Five Eastern Caribbean states—Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Saint Lucia—released on July 1, 2025 a draft agreement to establish the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (EC CIRA). The proposal introduces uniform reforms to Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs across participating states, including a mandatory 30-day physical residency, civic integration requirements, annual approval caps and enhanced due diligence. These measures aim to address international concerns and ensure applicants demonstrate genuine ties to the host country.

EC CIRA would be vested with broad regulatory and enforcement powers, including issuing binding directives, standardizing agent licensing, conducting investigations and imposing sanctions. Key provisions include five-year passports subject to compliance-based renewal, centralized escrow oversight and a shared biometric database. Member states would be prohibited from admitting applicants previously rejected by another participating state without EC CIRA approval.

To enter into force, the agreement must be ratified, receive a formal parliamentary approval in all participating states. If adopted, the agreement would establish the first centralized regulatory framework for CBI programs in the Eastern Caribbean, replacing fragmented national oversight with harmonized regional governance and robust compliance mechanisms. 

It remains to be seen whether the joint regulatory body indeed becomes the reality. We will update you in due course. 

Preparing your plan “B”? Are you interested in the second passports for you and your family by applying for Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program in the Caribbean and need expert guidance? With over 25+ years of international experience, we offer tailored services to meet your specific needs. Reach out to us for a private consultation at +44 20 3974 1244 or via office@vasilpartners.com.