Grenada offers an expedited and cost-effective pathway to citizenship for investors through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. With options starting at just $150,000 USD and processing times as short as three months, Grenada stands out as one of the most efficient and affordable CBI programs globally.
What is Grenada Citizenship by Investment (CBI)?
Grenada’s CBI program provides a swift route to obtaining Grenadian citizenship by making a financial contribution to the country. Known as the "Spice of the Caribbean," Grenada is an English-speaking island renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, lush green landscapes, and vibrant coral reefs. The nation boasts a stable government and a well-established investment climate.
Benefits of Grenada Citizenship
Cost-Effective: Citizenship costs start from $150,000 USD, making it a highly affordable option.
Flexible Investment Options: Choose between a donation to Grenada’s National Transformation Fund or a real estate investment.
Access to the US E2 Visa: Grenadian citizens can apply for the E2 Treaty Investor Visa, allowing them to live and run a business in the United States.
Stable Economy: Grenada offers a robust and stable economic environment.
Fast Processing: Applications are processed in under three months.
No Physical Presence Required: There is no need to reside in Grenada during the application process.
No Residency Requirements: Maintain your citizenship without needing to reside in Grenada.
No Worldwide Income Tax: Grenadian citizens enjoy tax benefits on global income.
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children, and parents can be included in the application.
Dual Citizenship Permitted: Grenada allows you to hold multiple citizenships.
Strong Passport: Grenadian citizens can travel visa-free to 127 countries, including the UK, EU, and China.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment and the E2 Visa
Grenada has been an E2 Treaty partner with the United States since 1989. Grenadian citizens are eligible for the E2 Treaty Investor Visa, which allows them to move to the US to invest and operate a business. The E2 Visa has no set time limits and can be renewed as long as the business is operational. Franchise opportunities are also available for those unsure about the type of business to pursue in the US.
Spouse and Dependent Benefits: Spouses can accompany the primary applicant and apply for a US work permit, offering more flexibility compared to other visas like the H-1B. Dependent children under 21 can also join their parents in the US.
Application Pathways: There is a misconception that opting for the donation route excludes you from obtaining an E2 Visa. However, Grenada’s E2 Treaty status ensures that citizens, regardless of their pathway to citizenship, are eligible for the E2 Visa.
Costs of Grenada CBI Programme
Donation Route:
Investment: $150,000 USD
Application Fee: $1,500 USD per person
Real Estate Route:
Investment: Starting from $220,000 USD plus an additional $50,000 government fee
Application Fee: $1,500 USD per person
Partial Investment:
Investment: $350,000 USD
Government Fee: $50,000 USD
Application Fee: $1,500 USD per person
MVG can assist with navigating these investment opportunities and arranging visits to Grenada to meet key stakeholders, including government officials and investment professionals.
Application Process
The application process for Grenada CBI is streamlined, with most applications processed in under three months. The process begins with selecting an international marketing agent, such as Global Citizenship Services, and a local agent in Grenada. Applicants need to prepare their application forms, undergo a medical examination, and provide translated legal documents. Once submitted, the Grenadian authorities will conduct due diligence, and upon approval, the applicant must complete the financial contribution to receive citizenship.
Requirements
Applicants must:
Have a clean criminal record
Verify the source of their funds
Not be required to reside in Grenada before or after citizenship is granted
Dependent children up to 30 years of age can be included in the application.
Grenada Citizenship for Families
Grenada’s CBI program allows for the inclusion of family members. The cost for a single applicant starts at $150,000 USD, while adding up to three family members increases the total donation to $200,000 USD. Additional fees apply for each extra family member beyond three. The real estate route allows for up to three family members without increasing the investment requirement, though additional government fees apply.
Grenada Citizenship by Marriage
Spouses can apply for Grenadian citizenship through marriage at a later date. While this may be more cost-effective, the process is significantly slower compared to the CBI program.
Global Tax Implications
Grenada does not tax worldwide income, making it an attractive option for individuals with international assets or businesses. Citizens are only taxed on income generated within Grenada.
Dual Citizenship
Grenada permits dual citizenship, allowing you to maintain other citizenships. However, some countries, such as India, do not allow dual citizenship but offer a status like the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), which can be held alongside Grenadian citizenship.
Grenada Passport
Grenadian citizens benefit from a strong passport that provides visa-free travel to numerous countries, including China, the EU, the UK, and key business hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong. Grenada’s E2 Treaty status also provides a valuable pathway for those seeking to establish or expand their business in the US.
Alternatives
While Grenada offers a comprehensive CBI program, other options like Turkey’s CBI program may also be considered. Turkey’s program requires a higher investment but offers strategic geographic and cultural advantages.
Grenada CBI and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
Grenada’s CBI program is gaining popularity among NRIs due to favorable taxation rules and the program’s efficiency. Grenadian citizenship offers a fast route to citizenship with no tax on global income and the flexibility of dual citizenship.
For more information or to discuss your specific circumstances, please contact us at info@mvgtrust.com. Our team at MVG USA office is ready to assist with your application and guide you through the process.