Citizenship By Investment Unit (CBIU)

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The Citizenship By Investment Unit (CBIU) is the government authority responsible for administering the Citizenship by Investment Programme of Dominica, first introduced in 1993. Its mandate covers application processing, enforcement of compliance standards, and delivery of revenues that finance national development priorities. Operating under the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security, the CBIU ensures that Dominica remains a trusted leader in the global investment migration sector.

Legal Mandate and Oversight

The CBIU’s operations are grounded in legislation such as the Dominica Citizenship Act 1978 and the Citizenship by Investment Regulations 2024. These provide the framework for granting citizenship to eligible investors who contribute to national development funds or government-approved projects. Oversight involves coordination with the Financial Services Unit, which ensures compliance with financial regulations, anti-money laundering standards, and international best practices.

Functions and Services of CBIU

The Unit delivers a wide range of functions designed to safeguard the integrity of Dominica’s economic citizenship programme:

• Processing and reviewing all applications for citizenship by investment.
• Coordinating multi-tiered due diligence, including background checks and mandatory interviews.
• Licensing and monitoring authorized agents and promoters of the programme.
• Ensuring compliance with the Citizenship by Investment Regulations of Dominica (2014).
• Managing the flow of revenues to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) and other approved development channels.
• Liaising with regional and international partners on security and regulatory cooperation.
• Reporting programme contributions to the Consolidated Fund of Dominica.

Developmental Impact and International Standing

Funds raised through the programme are a significant driver of national development. Proceeds managed by the CBIU have financed housing, healthcare, education, and resilient infrastructure, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters such as Hurricane Maria. Independent analysis has shown that CBI revenues at times represented nearly a quarter of Dominica’s GDP.

Globally, Dominica’s programme is consistently rated among the best for affordability, transparency, and due diligence. In 2023, Dominica adopted the “six principles” for CBI programmes in partnership with the United States, reaffirming its commitment to international standards and responsible management.