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Expert explanations, program overviews, and insights from our team. Get a deeper understanding of citizenship and residency options through video.
The Secret of the Ultra-Wealthy: Why They Buy Second Passports
Dreaming of island life with global access? In this interview, we sit down with Kevin, a former client of JH Marlin Law, to hear how he turned that dream into reality through the Saint Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. From the citizenship by investment application process to exploring St.Kitts and Nevis and other islands in the Caribbean, Kevin shares his first hand experiences about his journey. Kevin discusses relocating from Australia, meeting new people, applying for a US B2 visa, navigating relocation and starting his new life in Saint Kitts.
Is Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Worth It?
This video talks about things to do and see in Antigua, a little bit more about the lifestyle and the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program. Antigua & Barbuda is located close to the islands of Montserrat, St.Kitts & Nevis and St.Barts. There are many easy accessible direct flights on airlines such as United, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airways. Antigua is about 108 square miles and Barbuda which is about a 45 minute boat ride away is about 62 square miles. The population of Antigua is around 93,000 with a significant expat community. There are people from all around the world that choose to live in the country. Some people choose to live here full time whereas others come on a seasonal basis. It's a safe country and it offers a high quality of life. It’s very family friendly with school opportunities and sport opportunities for children. There is a large sailing community and many yacht regattas are held annually. There are lots of things to do from swimming, diving, boating, snorkelling, tennis, pickle ball, golf, sailing, running, yoga, arts and so much more. There are a lot of top resorts and places for fine dining experiences. Antigua & Barbuda have some of the nicest beaches in the world with white white sand and crystal blue water. There are 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Some nice beaches visit include Little Fryes beaches, Galleon Bay, Darkwood beach, Half Moon Bay, Dickenson Bay among others. There are beautiful stretches of beach in Barbuda.
Is the Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship Program Worth It?
St Kitts & Nevis citizenship by Investment Program Saint Kitts & Nevis citizenship by Investment was first established in 1984 as a way to boost the economy and attract foreign investment. In the early stages the country had established the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF) or an investment in real estate option for citizenship. Over time the program’s success led to its expansion. There are various legislative changes and regulations in place to ensure the integrity and security of the citizenship by investment program. Advantages of being a citizen of Saint Kitts & Nevis include the fact that Saint Kitts & Nevis is politically and economically stable and is a safe country to live in. There is no personal income tax or inheritance tax in the country. “The country's favorable tax policies and economic stability can be advantageous for wealth preservation and asset protection.” As a citizen you have access to education and health care opportunities and have the right to live and work in the country. St Kitts & Nevis is a great place to retire and enjoy life, the atmosphere has relaxed vibes. Provided you are a passport holder you have increased travel opportunities and global mobility which can facilitate travel and business opportunities. Citizenship can be passed down to future generations. Eligibility: To be eligible for St Kitts & Nevis citizenship the main applicant needs to be at least 18 years of age and have a clean background. You must also make the prescribed investment contribution pursuant to the option for citizenship chosen. You cannot have been denied citizenship in any country or denied a visa where St.Kitts & Nevis has visa-free travel and have not been able to subsequently obtain a visa. Family members that can be included for St.Kitts & Nevis citizenship include; the main applicant’s spouse, children under the age of 18, children between the age of 18 and 25 who are in full-time attendance in school (a confirmation of enrollment letter is required), children over 18 who are physically or mentally challenged, parents or grandparents of the main applicant living with and fully supported by the main applicant. Nationalities that are prohibited from doing St.Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment at this time include; Belarus, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Russia There are different pathways to obtaining St Kitts & Nevis citizenship which include: One option is the The Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) which was established to help increase local food production, diversify the economy, assist with the transition to green energy, expand social protections and safety. This options requires a non-refundable contribution upon approval for citizenship. Main applicant only: US$250,000 Main applicant and a spouse: US$300,000 Main applicant and one dependant: US$300,000 Main applicant, a spouse and one or two dependants; US$350,000 Main applicant and two or three dependants: US$350,000 Each additional dependant under 18: US$50,000 Each additional dependant aged 18 or over: US$75,000 Due diligence fees apply for all applications Main applicant: US$10,000 Each dependant aged 16 or over: US$7,500 Another options is the Approved Real Estate Option in an approved development starting at US$400,000 (resalable after seven years). On approval in principle the main applicant must also donate US$25,000, the spouse US$15,000, any qualified dependent under 18 is US$10,000 and any qualified dependent over 18 is US$15,000. In addition to these fees, real estate buyers should be aware of purchase costs (mainly compulsory insurance fund contributions and conveyance fees). Due Diligence fees and agent fees apply. Another option is the Private Home Sales option The minimum investment in a condominium unit designated as an Approved Private Home is US$400,000. The minimum investment in a single-family private dwelling home designated as Approved Private Home is US$800,000. Resale: A property purchased under the Private Home Sale Investment Option shall not be resold for a period of at least seven (7) years. Another option is the Public Benefit Option where the main applicant makes a contribution of US$250,000 in a unit of an Approved Public Benefit Project Due diligence fees apply for all applications Main applicant: US$10,000 Each dependant aged 16 or over: US$7,500 On approval in principle the main applicant must also donate US$25,000, the spouse US$15,000, any qualified dependent under 18 is US$10,000 and any qualified dependent over 18 is US$15,000. For detailed cost quotations you can get in contact with me at jennifer@jhmarlin.com A lot of top entrepreneurs such as Roger Ver, Heidi Chakos, Pavel Durov and others have done St.Kitts & Nevis citizenship. Entrepreneurs have a lot of trust in the reputation of the citizenship by investment program and wish to take advantage of the benefits of being a citizen.
Saint Kitts & Nevis: The Hidden Gem of the Caribbean
If you are visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis for the first time you may want to consider: - Different ways of transportation to the islands and once on the islands - Completing the immigration form online in advance for smooth arrival - Where you will stay: hotel, condo, private villa or other - How long you will stay and if you will spend time in both islands - Coordinating your stay around an event or festival - Determining what activities you want to do or places you want to visit - Doing business on the island. JH Marlin would be pleased to meet with you in person!
10 Reasons You’ll Fall in Love with St. Kitts and Nevis!
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of st kitts and nevis in this captivating travel video. We explore the stunning st kitts beaches and highlight the best things to do in st kitts and nevis for an unforgettable vacation. This comprehensive st kitts travel guide offers a glimpse into the natural splendor and friendly culture of this caribbean gem. St Kitts & Nevis has it all with stunning beaches, rich history, friendly locals, unspoiled nature, ecotourism, cultural diversity, diverse marine life, tranquil atmosphere, activities, fine dining, citizenship by investment and more. This YouTube video highlights reasons to fall in love with St Kitts & Nevis. At JH Marlin (jhmarlin.com) we assist with citizenship by investment and residency by investment applications. Citizenship by investment is the process of acquiring a second passport through a government that has a citizenship by investment program. There are a limited number of countries that offer citizenship by investment.
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B Backup option case study #10
Is doing multiple citizenship by investment programs worth it? It really depends on your unique situation. If you are an ultra high networth individual, doing multiple citizenship by investment programs may be advantageous to you. You will have a more diversified basket of citizenships, increased access to visa free travel, facility to open bank accounts and do business in your country of citizenship, and a variety of options to call home, amongst others.
