St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment: What to Expect from the Client Process and Experience with JH Marlin

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is now.” – Chinese proverb.

At the time of writing this article, the financial world is recoiling from U.S. stocks’ worst day of 2025, the Dow tumbling 450 points, the S&P 500 correcting nearly 10% – a drop from February’s high as recession fears rise. Trump’s tariffs have sent shockwaves and brought fear and uncertainty to global markets.

With this level of fear rife in the World – not just in a financial sense – there are actions that High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) can look at taking. Not limited to wealth preservation, but looking to safer environments where world economic issues do not affect day-to-day life with such ferocity. At JH Marlin, we assist foreign investors in obtaining citizenship by investment, granting them dual citizenship in the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. Our clients seek economic and social stability, ensuring a secure future for themselves and generations to come.

Citizenship by Investment: An Overview

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is becoming an increasingly explored avenue for single applicants and their dependants looking to safeguard wealth, enjoy visa-free access to hundreds of countries, and ensure the safety and security of family members. Looking specifically at the small Caribbean nation St Kitts & Nevis – the country offering the very first CBI programme – often regarded as the platinum standard of CBI; as we forge into 2025, there have been significant changes to the programme.

Moving away from a government department to a statutory corporation, this Caribbean citizenship programme is becoming more streamlined, modernised, and efficient, making it easier than ever for foreign nationals to obtain dual citizenship. The incumbent chairman, Calvin St. Juste – a former Senior Executive at Morgan Stanley – is driving forward with a range of improvements following consultations resulting in feedback from the many professionals employed in the CBI world – both locally and internationally.

Mr St. Juste delivered a rousing speech at today’s “Chairman’s quarterly briefing” outlining the 6 principles which have guided the changes recently made to the CBI programme, with more in the pipeline being finalised.

Recent Changes to the CBI Program

The Prime Minister of St Kitts & Nevis was present, solidifying the important role the citizenship by investment program plays in St Kitts & Nevis in addition to the other Caribbean nations with CBI programmes. Delivering a speech, he stated CBI is the biggest business in the country and needs to be treated as such. The Caribbean country has therefore been adapting the current St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program to make the process smoother and more efficient for investors. Let’s take a look at some of the recent changes to the citizenship program.

Additional Training to Improve Customer Service

One of the recent changes resulted in many professionals from the UK delivering formal training to the CBI unit, focusing on human resources development and training on how to provide the best customer service for the economic citizenship program.

Mr. St Juste explained the importance of working closely with the UK, USA and EU bodies in order to modernise and solidify St Kitts & Nevis’ commitment to maintaining a robust CBI programme which acknowledges the need for security for our borders and safe borders for the previously mentioned bodies.

The CBI unit will be providing training to service providers (ie immigration lawyers) who facilitate and aid HNWIs on their journey to obtaining St Kitts and Nevis citizenship. Recent changes in laws and regulations ensure that the CBI programme continues and thrives for years to come.

Introduction of a New IT System

A new IT system – linked to and only accessible by registered providers – is in the final stages of development, where licensed service providers will have access to a portal, a point of reference, where individual cases of clients can be viewed and interrogated on a dashboard interface. This will remove waste and redundancy and improve processing times – according to the Chairman, Mr St. Juste – whilst simultaneously modernising the CBI programme.

With estimates on reducing the citizenship application process by 14-20 days, the new portal (currently known as “Saturn”), will be at the forefront of the training the CBI unit will be offering. The launch of Saturn is expected within the next few weeks, targeting the end of March or early April at the time of writing.

One of the main aims of Saturn will be to negate the inaccurate communications and sometimes ambiguous interactions that have posed problems in the past. The new software, “Saturn” dispenses with phone calls and can be accessed anywhere in the world, making securing St Kitts and Nevis citizenship simpler than ever.

New Biometric Identification System

Another advancement in the programme includes gravitating to a new biometric identification system. With the island nation keen to remain the platinum standard in CBI, it is recognised that adopting new technology is key. The newly created “Office of Chairman” will ensure that all objectives and regulations are adhered to; with more information to be given to service providers in the near future.

Prospecting New Citizens

Moving forward, 2025 has seen a shift from a large client base from China and Russia gaining citizenship certificates to many prospective clients in the USA and South Asia looking to relocate by obtaining a second citizenship. There are rumblings in the CBI sector that there could be financial incentives for interested clients in the future – yet this is merely conjecture.

With the minimum investment to increase to $250,000 US dollars and an in-person interview now being a requirement to the CBI process, those taking wealth/asset protection seriously would be hard-pressed to find a pathway as well established as the St Kitts & Nevis CBI programme.

Indeed, this article’s author completed the St Kitts & Nevis CBI programme and it began with an initial email enquiry, followed up by a very pleasant call with Jennifer Harding-Marlin (owner and creator of JH Marlin attorneys at law).

New changes to the regulations for St Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment

Client Experience & Testimonial

For nearly eight years, JH Marlin has specialized in assisting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking second citizenship through Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. With a proven track record, we have successfully secured alternative citizenship for numerous clients across multiple countries.

