If you fancy being a citizen of idyllic St Kitts, read on …

Dubai-based Range Developments’ Park Hyatt St Kitts project is a prime example of how investors can gain citizenship.

Range said in September the resort is on track for completion by December 31 this year and said 18 of the 26 buildings were under construction with full building structures completed.

Here, Range outlines some of the factors potential citizenship investors in St Kitts should be aware of:

What is the citizenship by investment programme?

The federation of St Kitts & Nevis established the Citizenship by Investment programme in 1984 to encourage resort development, stimulate the growth of the tourism industry, and attract investors. By making a qualifying purchase in an approved project under the Citizenship by Investment programme, such as Park Hyatt St Kitts, investors become eligible to apply for citizenship.

Do I need to give up my existing citizenship?

No, you may retain your existing citizenship. The St Kitts & Nevis government allows dual citizenship and will not publish any data about those acquiring citizenship nor inform your present country of citizenship.

Does my family qualify for citizenship as well?

Yes. Your family can also obtain citizenship under your application. Qualified dependants can include parents above the age of 65 and children up to 25 years of age with additional government fees payable.

How do I qualify for this programme?

To qualify for the Citizenship by Investment programme, you need to make an investment in a designated property project approved by the government of St Kitts & Nevis, such as Park Hyatt St Kitts. In addition, you need to pay other fees and taxes as applicable and fulfil the formal requirements as identified per the government.

When do I get my passport?

Government approvals and processing may take about 3 to 4 months from the submission of your application.

What are the benefits of citizenship?

The various benefits of having a St Kitts passport include visa-free travel to 140 countries, tax free status, duty-free trade within the Caribbean and much more.

Will there be an interview with the government before I am granted the citizenship?

No interview is required with the government, however, stringent due diligence is carried out by the government of St Kitts & Nevis.

How long is the passport valid for?

The passport is valid for 10 years and easily renewable thereafter.

What is the application cost?

The cost of the limited partnership interest, as it is called, is US$430,000 plus associated government fees.

When do I pay the investment for the designated real estate project approved by the government?

When making the application, only a 10 per cent deposit has to be paid. Once your citizenship application has been approved by the government of St Kitts citizenship unit, the balance of the amount along with the government fees would become payable.

Can I permanently reside in St Kitts and Nevis and will I have to pay tax?

Yes, you can reside in St Kitts and Nevis at any time for any length of time. You are not liable to pay tax if you chose to reside in St Kitts.

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