TOP 10 CARIBBEAN DESTINATIONS FOR TOURISM AND INVESTMENT

If you’re ready for your next tropical getaway, but aren’t sure which island is right for you, this blog post can help you choose your next Caribbean destination – whether it’s for business or pleasure. There are many islands to visit in the Caribbean, but St. Maarten is the top Caribbean destination for investment and tourism!

The list below was put together by Ben Souza for CruiseFever and showcases the top Caribbean destinations as decided by travelers.

Top 10 Caribbean Destinations for Tourism and Investment:

 

10. Roatán: This is an island located on the coast of Honduras, it’s a great tropical getaway with its sandy white beaches. The mild climate and friendly people will make your experience feel simply delightful. Also, Roatán is known for having the second largest coral reef system in the world.

9. Ocho Rios: Located on the coast of Jamaica, known for its world-class resorts and impressive beach clubs. If you are looking to propose, here you will find a wide selection of precious jewelry and gems. You will feel comfortable all-season round, Jamaican style.

8. Oranjestad: This city is the capital of Aruba. It has a combination of antique and modern which makes this island unique. It has accessible beaches that will have you enjoying this small city all day long.

7. St. Kitts: If you enjoy trees and being outdoors, this island located in the West Indies is great for you. It has a wild rainforest that expands all over the island instead of shrinking. It’s also known for its diving and scuba areas if you’re looking for more adventure.

6. San Juan: This popular city is the capital of Puerto Rico. Take a tour in this city and explore every known and historic corner. And you will not have visited San Juan without making a stop at Finca Cialitos, known to be a coffee house where the owner cultivates and roasts his own coffee beans.

5. Grand Turk: The island located in the Caribbean is known for its famous port that has nearly 18 acres of landscape grounds. From blue waters to one of the largest swimming pools of the Caribbean, you will be enjoying nothing but fun.

4. Grand Cayman: The largest of the three Cayman Islands. Discover the beauty of these beaches when looking for relaxation. If you are looking for something more adventurous take a visit to Stingray City, where you will get the play with friendly Southern Stingrays.

3. Cozumel: One of the most visited ports in the Caribbean, will have you in activity once you arrive. This Mexican island has an incredible culture, they don’t think that hospitality it’s just a practice, and they consider it a belief.

2. St. Thomas: Second one on the list is known for its shopping and its Cosmopolitan style. It has the prettiest beaches, stunning panoramic views and exciting nightlife. Take the Skyride 700 feet tall and have an incredible view of the city from above.

1. St. Maarten: And we’ve arrived to the number one top Caribbean destination for tourism and investment! What can’t you do on this island with its architecture and exotic beaches? St Maarten has been voted as the best cruise port in the world for two years in a row. Since cruises arrive daily, the tourism is one of the financial motors of this island. Its cultural and natural wealth makes this island perfect not only to take short vacations but to live here. This island is also called the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean, so looking for good restaurants here will be no problem. St Maarten has a stable growing economy, making it the highest income per capita island on the Caribbean.

At BrightPath Caribbean, we believe in the growing success of this island, so we are here to help you set up your business in St. Maarten. We only handle quality investments that will yield a financial impact both for the investor and the island. Now is the perfect time to initiate your business and stay in St. Maarten with all the advantages this island can provide you.

Do you have any questions?

CONTACT US

Learn More About Work and Residency Permits for St. Maarten

If you are a business owner, human resource manager, or employer in Sint Maarten, rely on BrightPath to provide you with advice, consultation, and immigration services for a successful work permit request.

Starting the work permit process in Sint Maarten

The first step taken by the team at BrightPath is to determine the chances of success. Work permit requests can often be timely and costly, the employer has to consider government fees and relocation expenses.

When applying for a work permit, the employee needs to stay abroad during the decision-making process. This is because the labor agreement with the non-national employee needs to be signed while they are still abroad.

