Dominica to hold further talks with EU on Future of CBI Programme by November 12

The government of Dominica is in talks with the European Union (EU) regarding the future of its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI). The talks will be held on November 12, 2026 regarding the matter and the public will be informed with the progress.

In a statement, the government added that they are working to safeguard the country's economic stability and development interests by maintaining strong relations with the European partners.

The EU has indicated that Dominica and other OECS countries operating CBI programmes must transition away from them by June 2028 to retain visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Under Regulation (EU) 2025/2441, amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1806, the EU has revised its visa suspension mechanism to include the operation of investor citizenship schemes among the grounds for suspending visa-free travel.

As per the government, CBI revenue has helped finance major infrastructure, disaster recovery and national resilience in Dominica. These investments support employment and development, and might otherwise have placed substantially greater demands on public finances. Any change to this source of revenue therefore requires careful consideration and planning.

Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit also explained the matter and stated that the government is also working with regional partners towards establishing the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA). This initiative is intended to strengthen oversight, due diligence and common standards across participating states, and build confidence in the integrity and robustness of our programmes.

Alongside this work, Dominica and its OECS partners are discussing with the EU the economic and fiscal implications of discontinuing CBI programmes. Our countries have highlighted the circumstances of small, vulnerable economies and the importance of realistic timeframes and appropriate transitional support. These discussions include consideration of financial and technical assistance to develop alternative revenue sources, advance economic diversification and protect development gains.

The Government noted that they will continue this engagement in a spirit of cooperation, seeking a practical agreement that addresses the EU’s concerns and allows any transition to be managed responsibly, with minimal disruption to public finances and ongoing development projects.