Grenada vs Dominica Citizenship - CBI Programme Comparison

Vago Barseghyan
January 13, 2025

The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes in Grenada and Dominica offer efficient routes to obtaining a second passport, which has numerous benefits for global investors and families. Comparing Grenada vs Dominica citizenship, both stand out for shared advantages such as improved global mobility, cost-effective investment opportunities, and the freedom to live across 15 CARICOM member states. While both programmes provide appealing advantages - quick processing times and transparent procedures - there are notable differences, particularly regarding visa-free access to countries. Grenada citizenship, for instance, offers visa-free access to the UK and eligibility for the United States E-2 Visa for 3+ year residents, unique advantages not provided by Dominican passports.

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Are you seeking to acquire a Caribbean second passport for your family? The decision between Grenada vs Dominica citizenship can be challenging. Both Grenada CBI and Dominica CBI are excellent choices for your Caribbean Citizenship by Investment application. However, the comparison will highlight unique distinctions that set them apart. By analysing the key aspects of Grenada citizenship and Dominica citizenship offerings — such as their visa-free access and investment opportunities — you can determine which programme best aligns with your family goals. Let’s explore key similarities and differences of Grenada vs Dominica citizenship below, which will hopefully help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose Grenada CBI for a Second Passport? 3 Main Aspects

The Grenada CBI programme is one of the most trusted in the world. Travel freedom, affordable investment options, processing time and commitment to fairness and accountability are the reasons why Grenada citizenship is a top choice for a second Caribbean passport  for many families:

1. Cross-Border Travel Flexibility: A Grenadian passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries and territories, making it highly valuable for global travellers. Key destinations include the United Kingdom, the Schengen Area, China, India, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, much of Asia, Central and South America, and prominent African nations. A unique advantage of Grenadian citizenship is qualifying for the E-2 Visa minimum residency of three years, enabling investors to settle in the USA. However, eligibility for the E-2 Visa requires a minimum residency of three years in Grenada.

2. Processing Time, Transparency, and Family Inclusion:  The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme is very efficient, allowing you to obtain a second passport from Grenada within approximately 6 months. It also is built on transparency and stringent due diligence. The investment is only required after approval in principle, providing peace of mind and security for applicants. Grenada CBI allows the inclusion of unmarried siblings of the main applicant and spouse and has no minimum age limit for dependent parents to apply for citizenship.

3. Quality Real Estate among Investment Options: The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme is a cost-effective way to secure a second Caribbean citizenship. Investments are only required after receiving approval in principle and include competitive investment thresholds through quality real estate options including luxury resorts and beachside villas. Ideal for both individuals and families, the total passport cost varies based on the size of the family.

Grenada Citizenship – Island Overview

Grenada is celebrated worldwide for producing key ingredients of the finest chocolates. This beautiful Caribbean nation also includes the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. St. George’s, the capital, is the country’s main city and seaport. The waterfront area is the yachting and charter-boat hub of the eastern Caribbean. Grand Anse Beach is not far from the capital, just a short drive away, a pristine 3-kilometre stretch of white sand and calm, azure waters. St. George’s pastel-coloured houses climbing the hillsides is a visual delight when viewed from Grand Anse. This iconic beach, known for its luxury resorts and vibrant watersports scene, remains a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike. Beyond its spices and beaches, Grenada offers stunning scenery, with fertile valleys, lush rainforests, and serene mountain lakes. Its tropical climate and natural beauty make it an irresistible draw for tourists from around the globe. Further details on Grenada can be found in our article on the comparison of Grenada vs Antigua Citizenship.

Why Choose Dominica CBI for a Second Passport? 3 Main Aspects

1. Extensive Travel Freedom: With a Dominica passport, you gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations, including sought-after regions like Schengen Zone, India, Russia, and Brazil. Comparing Grenada vs Dominica citizenship, Dominica passport lacks visa-free access to the UK and the U.S. E-2 treaty benefits but remains an excellent choice for global travellers.

2. Streamlined Application Process: The Dominica Citizenship by Investment programme is renowned for its fast and efficient application process, offering citizenship approvals within 3-4 months. With no mandatory physical residency, the process is designed for convenience, ensuring a smooth pathway to your second passport.

3.  Affordable Investment Choices: Dominica’s CBI programme caters to various investor needs with options such as contributions to the Economy Diversification Fund or investments in government-approved real estate. Whether applying solo or with family, both pathways offer cost-effective solutions, granting the lifelong advantages of Dominica citizenship.

