ROSEAU, Dominica — Dominica is seeking more time and financial support as it negotiates with the European Union over the future of its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, which the EU wants participating Eastern Caribbean countries to phase out by June 2028 to retain visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

The government says the programme has helped fund major infrastructure projects, disaster recovery and national resilience, making its future a significant economic concern for the small island nation.
Under revised EU rules, the operation of investor citizenship schemes is now among the grounds on which visa-free travel can be suspended.

Dominica and other Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) countries operating CBI programmes have been told they must transition away from them by June 2028 to maintain their current access.

Dominica is pushing for a transition that takes account of the financial pressures facing small, vulnerable economies. Its discussions with the EU include requests for realistic timelines and financial and technical assistance to develop alternative sources of revenue, diversify the economy and protect existing development projects.

The government 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.

In a statement, the government said it wanted to maintain strong relations with European partners while protecting Dominica’s economic stability and development interests.

It added that any change to the CBI programme would require careful planning because the revenue has supported projects that might otherwise have placed greater demands on public finances.

Dominica said it would continue working with the EU to reach an agreement that addresses European concerns while limiting disruption to public finances and development initiatives.

The government expects to communicate further with the EU by November 12, 2026, and said it would keep the public informed as discussions progress.