The Chairman of St.Kitts and Nevis CIU, Calvin St. Juste, in his New years address has said that the visa waiver agreement with EU remains secure and has quashed concerns that have surfaced about the ETIAS rollout. The EU will be rolling out ETIAS travel authorization for all visa waiver countries, starting first half of 2025.
“Let me assure you that our visa-free access to the European Union remains secure. ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization system being introduced for all visa-exempt countries worldwide. It is designed to enhance travel security and does not affect our visa-free agreements with the EU.”
“The St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Unit, has worked diligently to maintain the integrity of our CBI Programme by adopting the highest international standards in due diligence and transparency. These efforts have ensured that our nation remains a trusted partner to the global community.”, he assured.
As we enter 2025, let us continue to build on the solid foundation we have laid this year, he said.
The CIU chairman assured global investors and stakeholders that St. Kitts and Nevis CBI has made significant strides in strengthening our position on the global stage.
“From implementing robust reforms in our Citizenship by Investment Programme to fostering international partnerships that benefit our economy and citizens, 2024 has been a year of growth and progress”, he said in a press statement.
In a CBI Podcast, he said Restructuring a 40-year Programme is no easy feat. Good governance is the foundation of this Programme. By establishing a Board of Governors and implementing enhanced due diligence practices, the CIU has reinforced its commitment to accountability and transparency.
The SKN CIU made recent adjustments to minimum investment thresholds—lowering real estate investments to $325,000 and private homes to $600,000—were made strategically to attract more investors while maintaining the Programme’s premium status.
“We’ve committed to providing decisions within ten weeks for straightforward applications,” he revealed, significantly reducing timelines, by implementing innovation and technology.
The CIU is ensuring the Federation remains a top choice for global investors. Locally, the CBI Programme’s contributions to the economy are profound. The Programme funds essential sectors, including healthcare, education, and agriculture.
“The revenue from CBI impacts every citizen, from the food we eat to the salaries of civil servants,” Chairman St. Juste remarked, underscoring the Programme’s importance in sustaining the nation’s development.