Dominica Citizenship – Island Overview

Dominica, located in the Eastern Caribbean, covers 750 square kilometres and is home to approximately 72,000 people. Dominica's landscape is characterised by mountainous rainforests, numerous rivers, and dramatic waterfalls, making it a unique destination in the Caribbean. Dominica also boasts national parks and the second-largest boiling lake in the world, highlighting its immense tourism potential. However, poor infrastructure, the absence of a large airport, and vulnerability to hurricanes have hindered the development of its tourism industry. Unlike many other Caribbean islands, Dominica has remained largely untouched by mass tourism, preserving its natural environment. 

The island is also home to the Kalinago Territory, where descendants of the indigenous Kalinago people maintain their traditions and way of life. With few natural resources, Dominica has historically relied on bananas as its main export earner. Today, the country is making efforts to diversify its economy and reduce this dependence.

The capital, Roseau, is the island's largest urban area and serves as the administrative and commercial centre.  Situated on the southwest coast, Roseau is a small, bustling town with a mix of colonial and modern architecture. The town is known for its vibrant markets, where local produce and handmade goods are sold, and its proximity to some of the island's key natural attractions, including the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Roseau is also the main port of entry for cruise ships, making it a focal point for visitors arriving on the island.

Final Thoughts: Grenada or Dominica Citizenship?

When comparing Grenada vs Dominica citizenship, Grenada's Citizenship by Investment programme is a leading choice for investors seeking a second Caribbean passport for global mobility, especially with its exclusive eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa for Grenadian residents. Its attractive investment options in high-quality Grenada real estate, family-friendly provisions, and transparent, efficient processing make Grenada CBI a popular option for those pursuing a second passport.

Dominica CBI, on the other hand, while lacking some of Grenada’s global mobility advantages such as UK visa-free travel stands out for its affordability and streamlined application process. 

Both programmes offer compelling paths to second Caribbean citizenship, but their differences cater to slightly distinct investor needs. Ultimately, the choice between Grenada CBI and Dominica CBI comes down to the importance of specific benefits like UK visa-free travel and the U.S. E-2 aspect for your family. For those prioritising these unique advantages, Grenada citizenship may be the better fit.

FAQs on Grenada and Dominica CBI Programmes

Who is eligible to acquire Grenadian or Dominican citizenship through CBI?
Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria, including passing due diligence checks, can apply. Both programmes accept applications from single individuals and families.

What happens if my application is not approved?

Both programs emphasise thorough pre-application compliance checks. Investments are made only after receiving approval in principle. If your application is not pre-approved, you will not receive citizenship, and any initial fees paid will be non-refundable.  

Is there a language requirement to become a citizen?

No, neither Grenada nor Dominica imposes a language requirement for citizenship.

Are there minimum residency requirements after citizenship is granted?

Neither programme has residency or physical presence requirements pre or post-citizenship

Can I include my entire family in the citizenship application? What are the family inclusion criteria for Grenada and Dominica?

Yes, both programs offer family-friendly options. Grenada, in particular, offers more flexibility for extended families. Both countries allow children under 18 or those in full-time education, mentally challenged dependent children, and dependent parents and grandparents. However, Dominica has a minimum age limit of 65 for dependent parents and grandparents, whereas Grenada does not. Furthermore, Grenada allows unmarried siblings of the main applicant and spouse to apply for citizenship.

Is citizenship obtained through Caribbean CBI programmes transferable to future generations? Can my Caribbean citizenship be revoked?

Yes, citizenship from both Grenada and Dominica is lifelong and can be passed down to future generations. Citizenship will not be revoked unless fraudulent information is found in the application.

Which passport Grenada or Dominica provides better global mobility?

  • Grenada: Offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including China, Russia, and India. Grenadian passport holders residing in Grenada for over three years can also apply for a U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
  • Dominica: Offers access to over 140 countries as well, with notable exclusions like the UK and China and no U.S. E-2 treaty benefit.

Which program is better for business opportunities?

Both programs offer strong regional opportunities as part of the CARICOM alliance. However, Grenada provides an additional edge with access to the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa for those residing in Grenada for over three years, facilitating business operations in the United States.

How do the real estate investment CBI requirements compare?

  • Grenada: Minimum investment starts at $220,000 (shared ownership) or $350,000 for a single-unit purchase.
  • Dominica: Requires a minimum real estate investment of $200,000.

