Saint Lucia vs Grenada Citizenship - CBI Programme Comparison

Many investors turn to Grenada citizenship and Saint Lucia citizenship to obtain a second passport that allows for global visa-free travel and greater international business reach. If you are currently considering the pros and cons of Saint Lucia vs Grenada citizenship through their citizenship by investment options, then choosing between Grenada vs Saint Lucia citizenship can be complex. When conducting a proper citizenship by investment comparison, it becomes evident that both the Grenada vs St Lucia CBI programmes offer strong advantages. Whether your goal is greater mobility, economic diversification, or generational security, securing a second passport Grenada or one from Saint Lucia offers exceptional value. In this article, we’ll explore the essential factors that define Saint Lucia vs Grenada citizenship, allowing you to confidently select the option that supports the future plans and priorities of your family.

Choosing between Grenada vs Saint Lucia Citizenship - comparison of key CBI aspects

Programme History

Saint Lucia introduced its Citizenship by Investment Programme in 2016 to attract capital investment and drive economic growth.

Grenada resumed its CBI programme in 2013 (after its original launch in 1995) to support economic growth through tourism and infrastructure development. 

Dual Citizenship in Grenada vs Saint Lucia

Both Saint Lucia and Grenada welcome dual citizenship, permitting you to maintain your existing nationality and enjoy the benefits of a second passport.

Grenada and Saint Lucia Investment Requirements

• Grenada:
  
  • Non-refundable Donation: US $235,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) to the National Transformation Fund
  • Real Estate Investment: the minimum real estate investment starts at  US $270,000 for a single applicant or a family of four.
• Saint Lucia:
  
  • Non-refundable Donation: US $240,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) to the National Economic Fund.
  • Real Estate Investment: Saint Lucia requires a minimum real estate investment of US $300,000 for a single applicant or a family of four.

For a more precise estimate of costs for your family, visit the Grenada CBI Pricing page, Saint Lucia CBI country page or use the Passport Cost Calculator.

Family Inclusion Criteria for Grenada vs. Saint Lucia Citizenship By Investment

Grenada    

The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme accommodates a wide range of family members:

• Spouse
• Children under the age of 18
• Children aged 18-29 who are dependent on the main applicant or spouse
• Mentally or physically challenged dependents
• Dependent parents or grandparents aged 55 or more
• Unmarried siblings without children of either the main applicant or their spouse

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia provides the following family inclusion options:

• Spouse
• Children under 30 or with disabilities
• Dependent parents or grandparents aged 55 or above
• Unmarried siblings under 18.

Passport Strength: Grenada vs. Saint Lucia for Global Mobility

• Grenada:
  
  • Grenada offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 140 destinations, including the UK, the Schengen Zone, China, India, Russia, Argentina, and Brazil. Additionally, Grenadian citizens who are residents can benefit from the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa treaty, which allows them and their families to live and operate a business in the U.S. under a renewable 10-year visa.
•  Saint Lucia:
  
  • Saint Lucia provides similar access to over 140 destinations but does not include visa-free entry to China and Russia or eligibility for the U.S. E-2 treaty benefits.

Residency Requirements for Grenada vs. Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment

Both Grenada and Saint Lucia permit dual citizenship, allowing individuals to retain their original nationality while taking advantage of the benefits offered by their second passport.

Tax Benefits of Grenada vs. Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment

Grenada:

• Residents are entitled to a personal allowance of XCD 36,000, with income taxed at rates ranging from 10% to 28% above this threshold.
• Non-residents are taxed on income earned in Grenada, following the same rates.
• There are no capital gains taxes and no inheritance taxes.
• Property tax is between 0.2% and 0.5% of the property’s value.

Saint Lucia:

• Residents have a personal allowance of XCD 5,000, after which progressive rates apply: 15% on the first XCD 15,000, 20% on the next XCD 15,000, and 30% on income exceeding XCD 30,000
• Non-residents are taxed on income earned in Saint Lucia, and their thresholds differ slightly.
• There are no capital gains taxes
• No inheritance taxes. 
• Property tax is 0.25% of the property’s value.

Read our Taxation in Caribbean article for more details.

Citizenship Validity and Renewability: Grenada vs. Saint Lucia

Both Grenada CBI and Saint Lucia CBI grant lifetime citizenship that is irrevocable and transferable to future generations. Once granted, this status remains valid permanently.

