Alternative to EU Citizenship? Why you should consider St. Kitts and Nevis

Historically, EU citizenships have been highly sought-after by individuals and investors around the world. Not only does an EU citizenship grant its holders visa-free access to a massive number of different countries, but it also provides great investment opportunities, banking benefits, and more. The biggest downside to obtaining citizenship in an EU country is that is is incredibly difficult to do. Depending on the country, the process can take years and require extreme financial investments.

 

If an EU citizenship is out of reach, but you’re still looking to experience some of the best benefits of being an EU citizen, consider getting a St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship. A Saint Kitts & Nevis passport is a great alternative since it provides access to over 150 countries without needing a visa to enter, including EU Schengen countries and the UK! St. Kitts and Nevis passports are some of the most widely accepted passports in the world, opening doors for individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs.

 

Application Process

 

As mentioned, trying to get citizenship in an EU country can require an exorbitant amount of time, with some countries requiring 10-15 years of residency before even considering the possibility of granting citizenship. There are extensive costs associated with meeting residency requirements and applying for citizenship. However, the process for a St. Kitts and Nevis passport only takes a number of months, is incredibly affordable in comparison, and doesn’t have any strict residency or testing requirements.

 

There are two options for individuals or families seeking a St. Kitts and Nevis passport: a donation of at least $150,000 to the Sustainable Development Fund or through purchasing real estate for $200,000 or more. There are additional processing fees to complete the application process, but they are negligible. 

 

After deciding which route you’d like to pursue, we recommend working with an agency to get the required documentation in place. As the investor, you and your family members, including children, siblings, and parents, are eligible for a passport, though additional persons may require additional fees. Every individual will need to submit passports, birth certificates, and bank statements when applicable. Once approved, passports can be received within as little as 4 weeks!

 

Weighing Your Options

 

It’s worth noting that a St. Kitts and Nevis passport can’t grant all the same benefits as an EU passport. For instance, for many people seeking the quality higher education opportunities in the EU, a socialized healthcare system, or jobs in the EU, a St. Kitts and Nevis passport won’t fulfill your requirements. 

 

On the other hand, in addition to granting visa-free travel, a St. Kitts and Nevis passport can also grant you and your family access to European financial institutions which can be difficult to utilize for foreigners. There are also wonderful tax optimization opportunities for St. Kitts and Nevis passport holders; as a resident, you will not have to pay tax on gifts, inheritance, capital gains, or dividends. These tax benefits can be more than enough to cover the cost of obtaining the passport.

 

The Decision is Yours

 

Passports from St. Kitts and Nevis provide many of the same benefits at a fraction of the cost and in much less time. You won’t have to move your family to a new country or give up the citizenship of your home country.

 

Furthermore, the St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship comes with attractive tax advantages, which an EU citizenship may not.

 

To begin enjoying the benefits of a St. Kitts and Nevis passport, work with a reputable agency such as Global Residence Index to begin the application process.