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B Backup option case study #9
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B Backup option case study #9 talks about a specific client situation and why we recommended a specific citizenship by investment program. The case study involves applicants who wanted to live and work in Europe. The top European citizenship by investment program is the Malta citizenship by investment program. With Maltese citizenship you have visa free to Canada and the United States of America. Malta citizenship is around EUR 1 million and citizenship and passport can be obtained in 18 months. With Malta passport you have visa-free and visa-on-arrival to 185 destinations You have access to financial centres and an international business jurisdiction Strict due diligence standards so only applicants with a clean background are accepted. Great place to live and work with excellent airline connections
Citizenship by Investment & Residency by Investment Case study #8
One of the top residency programs in the world is the Cayman Islands residency program. The Cayman Islands is a tax free country and offers a high quality of living with top notch education and healthcare. If you are looking to receive the best services in the Caribbean, often the Cayman Islands tops the list. Here are some of the different options for residency in the Cayman Islands: Certificate of Residency by Independent Means (Lifetime Grant): Lifetime Grant of residency stamped in existing passport Option to work in local economy Spouse and children (under 24) can become legal dependents under the Residency - Certificate and obtain work in local economy Ability to obtain Caymanian Status in roughly 10 years after being naturalized as British - - Overseas Territory Citizen (BOTC) which allows Cayman passport to be obtained, and subsequently a UK passport. Requires CI$2M (roughly US$2.4M) cash investment (no mortgage) in developed real estate (commercial or residential). Note that we can include the stamp duty paid to the purchase price for the purposes of calculating the investment total. CI$100k (~US$120k) one time grant fee Residency by Independent Means (25 year grant): -25 year grant of residency stamped in existing passport -Does not allow you to work in local economy – generally appropriate for wealthy retirees. - No restriction on person working on offshore based businesses from home however. -Spouse and children can become legal dependents -No ability to obtain passport or Caymanian Status as the law currently reads but subject to possible change. -Requires unencumbered total investment of CI$1M (~US$1.2M) of which CI$500M (~US$600k) must be in developed real estate (commercial or residential) – the balance can be raw land, shares in a local business or an investment account with a local bank. - --Must also have CI$400k (~US$500k) cash held in local bank as a general requirement OR -CI$120k in annual income -CI$20k (US$24k) one time grant fee. Setting up own offshore company, obtaining license to hold own work permit (Special Economic Zone or Offshore Trade & Business License) If a person is not ready to make such a substantial investment in property, then this option makes sense. Within a month, they can set up their own licensed business and obtain their own work permit (which can include any dependants) as long as they are doing offshore only business. For example, if the person was providing administrative support to their Canadian companies (or elsewhere) from Cayman, that would be a legitimate business purpose we could license. The person can then can obtain an annual work permit and work towards Permanent Residency at year 8, or convert to one of the options above at any time. From a Cayman perspective, there is zero taxation - no corporate tax, capital gains tax, withholding, sales and income tax, etc. Certificate of Direct Investment – if a person invests CI$1M into a locally licensed employment generating business (new or existing) they could be eligible for a 25 year residency grant. Residency by Substantial Business Presence – 25 year grant of residency if a person is 10% or more shareholder or a senior manager of an exempted offshore business (or one of the following categories) · fund administration · brokerage services · investment and fund management services · financial trading (including foreign exchange, securities and derivatives) · captive insurance or reinsurance management services · reinsurance underwriting · investment banking · actuarial services · insurance claims management · family office · hedge fund incubation · any exempted company providing offshore-only services
How a Second Passport Can Change Your Life!
This video talks about why we recommended a particular citizenship program based on a client's factual situations. Grenada citizenship has increased in popularity in 2022. Perhaps the increase in popularity for the Grenada citizenship program is in part due to Justin Sun who is big in the crypto world and who represents Grenada and has brought a lot of attention to the country and the citizenship by investment programme. Grenada is one of the higher priced citizenship programs. Grenada has visa free to China and is an E2 Country meaning that citizens from Grenada provided they meet specific requirements can apply for the E2 investor visa in the United States. There is no guarantee that you will be granted an E2 investor visa and a significant investment is required. None of the Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes offer visa free travel to the United States of America. However, as a passport holder you can apply for a multiple entry visa or a visa to travel to the United States. We have had clients successfully obtain visas to travel to the United States.
Citizenship by Investment case study #6
This case study involves a large family from Syria that wanted to get citizenship from a country to gain access to a high level of visa free travel. With a Syrian passport you have visa free travel to only 28 countries. Getting a second passport through citizenship by investment can be life changing for many people that are from countries that have very limited visa free travel. The best citizenship by investment programs for families often tend to be Antigua & Barbuda, St.Kitts & Nevis and Grenada. At the moment Antigua & Barbuda has a special family deal for families of 6 under the University of West Indies donation option where families of 6 can get citizenship and passport for a donation of US$150,000 with additional due diligence fees, passport fees, legal fees. For some of the programs there are restrictions based on what country you are currently a citizen from. For example, Saint Kitts & Nevis does not accept applicants from Iran or North Korea. St.Lucia recently banned applicants from Syria. Many citizenship by investment programs have recently banned applicants from Ukraine and Russia. JH Marlin is a law firm in the Caribbean that specializes in citizenship by investment. We have helped hundreds of people acquire a second passport through a citizenship by investment program and relocate abroad.
