Grenada
Grenada offers a compelling citizenship-by-investment program with visa-free travel to 140+ countries and no physical residency requirement.
Grenada's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is a primary draw for high-net-worth individuals seeking a second passport with minimal residency obligations. The program grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, China, the UK, and Singapore, with no requirement to live on the island. For those seeking permanent residency, a real estate investment starting at $220,000 or a business investment provides a path with no minimum stay, though naturalization requires a brief 5-day presence after five years.
The island's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture (notably nutmeg), and the CBI program itself. While the wealth ecosystem is nascent—with fewer than five dedicated family offices and no major international private banks physically present—regional banks and offshore licenses serve expatriate clients. Most complex multi-jurisdictional planning is outsourced to advisors in Barbados, Switzerland, or the UK. Lifestyle-wise, Grenada offers a tranquil Caribbean setting with a tropical climate, but limited intercontinental connectivity and a small professional services community may constrain those requiring frequent global travel or sophisticated wealth management.
Tax advantages
- No capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
- Territorial tax system with no tax on foreign income for residents.
- No annual property tax on primary residence; low stamp duties on real estate transfers.
- No withholding tax on dividends or interest paid to non-residents.
Tax disadvantages
- Value Added Tax (VAT) of 15% applies to most goods and services.
- Property tax of 0.1% to 0.5% on rental income and commercial properties.
- Import duties on vehicles and luxury goods can be high.
Residency advantages
- No physical residency requirement for citizenship; minimal 5-day stay for naturalization after 5 years of permanent residency.
- Permanent residency available via real estate or business investment with no minimum stay.
- Visa-free travel to 140+ countries, including China, Schengen, UK, and Singapore.
- Path to citizenship for family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings) under certain conditions.
Residency disadvantages
- Limited direct flights to major global hubs; requires connections through Miami, New York, or Caribbean islands.
- Small expatriate community and limited international schools.
- No dual citizenship recognition for some nationalities (e.g., China does not permit dual citizenship).
Living quality
Grenada offers a high quality of life with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. The climate is tropical, with average temperatures of 27°C year-round. Infrastructure is adequate but basic; healthcare is available but serious cases require evacuation to the US or Trinidad. Crime rates are low, but petty theft can occur. The island has a small but welcoming community, with limited international schools and cultural amenities.
Best for
- Grenada is best suited for HNWIs seeking a second passport with strong visa-free access, particularly to China and Europe, without requiring physical relocation. It appeals to those who value a Caribbean lifestyle and can manage wealth through external advisors, as local infrastructure for complex planning is limited. Ideal for families looking for a citizenship-by-investment option that includes extended family members.
Atlas cities in Grenada · 1 listed
- Saint George's Wealth 3
Grenada sits in the Atlas region Offshore & Special Jurisdictions.
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