company can conduct business within Saint Lucia and is taxed at 30% on locally sourced income. An International Business Company (IBC) is designed exclusively for international operations: it cannot trade with Saint Lucian residents, own local real estate, or conduct banking or insurance business on the island. In return, IBCs enjoy exemption from tax on all foreign-sourced income, freedom from exchange controls, no stamp duty on asset transfers, and no withholding tax on dividends, royalties, or interest paid to non-residents. IBCs also benefit from stronger privacy protections, as shareholder and director information is not part of the public record.

Since July 2021, all IBCs are technically subject to the standard 30% corporate income tax rate under Saint Lucia's territorial tax system. However, in practice IBCs typically pay zero tax because foreign-sourced income is exempt from taxation, and IBCs are prohibited from earning local income. Dividends and capital gains earned by an IBC are not subject to corporate income tax regardless of source. IBCs also pay no stamp duty on transfers of property, shares, or securities, and no withholding tax applies to remittances of dividends, royalties, interest, or management fees paid to persons outside Saint Lucia. The main cost is the annual government renewal fee and registered agent fee.

Saint Lucia has very limited double taxation agreements. The only formal DTA in force is the CARICOM Double Taxation Agreement, which covers the member states of the Caribbean Community. There are no bilateral double taxation treaties with the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or EU member states. However, Saint Lucia has entered into Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEAs) through the OECD's Common Reporting Standard (CRS) with numerous jurisdictions including EU countries, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The absence of broad DTAs means you should consult a tax advisor about potential double taxation in your home country.

Individual income tax returns must be filed by March 31 of each year for the preceding tax year. Corporate tax returns are due within three months of the company's financial year-end. Late filing incurs a penalty of 5% on the chargeable income, plus interest on any unpaid tax. VAT returns are filed monthly or quarterly depending on the business's turnover, with payment due by the 21st of the month following the reporting period. All filings are submitted to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), which also offers an online portal for tax services.

Saint Lucia offers generous tax incentives under the Fiscal Incentives Act and the Tourism Incentives Act. Qualifying businesses can receive income tax holidays of up to 15 years, duty-free importation of equipment and materials, and exemption from property tax on new developments. The specific incentive package depends on your sector, the size of the investment, and the number of jobs created. Tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture-related businesses are particularly favored. Applications for incentives are processed through Invest Saint Lucia, the government's investment promotion agency.

Personal income tax in Saint Lucia is levied only on income exceeding the tax-free allowance, which was increased to XCD 40,000 per year (approximately USD 14,815) in the 2025/26 budget. The tax system is progressive: 15% on the first EC$15,000 of taxable income, 20% on the next EC$15,000, and 30% above that. The top rate of 30% effectively applies to gross income above approximately EC$70,000 per year. There is no tax on worldwide income for non-domiciled residents — only income sourced from Saint Lucia is taxable. This makes it attractive for business owners who earn primarily from international sources while residing on the island.

The 2025/26 budget introduced several significant tax changes:

• Personal allowance raised to EC$40,000 (from EC$25,000) — meaning the first ~US$14,815 of income is tax-free
• Pension income now fully exempt from income tax
• VAT removed from 70+ food items (effective July 2026): chicken, rice, milk, flour, bread, eggs, sugar, cooking oil, canned fish, baby food, and others — reclassified from “exempt” to “zero-rated,” enabling businesses to reclaim input VAT
• Airport departure charge halved: EC$68 reduced to EC$34
• VAT waiver on building materials extended to May 2026 (plywood, lumber, solar systems)
• Tax amnesty extended to May 2026 — businesses can settle outstanding tax obligations with reduced penalties

See Legal & Tax for full details on tax rates and brackets.

Yes, foreigners can buy land and property in Saint Lucia, but they must first obtain an Alien Landholding License under the Aliens (Licensing) Act. Once the license is granted, foreign buyers have the same ownership rights as citizens, including the ability to sell, lease, or develop their property. The license is valid for the buyer's lifetime for one specific property and does not require renewal. Foreigners who acquire citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) are exempt from needing the license entirely.

