The St.Kitts Government has proposed to introduce a genuine link criteria to the citizenship by investment program after US visa restrictions imposed for reasons citizenship granted with no ties to the country.
Genuine Link Requirements
In 2026 the Citizenship by Investment Programme will be redesigned to encompass the introduction of a mandatory genuine-link requirement. Citizenship will be granted based on a demonstrable, substantive, and ongoing connection to the Federation. This includes structured physical presence and residency, meaningful economic activity such as business establishment and job creation, productive investment aligned with national priorities, and long-term social, cultural, philanthropic, or national development engagement.
Strong Ties
It is expected there about 150,000 to 200,000 people became economic citizens living abroad, do not visit or contribute to the national development of the Federation.
Having a genuine link (ties) to the country creates a solid bond between the citizen and state.
Having a genuine link (ties) to the country creates a solid bond between the citizen and state. One of the drawbacks of having no ties to the country creates a weak bond and citizenship easily revocable.
Activities
Citizens can maintain a genuine link or strong ties to St.Kitts by engaging in these activities…
- Pay taxes on income
- Become a long term resident or Live permanently.
- Contribute to job creation via business.
- Real estate investment (eg. buy or rent a home)
- Pay utility bills (eg. gas, water, electricity)
- Social and Cultural Integration (speak local language)
- Donate to charities.
- Contribute to development of Nation.
- Marriage, civil partnerships
- Having children born in the country
