Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program remains a top choice for global investors in 2025, offering unparalleled benefits. Grenadian citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, China, and Singapore, making it one of the most powerful passports in the Caribbean.
With a projected GDP of USD 1.4 billion in 2025 and an economic growth rate of 4.5%, Grenada combines economic stability with lucrative investment opportunities. Its thriving real estate market continues to expand, achieving an annual growth rate of 7% in recent years. Investors also benefit from a tax-friendly regime with no income, wealth, or capital gains taxes on foreign-sourced income. Combined with its reputation as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Caribbean, Grenada is a strategic gateway for global mobility and financial freedom.
Established in August 2013 under the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Act, the Grenada Citizenship by Investment program offers individuals and their families the opportunity to obtain Grenadian citizenship through economic contributions. Applicants can choose between two investment options: a minimum one-time contribution of USD 235,000 to the National Transformation Fund (NTF), which finances projects aimed at diversifying and benefiting Grenada's economy, or investing in government-approved real estate projects, such as luxury hotels, resorts, and villas. You will find a detailed description of the program in the following section.
Obtaining a Grenadian passport through the Citizenship by Investment program provides several notable benefits as follows:
Grenada permits dual citizenship, enabling individuals from the USA, Canada, and the UK to acquire Grenadian citizenship without renouncing their original nationality. This aligns well with the policies of these countries, as all three allow their citizens to hold multiple nationalities.
In the USA, dual citizenship is recognized, meaning citizens can maintain their American nationality while holding citizenship in another country, such as Grenada. Similarly, the UK and Canada also permit dual citizenship, allowing its nationals to retain their citizenship alongside Grenadian nationality.
This legal compatibility ensures that individuals from these countries can enjoy the privileges of dual citizenship, such as enhanced global mobility, expanded business opportunities, and access to Grenada’s favorable tax regime, all without forfeiting the rights and protections of their home country.
Citizens of the USA, Canada, and the UK among other countries are eligible to apply for Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Program if they meet the necessary criteria. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and free from communicable diseases. They must also demonstrate the financial capacity to make the required investment, ensuring that the source of their funds is legal and verifiable. Additionally, applicants must have a clean criminal record and not be under any criminal investigation.
Moreover, the Government of Grenada will deny the application of any individual who:
Grenada's Citizenship by Investment Program has two primary pathways: a contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF) and investment in government-approved real estate.
The NTF option requires a minimum, non-refundable contribution of USD 235,000 for a single applicant, supporting economic development projects in Grenada. This is a straightforward and cost-effective route with fast processing, ideal for individuals seeking no financial returns but maximum simplicity.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment in Real Estate
On the other hand, the real estate investment option requires a minimum investment of USD 270,000 for shared (fractional) ownership in luxury resorts or USD 350,000 for sole ownership in pre-approved projects, with a mandatory holding period of 5 years. While it has higher upfront costs, it offers the potential for rental income and property appreciation, making it attractive to investors.
Both options allow applicants to include family members and provide visa-free travel to various countries, making Grenada a strategic choice for global mobility and investment. Below is a comparison of these options:
The choice between donation and real estate investment depends on individual financial goals and preferences.
Grenada's CBI Program offers individuals and their families the opportunity to obtain Grenadian citizenship by making a qualifying investment in the country.
Applicants can include the following dependents in the same application:
Ensuring that your documentation is thorough and precise is crucial when applying for the CBI program. Below is a detailed list of the necessary documents:
The due diligence process for Grenada's CBI program is a comprehensive evaluation designed to ensure the integrity and security of the program. This process involves several key components:
There are no residency or visitation requirements for applicants during or after the application process. Applicants are not required to be physically present in Grenada at any point before or after obtaining citizenship.
Grenada's CBI program presents numerous advantages for investors seeking a second citizenship. Here are 10 key benefits you should be aware of:
Grenadian citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 145 countries, including the UK, Schengen Area, China, and Singapore, facilitating seamless international travel for business and leisure. This extensive access enhances global mobility and provides significant opportunities for international engagement.
