Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has announced that his Government will soon present legislation to Parliament that will embed key reforms in the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, including a mandatory residency clause and upgraded biometric verification systems. The new law, expected to be passed in the coming weeks, forms part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize and fortify the programme for long-term sustainability and international respect.
While speaking on ZIZ’s The Edge, Prime Minister Drew was unequivocal, noting that “A residency clause will be part of the new law… Let me say that clear, residency clause and the biometrics, those will be part of the new law, which is to pass very, very soon, within a few weeks.” These reforms will bring Saint Kitts and Nevis into alignment with the best practices in global investment migration. The proposed residency requirement will address long-standing concerns among international partners regarding applicant connection to the Federation, while biometric safeguards, such as fingerprinting and in-person or virtual interviews, will enhance the integrity and traceability of each CBI file.
