This article explains the difference between the two non-refundable donation options available under the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program. The first option is a one-time contribution to the government’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) fund.
The second option is a government–private sector partnership aimed at delivering affordable homes to citizens of St. Kitts & Nevis. This initiative, called the CR-NHC Public Benefit Option (PBO), allows international investors to obtain citizenship while making a direct and meaningful contribution to improving local living conditions.
In 1997, Parliament established the National Housing Corporation (NHC) through a specific act, with a clear objective: to improve and expand access to home ownership for citizens of St. Kitts & Nevis through the construction of affordable housing and the creation of innovative financing solutions.
The CR-NHC PBO, launched in June 2025, aims to build between 100 and 150 affordable homes within the next 18 months. Four months after the program’s start, construction has already begun on more than 20 homes. One of the main advantages of this option is that it carries none of the liquidity risks typically associated with real estate projects. The NHC does not require a minimum amount to be raised before construction begins, which is why development is already underway. According to projections, 50 families will move into their new homes by May 2026.
This initiative has also boosted local employment, engaging more than 40 contractors, masons, carpenters, electricians, and other tradespeople, with another 75 expected to start work by early 2026.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Apply
Costs in the investment migration industry rarely go down, and programs tend to become more restrictive over time. For several reasons, now is the ideal moment to take advantage of the new initiative.
• In August 2025, the CIU announced a Limited Time Offer for the Public Benefit Option, temporarily aligning its total cost with the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC). Until December 31, 2025, a family of up to four persons can apply for a total of USD 250,000, with all government processing fees waived. This represents potential savings of up to USD 45,000 for some applicants.
• In September 2025, the CIU issued a pre-enactment notice expanding the definition of eligible dependents, raising the age limit to 29 and removing the requirement for post-secondary enrolment.
• The CIU remains committed to efficient processing. The current objective is to complete applications within 120 to 180 days, and the unit is currently meeting this target.
• The Public Benefit Option eliminates the risks usually associated with private real estate developments. The project is government-run, fully approved, and already under construction. Because applicants pay their contributions directly to the CIU, investor funds are secure and transparent.
• The CR-NHC PBO is a genuine public–private partnership producing tangible results for local communities while offering investors a reliable and meaningful route to citizenship.
Professional Services
If you are considering acquiring citizenship in St. Kitts & Nevis, please contact us today.
Elma Capital has the necessary expertise to assist you at every stage of the process.
When sending us an email, please include your citizenship, country of residence, and the age of each family member to be included in the application. This information is required to provide an accurate quote for the fees and expenses applicable to your case.