Rely on the expertise of the BrightPath team to set clear, achievable goals for both the employer and the employee regarding timeframes, costs, and expectations.

Tax advisory and Real Estate for Employees

Our referral partners at CaribTax and BrightFuture Realty are at your full disposal to address matters regarding taxation and housing, each respectively, making the work permit process a seamless and integrated one that will save you time, and money. A Group of companies providing full support will increase the likelihood of a positive employee relocation experience. No other firm in Sint Maarten offers this suite of services under one roof.

Sint Maarten offers tax benefits for some employees, like the expat regime, particularly for the management level. This tax exemption allows employers to offer net salaries without grossing up. To qualify, employees must show proof of specific knowledge of the position they will fill out, years of experience, and a minimum income, among other requirements.

Employees Relocating with Family

If your employee will relocate to Sint Maarten with immediate family, they too may qualify for temporary residency under the employee’s work and residency permit in St Maarten.

BrightPath can assist with the immigration process that must be undertaken at both the Department of Labor Affairs for the work permit and the Immigration Border Protection Services Department for the respective residency permits for the employee and the immediate family members.

Time frame for Work permits

Work permits must first be petitioned and registered as a vacancy at the Department of Labor, to announce the details, requirements, and compensation of the role and to allow for suitable candidates to be sourced from within the local labor pool.

A mandatory minimum five-week waiting period is allotted for local applicants to submit their interest in writing with documentation to support their qualifications. During this time, an advertisement for the vacancy in mention must be placed in the local newspapers announcing the open vacancy.

 

The importance of knowing the process for work permits

Why do we elaborate with so much detail on what the work permit process entails? Because work permits in Sint Maarten are for qualified candidates who truly meet the criteria of an employment position. Work permits on SXM are requested by the employer, and the initial costs are the responsibility of the employer.

Relying on the right service provider, such as BrightPath, will help you determine if your candidate has a high (or low) probability of success before we start services. Work permit application fees alone can go up to USD 1,700 payable directly to the Government of Sint Maarten, so ensuring that your candidate has documented qualifications is essential before engaging our services.

A free consultation with a representative from BrightPath can assist in determining that and a detailed cost estimate from BrightPath can determine the costs, timeframes, and documentation required to move forward with us in processing your work permit request.

Who does not qualify for a Work Permit?

In Sint Maarten, work permits are granted to candidates between the ages of 25 and 58 years. In some instances, if an applicant is over 58 but has completed post-graduate studies, an exception to this standard may apply.

Consider that if you are a citizen of the United States of America, the work permit process detailed herein will not apply to you. To learn more about the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty and what benefits for employment and residency in St Maarten this may grant you as a U.S. passport holder, read this article.

Retirees do not qualify for work permits because the retiree immigration program allows for residency only and is not requested at the Department of Labor Affairs, but instead, only at the Sint Maarten Immigration and Border Protection Services Department. If you would like to learn more about retiring in St Maarten, read here, or schedule your consultation if you would like to explore changing your residency status from retiree to employment permit.

FAQ’s 

1. What are the key steps involved in obtaining a work permit for non-nationals in Sint Maarten?Obtaining a work permit in Sint Maarten involves petitioning and registering the position with the Department of Labor, advertising the vacancy locally, and allowing a five-week period for local applicants to apply. BrightPath Caribbean assists employers in determining candidates’ eligibility, managing the application process.
2. How does BrightPath Caribbean support employers in navigating the complexities and costs associated with work permit applications in Sint Maarten?
   BrightPath Caribbean provides essential support to employers by offering consultation services, assessing candidates’ qualifications, and estimating costs and timeframes associated with work permit applications. Additionally, they guide employers through the process of fulfilling legal requirements, such as advertising job vacancies locally and coordinating with government departments.
3. What are the eligibility criteria and age restrictions for obtaining a work permit in Sint Maarten?
   Work permits in St. Maarten are generally granted to candidates aged between 25 and 58 years. However, exceptions may apply for individuals over 58 who have completed post-graduate studies. BrightPath Caribbean assists employers in navigating these eligibility criteria and exceptions, ensuring a smooth application process for work permits.

