Grenada: a paradise for tourists and opportunities for immigration

General overview of Grenada

Grenada is a compact island nation located in the southeastern part of the Caribbean Sea, which stands out on the world map. It consists of the main island of the same name and several smaller territories that make up the southern part of the well-known Grenadines archipelago. The island's landscape is characterized by a mix of coastal lowlands and higher mountainous areas in the central part. Notably, rivers are extremely rare here, but underground springs create numerous streams that flow on the surface.

Climate and natural conditions

The climate on Grenada is classified as tropical subequatorial, which ensures warm weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C. However, it is important to note that from May to October, the island experiences a period of heavy rainfall. The summer months may also be accompanied by hurricanes, which significantly affect the weather conditions.

Geography and population

Regarding geography, the area of Grenada is only 348.5 square kilometers. The capital city is St. George's, which has a population of over 113,000 people. The official language here is English, and the main currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. In terms of economic indicators, the gross domestic product per capita is about 9,000 dollars, which places Grenada in relatively modest positions compared to other countries. According to the passport index, which reflects the freedom of movement for citizens, Grenada ranks 28th.

Air transportation and visa requirements

As of now, in 2023, there are no direct flights from Russia to Grenada. Travelers have to make connections in other countries. One of the most optimal routes from Moscow includes Turkish Airlines and American Airlines with stops in Istanbul, New York, and Miami; the entire journey takes about 32 hours. There are also alternative options with layovers in Belgrade and New York, which may take a bit longer – around 39 hours.

• The second option includes flights from the airlines Pobeda, Qatar Airways, and Jet Blue through Istanbul, Doha, and New York.
• Such a route can take more than two days, including long waits.
• It's important to note that if you have layovers in the USA, you will need a visa, even if you do not plan to leave the airport's transit area.
• Having a Schengen visa can also make the process of traveling to Grenada from several European countries easier.

Investment opportunities

Grenada is attractive not only to travelers but also to investors.Programs for obtaining citizenship through investmentIt attracts people looking to acquire a second residence on this picturesque island and simplify visa-related travel issues. This creates convenient conditions for those who want not only to relax but also to explore business opportunities on the island.

Additional information

To better understand the nuances and options, it is recommended to refer to additional sources of information about Grenada, which will help to form a complete picture of this wonderful corner of the world.

How to get to Grenada

For Russians wishing to visit Grenada, there are several ways to reach this beautiful Caribbean island. One of the most common options is to fly to European countries, after which travelers can continue their journey to Grenada. There is also another route — you can first fly to nearby islands, such as Barbados or Trinidad and Tobago, from where direct flights to beautiful Grenada are available. Once there, you can use the services of local airlines for further travel in the region.

Visa requirements for Russians

As for visa arrangements for Russian citizens, tourists can enter Grenada without a visa. It is important to note that the maximum stay on the island without a visa is90 daysfor a period of six months. At the same time, your passport must remain valid for at least six months after leaving Grenada. Certain documents will be required for free entry, including:

• Confirmation of the purpose of the visit, in this case, it could be a tourist trip.
• Confirmation of accommodation booking, such as a hotel or apartment.
• Proof of financial means for the duration of your stay can include both cash and bank statements.

Visa for long-term stay

If you plan to stay in Grenada for more than three months, you will need to apply for a visa. To do this, you must contact the consular section of the Embassy of Grenada in Moscow. Applications are accepted strictly by appointment, which must be made at leastsix weeksbefore the expected departure. The cost of the visa will be100 US dollarsfor a single entry and250 dollarsfor multiple times.

Travel for citizens of other countries

According to the Global Passport Index data for 2023, citizens of Ukraine can also enter the island without a visa for up to 90 days. However, tourists from Belarus and Kazakhstan will need a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at Grenada's airport. If you wish to extend your stay on the island, you can apply for a visa at Grenada's diplomatic missions located in Belgium, Russia, or the United Kingdom.

Sights and active entertainment

When it comes to attractions and appealing aspects of life in Grenada, most travelers come here to enjoy the stunning beaches. However, this island offers much more in terms of activities. You can organize car tours or embark on exciting hikes to picturesque waterfalls and through tropical jungles. Surrounded by warm waters, Grenada becomes a true paradise for diving, yachting, and fishing enthusiasts.

