Dominica to Respond to EU on CBI Programme by November 12

The Government of Dominica says it will communicate with the European Union by November 12, 2026, following a request for five Caribbean countries, including Dominica, to end their Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes by June 2028 to retain visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

According to a government press release, Dominica is continuing discussions with the EU to address concerns surrounding the programmes while protecting the country’s economic stability and development interests.

The EU’s position follows amendments to its visa suspension mechanism under Regulation (EU) 2025/2441, which includes the operation of investor citizenship schemes among the grounds for suspending visa-free travel.

The press release states that CBI revenue has helped finance major infrastructure projects, disaster recovery and national resilience in Dominica, while reducing pressure on public finances.

The government says any transition away from the programme would require careful planning to minimise disruption to public revenue and ongoing development projects.

It is also working with regional partners to establish the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA), which is intended to strengthen oversight, due diligence and common standards across participating states.

The press release further states that Dominica and its Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) partners are discussing the economic and fiscal implications of ending their CBI programmes with the EU. They have highlighted the vulnerabilities of small economies and called for realistic transition timelines, along with financial and technical assistance to develop alternative revenue sources and diversify their economies.

The government says it will continue engaging the EU to reach a practical agreement that addresses European concerns while allowing any transition to be managed responsibly.