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B Backup option case study #5
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B Backup option case study #5 talks about a specific client situation and why we recommended a specific citizenship by investment program. The case study involves a US client (single applicant) with a networth of around US$3million. He was not feeling comfortable with some aspects going on in the United States particularly where people feel divided and there is increased violence in the US. Dominica is a safe country that is naturally very beautiful with lush vegetation. The Dominica citizenship by investment program is one of the most affordable options for single applicants under the donation option and Dominican passport holders even have visa free acces to China. When doing the Dominica CBI program, they request that you show your net worth. Provided that you are not all into cryptocurrency and can provide sources of funds outside of crypto then Dominica could be a great option. Provided you wish to add family members to an application at a later date it is more expensive compared to other programs.
Citizenship by Investment and Plan B Option case study #3
Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is the process of investing in a country with a citizenship by investment program and in turn obtaining a second passport. JH Marlin is a law firm in the Caribbean that can assist with the processing of citizenship by investment applications. This case study involves a single applicant from India who is 100% into cryptocurrency. Normally the most affordable programs for single applicants are St.Lucia and Dominica which are priced at US$100,000 under the donation option. However, because this client is 100% into cryptocurrency and does not have a bank account with substantial funds and detailed bank statements he ended up going with the St.Kitts & Nevis citizenship by investment program. St.Kitts & Nevis allows you to show proof of funds from cryptocurrency provided they are in your name and on a centralized exchange like BlockFi or Coinbase for example. You can keep your funds throughout the process in cryptocurrency and then exchange it to USD when you are ready to make the investment contribution. Provided you are a single applicant, and you want to add a future spouse and have future children, St.Kitts is one of the most affordable to add additional family members at a later point in time. In addition to doing citizenship by investment, many people are also doing residency by investment in either Panama, Costa Rica, Cayman Islands, Dubai to name a few countries. People who are in cryptocurrency are often choosing Dubai or Panama as hotspots to relocate for luxury lifestyle, tax friendliness, crypto community and business opportunities.
Citizenship by Investment & Plan B option case study #2
Citizenship by Investment Case Study #2 talks about why we recommended a specific citizenship by investment program based on a specific fact scenario. The scenario is two United States citizens residing in Hong Kong. They want a second passport to be able to renounce their current citizenship as fast as possible and wish to relocate themselves and their technology business to another country. Given that they were in an extreme hurry the fastest citizenship program is the 60 day accelerated St.Kitts CBI program option. Under the accelerated option it is an additional US$25,000 for the main applicant and US$20,000 for the spouse for the due diligence accelerated processing. At the moment, the cost for a couple to do St.Kitts & Nevis citizenship under the donation option is US$175,000. At the same time as doing citizenship by investment, we organized a US tax attorney to assist them with the exit tax and US citizenship renunciation process. Ensuring proper tax planning is important. Given that they have a technology/fintech/crypto company they relocated to Dubai and became residents of Dubai. Dubai has a number of tax advantages and business opportunities for entrepreneurs. Disclaimer: This video is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
Citizenship by Investment Case Study #1
Often when we have files that involve siblings we tend to recommend the Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment program. Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment is the most friendly towards siblings as you can include a sibling of any age in your application provided that they are not married and do not have children. The sibling of the main applicant also does not need to be financially dependent on the main applicant. Note that the sibling that is included in the application cannot pass on the citizenship to future children or a future spouse. JH Marlin is a law firmed based in the Caribbean that specializes in citizenship by investment. We have helped over 100+ clients acquire a second passport, do residency by investment and implement a Plan B action plan. This video is #1 of a series of 10 that discusses different fact scenarios. This video does not constitute legal or financial advice and is for information purposes only.
How I Got a Second Passport in Paradise!
This was filmed in 2020. Citizenship by Investment law firm, JH Marlin Law (https://jhmarlin.com), did an interview with client Heidi Chakos from Crypto Tips. Some of our other cryptocurrency clients include Roger Ver founder of bitcoin.com and Colin Talks Crypto. JH Marlin law was one of the first law firms to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment (bitcoin, bitcoin cash, ethereum, algorand, solana, luna, tether, cardano and more).
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