 

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

Business Registration and Business License in Sint Maarten

Are you thinking about registering or incorporating a business in St. Maarten? Before you start, there are several things to consider. The requirements for business registration and obtaining a business license in Sint Maarten may vary depending on many factors.

We suggest foreign investors looking to start a business in St. Maarten work with BrightPath Caribbean. They can help with corporate services and provide valuable assistance throughout the process. At BrightPath Caribbean you can request a free first-time consultation.

You can choose to meet virtually or in person. This lets you understand how BrightPath’s services and experienced professionals can help your business in the Caribbean. They aim to make your venture smooth and sustainable.

 

Key things to consider when registering a business in Sint Maarten

 

Duration of work to be performed

In some cases, foreign companies come to Sint Maarten to work for a short period of time. If the work will be completed within 12 months, it is recommended that the foreign business registers in Sint Maarten and obtains a local business license for the duration of its operations.

On the other hand, if the work will span for years, incorporating a subsidiary or a new entity may be best to support the business activities for compliance purposes.

Before starting the business incorporation, you can request a consultation here to determine if the scope of work will require any specialized licensing or has barriers to entry. For example, gaming, telecommunications, and healthcare sectors may have applicable restrictions.

 

Business taxes in St. Maarten

Depending on the type of business, several taxes may apply to your limited company in Sint Maarten. The government generally taxes your revenues, profits, dividends, and employees on your payroll.

Revenues

In general, revenues from services and products are subject to a 5% turnover tax. However, certain revenues are exempt due to their nature, such as those related to healthcare and basic needs. Other types of revenues are taxed differently; for example, hotels and Airbnb rentals are subject to a 5% room tax. For real estate transactions, a transfer tax of 4% applies.

Profit tax and dividends

The profit tax rate in Sint Maarten is currently 34.5%, which is relatively high compared to neighboring countries. Recent political campaigns have called for a big cut in this rate to help business growth. However, the current rate stays the same.

However, several fiscal incentives are available, such as an investment allowance (8% to 12% for two years), accelerated depreciation, and the ability to record fiscal provisions. Additionally, businesses can explore fiscal strategies like creating fiscal unities to reduce profit taxes.

Regarding dividends, while there is a withholding tax rate, it does not always apply to foreign investors.

Employee taxes

Employee taxes in Sint Maarten are largely based on Dutch law, resulting in a significant portion of taxes being allocated to social security. As an employer, you are generally required to provide government health insurance, participate in the government old age pension scheme, and contribute to accident insurance and premiums for widows and orphans.

Income tax in Sint Maarten operates on a progressive bracket system, meaning the higher the income, the higher the tax rate. These income taxes, which are deducted from gross salaries on a monthly basis, range from 12.5% to 47.5%.

While the initial impression may be that the taxes are significant, available exemptions and fiscal optimization can reduce these taxes. For advice on which taxes apply to your company and how to optimize your tax structure, please consult our advisors.

 

Labor Laws and Work Permits

St. Maarten has specific labor laws that govern employment practices, including minimum wage, working hours, and employee benefits. We recommend to familiarize yourself with these laws to ensure your business operates legally and ethically.

As a business owner, having a strong team that meets your standards is crucial. In many cases, this means hiring a qualified employee from another country. Depending on their nationality, they will need a work permit.

The process involves several steps and requires various documents from both the employer and the prospective employee. The team at BrightPath can assist you with the process and will ensure that you meet all legal requirements for a successful outcome.

 

Registered Address and Commercial Real Estate

For a business to be legally incorporated in Sint Maarten, an address is required. This address will be used for official correspondence and must be a physical location rather than a P.O. Box.