Grenada imposes no taxes on foreign income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth, making it an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking to optimize their tax strategies. The country also offers investment incentives such as tax holidays and exemptions in key sectors like tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy, further enhancing its appeal to foreign investors.
The program does not require applicants to reside in Grenada during or after the application process, offering flexibility to maintain one's primary residence elsewhere. This means that investors can obtain and retain Grenadian citizenship without the need for physical presence in the country, allowing them to continue their personal and professional commitments globally.
Applicants can include a wide range of dependents in their application, such as spouses, children, parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings, ensuring comprehensive family benefits. This inclusivity allows families to secure citizenship together, providing access to Grenada's favorable tax environment, educational opportunities, and enhanced global mobility.
The CBI program boasts a streamlined application process, with citizenship typically granted within 4 to 6 months, enabling prompt access to the associated benefits.This efficiency allows investors to swiftly capitalize on opportunities such as visa-free travel and favorable tax conditions.
Grenada is home to St. George's University (SGU), a renowned institution offering programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, and other health sciences. The Grenadian Partnership Award provides a 90% reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate degrees, substantially lowering the cost of education for citizens.
Grenada allows dual citizenship, enabling investors to retain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Grenadian citizenship. This provision offers greater flexibility in international affairs and personal matters.
Investing in government-approved real estate projects in Grenada can yield annual returns. Properties, particularly those in the hospitality sector, may offer returns ranging from 2% to 4% per annum from hotel operations. Additionally, real estate values in Grenada have been appreciating, providing potential capital gains over time.
The CBI program has significantly contributed to Grenada's economy, with a 311% increase in revenue in 2023, reflecting its growing popularity among global investors. This substantial influx of funds has been instrumental in financing key infrastructure projects, enhancing public services, and promoting sustainable economic development across the nation.
Grenada is the only Caribbean nation with an E-2 Investor Visa Treaty with the United States, allowing its citizens to apply for a non-immigrant visa to live and work in the U.S. This visa can be renewed indefinitely, provided the underlying investment remains operational, offering long-term opportunities for investors and their families.
The Grenada CBI program proposes a streamlined process for obtaining citizenship. Historically, the processing time has ranged from 3 to 4 months. Based on Golden Harbors’ experience, in our recent cases, processing times have varied between 4 to 6 months, depending on the volume of applications and the thoroughness of due diligence procedures.
The first step is the due diligence and pre-approval stage, which takes up to 12 weeks. During this time, applicants undergo a comprehensive background check, where their personal, financial, and professional histories are carefully reviewed. This step is critical to ensuring the integrity of the program and confirming that the applicant meets all legal requirements. Once the due diligence process is successfully completed, the applicant receives pre-approval to proceed to the next stage.
The second step involves the main application submission and investment, which typically takes an additional 6 to 8 weeks. At this stage, the applicant fulfills the required investment, either through a contribution to the National Transformation Fund or by investing in an approved real estate project. Once the investment is verified and the remaining documentation is reviewed, final approval is granted. Citizenship certificates and Grenadian passports are then issued, completing the process.
Applicants can enhance the efficiency of their application by ensuring all required documents are complete and accurate, and by collaborating with authorized agents familiar with the process. While the program aims for prompt processing, timelines can be influenced by factors such as the applicant's background and the current workload of the Citizenship by Investment Unit.
The Grenada CBI program offers a structured pathway to citizenship for individuals who meet specific criteria. The application process involves several key steps:
Applicants must initiate contact through an Authorized International Marketing Agent, who collaborates with an Authorized Local Agent to manage the application. Direct submissions to Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment Committee (CBIC) are not permitted.
With guidance from the Authorized Marketing Agent, applicants complete official forms, undergo a medical examination, and gather necessary supporting documents. All submissions must be in English and properly legalized. For those opting for real estate investment, a sale and purchase agreement is required.