Assisted by a small staff, Jennifer is able to provide a bespoke, professional, and precise service whilst positioned at a competitive price point in the CBI market. Here is what you can expect from the process with JH Marlin:

Initial Assessment: The process can be summarised with an enquiry into a client’s aspirations and goals. Their suitability to the program is assessed and investment options are discussed to establish the best non-refundable contributions, and should the clients decide to move forward, JH Marlin’s services are acquired by way of entering into a contract.
Identification Paperwork: JH Marlin will look to move quickly, indeed, within hours of her services being agreed to and initial hiring funds received, clients will receive identification paperwork forms (which will be pre-filled with information already given to save the client’s time), once these are completed and signed and sent to Jennifer, and a diligence fee has been paid further background checks can be carried out.
The Application: JH Marlin provides a simple-to-follow guide as to what the clients need to do in an easy-to-navigate document. At any time, clients can reach out and receive a prompt response should they need assistance at any stage. This to me, is where JH Marlin shines. Being a modestly sized business, clients will have their cases handled efficiently, and because Jennifer is a qualified lawyer, she herself will handle all clients looking to obtain citizenship in St Kitts & Nevis.
Completion of the Process: Once the i’s have been dotted, the t’s crossed, all additional costs have been paid and due diligence checks are complete, passport photographs are requested with specific instructions on these photographs being notarised. With little more than the matter of wiring over the agreed minimum investment amount, the entire process can be completed within the space of a few months.
A Bespoke Arrival: St. Kitts and Nevis imposes no residency requirements, allowing successful applicants to obtain citizenship without the need to relocate. Once approved, they are free to enjoy and explore their new Caribbean home at their convenience. Jennifer is always keen to meet up with clients who arrive on the island for the first time, she and her team are always on hand even after citizenship has been obtained. This close working relationship is a standout for her clients past and present – this author is happy to attest to that.

JH Marlin does not limit its’ business to St Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment programme only. It helps clients obtain citizenship benefits in various Caribbean nations, as well as in Europe, including Portugal, with plans to expand into South America soon.

Learn more about licensed citizenship by investment experts

Secure Citizenship Through Investment With JH Marlin

At JH Marlin, we help clients navigate the process of obtaining citizenship through investment. With our extensive knowledge of the landscape, we provide tailored guidance to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re exploring options for residency or citizenship, our team offers the expertise and support you need to make informed decisions.

We craft tailored solutions to meet your unique needs, ensuring efficiency and confidentiality every step of the way. Let it guide you on your journey!

JH Marlin can be reached at jennifer@jhmarlin.com

+1(819)200-9354 whatsapp

Written by: Kevin Connor written on the 11th of March 2025

Should You Consider Citizenship By Investment?

JH Marlin has assisted numerous High Net Worth Individuals in discovering the benefits of Citizenship by Investment (CBI). By offering tailored guidance, we help principal applicants and their additional family members secure a relaxed lifestyle, explore business ventures, and access valuable tax incentives and social benefits to enhance their future.

Visa-Free Entry: A Caribbean passport offers visa-free access to numerous countries, allowing passport holders to travel freely without needing visas. This convenience makes it a sought-after option for those seeking flexibility in international travel and mobility.
Investment Opportunities: Citizenship by investment opens up lucrative investment opportunities, including real estate projects and direct investment in local economies. These investments can offer both business opportunities and potential returns, contributing to economic growth.
Tax Benefits: By obtaining alternative citizenship, individuals may benefit from reduced personal income tax or even be exempt from certain taxes, such as capital gains tax. These attractive tax regimes offer a way to potentially lower the tax burden.
Lifelong Citizenship: With dual citizenship, individuals secure lifelong citizenship, allowing them to pass it on to future generations. This includes the right to live, work, and invest in the country, offering a stable foundation for families.
Business Opportunities: The country of citizenship often provides access to new business opportunities. Tax residents may benefit from favorable policies for entrepreneurs, including reduced or eliminated inheritance tax and opportunities for international expansion.

What Are Your Citizenship by Investment Options in St Kitts and Nevis?

Option 1: Non-Refundable Contribution to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)

The Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) allows for a non-refundable financial contribution of US$250,000. This economic contribution supports local initiatives and economic development in the Caribbean country. This popular option provides a pathway to citizenship with additional fees for dependents and due diligence. It offers foreign investors a direct route to dual citizenship while contributing to economic growth through foreign investment.

Option 2: Developer’s Real Estate Investment

The Developer’s Real Estate Investment allows foreign investors to invest in government-approved real estate. A minimum investment of US$325,000 in a real estate option grants passport holders citizenship. With this real estate investment option, the property must be maintained for at least seven years, after which it can be resold. This option contributes to the economic growth of the country through substantial investment in real estate purchase, with additional fees for family members and due diligence.

Option 3: Private Real Estate Sale

Under the Private Real Estate Sale option, foreign investors must invest US$400,000 for a condominium or US$600,000 for a private home. The property must be an approved real estate investment and maintained for seven years. This option fosters economic development by attracting foreign investment and ensuring a significant economic contribution. Resale is possible after the seven-year period, making it an attractive pathway to dual citizenship for passport holders.

Option 4: Public Benefit Option

The Public Benefit Option requires a non-refundable contribution of US$250,000 to an approved public benefit project. This option supports economic development and foreign investment while benefiting the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. It provides an important pathway to citizenship for those seeking a substantial investment in the country’s long-term economic growth. Additional fees apply for dependents and due diligence to complete the process.