Standard of living and culinary delights

Grenada boasts a high standard of living, largely due to its enchanting nature and romantic atmosphere. The fertile lands and rich sea create excellent conditions for culinary diversity. In local restaurants, you can try:

• Fresh fish,
• Legumes,
• Dishes prepared using various spices,
• Yam and nutmeg.

It is interesting to note that Grenada is referred to as the "Spice Island" or the "Spice of the Caribbean," as it is one of the leading producers of spices in the world.

Grenada and its natural riches

Grenada, holding the second place in the world production of nutmeg, is a picturesque country in the Caribbean region. This small state is rich in popular tourist attractions, among which the historic district of St. George's stands out. Here, you can see numerous Christian holy sites and colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as impressive fortifications built by French colonizers in the 18th century.

Natural attractions

In addition to its historical heritage, Grenada is known for its natural beauty, including the charming Grenadine Islands. A prominent example of its natural attractions is the Etang Lake Forest Reserve National Park, where visitors can enjoy the richness of local flora and fauna. This park is home to the famous "Seven Sisters" waterfall, as well as Grenada's highest waterfall, Mount Carmel, located near the town of Grenville.

Reserves and ecosystems

The Grenada-Dove, the symbol of the country, inhabits the Grenada National Park. Among the natural wonders, the Nameless Rock stands out, where ancient petroglyphs left by the first settlers can be seen. It is located in the heart of the La Sagesse Nature Reserve. The Botanical Garden "Jasmine Paradise" is also popular, where various hummingbirds can be observed among the dense vegetation. Special attention is drawn to the Underwater Sculpture Park, located in the magnificent Molinere Bay, as well as the amazing Jenny Island with its underwater volcano.

Transport communication

Grenada has well-organized taxi services and public transportation in the form of buses. Locals and tourists also use boats and small vessels to travel between the islands. The country has a significant level of medical care: there is a major hospital in each district, and medical institutions accept students from many countries around the world, not limited to just Grenada. One such organization is St. George's Hospital.

Education system

The education system in Grenada is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 14. In addition to the Medical University, there is Ta Marryshow Community College (TAMCC), which offers a wide range of study programs.

Safety and crime rate

In terms of safety, Grenada is considered a country with a positive situation. According to an analysis by the U.S. State Department, Grenada is rated at level one out of four, which means that only basic precautions are necessary. Level two advises being vigilant, level three suggests reconsidering travel plans, and level four recommends avoiding travel.

Political system

The political structure of Grenada is a constitutional monarchy, with the head of state being the British King Charles III. His interests on the island are represented by the Governor-General. The country also maintains left-hand traffic, which is a feature of its British heritage. Grenada is a member of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, which includes seven other Caribbean countries.

Economy of Grenada

Grenada's economy largely depends on tourism, which accounts for over 70% of its revenue. Agriculture is also significant and includes crops such as nutmeg, cloves, cocoa, and bananas. In Grenada's industry, local production can be highlighted, focusing on the production of beer, clothing, and furniture made from local materials.

Changes in the economy of Grenada

Over the past two decades, Grenada's economy has undergone significant changes and transformations. Previously, the main industry was agriculture, but now the focus has shifted to the service sector, concentrating on tourism, as well as finance and education.

Industrial activity remains at a relatively unremarkable level, with the main production facilities focused on the creation of beverages, food products, and textiles. The period from 1999 to 2019 was a time of active development, thanks to favorable export quotas for bananas to European Union countries, which supported local production.

Economic indicators from 2000 to 2010

Between 2000 and 2010, Grenada experienced moderate growth in gross domestic product (GDP) at a rate of 2.2% per year. However, this period was also marred by serious natural disasters, including Hurricane Ivan and Tropical Storm Emily, which caused significant damage to the country's infrastructure.

Additionally, in 2008-2009, a global financial crisis erupted, which had negative consequences for the economic situation in Grenada.

Economic growth from 2011 to 2018

From 2011 to 2018, the country's economy began to show more significant growth, with an average annual increase in gross domestic product of 3.7%.