The Alien Landholding License is a government permit that authorizes non-nationals to legally own property in Saint Lucia. The process begins with applying for a Certificate of Eligibility from the Citizenship by Investment Unit, which costs USD 3,000 for a 1-year certificate or USD 10,000 for a 10-year certificate. The license itself costs between USD 2,500 and USD 20,000 depending on the size of the property. Processing typically takes 3 to 6 months and requires a background check, financial disclosures, and details about the intended property. Additional purchase costs include stamp duty of 2% and legal fees of 0.5% to 2.5% of the purchase price.

Any non-citizen who wishes to work in Saint Lucia must obtain a work permit from the Labour Department of the Ministry of Labour before starting employment. The employer must file an application justifying why a foreign national is needed and demonstrating that no suitable Saint Lucian or CARICOM national is available for the role. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of qualifications, a police clearance certificate, and medical records. Processing takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Temporary permits cover employment under one year, while long-term permits are available for contracts exceeding one year. Self-employed individuals must submit a business plan showing their contribution to the local economy.

Yes. Saint Lucia's Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) offers four pathways: a donation of USD 240,000 to the National Economic Fund (NEF) for a single applicant or family of up to four; a real estate investment of at least USD 300,000 in an approved project (held for 5 years); a refundable Government Bond of USD 500,000 (held for 5 years, returned at maturity); or an enterprise investment. Processing takes approximately 6 to 12 months, including enhanced due diligence and mandatory interview (post-July 2024 MOU). A Saint Lucian passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 145 countries, including the UK and Schengen zone. Family members including spouse, dependent children up to age 30, and parents/grandparents over age 55 can be included.

Yes. If you hold a work permit, your dependents (spouse and minor children) can apply for dependent permits to reside in Saint Lucia. Under the Citizenship by Investment Program, the principal applicant can include their spouse, dependent children up to age 30, children with disabilities of any age, dependent parents or grandparents over age 55, and unmarried siblings under age 18. Citizens of many countries (US, UK, Canada, EU, CARICOM) can visit without a visa for up to 6 weeks, and longer stays require applying for a residence permit through the Immigration Department.

Saint Lucia does not currently offer a dedicated retirement visa program. However, retirees can apply for a standard residence permit through the Immigration Department, or they can obtain citizenship through the CIP program which grants permanent residency and citizenship rights simultaneously. The "Live It" program, launched to attract remote workers and long-term visitors, allows individuals to live on the island while working remotely for employers abroad. Non-citizens who wish to stay beyond the initial visa-free period (typically 6 weeks) must apply for an extension or a residence permit.

Caribbean Galaxy, a Chinese-linked firm, sold approximately 5,000 Saint Lucia CBI passports at US$65,000 each — well below the required minimum investment threshold. The associated Canelles Resort development project has been SUSPENDED. The scandal prompted the government to propose significant CBI reforms, including a 500 applicants per year quota, a US$3 million net worth requirement for applicants, enhanced due diligence, mandatory interviews, and a 30-day residency requirement under the regional CBI harmonisation agreement. The Black Bay project has been declared DEFUNCT. Currently, A’ILA Saint Lucia (Range Developments) is the only active CBI-approved real estate project. See CBI page for full details.

When purchasing property in Saint Lucia, buyers pay a stamp duty of 2% of the property value, while sellers pay 2.5%. Legal fees typically range from 0.5% to 2.5% of the purchase price. Foreign buyers must additionally budget for the Alien Landholding License fee (USD 2,500 to 20,000) and the Certificate of Eligibility (USD 3,000 to 10,000). There is no annual property tax on residential property in most cases, though commercial properties may be subject to a property tax assessed by the local council. Real estate agent commissions are typically 5% and are paid by the seller.

