Big News for CBI in the Caribbean: Public Invited to Review Draft Law for Regional CIP Regulator
There’s a major shift happening in the world of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) in the Eastern Caribbean—and it could have big implications for how we do business in real estate, especially for clients looking to invest through St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP).
The Interim Regulatory Commission (IRC) has just published a draft law to establish a brand-new regional authority called the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA). The goal? To bring uniform standards, greater transparency, and stronger oversight to all CBI/CIP programs across the region.
If you’re an agent, developer, investor—or just someone keeping an eye on how the citizenship investment space evolves—now is the time to pay attention. The draft legislation is open for public comment until July 16, 2025.
👉 You can read and comment on the draft via the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) website.
💡 Why This Matters to You
As a luxury real estate agent working with clients from the U.S., U.K., Canada, and across the Caribbean, I know how important trust and clarity are when making a significant property investment tied to second citizenship.
This draft legislation is a bold step forward. It signals to the world that the Eastern Caribbean is taking the long-term sustainability and credibility of its CBI programs seriously. Once the ECCIRA is fully operational, we’ll have one regulator overseeing the region’s programs—bringing consistency, accountability, and peace of mind for international investors.
🔍 How Was the Draft Created?
From March to April 2025, the IRC—alongside legal drafting expert Ms. Lydia Elliott—held consultations across all participating countries. They heard from government officials, industry leaders (like those of us in real estate), international stakeholders, the media, and civil society.
This draft legislation is the result of those discussions. It reflects a shared regional vision for how to build a more robust and unified CBI ecosystem.
🌍 Who’s Behind ECCIRA?
The IRC was appointed by the Heads of Government of the five Eastern Caribbean states with active CBI programs. Here’s a quick look at the Commission:
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Edward Croft (Antigua and Barbuda – Deputy Chair)
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Francine Baron (Dominica)
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Julia Lawrence (Grenada)
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Isaiah Phillip (St. Kitts and Nevis)
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Evaristus Jn Marie (St. Lucia)
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Rufus Ferdinand (CARICOM IMPACS/JRCC)
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Henith Gabriel (OECS Commission)
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Timothy Antoine (ECCB Governor – Chair)
These are serious, experienced voices driving the conversation forward.
🗣️ Have Your Say
The IRC is inviting real people—including professionals like you—to review the draft and share your input. Whether you work in law, property, finance, or just want to better understand how the CIP system works, this is your chance to help shape the future of the industry.
📤 Submit your feedback before July 16 via:
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Email: [email protected]
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WhatsApp: +1 (869) 662-3543
At RealtyStLucia.com, we’re keeping a close eye on these developments because they directly affect our buyers, sellers, and investors—especially those seeking a path to second citizenship through real estate.
Have questions about St. Lucia’s CIP-approved real estate options or how this draft law might affect your investment journey? Let’s talk. Reach out any time for trusted, personalized guidance.
— Micha Landers
Luxury Real Estate Advisor
📞 Contact Micha – 1 (758) 730-1772