If you decide to open a business in Sint Maarten, using a registered address with BrightPath is a smart choice. A registered address service serves as the official address for your company. Your address is the main contact point with government agencies like the Tax Department and the Chamber of Commerce.

This way, you can ensure that you receive all your important letters and legal notices. If you have your registered address with BrightPath, we will receive them in our office, store them in your designated space, and notify your company for pickup.

Locating the right commercial property can be a daunting endeavor. Whether you need office space, retail locations, or industrial sites, it’s important to consider location, access, and cost. Working with a representative from BrightFuture Realty can help you find the right property for your business needs. They will also ensure it follows zoning laws.

If you are a foreigner starting a business on sxm, you may not know much about the island. In this case, having help from a trusted real estate agency is very important. Depending on the type of business, some factors can be very important. These factors include ease of access, foot traffic, the neighborhood, and the allowance of the business in that location.

 

FAQ’s

1. What are the key factors to consider when incorporating a business in Sint Maarten?

You need to consider the duration of work, business taxes, labor laws, work permits, and a registered address. If the work will be short-term, registering an existing foreign business might be best. For long-term operations, We recommend creating a subsidiary or new entity. Additionally, businesses must comply with Sint Maarten’s tax system and labor regulations.

1. What types of taxes will my business be subject to in Sint Maarten?

Taxes include a 5% turnover tax on sales, a 34.5% profit tax, room and transfer taxes, and employee taxes based on Dutch law. Certain exemptions and fiscal incentives can help optimize the tax structure for businesses.

1. Do I need a work permit for foreign employees in Sint Maarten?

Yes, foreign employees need work permits, depending on their nationality. The process involves documentation from both the employer and the employee. BrightPath can assist with obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring compliance with local labor laws.

 

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation!

 

How to Obtain Legal Residency in St. Maarten by Purchasing Real Estate

For most persons who have been smitten by the blue waters and white sands of the Caribbean, the opportunity to own property to enjoy a different pace of everyday life becomes a reality with the assistance of the team at BrightPath Caribbean and BrightFuture Realty.

Purchasing property abroad requires a high level of trust and a team of professionals that can address seamlessly and transparently questions regarding banking and mortgage options, ownership rights and structure, tax, and succession planning matters, as well as immigration topics for legal residency and citizenship in jurisdictions where the latter may be applicable.

Sint Maarten continues to have a high demand for real estate because the island offers real estate options with amazing views, modern construction, and amenities, at prices generally lower than United States, Europe, and Canada.  The gastronomy, nightlife, and access to European and North American products are widespread throughout the island, which is also exempt from duties on imports, making it an attractive destination to relocate.  Many real estate buyers are excited to learn that when they relocate to St. Maarten, they can import all their personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, equipment, and vehicles free of any import duties.

 

 

Banking and Mortgages

Clients of BrightPath Caribbean can enjoy direct access to banking services in St. Maarten.  Our firm maintains strong ties within the local banking and business community, allowing our clients who are purchasing real estate with our affiliate BrightFuture Realty, access to business and/or personal bank accounts (if qualified), as well as opportunities for financing of mortgages to purchase your property.  Sint Maarten banks, in general, offer mortgage financing to non-resident buyers for up to sixty-five percent (65%) of the purchase price or appraisal value, whichever is less.  A standard credit report from Experian is typically required, as well as proof of downpayment, and verification of continued income to confirm loan repayment and total debt-to-income ratio.  Legal residency is not a mandatory requirement for mortgage financing, however, obtaining residency may allow you access to mortgage financing with local banks with a smaller downpayment toward your purchase.

Interest rates remain competitive on the island and will vary contingent on economic factors such as the cost of funds.  In general, interest rates available remain accessible and without strong fluctuations due to a comparatively stable cost of funds on the island.  Also important to mention is that banking in United States currency is allowed for residents and businesses alike, which makes banking and mortgage options easier to fund and maintain for foreign nationals who want to invest in real estate in Sint Maarten or altogether relocate to the island.

