St. Kitts & Nevis Expands Dependent Eligibility: Key Pre-Enactment Update to CBI Program
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The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of St. Kitts & Nevis has issued a pre-enactment notice announcing proposed changes to the Substantial Investment Regulations 2024.
The update focuses on redefining who can qualify as a dependent. By widening the scope for families, the CIU seeks to keep the program attractive and in step with regional benchmarks, while continuing to uphold the integrity and strong reputation of the nation’s CBI framework.
Current Dependent Rules
At present, the law defines dependents as:
- Children under 18 years of age.
- Children between 18 and 25, but only if they are in full-time education and fully supported by the main applicant.
- Adult children over 18 who are physically or mentally challenged.
- Parents of the main applicant or spouse, aged 55 and above, who live with and are fully supported by the main applicant.
These categories have guided the inclusion of dependents for years. The proposed revision significantly expands the scope for adult children.
Key Proposed Changes
1. Age Limit Extended to 30
The maximum age for dependent children will increase from 25 to 30, provided the application is submitted before the dependent’s 30th birthday. This change opens the door for families with adult children in their late 20s to apply together under one file.
2. Student Requirement Removed
Previously, adult dependents aged 18–25 had to be enrolled in full-time education. The new proposal removes this restriction. Instead, adult children simply need to prove they are substantially supported by the main applicant.
3. Financial Dependence Proof
To qualify, adult dependents must demonstrate substantial financial dependence. Acceptable evidence includes:
- Bank statements showing regular transfers.
- Proof of expenses covered by the main applicant (rent, insurance, tuition, etc.).
- Confirmation that the dependent resides in the same household as the main applicant.
- Evidence that the parent covers the dependent’s housing costs, such as rent or mortgage payments.
- A sworn affidavit confirming support.
4. Unmarried Condition
The updated regulation specifies that eligible adult children must be unmarried. Marriage would disqualify them from being included as dependents.
What Remains Unchanged
- Children under 18 remain automatically eligible.
- Physically or mentally challenged adult children continue to qualify with no age limit.
- Parents (55+) must still live with and be fully supported by the main applicant.
No amendments were made to fees, due diligence, or the process for these categories.
Why This Matters for Investors
This revision reflects St. Kitts & Nevis’s commitment to keeping its CBI program globally competitive. Families with older children—particularly those aged 26–29 now have an opportunity to secure citizenship together, even if the children are not enrolled in university.
For many investors, this means fewer hurdles, more inclusivity, and greater family security under one application.
Pre-Enactment Status
It’s important to note that these changes are not yet in force. The CIU has signaled its intention, and the amendment is expected soon. Until then, all applications must still follow the existing law.
Agents and families are encouraged to prepare supporting documents now, especially for dependents nearing their 30th birthday, so applications can be submitted promptly once the amendment is formally enacted.
How UNO Capital Helps
At UNO Capital, we stay ahead of regulatory changes across global Citizenship by Investment programs. Our team is here to:
- Assess the eligibility of your dependents under the new framework.
- Compile financial evidence of dependency.
- Prepare applications in advance to ensure timely submission once the law is enacted.
Contact us today to discuss how these changes impact your family’s path to St. Kitts & Nevis citizenship and to begin preparing your application.
* This article is based on the official Pre-Enactment Notice issued by the Citizenship by Investment Unit of St. Kitts & Nevis on 1 September 2025. Final terms are subject to government approval and enactment.
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