The Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program provides a legal pathway to Caribbean citizenship through government-approved economic contribution. Established under the Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015, the program operates under the oversight of the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) and the Citizenship by Investment Board.

As a Commonwealth member and part of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Saint Lucia offers citizenship that provides access to international mobility, favorable tax treatment, and the opportunity to live and work in a stable Caribbean jurisdiction. The program requires applicants to make a qualifying investment and undergo comprehensive verification and background screening procedures.

NTL International serves as a government-authorized agent for the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program, providing advisory services throughout the application process from initial assessment through to citizenship approval and passport issuance.

Program Overview and Legal Framework

The Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program operates under a comprehensive legal framework established by the Citizenship by Investment Act No. 14 of 2015 and subsequent amendments. Section 33 of this legislation created the Saint Lucia National Economic Fund (NEF) to receive qualifying donations, with funds allocated toward national development priorities determined by the government.

The program is administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), which reports to the Citizenship by Investment Board. The Board holds authority to grant, deny, or delay citizenship applications based on government-established criteria and due diligence outcomes. All applications must be submitted through government-licensed Authorized Agents, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with program requirements.

Investment Routes and Financial Requirements

The Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program offers four distinct investment pathways, each designed to channel economic contribution into different sectors of the national economy. Applicants select one qualifying investment option and must maintain the investment for the prescribed holding period.

Government Fees and Processing Costs

Beyond the qualifying investment amount, applicants must pay mandatory government processing fees, due diligence fees, and administrative charges. These fees are non-refundable and must be submitted with the application.

Note: Government fees and legal advisory costs are separate from the qualifying investment amount. Document translation, apostille certification, and notarization costs may apply depending on source jurisdiction.

Eligibility Criteria and Qualifying Dependents

The Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program establishes specific eligibility standards for main applicants and their qualifying family members. All applicants must meet integrity requirements and undergo comprehensive verification procedures.

Main Applicant Requirements

• Minimum age of 18 years
• Clean criminal record with no ongoing investigations
• Not considered a potential security risk to Saint Lucia
• Ability to demonstrate lawful source of investment funds
• No previous visa denials from countries with which Saint Lucia maintains visa-free arrangements
• Not involved in activities likely to bring disrepute to Saint Lucia
• Pass comprehensive medical examination

Qualifying Dependents

Dependents may be added to an existing citizenship grant within five years of the main applicant's approval through the add-on provisions. Newborn children born within 12 months of citizenship grant may be added for a fee of USD 5,000.

Application Process and Timeline

The Saint Lucia citizenship application process follows a structured sequence managed by government-licensed Authorized Agents. Applications must be submitted electronically and in printed form, with all supporting documentation provided in English or with authenticated English translation.

Stage 1: Initial Assessment and Documentation

Our specialized team conducts preliminary eligibility assessment and advises on investment option selection based on applicant circumstances. Required documentation includes valid passports, proof of financial capacity, criminal background certificates, medical reports, and source of funds documentation.

Stage 2: Application Submission

Complete application package submitted to the Citizenship by Investment Unit with all required forms, supporting documents, and government processing fees. The CIU confirms receipt and assigns application reference number.

Stage 3: Verification and Interview

The CIU conducts comprehensive background screening and financial verification. Main applicant and dependents over 16 attend mandatory interview, conducted virtually or at Saint Lucia embassy locations. Interview fee of USD 500 applies to main applicant.

Stage 4: Approval in Principle

Upon successful completion of verification procedures, the CIU issues Approval in Principle letter. Applicant has 90 calendar days to complete qualifying investment and pay remaining government administration fees.

Stage 5: Investment and Final Approval

Applicant makes qualifying investment according to selected pathway and submits proof of investment to CIU. The CIU conducts final review and issues Certificate of Registration upon satisfaction of all requirements.

Stage 6: Oath and Passport Issuance

Applicant signs Oath of Allegiance before authorized legal officer. Saint Lucia passport application submitted to Immigration Department. Passport issued within 14 working days for regular processing or 1 to 5 days for express service.

Citizenship Rights and Travel Access

Saint Lucia citizenship confers full legal rights equivalent to natural-born citizens, with no restrictions on dual nationality. Citizens enjoy comprehensive civil rights, property ownership privileges, and business establishment freedoms under Saint Lucia law.

Travel Privileges

The Saint Lucia passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 156 countries and territories, including strategic business and travel destinations. Key access includes:

• United Kingdom and European Schengen Area (26 countries)
• Hong Kong and Singapore for business and finance access
• Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States
• Commonwealth member states and CARICOM territories

Note: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) required for Canada for citizens holding valid US non-immigrant visa or previous Canadian visa within 10 years. Traditional visa required for United States entry.

Economic Rights

Saint Lucia offers favorable tax treatment for international business operations. Corporate income tax applies at 30 percent for domestic companies. International Business Companies incorporated under the IBC Act may qualify for tax exemptions subject to government approval and compliance with qualifying conditions.

Property taxation applies at 0.25 percent of market value for residential holdings. Value-added tax set at 15 percent standard rate, with reduced 10 percent rate for hotel sector operations. No wealth tax or inheritance tax obligations for Saint Lucia citizens.