Saint Lucia has approximately 12 banks, with major institutions including the Bank of Saint Lucia, 1st National Bank, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), CIBC FirstCaribbean, and the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB). All major banks offer business accounts with online banking, wire transfers, multi-currency accounts, and merchant services. Several banks permit remote account opening for non-residents with proper documentation. The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of XCD 2.70 = USD 1.00, which provides currency stability. International digital banking services such as Wise and Payoneer are also commonly used by businesses operating from the island.

Internet infrastructure in Saint Lucia has improved significantly in recent years. The main providers are Flow (Liberty Latin America) and Digicel, offering broadband speeds suitable for most business needs in urban areas like Castries, Rodney Bay, and Gros Islet. A fiber optic broadband network is being rolled out island-wide through a government agreement with development partners. Internet plans for 60 Mbps service cost approximately USD 43 to 55 per month. Mobile data (4G LTE) is widely available, with 10 GB plans running about USD 35. Connectivity is reliable in the main commercial areas, though more remote and rural locations may experience slower speeds.

Yes, but each foreign employee requires a work permit from the Ministry of Labour. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Saint Lucian or CARICOM national. CARICOM nationals with certain professional qualifications (university graduates, media workers, artists, musicians, sportspersons) can move more freely under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) free movement provisions. Work permit applications take 4 to 6 weeks to process. Employers are responsible for paying NIC contributions (5% employer share) for all employees, whether local or foreign. Minimum wage and labour law protections apply equally to foreign workers.

Castries, the capital, is the primary commercial and government hub, hosting the main port, most banks, government offices, and the Central Market. Rodney Bay in Gros Islet is the island's tourism and retail center, with the Baywalk Mall, the marina, numerous restaurants, and a growing number of professional service offices -- it is the preferred base for many expatriate business owners. Vieux Fort in the south is home to Hewanorra International Airport and the Vieux Fort Free Zone, which is designated for light manufacturing and export-oriented businesses. Soufriere, on the southwest coast, is the center of heritage tourism and eco-tourism businesses near the Pitons UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The co-working scene in Saint Lucia is still developing but growing, driven by the increase in digital nomads and remote workers attracted by the government's "Live It" program. Rodney Bay and Castries have a small but emerging number of shared workspace options. Several hotels and resorts also offer business centers with conference rooms and high-speed internet that can serve as temporary workspaces. For more permanent arrangements, commercial office space in Castries and Rodney Bay ranges from approximately USD 10 to 20 Per ft² per month. Many remote workers and entrepreneurs use cafes with reliable WiFi in the Rodney Bay area as informal co-working spaces.

Saint Lucia is a member of CARICOM, which operates a Common External Tariff (CET) on imports from non-member countries. Import duties vary by product category, and certain goods require import licenses from the Ministry of Commerce. Businesses in the Vieux Fort Free Zone enjoy duty-free importation of raw materials and equipment for export-oriented manufacturing. Exports from Saint Lucia to other CARICOM member states benefit from preferential tariff treatment under the single market. VAT at 12.5% is charged on imports at the point of entry. Saint Lucia also benefits from preferential trade agreements with the European Union under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of XCD 2.70 = USD 1.00. US dollars are widely accepted across the island, especially in tourist areas. Domestic companies are subject to exchange control regulations administered by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), requiring approvals for large foreign currency transactions. IBCs, however, are completely exempt from exchange controls, meaning they can freely hold, transfer, and transact in any currency without restriction. This is one of the major advantages of the IBC structure for international businesses.

Uber launched in Saint Lucia on January 27, 2026, but was ordered to halt operations in February 2026 due to regulatory disputes with the government, which stated the service launched “without government approval.” As of February 2026, Uber is not operational in Saint Lucia. Traditional taxis and minibuses remain the primary transport options. Local ride-hailing alternatives include Allez (WiAllez) (GPS-based, cashless, mainly northern coverage) and Tropicab. Taxis are unmetered — always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Yes. Penny Pinch is Saint Lucia's first and only licensed mobile wallet, regulated by the FSRA. It partners with Mastercard and Western Union (as of February 2025) for international transfers. DCash, the ECCB's digital currency, is also available through some banks. Both offer peer-to-peer payments and merchant transactions, though adoption is still growing.

