From 5 August 2025, St. Lucia has officially increased the validity of passports for adults from five years to ten years. Passports issued to minors under the age of eighteen will continue to carry a five-year validity. This change, which applies to both newly issued passports and renewals, brings St. Lucia in line with global standards and reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the value and convenience of its citizenship.

Why This Matters for Citizens and Applicants

For citizens, the shift to a ten-year passport validity means fewer renewals, reduced administrative costs over time, and more certainty for long-term travel planning. It also signals a stronger commitment from the St. Lucian authorities to align with international practices, which can positively influence global perception of the country’s travel document.

For those considering applying for St. Lucia citizenship through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, this change adds another practical benefit. A longer passport validity makes the investment more attractive by reducing the frequency of renewals and offering greater stability for travel and business purposes.

McNamara’s Perspective as a Local Authorised Agent

As a trusted partner in St. Lucia’s investment migration sector, McNamara Citizenship Services has an in-depth understanding of how regulatory updates, such as this passport validity extension, fit into the bigger picture of the program’s evolution. The change is not only a practical convenience but also part of a broader strategy to strengthen St. Lucia’s competitive edge in the global citizenship market.

McNamara works closely with both international advisors and direct applicants to ensure that every stage of the CBI process is handled with precision and professionalism. Our role goes beyond application submission — we guide clients and partners through regulatory developments, helping them understand how these changes may affect long-term planning for themselves or their clients.

St. Lucia’s CBI Program: A Quick Overview

St. Lucia offers one of the most flexible and competitively priced Citizenship by Investment Programs in the Caribbean. Options include contributing to the National Economic Fund, investing in approved real estate, or supporting other government-approved projects. The program grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a wide range of global destinations, making it a compelling option for those seeking greater mobility, asset protection, and lifestyle flexibility.

With the new ten-year passport validity, successful applicants will be able to enjoy these benefits for a longer continuous period before having to renew.

Looking Ahead

The extension of passport validity is a small but significant step in enhancing the St. Lucia citizenship experience. For investors, this update is one more reason to consider St. Lucia as a strong choice for a second citizenship.

If you are advising clients or considering an application yourself, McNamara is ready to assist with accurate, up-to-date guidance to help you navigate the process with confidence.