Once all documents are prepared, the Authorized Local Agent submits the application to the CBIC's Executive Office and manages all subsequent correspondence and inquiries. They also ensure that any additional requirements or clarifications requested by the authorities are promptly addressed to avoid delays.
The government conducts a comprehensive due diligence background check to verify the information provided. Based on these findings, the CBIC makes a recommendation, with final approval granted by the Minister of Citizenship. Applicants receive a letter via their Authorized Local Agent indicating whether the application was approved, delayed, or rejected.
Upon approval, applicants are instructed to make the required contribution to the National Transformation Fund or finalize the real estate purchase. Proof of payment leads to the issuance of a certificate of registration, confirming Grenadian citizenship. The Authorized Local Agent then uses this certificate to apply for a Grenadian passport on behalf of the applicant.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the total costs associated with both investment routes: a contribution to the National Transformation Fund or an investment in government-approved real estate.
The citizenship application process can be complex and comes with its own set of challenges. Applicants often face hurdles related to documentation, legal compliance, and navigating investment options. Understanding and addressing these issues early can help ensure a smoother path to obtaining citizenship. Below are some of the most common challenges clients encounter based on our experience:
The CBI application requires numerous documents, including police clearance certificates, bank statements, birth certificates, and financial records. Ensuring these are properly notarized, translated (if needed), and authenticated can be time-consuming. Errors or missing details in the documentation can lead to significant delays or rejection.
Many applicants are unaware of how Grenada’s laws on dual citizenship, inheritance tax, or property ownership may affect their status. For business-minded investors, understanding the tax benefits and implications tied to Grenadian citizenship requires professional guidance to avoid unintended financial consequences.
The two primary pathways — donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF) or investment in government-approved real estate — have distinct advantages and risks. While donations are straightforward, real estate investments often require careful due diligence on the property and a clear understanding of the exit strategy to ensure compliance with program rules.
Grenada performs thorough background checks on applicants, which include assessing financial history, source of funds, and personal reputation. Even minor discrepancies in financial records or incomplete explanations of income sources can result in rejection. This is particularly challenging for applicants from jurisdictions with complex financial reporting systems or weaker compliance standards.
Misjudging the time required to complete the application is common. The CBI program typically takes 3-6 months, but delays can occur due to errors in submissions, additional documentation requests, or complications during the due diligence stage. For clients with time-sensitive plans, such as upcoming travel or tax planning deadlines, these delays can be especially frustrating.
At Golden Harbors, we specialize in guiding clients through every step of the Grenada Citizenship by Investment process. From helping you compile and authenticate complex documentation to providing expert advice on investment options, our team ensures that your application is seamless and stress-free. We conduct preliminary due diligence reviews, assist in addressing potential issues, and provide ongoing support even after you’ve obtained your citizenship. With our personalized approach and deep expertise, we are here to help you overcome challenges and make the most of Grenada’s CBI program.
There are 5 Caribbean CBI programs that offer investors the opportunity to obtain citizenship in exchange for economic contributions (the same options as for Grenada), providing benefits such as enhanced global mobility, favorable tax regimes, and access to new business opportunities. The following is a comparison of Grenada's CBI Program with other popular Caribbean programs:
Selecting the appropriate Caribbean CBI program depends on individual preferences, investment capacity, and specific objectives, as each program offers unique benefits and requirements.
The Grenada Citizenship by Investment program was launched in 2013.
Obtaining citizenship in Grenada through its Citizenship by Investment program is straightforward, with minimal requirements and a fast application process. Applicants can qualify by making a donation to the National Transformation Fund or investing in approved real estate, with no residency, language, or education requirements. The program is family-friendly, allowing dependents and even siblings to be included, and offers visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including China and the Schengen Area.
The process of obtaining citizenship in Grenada through the Citizenship by Investment program typically takes 3 to 6 months from the submission of a complete application. This timeline includes the processing of documents, due diligence checks, and the final approval.
The minimum investment required for Grenada's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program is USD 235,000 for a single applicant, made as a donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF). Alternatively, applicants can invest a minimum of USD 270,000 in a government-approved real estate project. Both options allow for the inclusion of eligible family members, though additional fees may apply.
