Grenada CBI & Visa Insights: CEO Thomas Addresses Key FAQs

In the complex and ever-evolving realm of international immigration and investment programs, Grenada has emerged as a significant player, drawing the attention of global aspirants seeking enhanced mobility and citizenship opportunities. Its unique offerings, such as the E-2 visa pathway linked to residency stipulations, the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program with its own set of criteria, and visa-free access arrangements, come with a host of questions and uncertainties. As individuals weigh their options and navigate the bureaucratic maze, CEO Thomas steps forward to address the burning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). From clarifying the implications of new visa requirements and eligibility nuances, to shedding light on processing times and crucial definitions within the programs, his insights are set to demystify Grenada’s immigration landscape and offer invaluable guidance to those with an eye on this Caribbean nation’s opportunities.

1. Regarding the decline in E-2 visa applications due to the three-year Grenada residency requirement. Grenada is the only U.S. E-2 Treaty country in the Caribbean. Since the introduction of the requirement to reside in Grenada for three years before applying for an E-2 visa, the number of applications has gradually decreased. Are there any measures Grenada plans to take in response to this change? 

TA: First, this is a U.S. requirement, not a Grenadian one. However, it’s important to note that “residency” and “domicile” differ legally. By mid-next year, Grenada plans to clarify its definition of “residency” with the U.S. Grenada does not require applicants to reside for 3*365 days, but rather to demonstrate evidence of staying locally, such as a local address, participation in activities, etc. We also encourage applicants to travel and visit Grenada. 

2. Does Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program accept applicants with a history of dishonesty? 

TA: If an applicant has a history of civil litigation, it does not necessarily mean rejection. This depends on factors such as the amount involved and whether the incident was intentional or incidental. However, criminal records will result in rejection. Additionally, applicants on high-consumption restriction lists (applicable in China only) will also be rejected and must be removed from such lists before applying. 

3. Is there a possibility of Grenada losing visa-free access to Europe? 

TA: No, there are currently no signs of the visa agreement being terminated. Grenada conducts thorough due diligence during visa application reviews, which has generated positive feedback and reassurance from European authorities. Therefore, the likelihood of losing visa-free access is minimal. 

4. How is “economic dependency” defined for adult children and parents accompanying the main applicant under Grenada’s CBI program? 

TA: Economic dependency is defined by one criterion: they must not be in full-time employment. 

5. Will Grenada align its source-of-funds requirements with other Caribbean countries in the future? 

TA: Grenada’s investment funds are handled through a U.S. bank, not other regional banks. This requires stringent verification to ensure that incoming funds meet all requirements. This strict due diligence protects the relationship with the bank and safeguards the long-term interests of applicants, rather than providing only short-term benefits. 

6. What is the current processing time for Grenada’s CBI applications? 

TA: After completing the investment, citizenship certificates are issued immediately. With the certificate, applicants can then apply for a passport. In terms of processing timelines, this process now takes 3-4 months in 2024. For cases submitted in 2023, processing might take longer, but most tasks have already been completed.