The cost of living in Saint Lucia is approximately 40-55% lower than in the United States, though imported goods can be expensive. A single person can expect to spend approximately USD 1,200 per month excluding rent, while a family of four would need around USD 3,200. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from USD 400 to 800 per month, with luxury beachfront properties considerably higher. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) average about USD 150 to 200 per month. Dining at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately USD 35 to 75 for a meal for two. Locally grown produce, fresh seafood, and street food are significantly cheaper than imported items.

Saint Lucia is generally safe for business owners and expatriates, particularly in the main commercial and tourist areas. Tourist hubs such as Rodney Bay, Soufriere, Marigot Bay, and Gros Islet are heavily policed and widely regarded as safe. Crime does occur, primarily in lower-income neighborhoods of Castries and Vieux Fort, and is largely gang-related rather than directed at foreigners or tourists. Total reported crimes have declined in recent years with improved case resolution rates. Standard precautions apply: avoid displaying expensive items, use reputable transport, and secure your home and business premises. Most expatriate business owners report feeling comfortable living and working on the island.

Saint Lucia has a public healthcare system anchored by Victoria Hospital in Castries, the island's main emergency facility, along with several regional hospitals and health centers. The healthcare infrastructure can handle general medical needs but is limited for specialized or complex procedures, which may require medical evacuation to Martinique, Barbados, or the United States. Tapion Hospital is a private facility offering higher-standard care. Private health insurance is strongly recommended for expatriates and business owners, as cash payment is often required upfront. The government is actively investing in healthcare upgrades, including new polyclinics and expanded emergency services.

The most practical option for business owners is renting or purchasing a car. Rental cars are available from approximately USD 70 per day, and visitors need a temporary driving permit (USD 20, valid for 3 months) obtained at the airport, rental agency, or police station. Driving is on the left side of the road (UK style), and the island's mountainous terrain means winding, narrow roads that require careful driving. Public minibuses are inexpensive (EC$2.50 to EC$8.00 per ride) and cover most routes between towns. Taxis are unmetered but fares can be negotiated or pre-booked. Water taxis connect Castries to Soufriere and service luxury resorts, and ferry services link Saint Lucia to Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe.

English is the official language of Saint Lucia and is used in all government, legal, and business contexts. However, approximately 95% of the population also speaks Saint Lucian Creole (Kweyol or Patwa), a French-based creole language reflecting the island's colonial history under both France and Britain. Kweyol is widely used in everyday conversation, local media, and cultural events. You will have no difficulty conducting business in English, but learning a few Kweyol phrases can help build rapport with local partners and employees. The government and media regularly present information in both English and Kweyol.

Saint Lucia has a tropical maritime climate with year-round warm temperatures averaging 77-85 degrees Fahrenheit (25-29 degrees Celsius). The dry season runs from January to June, which is the peak tourist season. The wet season runs from July to December, with the Atlantic hurricane season officially from June 1 to November 30. Rain showers are typically brief and heavy rather than sustained. The island's mountainous interior receives more rainfall than the coastal areas. Business operations are rarely disrupted by weather, though hurricane preparedness planning is advisable for any physical operations on the island.

Saint Lucia uses 240 volts at 50 Hz, with UK-style Type G three-pin rectangular plugs. If you are bringing equipment from the US, Canada, or other countries using 110V systems, you will need both a voltage converter and a plug adapter. Many modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers) have dual-voltage capability (110-240V) and only require a plug adapter. Electricity is provided by the St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC), and average monthly electricity costs run approximately USD 100 to 150 for a typical household. Power outages are infrequent in urban areas but can occur, so a backup generator or UPS is recommended for business-critical operations.

St. Jude Hospital reconstruction was completed and handed over in November 2025 after a US$75 million Saudi-funded rebuild. The upgraded facility has 100 beds, 3 operating theatres, CT scan capabilities, and a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Full commissioning is expected early 2026. The hospital serves the southern part of the island from Vieux Fort.