To compare and understand the costs for your family, use our Passport Cost Calculator or visit specific country pages.

What are Grenada vs Dominica international direct flights?

  • Grenada: Direct flights connect Grenada to destinations such as the United States (e.g., Miami, New York), Canada, the United Kingdom, and nearby Caribbean islands.
  • Dominica: Fewer direct international connections except to nearby Caribbean nations and Miami.

Does either programme require physical residency?

  • Grenada: No residency or travel requirements exist for applicants.
  • Dominica: There are no residency obligations.

What is special about Grenada’s CBI programme?

For citizens who have resided in Grenada for more than 3 years, a Grenada passport offers U.S. E-2 Investor Visa access, allowing them to live and operate a business in the United States. This advantage, combined with its visa-free access to China and the United Kingdom, distinguishes the Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme from the Dominica CBI programme.

What are the Caribbean nations with CBI programmes?

Five island nations have Citizenship by Investment programmes in the Caribbean: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts and Nevis. All five programmes are priced similarly and provide broadly similar benefits, with Grenada having some unique advantages outlined above.

Vago Barseghyan
Our blog covers a combination of industry trends and professional insights. We provide updates on real estate investment opportunities through citizenship by investment programs, global mobility and more! Sign up for our newsletter to stay on top of industry trends!
Vago Barseghyan
Our blog covers a combination of industry trends and professional insights. We provide updates on real estate investment opportunities through citizenship by investment programs, global mobility and more! Sign up for our newsletter to stay on top of industry trends!
Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures year-round, with an average of 27°C (81°F). The islands have a relatively dry season from January to April, with a wetter season from May to November. The islands have robust infrastructure and emergency systems in place to manage such events.
Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, the islands were colonised by the British in the 17th century. The cultural landscape is a blend of African, British, and indigenous influences. This rich history is reflected in local music, dance, and festivals, with calypso, reggae, and steelpan music being particularly popular. Cricket, a legacy of British rule, is the most popular sport, and sailing is also popular, reflecting the islands' strong maritime culture.
Antigua and Barbuda boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, along with coral reefs, lagoons, and lush vegetation. The country’s landscape is primarily flat, with rolling hills and volcanic rock formations. The islands are also home to rich biodiversity, making them a haven for nature lovers.
Antigua and Barbuda have a stable democratic government based on the British parliamentary system. The country is generally regarded as having a manageable level of bureaucracy, with a reasonably straightforward process for interacting with government agencies. Retirees will find that essential services like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining necessary permits are relatively simple, although some processes can be slow due to limited resources. The government has been making strides in digitising services to reduce in-person visits and streamline processes.
Antigua and Barbuda is known for its lively events and festivals, particularly Carnival, one of the year's most anticipated events. Antigua Sailing Week is another major event, attracting sailors and spectators from around the world. These festivals are deeply rooted in the local culture and provide a vibrant social scene for retirees.
Dominica has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly on the windward side of the island. Temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 26°C (79°F), with cooler conditions in themountainous interior. The island’s lush greenery is a result of its abundantrainfall.
Dominica's culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous Kalinago heritage, African traditions, and European colonial influences, particularly French and British. The island was originally settled by the Kalinago people, and their influence is still present today, especially in the Kalinago Territory. African traditions have also left a profound mark, particularly in the island’s music, dance, and festivals. Dominica’s outdoor sports are heavily influenced by its rugged terrain, with hiking and diving being popular among locals and expatriates alike, although there is of course cricket for those with more sedentary dispositions.
Known as the "NatureIsland," Dominica is characterised by its rugged terrain, rainforests ,waterfalls, and geothermal activity. The island is home to the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, as well as numerous rivers and lakes. Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty is a major draw for retirees who appreciate ecotourism and outdoor adventures.
Dominica’s government operates under a parliamentary democracy, with a legal system rooted in English common law. While the country’s bureaucracy is smaller and more accessible, some processes can be slow, particularly in rural areas. However, the government is generally cooperative and accommodating, particularly for expatriates. It’s advisable to have local assistance or a legal advisor to navigate more complex processes, such as property transactions or dealing with land registries.
Dominica hosts several unique cultural events, including the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival. The island’s festivals are deeply connected to its Creole heritage, offering retirees a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and music. Dominica’s Independence celebrations also feature traditional dances, music, and cuisine.
