Saint Kitts & Nevis has recently introduced significant reforms to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, making it even more attractive to global investors and families seeking a second passport by investment. These updates include lifting the education requirement for adult dependents and extending the maximum age for dependent children to 30 years.
In this article, we examine what these reforms mean for applicants, the strategic rationale behind them, and how Adeniyi Associates can help you navigate this evolving landscape.
Key Changes in the Reform
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Education Requirement Removed for Adult Dependents
Previously, dependents aged 18 to 25 had to maintain full-time enrolment in recognized educational institutions to qualify under the Saint Kitts & Nevis CBI scheme. The new regulation eliminates that requirement entirely. Now, adult dependents simply need to demonstrate substantial financial dependence on the main applicant (via bank statements, affidavits, or proof of remittances). IMI Daily -
Dependent Age Raised to 30 Years
The maximum age for dependent children has been raised from 25 to 30 years, provided the application is submitted before their 30th birthday. This change allows many young adults—who may be in between careers, pursuing nontraditional education, or otherwise financially dependent—to stay eligible. -
Other Dependent Rules Remain Unchanged
Protections remain for children under 18, dependents with disabilities, and parents aged 55 or above. The intent is not to overhaul the program entirely but to adapt to the realities faced by modern families. -
Timing & Strategic Context
These reforms coincide with the upcoming full implementation of the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA), expected in September 2025. Many industry insiders believe Saint Kitts & Nevis is positioning itself to stay competitive within the Caribbean CBI space.
Implications for Applicants & Families
Greater Flexibility for Families
By lifting the full-time education requirement and raising the dependent age ceiling, Saint Kitts now accommodates families with older children or those who pursue unconventional paths (such as entrepreneurship, vocational training, or temporary career breaks). This flexibility can make the program more appealing to investors from regions where tertiary education is less linear or continuous.
Enhanced Appeal in the Market
Analysts have hailed these changes as a smart move to maintain global competitiveness. One observer called the removal of the educational prerequisite “the best move for sure,” noting how it removes a barrier that excluded many legitimate dependents. IMI Daily
Need for Strong Evidence of Dependence
Because adult dependents no longer need to be students, the revised rules place more importance on credible evidence of financial dependence. Applicants must ensure that bank records, affidavits, and remittance trails are clear and robust to satisfy due diligence.
Timing Matters
Given that the regulatory amendments are being formally processed and expected to take effect soon, early preparation is key. Agents and applicants should have documentation ready, especially before ECCIRA’s full regulatory oversight begins.
How This Fits Into the Broader “Second Passport by Investment” Strategy
The Saint Kitts reform is part of a broader trend: countries adapting their citizenship-by-investment programs to be more inclusive and responsive. If you’re exploring options for a second passport by investment, here’s what to keep in mind:
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Evaluate dependent and eligibility rules carefully. Rules around age, education, language skills, and financial dependence differ between jurisdictions.
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Monitor regulatory changes. As seen in Saint Kitts & Nevis, programs may evolve quickly. Staying updated is critical.
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Focus on compliance and transparency. Rigorous due diligence is a constant across jurisdictions. The strength of your supporting documentation often carries as much weight as the investment itself.
At Adeniyi Associates, we assist clients in evaluating which programs match their priorities—whether it’s for visa freedom, tax planning, family inclusion, or global mobility. You can read more about second-passport programs such as Grenada, Dominica, Malta, and others on our Citizenship by Investment Services page.
Why Choose Adeniyi Associates?
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Expert Guidance
Our team has deep experience advising on second passport by investment transactions, particularly in Caribbean and European jurisdictions. -
Tailored Solutions
Whether your goal is visa-free travel, legacy planning, or geopolitical diversification, we craft strategies that align with your needs and constraints. -
End-to-End Support
From eligibility assessment and document preparation to liaison with government agencies and final citizenship issuance, we manage the full process for you.
If you’re considering securing a second passport by investment, or wish to explore how the Saint Kitts & Nevis reforms might benefit your family, contact us today for a personalized consultation.