Growing infrastructure supports EVs. LUCELEC operates 4 public charging stations (JQ Mall, Massy Dennery, Soufriere, Vieux Fort). BYD launched in October 2025 via JQ Motors, adding to available EV brands. Import duty concessions exist for EVs and hybrids. However, the charging network is still limited and the island's mountainous terrain affects range. EV adoption is expected to accelerate as LUCELEC expands its charging infrastructure.

Yes. Saint Lucia launched the "Live It" program, which allows remote workers and digital nomads to live on the island while working for employers or clients based abroad. The program is designed for individuals who earn income from outside Saint Lucia and wish to relocate temporarily. Applicants must demonstrate proof of remote employment or self-employment with overseas clients and sufficient income to support themselves during their stay. The program provides a longer-term alternative to the standard 6-week visa-free entry and is processed through the government's immigration portal.

Saint Lucia operates a territorial tax system, meaning only income sourced from within Saint Lucia is taxable. Digital nomads earning income exclusively from foreign clients or employers are generally not subject to Saint Lucian income tax. However, you should verify your tax obligations in your home country, as many countries tax their citizens or residents on worldwide income regardless of where they physically reside. The absence of broad double taxation treaties with most countries means you may not receive a foreign tax credit, making it important to consult a tax professional familiar with both jurisdictions.

Remote workers in Saint Lucia typically base themselves in Rodney Bay or Castries, where internet connectivity is most reliable and amenities are abundant. The Rodney Bay area offers a walkable lifestyle with restaurants, beaches, shopping, and the marina within close proximity. The time zone (AST, UTC-4) aligns well with US Eastern business hours during summer and is one hour ahead during winter, making it practical for collaborating with North American teams. The relatively low cost of living, tropical climate, and outdoor lifestyle (hiking the Pitons, beach access, diving) make it an attractive base. The main adjustment for most remote workers is the pace of island life, which tends to be more relaxed than major metropolitan areas.

Yes. Starlink satellite internet is now available in Saint Lucia, offering high-speed connectivity island-wide — including rural and remote areas where fibre broadband has limited coverage. Speeds range from 100–200 Mbps with latency of 20–60ms. The monthly cost is approximately US$80, with a one-time equipment cost of around US$500. Starlink is a major quality-of-life improvement for remote workers and digital nomads, providing a reliable backup or primary internet connection anywhere on the island. Combined with Digicel’s 1 Gbps fibre service and Flow fibre, Saint Lucia now offers connectivity options comparable to many developed markets.

Saint Lucia follows the English common law system, which will be familiar to business owners from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries. The court system is part of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC), with a High Court of Justice and a Court of Appeal. Since July 2023, final appeals are heard by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in Port of Spain, Trinidad, replacing the former Privy Council in London. Company law is governed primarily by the Companies Act and the International Business Companies Act. The legal framework is well-established and provides strong protections for property rights, contract enforcement, and intellectual property.

IBCs must pay an annual government renewal fee to maintain their active status with the Registry of Companies. They must maintain a registered agent and registered office in Saint Lucia at all times. While IBCs are not required to file annual financial statements with the government or undergo mandatory audits, they must keep adequate accounting records that reflect the financial position of the company. Directors must hold at least one board meeting per year, which can be conducted by phone or video conference. Failure to pay the annual renewal fee will result in the company being struck off the register, though it can be restored within a limited period upon payment of outstanding fees and penalties.

Yes. Saint Lucia has comprehensive anti-money laundering legislation and is committed to international standards. The Money Laundering (Prevention) Act and the Proceeds of Crime Act require all financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses to conduct customer due diligence (KYC), report suspicious transactions, and maintain records. Registered agents for IBCs are required to verify the identity of beneficial owners and maintain this information. Saint Lucia participates in the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and has signed onto the OECD's Common Reporting Standard (CRS) for automatic exchange of financial information. Non-compliance with AML regulations can result in significant penalties.