Processing Times for Grenada and Saint Lucia Citizenship Applications

Applications for citizenship through investment in either Grenada CBI or Saint Lucia CBI are usually completed within approximately six months. When comparing the two, Grenada is often noted for its thorough due diligence procedures and a high level of approval reliability.

The general processing timeline unfolds as follows:

• First Month: The initial phase involves choosing a licensed agent, determining the qualifying investment route, and compiling all necessary supporting documentation.
  
  
• Second to Third Months: Background checks are carried out during this stage, and virtual interviews may be scheduled. By the end of this period, applicants typically receive approval in principle.
  
  
• Fourth to Sixth Months: Following approval, applicants finalise the investment, pay the required fees, and wait for the issuance of their passports.

Required Documentation for Grenada vs. Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment

Both Grenada and Saint Lucia require similar sets of documentation for their CBI programmes, reflecting a shared emphasis on detailed due diligence. Applicants must prepare and submit key documents, including:

• Certified colour copies of all valid passports
• Birth, marriage, and divorce certificates (where applicable)
• Residential address verification
• Bank statements and documentation proving the source of funds
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical health certificate
  

These documents ensure transparency and support the comprehensive background checks integral to both programmes. For more specifics, refer to our comprehensive Due Di

ligence Check guide.

Application Process and Flexibility: Grenada vs Saint Lucia

Both citizenship by investment programmes allow full remote submission of applications. Online interviews are mandatory, and the Oath of Allegiance may be taken either virtually or in person within Grenada or Saint Lucia, depending on applicant preference.

Why Choose Grenada for a CBI passport? 3 Key Highlights

The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme offers a combination of unique features that distinguish it in the Grenada vs St Lucia citizenship comparison: 

1. Travel Freedom: A Grenadian passport provides access to visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to more than 140 countries and territories, making it an invaluable asset for global citizens. Notable destinations include the United Kingdom, the Schengen Area in Europe, China, India, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, and a significant portion of Asia, Central and South America, as well as key African nations. Additionally, Grenadian citizen residents benefit uniquely from the E-2 Investor Visa treaty with the United States.

2. Attractive Investment Options: The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme is one of the most cost-effective ways to secure a second citizenship compared to alternatives in other regions. With a competitive investment threshold and availability of high-quality real estate projects, the programme offers flexibility for individual applicants as well as families. The overall passport cost depends on the number of dependents, making it an accessible and strategic choice for securing Grenadian passports and citizenship. The investment is only required after receiving approval in principle for the citizenship application.

3. Easier Access to Global Residence Opportunities: As a citizen of Grenada, you are recognised as belonging to a small, internationally accepted nation, which often gives favourable consideration when applying for residence in foreign countries. Many nations have quotas or special agreements for citizens of countries like Grenada, increasing your chances of approval for global relocation and residency.

Grenada Citizenship – Country Overview

Grenada, known as the "Spice Isle," is famous for producing nutmeg, mace, and organic cocoa, contributing some of the world’s finest chocolates. The island also encompasses Carriacou and Petite Martinique in the Southern Grenadines. The capital, St. George’s, is nestled around its picturesque natural harbour, the Carenage, and the Lagoon, home to Grenada’s main port. Just south of the capital lies Grand Anse Beach, a pristine 3-kilometre stretch of white sand and calm waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports like scuba diving and kayaking. For a more detailed look at Grenada, including its cultural highlights and unique attractions, check out our Antigua vs Grenada Citizenship comparison.

Why Choose Saint Lucia for a CBI passport? 3 Key Aspects

1. Residing Across 15 CARICOM Member States: Holders of a Saint Lucia passport enjoy the right to reside, work, and establish themselves in any of the 15 CARICOM member nations. This includes fellow Caribbean countries such as Grenada, Barbados, and Saint Lucia itself. The ability to move freely within the CARICOM region offers investors and their families valuable opportunities—whether for personal relocation, lifestyle flexibility, or regional business expansion.

2. Fast and Efficient Application Process: Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment programme is known for its smooth and prompt processing, with most applications approved within a span of three to four months. The process does not require long-term physical presence; applicants can secure citizenship remotely. Once granted, citizenship is lifelong and hereditary, offering lasting advantages for both the applicant and future generations.