Grenada's Citizenship by Investment Program has no residency requirements, making it one of the most flexible options for obtaining second citizenship compared to traditional citizenship by naturalization.
There are no language requirements for Grenada's Citizenship by Investment program. Applicants are not required to demonstrate proficiency in English or any other language, making the program accessible to individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
To apply for Grenada's Citizenship by Investment program, applicants must submit several key documents. These include personal identification such as valid passports, national ID cards, and birth certificates, along with proof of marital status, such as a marriage certificate or, if applicable, a divorce or death certificate of a spouse. Financial records, including bank statements and proof of source of funds like salary, business income, or investments, are also required. Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their current country of residence and any country where they have lived for over 6 months in the past 10 years. Medical records confirming the absence of contagious diseases and recent passport-sized photographs in accordance with Grenada’s requirements are necessary. Additionally, completed and signed official application forms, a curriculum vitae (CV), proof of address, and other supporting documents may be required. All documents must be in English or translated into English, and they often need to be notarized, legalized, or apostilled depending on their country of origin.
Obtaining citizenship through Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program does not automatically make you a tax resident of Grenada. Grenada offers a favorable tax regime with no global income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes. Taxes are only applicable to income earned within Grenada. If you do not reside in Grenada or generate income there, you are generally not liable to pay taxes. However, individuals who choose to live in Grenada may be subject to local tax regulations.
No, you do not need to travel to Grenada to apply for citizenship through the Grenada Citizenship by Investment program, as the entire process can be completed remotely through an authorized agent. However, visiting Grenada can be beneficial for exploring the country, inspecting real estate if you choose the investment option, or attending a citizenship ceremony after approval, though none of these are mandatory.
A Grenada passport offers extensive visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries and territories. Key benefits include visa-free travel to the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Russia, China, and popular destinations in the Caribbean and Asia. Furthermore, Grenada is one of the few countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, allowing them to live and work in the United States.
Yes, Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program allows applicants to include family members in their application. Eligible dependents include a spouse, children under 18, and unmarried children aged 18–30 who are financially dependent on the main applicant. Also, dependent parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse, as well as unmarried siblings of the main applicant with no children, can also be included.
Unmarried or same-sex couples can apply for Grenada's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, but their eligibility depends on their ability to demonstrate a recognized partnership. While Grenada does not explicitly recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, individuals in such relationships can include their partner if they can provide evidence of a longstanding and committed relationship. For unmarried heterosexual couples, similar proof of partnership may be required.
For the National Transformation Fund (NTF) option, a non-refundable contribution of USD 235,000 is required for a single applicant or a family of up to four. For additional dependents beyond the fourth, standard dependents incur an extra fee of USD 25,000 or SD 50,000 per person, and siblings require USD 75,000 per person.
For the real estate investment option, the minimum required investment is USD 270,000 in a government-approved project, along with a USD 50,000 government contribution. Similar additional dependent fees apply as with the NTF option.
The ability to recover your investment in Grenada's Citizenship by Investment program depends on the chosen investment option. Contributions to the National Transformation Fund (NTF) are non-refundable, meaning the funds cannot be returned under any circumstances. However, if you opt for the real estate investment option, you can typically sell the property after a mandatory holding period of five years, potentially recovering your initial investment. The real estate must be sold to another CBI applicant to maintain its eligibility within the program.
Other costs include an application fee of USD 1,500 per person, a due diligence fee of USD 5,000 per individual aged 17 and over, and processing fees of USD 1,500 per person aged 17 and over or USD 500 for those under 17. An interview fee of USD 1,000 applies to individuals aged 17 and over, including non-applicant spouses and sponsors.
In addition to Grenada, several Caribbean nations offer highly sought-after Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, each with unique benefits and updated investment requirements:
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Victoria
Lead Attorney at Golden Harbors
Victoria
Lead Attorney at Golden Harbors