Yes. Saint Lucia provides intellectual property protection through the Registry of Companies and Intellectual Property (ROCIP). You can register trademarks, patents, and industrial designs. Saint Lucia is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and has acceded to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. Copyright protection is automatic under the Copyright Act and does not require registration. For businesses operating internationally, it is advisable to register your IP in each jurisdiction where you do business, as Saint Lucian registration provides protection only within the country.

It depends on the type and location of your business. Under the Physical Planning and Development Act, 18 categories of development require a mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). These include hotels exceeding a specified size, any coastal zone development, marinas, industrial plants, quarries, and projects in sensitive areas like wetlands or national parks. All developments within the Pitons Management Area (UNESCO World Heritage Site) face particularly strict environmental regulations. Even if your project does not fall into the 18 categories, the Development Control Authority (DCA) can still require an EIA if it determines your project could significantly affect the environment. Budget for professional EIA consulting if your project is near the coast or involves significant land use changes.

All construction requires approval from the Development Control Authority (DCA). The process typically takes about 42 days (6 weeks). You will need to submit certified architectural and engineering drawings, a land title or survey plan, and pre-clearances from the Health Department, Fire Service, and (if required) an Environmental Impact Assessment. Fees start from EC$20 for residential buildings and EC$0.30 Per ft² for commercial projects, though a revised fee structure became effective in March 2025. Once approved, you must commence work within 12 months and complete within 30 months. The DCA can be reached at 1-758-468-4438. All buildings must comply with the OECS Building Code, which requires structures to withstand wind speeds of up to 150 mph.

Intellectual property in Saint Lucia is registered through the Registry of Companies and Intellectual Property (ROCIP). Trademarks are protected under the Trademarks Act (Cap. 13.10) and are valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely. The registration process involves filing, examination, publication, and typically takes 6 to 12 months. Patents are protected for 20 years from the filing date. Copyright protection is automatic under the Copyright Act and lasts for the life of the author plus 50 years. Saint Lucia is a member of WIPO and the Paris Convention, but is not a member of the Madrid Protocol, meaning international trademark registrations must be filed separately with ROCIP. IP rights are enforceable through the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Yes. Saint Lucia has a legal framework supporting digital business through the Electronic Transactions Act (2011), which gives electronic contracts and digital signatures the same legal standing as paper-based ones. The IBC Pinnacle Registry allows fully online company incorporation. There are no data localization requirements, so you can use cloud services hosted abroad. The new Payment System and Services Act (2025) creates a framework for payment service providers including a regulatory sandbox for fintech innovation. Internet connectivity is good in urban areas (up to 1 Gbps via Digicel fiber), and Starlink satellite service is available island-wide since late 2024. The main challenges are limited local payment gateway options and the absence of a specific digital services VAT regime for cross-border transactions.

There is no legal requirement for hurricane insurance for businesses in Saint Lucia, but it is strongly recommended. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. All buildings must comply with the OECS Building Code, which requires structures to withstand Category 4/5 hurricane-force winds (150 mph). Most commercial lenders will require property insurance as a loan condition. Several local and regional insurance companies offer comprehensive property coverage including hurricane, flood, and earthquake risks. Common providers include NAGICO, Guardian General Caribbean, and ECICS. Business interruption coverage is also available. Government disaster assistance is limited, so private coverage is essential for business continuity.

Foreign court judgments from Commonwealth countries can be enforced under the Reciprocal Enforcement of Judgments Act. For other countries, enforcement is available through common law action on the judgment as a debt. Note that Saint Lucia is not a party to the New York Convention (1958), so foreign arbitral awards must be enforced through common law principles or the domestic Arbitration Act. However, Saint Lucia is a party to the ICSID Convention for investor-state disputes. Since July 2023, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) serves as the final court of appeal, replacing the Privy Council. Civil cases in the High Court typically take 12 to 24 months, with legal costs around EC$300 to 500 per hour for attorneys. Arbitration clauses specifying a seat in a New York Convention member state are recommended.

