Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has experienced a major political shift with the election of Godwin Elliot Lorraine Friday as the country’s fifth prime minister, ending nearly 25 years of leadership under Ralph Gonsalves. Friday’s New Democratic Party won 14 of 15 parliamentary seats, leaving Gonsalves as the only remaining Unity Labor Party member in parliament.
Friday has pledged to introduce a citizenship by investment (CBI) program, citing examples from neighboring Caribbean nations like St. Kitts and Dominica, where such programs contribute to government revenues and public projects. A survey indicated that 62% of Vincensions support the idea of a CBI scheme.
The country’s passport currently provides visa-free access to 156 destinations, including the Schengen Area, the UK, and the UAE. Key questions remain about the design of the new program, including whether it will align with regional CBI agreements (which set minimum investments and security standards) or follow a unique national framework.
The situation is evolving, and official program details are yet to be announced.