Grenada has a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 28°C (82°F). The dry season runs from January to May, while the wet season is from June to December. Although Grenada is located on the southern edge of the hurricane belt and is less impacted the another Caribbean islands, it is not immune to these storms as has been seen recently with Hurricane Beryl. The island has since improved its hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience and the value of these improvements has led to greater preparedness for such events.
The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples before being colonised by Europeans. Grenadian culture is characterised by a strong sense of community, vibrant music, and dance traditions, such as calypso and soca. French influence on the island is evident in its place names and culinary traditions. Cricket and football are the most popular sports, and sailing and water sports are also widely enjoyed.
Known as the "SpiceIsle," Grenada is famous for its aromatic plantations, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The island’s volcanic origin provides a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. Grenada’s natural beauty is complemented by its extensive marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.
Grenada also follows a British-style parliamentary democracy. The country’s bureaucracy is relatively user-friendly, with many government processes being straightforward and accessible. Retirees generally find it easy to interact with government departments for routine tasks such as registering a vehicle, renewing licences, or paying taxes.
Grenada’s Spicemas Carnival is the island’s most significant cultural event, celebrated with colourful parades, music, and dance. The island also hosts the Grenada Sailing Festival and the Pure Grenada Music Festival, both of which attract international visitors. These events provide a lively social calendar for retirees.
Saint Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F) throughout the year. The islands have a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Located within the hurricane belt, Saint Kitts and Nevis is vulnerable to hurricanes, especially between June and November, but the islands have strong building codes and disaster response plans in place to reduce the impact of the senatural events.
The cultural heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis is shaped by its history of indigenous Carib and Arawak inhabitants and European colonisation. Saint Kitts was the first Caribbean island to be colonised by the British, and Nevis has a rich history as a major sugar producer. The islands' cultural roots are a blend of African, British, and French influences, reflected in the local cuisine, music, and festivals. Cricket and football are deeply ingrained in the local culture and, along with sailing and hiking, are integral to the islands' cultural life.
The twin islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are known for their volcanic mountains, rainforests, and beaches. The islands are home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brimstone Hill Fortress and offer stunning views from places like Mount Liamuiga. The islands’ natural beauty is one of their strongest appeals to retirees.
Saint Kitts and Nevis operates under a stable parliamentary democracy, with governance structures similar to those of other Commonwealth countries. The islands have a relatively low level of bureaucracy, and dealing with the government on a day-to-day basis is generally straightforward. Most routine administrative tasks, such as obtaining permits, paying taxes, or registering property, are manageable, although some processes can take longer than expected due to limited staffing. The government is trying to modernise its operations, including digitising more services, which should help reduce delays and improve overall efficiency.
The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis host several vibrant festivals, including Carnival, the Saint Kitts Music Festival, and Culturama, which is unique to Nevis. These events celebrate local culture, music, and heritage, offering retirees plenty of opportunities to engage with the community and enjoy local traditions.
Saint Lucia enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry season extends from December to May, while the wet season is from June to November. Saint Lucia is situated near the edge of the hurricane belt, making it prone to hurricanes and tropical storms but less so than those further north. The government has invested in improving hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience to protect the island from future storms better.
Saint Lucia's culture is a unique blend of African, French, and British influences, reflecting its complex history of colonisation. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib people, before being contested by the French and British for centuries. The French influence is particularly strong in the island's Creole language, cuisine, and Catholic traditions, while British colonial rule has left its mark on the legal system and sports, particularly cricket. The island’s dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor sports like hiking and diving, which are popular among locals and retirees alike.
Saint Lucia is famous for its dramatic Pitons, volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the sea. The island’s landscape includes rainforests, beaches, andSulphur Springs, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano. Saint Lucia’s natural beauty is among the most striking in the Caribbean, attracting retirees who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.
Saint Lucia’s government is a parliamentary democracy, and the country has a reputation for a relatively efficient bureaucracy compared to other Caribbean nations. For retirees, dealing with the government is typically hassle-free for most day-to-day tasks like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining residency permits. Saint Lucia has been proactive in improving its e-government services, allowing for easier access to information and quicker processing of certain requests online.
Saint Lucia is famous for its Jazz and Arts Festival, which attracts international artists and music lovers. The island’s Carnival is another major event, featuring parades, music, and dancing. Additionally, the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals celebrate the island’s unique cultural heritage, offering retirees a rich cultural experience.

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