Grenada Citizenship by Investment: Laws and Requirements

Why Might You Need Legal Help with Citizenship by Investment?

You may need legal help because Grenada’s immigration rules are technical, deadlines are strict, and evidence requirements are detailed. A lawyer can reduce delays, anticipate due diligence red flags, and optimize costs for families under the 2024-2025 price harmonization.

For example, CBI applications must be submitted through an authorized local marketing agent or licensed promoter recognized by the CIU, and supporting documents must meet precise standards (apostille, police certificates, source-of-funds proofs). For non-CBI immigration, counsel can coordinate work permits, residence permits, and Aliens Landholding Licence requirements if you plan to buy property outside an approved CBI project.

How Does the Immigration Process Work?

Immigration to Grenada typically follows a staged process: choose the correct route, prepare evidence, submit through the appropriate authority, complete due diligence or interviews, and then receive a decision. Timelines vary from a few weeks for visas to 4-6 months for CBI.

Here is a simplified outline for the main pathways:

1. Identify your route:
   • Short stay: Visitor visa or visa exempt entry.
   • Study or work: Student permit or work permit plus residence permit.
   • Long-term: Permanent residence or naturalisation under the Citizenship Act.
   • CBI: Investment-based citizenship via donation or approved real estate under the CBI Act.
2. Gather documents: Passport, birth and marriage certificates, police clearance, medicals, bank statements, source-of-funds, and other documents as required.
3. File the application:
   • Visas and residence: Through Grenada’s Immigration and Passport Department or Grenadian foreign missions.
   • CBI: Through an authorized local agent to the Grenada CIU.
4. Screening: Background checks, interviews, and due diligence (CBI) or employer verification (work permit).
5. Decision and issuance: Entry visa, residence card, naturalisation certificate, or citizenship approval followed by passport issuance.

What are the Specific Grenada Legal Requirements?

Grenada’s legal requirements depend on the route. For most routes you must be of good character, provide truthful documents, and satisfy financial and health checks. CBI has detailed criteria on eligible dependents, investment type, and funds verification.

Key CBI eligibility features as commonly applied by the CIU:

• Main applicant: At least 18 years old, good character, clean criminal record, verifiable lawful source of funds.
• Dependents: Typically a spouse, children (often up to age 30 if financially dependent or in full-time education), and parents or grandparents who are financially dependent; some sibling categories may be available subject to specific conditions set by regulation. Definitions and ages are set by the Citizenship by Investment Regulations and current CIU policy.
• Investment options:
  • Donation: As of 2024-2025 harmonization, minimum USD 200,000 non-refundable contribution for a single applicant, with higher amounts for families according to CIU’s fee schedule.
  • Approved real estate: Purchase in a government-approved project (historically from USD 220,000 for a share, plus government fees). Non-approved property purchases by non-citizens may require an Aliens Landholding Licence under Cap. 13.
• Due diligence: Mandatory multi-layered checks and a compulsory interview for main applicants and select dependents, introduced and strengthened by amendments and CIU policy since 2023.
• Processing timeline: Typically 4-6 months from complete file to approval, subject to due diligence findings and interview scheduling.

For non-CBI immigration under the Immigration Act (Cap. 145):

• Visitor visas: Required for some nationalities, usually processed in 1-3 weeks at Grenadian missions.
• Student permits: Proof of admission and financial means; processing usually 4-8 weeks.
• Work permits: Employer-led application with the Ministry responsible for Labour; parallel residence authorization may be required. Typical timelines 4-8 weeks after complete submission.
• Permanent residence and naturalisation: Usually after years of lawful residence and good character; the Citizenship Act sets the residence requirements and conditions.

What Grenada Laws and Regulations Apply?

Several statutes and agencies govern immigration, citizenship, and investment in Grenada. The most relevant include:

• Citizenship by Investment Act, 2013 (Act No. 15 of 2013) and the Citizenship by Investment Regulations, as amended - establishes Grenada’s CBI program, investment options, fees, and the CIU’s powers.
• Citizenship Act (Cap. 54) - covers citizenship by birth, descent, registration, and naturalisation, as well as renunciation and deprivation provisions.
• Immigration Act (Cap. 145) and related Regulations - governs entry, stay, removal, visas, permits, and immigration offenses.
• Aliens Landholding Regulation Act (Cap. 13) - requires non-citizens to obtain a licence to own land or property in Grenada unless exempt (CBI-approved projects are typically exempt under their project approval terms).
• Companies Act (Cap. 58A) - framework for incorporating companies, relevant for investors starting businesses or preparing for a potential US E-2 application.
• Governing bodies:
  • Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) under the Ministry of Finance - administers CBI.
  • Immigration and Passport Department, Royal Grenada Police Force, under the Ministry with responsibility for National Security - handles visas, residence, and passports.
  • Ministry with responsibility for Labour - issues work permits to foreign nationals.

Key 2024-2025 policy changes: Grenada aligned with the March 2024 regional Memorandum of Agreement among OECS CBI jurisdictions to set a USD 200,000 minimum for donation routes, enhance information sharing, and tighten due diligence and mandatory interviews. Expect stricter document verification and longer review in complex cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum investment for Grenada CBI in 2025?

