An IMGW News Report
As European nations tighten their golden visa programmes, Grenada is charting a bold new course by unveiling the world’s first official ‘citizenship by invitation’ programme.
Set to launch on 1 February, the initiative will identify and select “hand-picked investors” who can drive entrepreneurial innovation in Grenada. While most citizenship-by-investment (CBI) schemes already demand significant financial outlays, Grenada’s offering raises exclusivity to a new level.
“The concept of ‘citizenship by invitation’ is set to revolutionise how investment flows into communities,” states the programme’s announcement. It emphasises that this approach allows governments like Grenada to attract investors with the capital, expertise, and vision needed to make meaningful contributions.
This launch comes as Golden Visa programmes in countries such as Spain and Portugal face increasing restrictions. These nations are curbing access due to concerns over housing affordability and money laundering. In contrast, Grenada is doubling down on its appeal to affluent global citizens.
Grenada’s initiative involves collaboration with Forbes Global Talent and Arton Capital, a global citizenship advisory firm. These entities will nominate and vet potential investors, who will then be invited to participate. Applicants can secure citizenship through various channels, including a non-refundable donation to the government or investment in existing business and real estate opportunities.
The programme is designed to deliver a streamlined process, with successful applicants expected to receive citizenship within three to four months, according to Armand Arton, President of Arton Capital. “This model is a valuable way for countries to attract the investment and expertise they require,” says Arton, adding that a similar scheme is being planned for the United Arab Emirates.
In addition to citizenship, selected investors will join the Global Citizen Council, advising Grenada’s government on innovation and industry strategy. Members will meet annually with Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell during a two-day event, with private jet travel included.
Mitchell notes, “The people of Grenada are set to welcome a new wave of investment and innovation to our shores.”
As Grenada moves forward, it remains to be seen whether other nations will adopt similar approaches amid the evolving landscape of global CBI programmes.
For more articles about Grendaa, we recommend reading the following recent IMGW News Reports:
- Citizenship by Invitation: Grenada’s Strategic Move to Attract Global Talent
- Investment Migration Programmes Key to Mitigating Storm Damages Averaging 17% of GDP in Caribbean Economies
- Sustainability and Stability: The Allure of Grenada’s Promise—What Lies Ahead?
