As the world grapples with the pandemic’s lingering fallout, wealthy Americans are looking for a backup plan that can be used during volatile times. In today’s climate, second citizenship is considered the ultimate Plan B.
As the tax debate heats up in the US, many Americans are beginning to explore their options and re-evaluate their priorities. Whether to protect their assets, or gain better global mobility, second citizenship can help investors carve out the life they desire.
St Kitts and Nevis’ Citizenship by Investment Programme has been a popular route to achieving greater personal, travel and business freedoms. Introduced in 1984, the programme is the world’s longest-standing and is internationally renowned as a ‘Platinum Standard’ brand.
St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit’s Chief Executive Les Khan said: “In today’s uncertain world, it is only right that individuals and families want the ability to travel the globe as flexibly and confidently as possible. St Kitts and Nevis have been offering this peace of mind for longer than any other citizenship programme.”
Benefits include full citizenship for life, the right to live and work in the nation, the ability to pass citizenship on to future generations, and restriction-free travel to nearly 160 destinations. St Kitts and Nevis is a safe and peaceful nation with one of the world’s best primary health care systems. Alongside all these benefits, St Kitts and Nevis citizenship represents a unique opportunity to invest in a global lifestyle.
A view over St. Kitts Island with residential area and beaches on the foreground and lush green hills on the background.
Due to the Caribbean’s proximity to the US and its currency pegged to the dollar, the nation continues to attract many global-minded investors. Additionally, St Kitts and Nevis is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the region and fast becoming a financial and tech hub. An increasing number of tech entrepreneurs and digital currencies investors have invested in St Kitts and Nevis citizenship as a means to unlock financial autonomy. Applicants do not have to travel to the islands to apply, nor is there a requirement to visit after.
“For those who hope to hit the ground running in the post-pandemic era, a strong passport and citizenship will make all the difference in providing a better life for themselves and their families,” said Micha Emmett, CEO of investment migration firm CS Global Partners. Emmett said she had seen a 42 percent increase in interest from American clients in 2020 compared to the previous year. The number one reason people cited when enquiring about investing in second citizenship was to provide a better life for their families.
The Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) is the fastest route to St Kitts and Nevis citizenship and is the only option that offers a limited time offer. Under the reduction, families of up to four can gain citizenship for $150,000 rather than the previous $195,000. This accounts for a $45,000 price cut. This offer is only valid until the end of 2021.