The Caribbean islands are not just vacation spots.
Some islands are vibrant communities, full of high-net-worth individuals and inspiring local populations, growing and thriving. Both St. Kitts & Nevis and Antigua & Barbuda are among the most popular of the citizenship-by-investment programs in the region. And many people investing in these citizenship programs are choosing to relocate.
To diversify your financial investment opportunities, potentially optimize your taxes, and improve your lifestyle, consider investing in and moving to these Caribbean island nations.
But before relocating or spending a significant amount of time there, read this article to understand the culture and lifestyle of the islanders.
Quality of Lifestyle and People
The pace of life is notably one of the first aspects of the lifestyle here in Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis that visitors remark to us. Amidst the stunning landscapes, the beautiful, tranquil sea, secluded beaches against the backdrop of the lush rainforests, life here unfolds a lot more slowly than in most Western countries.
The sunny and temperate environment encourages outdoor living and adventure all year-round.
If you’re seeking an inviting environment (both in climate and culture), the Caribbean is generally a great choice to live. In my experience living in the Caribbean has been one of the best experiences. Many clients of JH Marlin that we have helped relocate to the islands over the past few years are content with their choice to move abroad. Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis, are no exception and several clients are happy with their choice of a laid back peaceful lifestyle.
Beyond the physical attributes that make these islands a paradise, it is the warmth and friendliness of the community that sets them apart. The local communities in these two island nations are supportive and tight-knit, where neighbors are friends and gatherings are frequent.
Newcomers are embraced with open arms. A recent client told us they feel like they are at home in the Caribbean, which is music to our ears.
But if you prefer isolation from the hustle and bustle, you may choose your level of involvement. We know investors who live here yet do not participate in as many local events as some others do. They simply prefer the peace and quiet that is so readily abundant.
General quality of life has improved as interest in these citizenship programs has increased. Ensuring that life in tropical paradise does not mean a compromise of comfort, the availability of modern amenities and services for high-net-worth individuals has sky-rocketed.
From high-quality healthcare facilities and international cuisine to luxury accommodations to improving infrastructure, Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis offer many of the modern conveniences of the developed world.
Networking with Top Entrepreneurs
St. Kitts & Nevis’s citizenship-by-investment program was established in 1984 (Antigua’s much younger program was created in 2013). And because of its tax-favourable regulations, the island nation has attracted entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals from all different backgrounds for more than four decades. Expat citizens and residents mingle effortlessly, creating a dynamic mix of cultures that only enriches the local culture.
Antigua & Barbuda, along with St. Kitts & Nevis, have become the chosen retreats for successful entrepreneurs, investors, and high-profile individuals looking for a haven that combines leisure with opportunity.
This unique blend creates plenty of opportunities for networking, where JH Marlin itself has witnessed new business ideas flourish and investment partnerships get off the ground.
Social gatherings, community events, and business forums serve as hubs for interaction among the entrepreneurial elite. We like to add that the casual yet sophisticated island setting encourages open dialogue in a way that traditional business environments might not.
High-profile individuals who have made these islands their home or frequent getaway include the likes of Sir Richard Branson, who has been known for his advocacy of Caribbean development and entrepreneurship.
Similarly, in the last decade, St. Kitts and Nevis and Antigua & Barbuda have attracted cryptocurrency investors like Roger Ver for their strategic location near the entrepreneurship capital of the world – the United States – and the privacy, potential tax advantages, and less stringent financial regulations they offer.
The presence of such high-caliber individuals turns these islands into a dynamic community of investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals.
Safety, Security, and Activities
While data backs up Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis as some of the safest islands in the Caribbean, safety and security transcend statistics.
Security is ingrained in the islands’ way of life, offering residents and visitors a sanctuary where well-being is a priority. Both island countries have committed to maintaining a secure environment through proactive law enforcement.
Just as throughout the developing world, individuals should take normal precautions when venturing from tourist destinations in the islands. But the peace and order that locals enjoy extends to tourists as well.
JH Marlin has advised several clients on raising a family, retiring, and conducting business from the Caribbean – not just investing in their citizenship programs. (We can help you as well.)
Worth mentioning is emergency response systems in tourist spots and residential neighborhoods for the rare but occasional natural disaster.
Moreover, legal frameworks and judicial systems in place are robust, designed to protect residents, their property, and their homes. Safety and peace of mind is the norm.
Beyond safety and security, the islands are bursting with activities tailored to anyone on the outdoor enthusiasm spectrum.
The crystal-clear waters that surround Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering world-class sailing, snorkeling, and diving experiences. As a swimmer, founder of JH Marlin Jennifer Harding-Marlin swims the channel between St. Kitts and Nevis every year. If you would like to participate in the event please get in touch with us.
For those who prefer land-based adventures, the islands have lush rainforests and challenging volcanic mountains for epic hiking, bird watching, and general exploration.
Dating back to the early 1600s, the history of these Caribbean islands extends to historical sites you have to see while here – forts, sugar plantations, and colonial estates. Cultural festivals, music, and dance also celebrate the islands’ heritage.
Healthcare
The healthcare systems in Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis are continually improving, with both nations making significant strides in medical services and infrastructure in the last few decades.
Hospitals and clinics are equipped with modern facilities and staffed by skilled healthcare professionals, including specialists trained in leading medical institutions in North America and worldwide.
In recent years, both governments have invested some citizenship-by-investment revenues in healthcare improvements, including the introduction of state-of-the-art medical technologies and the expansion of health facilities.
Real Estate Market
On the real estate front, Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts & Nevis present dynamic markets that have attracted international attention for their investment potential – especially short-term rental yields in prime locations.
From luxurious beachfront villas to charming hillside cottages, you are sure to find what you are looking for. Whether searching for your next home, a vacation spot, or a unit to rent, our real estate investor clients have a wide range of tastes and budgets.
The demand for property, driven by the tourism industry, has led to a healthy and growing real estate market. Data from recent years show a consistent increase in property values, particularly in areas popular with tourists and expatriates.
The real estate sector is also supported by a transparent legal system that protects property rights, making the buying process straightforward and secure for international investors. With a range of property management services available, investors can easily maintain and rent out their properties, even from abroad, ensuring a passive income stream that contributes to their investment’s yield.
Steps to Becoming a Citizen and Resident
Gaining citizenship in Antigua & Barbuda or St. Kitts & Nevis is straightforward.
First, contact our team to explore your options or get started.
Then, if we align on either program, we perform due diligence to determine eligibility and choose the investment option that best suits your goals. Provided you are interested in finding a property, we are physically located on the ground in many of the Caribbean Islands and capable of assisting with real estate. Our team of highly-trained legal experts prepare all files, documents, and fees and submit them to the appropriate government citizenship unit.
Once the applicant (and his or her family, if applicable) attends their mandatory interview, the application is approved and the passport is issued.
Considering these steps, most citizenship application processes require 4-8 months.
If you’re interested in investing in a second citizenship and diversifying and safeguarding your future, JH Marlin can help guide you to the right decision. Contact us here to get started or ask us any questions you may have.