The minimum non-refundable contribution is USD 200,000 for a single applicant following the 2024-2025 regional harmonization. Family applications incur higher total contributions and government fees as set by the CIU fee schedule.

Real estate options typically require an approved-project purchase (historically from USD 220,000 for a share) plus government fees, due diligence, and closing costs. Always confirm the current official CIU schedule before applying.

How long does Grenada CBI take?

Most complete and clean CBI files in Grenada take about 4-6 months from submission to approval. Cases with complex source-of-funds, name matches, or additional checks may take longer.

Post-approval, passports are usually issued within a few weeks after the oath of allegiance is completed and final fees are paid.

Can Grenadian citizenship help me get a US E-2 Investor Visa?

Yes, Grenada has a bilateral E-2 treaty with the United States, making Grenadian citizens eligible for the E-2 visa. However, US law now requires CBI citizens to have been domiciled in Grenada for at least 3 years before applying for E-2.

You must also make a substantial at-risk investment in a US enterprise and meet all E-2 criteria. A US immigration lawyer should assess E-2 strategy and timing.

Do I need to travel to Grenada for CBI?

No, Grenada CBI generally does not require travel for approval or oath, although in-person visits are welcome. Interviews are typically conducted remotely per CIU policy.

If you plan to apply for the E-2 later, spending time in Grenada to establish domicile may be strategically important.

What documents are required for CBI?

You will need civil status documents, valid passports, police clearance certificates, medical reports, financial statements, and detailed source-of-funds evidence. All documents must be certified and often apostilled.

The CIU publishes forms and checklists, and your authorized agent will manage formatting, translations, and notarizations.

How much does Grenada CBI cost for a family?

For families, total costs depend on the number and ages of dependents and the chosen route. The donation route now starts at USD 200,000 for a single applicant, with additional contributions and government fees for spouses and children.

Expect additional costs like due diligence (commonly around USD 5,000 per adult), processing and application fees, agent fees, and document procurement. Many families compare Antigua’s family pricing with Grenada’s, but Grenada’s E-2 advantage can be decisive.

Can I buy any property for the real estate option?

No, only government-approved CBI projects qualify for the real estate route. Buying non-approved property as a non-citizen typically requires an Aliens Landholding Licence under Cap. 13 and will not count toward CBI.

Approved projects are published or confirmed by the CIU, and legal counsel should verify title, escrow, and construction timelines.

Will I lose my current citizenship if I become a Grenadian?

Grenada permits dual citizenship. Whether you may keep your existing nationality depends on your home country’s laws.

Most CBI applicants maintain multiple nationalities, but always check any military, tax, or renunciation obligations in other jurisdictions.

What are the grounds for refusal or revocation?

Applications can be refused for criminal records, security or sanctions concerns, misleading information, or unexplained funds. The CBI Act and Regulations allow revocation for fraud, concealment, or threats to national security.

Due diligence is extensive and includes international database checks, open-source intelligence, and an interview. Accurate disclosure is critical.

What is the passport validity and travel access?

Grenadian passports are typically valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Grenadian citizens enjoy broad visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, including the UK and the Schengen Area, along with eligibility for the US E-2 visa.

Visa policies can change, so check current official advisories before travel.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Hire a lawyer early if you are applying with complex family structures, have prior visa refusals or name matches, or need to reconcile business ownership and banking evidences for source-of-funds. Early legal planning prevents avoidable delays and refusals.

For non-CBI immigration, consult counsel if you need a work permit, are changing employer, intend to buy non-approved real estate, or are transitioning from temporary to permanent residence or naturalisation. Coordinating immigration, property, and corporate steps under Grenadian law saves time and cost.

What are the Next Steps?

The next steps are to confirm your objectives, choose the right route, and prepare a compliant application with professional guidance. Below are practical checklists for CBI and non-CBI paths.

Step-by-step: Grenada Citizenship by Investment

1. Initial screening: Confidentially assess eligibility, source-of-funds, and family composition with a licensed local agent and, if desired, an independent lawyer.
2. Choose route and budget:
   • Donation: Minimum USD 200,000 for singles in 2025; families add contributions and fees.
   • Approved real estate: From about USD 220,000 share plus government fees; verify project status.
3. Document preparation: Collect passports, civil documents, police certificates, medicals, bank statements, company records, and source-of-funds proofs; arrange notarization and apostille.
4. File with CIU: Your authorized agent submits the application and fees to the CIU.
5. Due diligence and interview: Complete background checks and attend the mandatory interview (often remote).
6. Approval in principle: Pay the remaining contribution or complete the real estate closing in escrow.
7. Citizenship and passport: Take the oath of allegiance and receive your certificate of registration; apply for the Grenadian passport.

Step-by-step: Work or Residence in Grenada

1. Secure an employer or purpose: Obtain a job offer, university admission, or investment plan.
2. Work permit or student permit: Employer or applicant files with the Ministry responsible for Labour (work permit) or Immigration Department (student permit), attaching qualifications, police certificate, and medicals.
3. Residence authorization: Apply for the appropriate residence permit under the Immigration Act (Cap. 145), usually alongside or after the work or study authorization.
4. Extensions and compliance: Track expiry dates, renew on time, and update the authorities on changes in employment or study.
5. Permanent residence and naturalisation: After fulfilling residence years and good character requirements under the Citizenship Act (Cap. 54), consider applying for naturalisation.

