The SKN government is considering to implement new changes in 2026 in response to international visa requirements.
- The CBI will be redesigned in 2026 to introduce mandatory genuine-link requirement. includes structured physical presence and residency, meaningful economic activity.
- New biometrics enrollment system will be entrolled in 2026
- FinCEN has withdrawn advisory on St.Kitts passports issued in 2014. Now St.Kitts passport holders will not face enhanced scrutiny for financial transactions by banks on compliance.
- Passport issuance will be tightened issuance exclusively by the Government and delivered only through official embassies and consulates. No intermediaries or third parties are involved.
In recent years the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Citizenship Unit have implemented significant structural enhancements, including the
- strengthening of multi-layered due diligence frameworks,
- the deepening of international compliance cooperation,
- Commissioning of independent external reviews and audits,
- Introduction of mandatory applicant interviews,
- Implementation of advanced biometric identity verification systems, and
- Alignment of all operational procedures with evolving global AML/CFT best practices.
Genuine Link Requirements and Enhanced Processing:
In 2026 the Citizenship Programme will be redesigned to encompass the introduction of a mandatory genuine-link requirement. Citizenship will be granted based on a demonstrable, substantive, and ongoing connection to the Federation. This includes structured physical presence and residency, meaningful economic activity such as business establishment and job creation, productive investment aligned with national priorities, and long-term social, cultural, philanthropic, or national development engagement.
Inter-Agency Collaboration
The Unit has also enhanced its collaboration with law enforcement locally, regionally and internationally. These inter-agency exchanges support effective information sharing, enhance situational awareness, and ensure a coordinated, holistic approach to matters of security interest.
“Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen our processes and maintain the governance standards that led to the removal of the advisory,” said St. Juste, CEO of SKN CIU.
“Our focus as a statutory body remains on ensuring robust due diligence, good governance and compliance with international AML/CFT standards.”
Upgraded Due Diligence and Biometric Integration: The Unit has implemented sophisticated vetting frameworks, including enhanced background checks, comprehensive financial screening, partnerships with leading international due diligence firms, and mandatory biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial recognition) for all new applicants, aligning with international standards in identity verification and border security.
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