A Surge in U.S. Interest for Citizenship by Investment Programs
Rising Demand Amid Political and Economic Uncertainty
In the wake of the 2024 U.S. presidential election and a lingering sense of national polarization, more Americans are seeking second citizenships — and the Caribbean has become a top destination. According to real estate professionals and immigration consultants, demand for citizenship by investment (CBI) has surged across multiple Caribbean nations.
Nadia Dyson, a realtor in Antigua, told the BBC that U.S. interest in CBI has dramatically increased. “Up to 70% of all buyers now are wanting citizenship, and the vast majority are from the US… We’ve never sold so many before.”
The American Bar Association similarly reported a spike in legal consultations about CBI programs during the 2024 U.S. election cycle.
What is Citizenship by Investment?
Citizenship by Investment programs grant legal citizenship to foreign nationals who make significant financial contributions to the host country — typically through real estate, government bonds, or national development funds.
These programs are not only attractive to individuals looking for global mobility, but they’ve also proven economically beneficial to participating countries.
Caribbean Nations Offering Citizenship by Investment
Several Caribbean nations operate well-established CBI programs, each with varying investment thresholds and visa benefits:
- Dominica: Minimum investment – $200,000 (lowest entry point)
- St. Kitts and Nevis: Minimum investment – $250,000 (highest among peers)
- Antigua and Barbuda: Requires $230,000 in the National Development Fund
- Grenada and St. Lucia: Also popular for their flexible travel perks
Notably, investors in Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Lucia receive visa-free access to the EU’s Schengen Area, enhancing their global travel freedom.
What’s Fueling the Surge in Applications?
Several macro trends are driving Americans toward second citizenship:
- Post-pandemic remote work: Professionals now have more flexibility in where they live and work.
- Political concerns: Shifting domestic policies have created a desire for “Plan B” options.
- Financial mobility: Access to favorable tax regimes and global banking opportunities.
Attorney Betina Schlossberg noted in a 2024 ABA report: “All of a sudden, people feel uneasy, and they want to be ready.”
Benefits and Controversies of CBI Programs
While these programs provide economic lifelines for many small island nations — Dominica alone has raised over $1 billion — they are not without scrutiny.
Critics, particularly from the U.S. and EU, have voiced concerns about the potential misuse of these programs for tax avoidance or financial concealment. However, defenders argue that stringent due diligence and clear legal frameworks are in place.
In Antigua’s case, the revenue from its CBI program is credited with helping avoid national bankruptcy.
Is Citizenship by Investment Right for You?
The decision to pursue a second citizenship is both personal and strategic. For many, it’s about diversifying opportunity, securing mobility, and protecting assets in an increasingly complex global landscape.
If you’re considering taking this path, consult with legal and financial advisors who specialize in international migration and investment law.
Final Thought
The Caribbean is no longer just a vacation destination for Americans — it’s becoming a second home, a strategic backup plan, and a lifestyle choice.
Would you consider applying for citizenship in a Caribbean nation? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