CBI Comparison: Caribbean Five vs Malta, Turkey, Vanuatu (2025 snapshot)

Note: Figures are indicative and exclude agent fees, government fees for dependents, and third-party costs. Always confirm current official pricing and rules before applying.

What are Typical Timelines and Costs in Grenada?

For CBI, expect about 4-6 months from complete submission to approval, with total costs starting at USD 200,000 for singles plus due diligence, processing, and agent fees. For families, total program costs vary widely based on the number and age of dependents and the route chosen.

For non-CBI immigration, visitor visas usually take 1-3 weeks, student and residence permits about 4-8 weeks, and work permits about 4-8 weeks after a complete file. Government fees are published by the relevant ministries and can vary by category and duration.

Grenada-Specific Due Diligence and Compliance

Grenada’s CIU uses a multi-layered due diligence model, including international database screening, open-source research, Interpol checks, and a mandatory applicant interview. This aligns with the 2024 regional MOA and EU-influenced standards.

Applicants should prepare comprehensive source-of-funds documentation, including bank statements, audited financials or tax returns where relevant, share registries, and sale contracts for asset disposal. Misstatements or omissions can lead to refusal or future revocation.

Practical Tips to Improve Approval Odds

Front-load a clean, complete file with logically organized evidence. Anticipate questions and proactively address them in a source-of-funds narrative.

• Use consistent names across documents; explain any variations with affidavits.
• Obtain recent police certificates and ensure all translations are certified and apostilled.
• Prepare for the interview with clear explanations of your business, wealth path, and reasons for choosing Grenada.
• If targeting the US E-2 later, plan for Grenada domicile and ties across at least 3 years.

Common Pitfalls

Relying on outdated USD 100,000 marketing or non-approved real estate can derail your process. Post-2024, the donation floor is USD 200,000 region-wide in the Caribbean CBI space.

• Submitting incomplete or uncertified documents.
• Underestimating family fees and due diligence costs.
• Assuming any Grenada property qualifies for CBI.
• Ignoring the US E-2 3-year domicile rule for CBI nationals.

Contacts and Authorities

For official information, consult:

• Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), Ministry of Finance - CBI applications, approved projects, fee schedules.
• Immigration and Passport Department, Royal Grenada Police Force - visas, residence, passports.
• Ministry responsible for Labour - work permits for foreign nationals.

Why Grenada vs Other CBI Programs?

Grenada stands out for USA E-2 access and balanced processing times. While Antigua may be more cost-effective for very large families, Grenada’s E-2 treaty is unique among the Caribbean Five.

If your goal is EU residency or citizenship, Malta is the premium but higher cost option. If speed is paramount and budget is lower, Vanuatu is fast but lacks E-2 or EU advantages. Turkey provides E-2 access but with a different cultural and regulatory environment.

Document Checklists

Every case is different, but most Grenada CBI files include:

• Passports and national IDs for all applicants
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Police clearance certificates for adults
• Medical reports
• Bank statements and bank reference letters
• Employment letters, company documents, share certificates, or contracts of sale for source-of-funds
• Proof of address and residency history
• Education enrollment proof for dependent students

How Are Children and Other Dependents Treated?

Grenada’s Regulations define dependents and age thresholds, which affect total cost and documentation. Generally, spouses, financially dependent children up to a specified age, and dependent parents or grandparents are eligible; sibling eligibility is restricted and subject to conditions.

Because CIU policy can refine these definitions, verify current age caps, dependency tests, and additional fees before filing.

Tax and Residency Considerations

Citizenship does not automatically create tax residency in Grenada. If you plan to live in Grenada, seek tax advice on local residency, potential remittance considerations, and international reporting.

Corporate investors should also consider the Companies Act and local licensing if trading in Grenada, as well as any sectoral approvals for regulated activities.

When You Should Prioritize an In-Depth Legal Strategy

Prioritize a legal strategy if you have complex business holdings, trust structures, cryptocurrency wealth, politically exposed person (PEP) status, or prior visa or residence refusals. These profiles require extra preparation to satisfy due diligence and mitigate risks.

A lawyer can coordinate affidavits, audit trails, and third-party verification to substantiate the lawfulness of funds and clean compliance history, improving your likelihood of first-pass approval.

Conclusion

Grenada’s immigration framework offers paths for visitors, students, workers, long-term residents, and investors, with its CBI program providing a timely route to a second passport that retains USA E-2 eligibility. Following the 2024-2025 harmonization, expect a USD 200,000 minimum for donation routes, stricter due diligence, and mandatory interviews.

If you want mobility, E-2 access, or a Caribbean base, Grenada is a strong contender. Engage a qualified local agent and an independent lawyer early to navigate statutes like the Citizenship by Investment Act, the Immigration Act, and the Aliens Landholding Regulation Act, and to structure your application for success.