Increase in tourist flow to Grenada

In recent years, the number of travelers visiting the beautiful islands of Grenada has significantly increased. This number has grown more than 14 times, reaching 172,257 people in 2022, compared to just 11,210 tourists in 2021. This sharp rise in interest in Grenada is due to several factors, including significant improvements in hotel services and attractive investment opportunities for foreign investors.

Construction sector

The construction industry in Grenada showed significant activity in the first half of 2021, surpassing the figures from the same period in 2020. The import of construction materials increased by 34.9%, while retail sales of construction products rose by an impressive 126.2%. These figures indicate a noticeable recovery in the country's economy.

Agricultural sector

As for the agricultural sector, the results of its performance have been mixed; however, it is still possible to note positive trends occurring in this area. An important aspect contributing to economic growth is the citizenship by investment program. In 2022, $133 million was raised for budget needs, which is 23% higher than the previous year's figures and 30% more than in 2020.

Real estate investments

Grenada attracts foreign investors looking to purchase real estate on its blessed lands. This, in turn, contributes to significant growth in the hospitality and construction sectors. Despite the lack of official data from the government on housing prices, it can be assumed that the cost of properties starts at around 110,000 US dollars, although actual prices can vary significantly depending on the type of property and location.

Citizenship acquisition program

Those who plan to obtain citizenship in Grenada should keep in mind that only government-accredited properties in the premium segment are included in the program, where the cost of real estate significantly exceeds average figures. Specifically, the price per square meter in new residential complexes starts at around $2,500. The most expensive properties are concentrated in:

• In the capital city of St. George's;
• In popular resort areas like Guava;
• Grenville;
• St. David.

Trends in the real estate market

According to local realtors, the real estate market in Grenada is showing signs of improvement, which is a promising sign for potential investors. There are several attractive offers on the market. For example, an investment project with an area of 54 m² is being offered for €202,302.

Investments in the Six Senses La Sagesse hotel

As part of the citizenship acquisition program, there is an investment in the luxurious Six Senses La Sagesse hotel, which is a 5-star eco-friendly hotel featuring private villas on the coast, spas, and a variety of water activities. This unique complex spans over 28 acres and offers more than 100 hotel rooms and over 30 swimming pools. All suites ensure maximum privacy, with access completely separated from public areas.

Possibility of obtaining citizenship

In addition to this, the hotel development project offers the possibility of obtaining citizenship for its creators and their families, provided they invest at least $220,000 in Six Senses La Sagesse. As a result, interest in Grenada from wealthy travelers and investors continues to grow and is becoming increasingly noticeable.

In Grenada, foreign investors and their families have the opportunity to apply for citizenship in exchange for investments in the Kempton Kawana project. The minimum investment amount for this project is $220,000. It is managed by the Kimpton hotel network and is located on one of the best beaches in the Caribbean — Grand Anse Beach. The construction of the first phase has begun since the project was launched.

History and relevance of the program

This investment project started in May 2013, and by 2018, Grenada had secured a high position among passports in the Caribbean region. Over the past five years, there has been a rapid increase in interest in the citizenship by investment program. More detailed information is available on the website of the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Grenada. As of the end of 2022, 1,486 people were able to obtain citizenship through the mentioned program.

Interestingly, about 75% of all applications were submitted in the last half of 2022, when Grenada was the only country in the Caribbean offering this program for Russian citizens. Overall, since the launch of the program, Grenada has issued more than 6,000 "golden passports."

Program conditions

It is worth noting that the program offers two main investment options:

• non-refundable contribution to the state fund;
• acquisition of real estate in the country.

There are special requirements for applicants seeking citizenship through investment. First of all:

• The candidate must be over 18 years old;
• not to have a criminal record;
• to undergo a reliability check;
• confirm legitimate sources of income;
• to be in good physical shape.

Family members

It is also important to emphasize that the program is not limited to just the main applicants. It can also include:

• spouses;
• minor children under 30 years old;
• parents;
• brothers and sisters, dependent on the investor (provided that they are not married);
• newborns who were born within a year after obtaining citizenship.

Financial terms

As for the types of investments, the minimum non-refundable contribution is 150,000 dollars, which is directed to the National Transformation Fund (NTF) to support the country's economic growth. This amount is intended for a single applicant only. Additional expenses should also be taken into account:

• 5000 dollars for a reliability check;
• A registration fee of 1500 dollars;
• A one-time fee of 1500 dollars.