Not yet commercially. Saint Lucia decriminalized personal possession of up to 30 grams of cannabis and home cultivation of up to 4 plants per household under the Cannabis Reform Act (2022). A Cannabis Commission has been established to develop the licensing framework, but no commercial cultivation, processing, or retail licenses have been issued as of early 2026. Medical cannabis legislation is anticipated but not yet enacted. Investors should monitor the Cannabis Commission for updates on licensing. Banking for cannabis-related activities is extremely challenging due to correspondent banking relationships with US banks. Jamaica is the most advanced Caribbean nation for cannabis licensing and may serve as a model for Saint Lucia's eventual framework.

Vessels can be registered under the Saint Lucia flag through the Department of Maritime Affairs. For charter operations, you need both a vessel registration and a tourism operator license. Rodney Bay Marina (IGY) is the primary yachting hub with 253 slips for vessels up to 285 feet and a full-service boatyard. Marigot Bay offers boutique marina services. The island hosts the finish of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) each December, bringing 200+ yachts and 1,200+ crew members. Charter licensing requirements include vessel inspections, safety equipment compliance, and crew certification. SLASPA oversees maritime regulations, while tourism-related permits are coordinated through the Ministry of Tourism.

Saint Lucia offers several dispute resolution options beyond traditional litigation. The Arbitration Act (2001) provides a framework for both domestic and international arbitration. Note that Saint Lucia is not a party to the New York Convention, so enforcement of foreign arbitral awards relies on common law principles; however, Saint Lucia is a party to the ICSID Convention for investor-state disputes. Mediation services are available through the Department of Labour for employment disputes and through private practitioners for commercial matters. The Labour Tribunal handles unfair dismissal claims, while the Consumer Protection Tribunal resolves consumer complaints. For international business disputes, arbitration clauses specifying an external seat in a New York Convention member state (e.g., London, New York, Barbados) are recommended. Since July 2023, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) serves as the final appellate court, replacing the Privy Council.

Saint Lucia does not have specific franchise legislation. Franchise agreements are governed by general contract law under the English common law system. There are no franchise registration or disclosure requirements. International franchisors operating in Saint Lucia typically structure their agreements under the law of the franchisor's home jurisdiction or a neutral jurisdiction. Franchise fees and royalties paid to non-resident franchisors may be subject to withholding tax at 25%. Several international franchise brands operate successfully in Saint Lucia, including Subway and KFC. A trade license from the Ministry of Commerce is required for franchise operations, as for any other business.

Saint Lucia has good digital infrastructure for the Eastern Caribbean. The island is connected via the Southern Caribbean Fiber (Deep Blue 1) submarine cable system linking 15 islands, plus the CARCIP undersea cable funded by the World Bank. Digicel offers up to 1 Gbps fiber-to-the-home service, and Flow provides broadband in urban areas. Average measured speed is 91.4 Mbps. Starlink satellite broadband (50-150 Mbps) has been available since late 2024 at approximately US$80/month. The government's GINet programme provides free Wi-Fi at 28+ locations across six districts. BPO operations like KM2 Solutions (2,500+ capacity) demonstrate the island can support data-intensive businesses. The Data Protection Act (2011) governs personal data, and there are no data localization requirements.

Saint Lucia has the legal framework to support captive insurance through its International Insurance Act and the regulatory oversight of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The IBC structure can be used for captive insurance vehicles serving international risks. However, the captive insurance market in Saint Lucia is relatively undeveloped compared to established domiciles like Barbados, the Cayman Islands, or Bermuda. The main advantages of using Saint Lucia include no tax on foreign-sourced insurance income for IBCs, no exchange controls, and relatively low setup and operational costs. The FSRA provides oversight and licensing. Businesses interested in captive insurance should consult with an international insurance advisor and compare Saint Lucia's offering with more established Caribbean captive jurisdictions.