The world's oldest CBI program, reimagined. A complete jurisdictional analysis of the federation in 2026 — the "genuine-link" reforms, zero income tax, Nevis asset protection, real estate dynamics, and the new Innovation Pathway.
US State Department Level 1 ("Exercise Normal Precautions"). No standing military. Community trust-based security. A federation of ~50,000 residents that redirects government spending from defense into public services.
Dual-tier system: public primary care through JNF General Hospital + private clinics with shorter wait times. 2025 reforms added preventive care, chronic disease management, and telemedicine for international specialist consultations.
English-language instruction. 90%+ national literacy rate. International schools aligned with North American and European systems at competitive Caribbean pricing.
| School | Location | Curriculum | Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Kitts International Academy | St. Kitts | Ontario (OSSD) / Liberal Arts | $6,350 – $7,650 |
| Nevis International Secondary | Nevis | CXC / SAT Preparation | $3,330 – $4,500 |
| Montessori Academy | Nevis | Montessori Method | $3,710 |
Four distinct zones — from the digital-nomad energy of Frigate Bay to the ultra-luxury seclusion of Christophe Harbour to the heritage charm of Charlestown.
No personal income tax, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, no wealth tax — for residents meeting the 183-day physical presence test. The baseline for all residents is zero.
| Tax Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Inheritance / Estate Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Wealth Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Withholding (Local Sources) | 0% | 15% |
| Social Security (Employee) | 5% | 5% |
Moderate to high due to import reliance — but the zero income tax makes the "effective cost" lower than high-tax jurisdictions. Secondary areas offer 35–40% savings over Frigate Bay.
Balanced to seller's market in luxury segments. The mandatory 7-year CBI holding period has eliminated short-term speculation, driving steady appreciation over volatile spikes.
The 2026 "genuine-link" overhaul: from passive contribution to active connection. Three CBI pathways plus Digital Nomad Visa entry. Physical presence now mandatory for new citizens.
The world's most respected CBI program, now with genuine-link requirements. Zero tax, world-class asset protection, English-speaking — but with healthcare limits and capital lock-up trade-offs.
This jurisdictional report covers the "why." These pages cover the "how" and the "where."