If the spouse of the main applicant also wants to obtain citizenship, the non-refundable contribution increases to 200,000 dollars. This amount remains fixed for the main investor and no more than three dependents. An additional payment of 25,000 dollars is required for each subsequent dependent. Thus, Grenada offers low investment thresholds and opportunities for obtaining citizenship, making this program popular among foreigners.

Introduction to the process of obtaining Grenadian citizenship through investment

To purchase real estate, an initial investment starting from220 thousand US dollarsThe emergence of new legislation related to minimum investment occurred in April 2019. Previously, this limit was350 thousand dollarsThe amount of investment remains unchanged regardless of the number of dependents.

It should also be noted that the purchase of real estate is only permitted for properties that have been approved by the authorities of Grenada. According to the new rules, both new and secondary apartments can be acquired. This category also includes properties that were previously owned by other participants in the program and have been in their possession for at least five years, but are now being offered for sale.

Investments in a hotel project

It's important to note that if you decide to invest in a hotel project, you will need to make a deposit of10%from the price of the share, which is equivalent to22 thousand dollarsBefore submitting all the necessary documents. This amount is refundable. If the "grant" option is chosen, all key payments must be made only after receiving final approval.

Recommendations for obtaining citizenship

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the complete guide on the process of obtaining Grenadian citizenship through investment. I want to emphasize that the Caribbean passport cannot be transferred to third parties, so it is important to seriously explore the available options for obtaining a second passport. The processing times for citizenship applications vary fromtwo to four monthsHowever, due to the increase in the number of applicants, these timelines will start to extend.

• Previously, the average number of requests was 50.
• Now it has grown to150.
• The processing rate remains at 30 applications per month.

This means that the actual time to obtain citizenship may increase to12 months.

Advantages and disadvantages of obtaining a Grenada passport

A distinctive feature of this program is that personal presence is not required to submit an application, and there is no need to reside in Grenada on a permanent basis.

The advantages and disadvantages of obtaining a Grenada passport need to be carefully studied. The candidate should be proficient in a foreign language. A quick change of tax residency is also considered a plus.

• Certain countries of the European Union.

It is equally important to note the possibility of starting a business using a passport from the country. Moreover, the political and economic stability provided by Grenada's membership in international organizations creates favorable conditions for investment.

Comparison of citizenship acquisition timelines

Despite the extended timelines, obtaining citizenship through this program remains one of the best ways in the world. The level of tax obligations is pleasantly surprising:

• The absence of taxes on global income.
• There are no taxes on gifts and capital gains.

The distance of Grenada from Russia and other CIS countries also attracts many investors.

The popularity of Grenada passports

Another significant point is that Grenada passports are becoming highly sought after by investors, as they offer the opportunity for employment and residency in the United States through a visa.E-2Grenada is on the list of countries with which America has a special trade agreement.

Conclusion

In conclusion of my research on Grenada, I want to emphasize how unique this island nation is, located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Having discovered its natural beauty, rich culture, and attractive opportunities for business and investment, I cannot help but note that Grenada truly is an ideal place for both vacation and living.

Nature and outdoor activities

The country, with its tropical climate and diverse nature, offers tourists not only a relaxing beach vacation but also a multitude of active entertainment options – from water sports to trekking through tropical forests. Residents of Grenada and visitors alike have the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood, cultivated on fertile land, which also makes the gastronomic experience of visiting the island unforgettable.

Citizenship through investment

Moreover, the opportunity to obtain citizenship through investment makes Grenada even more attractive to foreigners looking to improve their lives or broaden their horizons. This unique pathway to citizenship creates vast opportunities for new residents.

Visa requirements

It's important to remember that for a comfortable trip to the island, you need to consider visa requirements and plan routes with multiple transfers. However, these factors cannot overshadow the beauty that Grenada has to offer.

Overall impression

Diving into the history and exploring the modernity of this amazing place, I feel that Grenada is not just a point on the map, but a vibrant symbiosis of culture, nature, and life opportunities that is worth rediscovering. I hope the information presented in this article helps you appreciate all the merits of Grenada and inspires you to travel to this paradise.