3. Greater Global Travel Freedom: With a Saint Lucia passport, individuals gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 140 countries around the globe. This includes prominent destinations like the United Kingdom, the Schengen Zone in Europe, India, Brazil, and Argentina. Such travel flexibility is especially beneficial to international entrepreneurs and frequent travellers. As part of the Saint Lucia CBI offering, this elevated level of global mobility makes the programme a compelling choice for those seeking a second citizenship.

Saint Lucia Citizenship – Country Overview

• On Saint Lucia’s western coast lies Soufrière, a town steeped in history and once the capital during the period of French colonial rule. Nestled near the base of the Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, Soufrière is surrounded by some of the island’s most renowned natural sites. Among them is the Sulphur Springs, often described as the “world’s only drive-in volcano,” where tourists can enjoy mud baths and soak in hot, mineral-rich springs.
• Castries, the capital and largest city of Saint Lucia, lies on the island’s northwestern shore. This city functions as the political, commercial, and cultural centre of the country. Built around a deep-water harbour, Castries serves as a key port for cruise ships and is a hub for maritime commerce. Notable landmarks in the city include the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, one of the Caribbean’s largest churches, and Derek Walcott Square, honouring the island’s Nobel Prize-winning poet. Nearby, the town of Gros Islet draws both locals and visitors with its vibrant Friday Night Jump-up street party, while the Rodney Bay Marina caters to the island’s thriving yachting community.
• Saint Lucia, a captivating island nation in the Caribbean, is celebrated for its dramatic natural scenery, which includes volcanic peaks, verdant rainforests, and scenic coastlines. Situated in the eastern Caribbean Sea, it forms part of the Lesser Antilles and is positioned between Martinique to the north and Saint Vincent to the south. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Pitons, two majestic volcanic spires that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. The island’s economy is primarily supported by tourism and agriculture, with major crops including bananas, cocoa, and coconuts.

Final Thoughts: Grenada or St. Lucia Citizenship?

In the Grenada vs St Lucia citizenship analysis, Grenada CBI leads with unique benefits like the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa for citizen residents and wider visa-free access to countries like China and Russia. St. Lucia’s CBI programme is also appealing, with access to visa-free travel to over 140 countries and no residency obligations. Deciding between Grenada vs St Lucia citizenship depends on your priorities.

FAQs

‍

How long does it take to obtain citizenship?

• Grenada: Approval typically takes 4–6 months.
• St. Lucia: Processing time is similar, averaging 4–6 months.

Do either programmes require physical residency?

• Grenada: No residency or travel requirements exist for applicants.
• St. Lucia: There are no residency obligations.

What are the eligibility criteria for Grenada or St. Lucia’s CBI programmes?

Eligibility for both programmes requires passing comprehensive due diligence checks and meeting investment requirements. Both single applicants and families can apply.

What makes Grenada’s CBI programme unique?

For citizens who reside in Grenada for more than 3 years, Grenada passport offers U.S. E-2 Investor Visa eligibility, allowing to live and operate a business in the U.S. This advantage, combined with its visa-free access to China and Russia, sets it apart from St. Lucia’s programme.

How do the investment requirements in real estate differ?

Both programmes provide options to invest in government-approved real estate. Minimum real estate investment starts at $270,000 in Grenada and $300,000 in Saint Lucia for a single applicant or a family of four.

For a comprehensive comparison and to calculate passport costs tailored to your family, explore the CBI Grenada and the CBI Saint Lucia.

How does global mobility compare?

• Grenada: Offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations, including China, India, Russia, Brazil and Argentina. It also provides U.S. E-2 Visa eligibility for residents.
• St. Lucia: Allows access to a similar range of over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, and other key destinations, excluding China and Russia compared to Grenada passport.

What are the tax benefits?

• Grenada: No worldwide income, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
• St. Lucia: No capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes, making it equally investor-friendly.

For further details check out the detailed article on Caribbean taxation.

Which is better for business opportunities?

Both programmes provide access to CARICOM markets and encourage investment in the region. Grenada’s E-2 Visa eligibility gives it an edge for those willing to relocate to Grenada and seeking U.S. business opportunities.

What are the other CBI programmes in the Caribbean?

Citizenship by Investment in the Caribbean is offered by five programmes: Grenada CBI, Saint Lucia CBI, Antigua and Barbuda CBI, Dominica CBI, and Saint Kitts and Nevis CBI.