 

Tax and succession planning

Our referral partners at Haven SXM specialize in taxation, accounting, and administrative services.

Penshonado regime

If you have reached the age of 50 and you have moved to, or are planning to move to Sint Maarten, you might qualify for the ‘Penshonado Regime’ which features an attractive Income Tax rate on certain qualifying foreign income. If the applicable requirements are met, an advantageous 10% Personal Income Tax rate could apply to most foreign income items.

The most important requirements are:
– the taxpayer must have lived outside of Sint Maarten for a consecutive period of at least 60 months before moving to Sint Maarten.
– the taxpayer has reached the age of 50 at the time of registration in the census registry. BrightPath can assist with the registration process.
– within two months after registration in the population register, the taxpayer has registered with the competent Tax Inspector as a taxpayer who wishes to qualify for the application of the Penshonado regime. Haven SXM can assist with this.
– the taxpayer is living in a home in Sint Maarten within 18 months after being registered in the census registry.
Especially when it comes to registering at the Census, it is important to rely on the integrated services that the team at BrightPath Caribbean offers, to make your transition into the island lifestyle a smooth one.

Private Fund Foundation (PFF)

The PFF is a useful instrument for investing and protecting your capital and/or assets as well as to facilitate estate planning. It may also be interesting to invest your capital in a tax-friendly manner by using a PFF. Investing through a PFF can be advantageous, because of the following reasons:

• Contrary to a regular Foundation, a Private Fund Foundation can make distributions to its founders and/or beneficiaries;
• Income derived by a PFF is in principle exempt from Profit Tax, except when the profit arises from conducting a business;
• The PFF is a safe instrument to keep the family wealth intact for future generations.
• Please note that a single distribution, as well as periodical distributions by a PFF to a Sint Maarten resident individual, shall be subject to Sint Maarten Personal Income Tax. However, if the beneficiaries are non-residents of Sint Maarten, they will not be liable for income tax in Sint Maarten on distributions received from the PFF. However, this income might be subject to taxation in the recipient’s country of residence.

Succession Tax

If assets are inherited, received by legacy, or gifted, a succession (inheritance) tax is in principle due on Sint Maarten according to the current legislation.

To this, we would like to underscore that the PFF is a suitable option for estate planning, as it significantly reduces succession tax. Assets owned by the PFF will not be subject to transfer of ownership in case of inheritance, legacy, or gift. When it comes to distributions to beneficiaries by the PFF, succession tax is due in Sint Maarten based on the current legislation. However, if the beneficiaries reside outside of Sint Maarten, the distributions received from a PFF will not be subject to taxation in Sint Maarten. As said before, please note that such distributions might be subject to tax in the recipient’s country of residence. If a tax resident of Sint Maarten transfers assets to a PFF through inheritance, legacy, or gift, the PFF is subject to a succession (inheritance) tax at a special rate of 25%. However, if assets are received from a non-resident through inheritance, legacy, or gift, the PFF is not subject to Sint Maarten succession (inheritance) tax.

Please note that the above is how it works in theory. Practically, even though the legislation is in place, Sint Maarten does not levy a succession tax.

Other than BrightPath Caribbean, no other firm in Sint Maarten offers such an integrated suite of services, essential to a relocation including immigration, tax, and real estate all in one.  As mentioned earlier, estate planning for foreign nationals who are looking to move to the Caribbean is also a critical factor in the decision-making process.

Immigration and residency permits

As Sint Maarten’s most established immigration services provider, choose BrightPath to provide you with the reliable immigration services you need to obtain legal residency through your real estate purchase.  We recommend that our clients in collaboration with our affiliate BrightFuture Realty, to ensure that matters regarding estate planning, ownership structure, and banking have been addressed beforehand and your real estate transaction is tailored from the onset to meet the goals you have in place toward legal residency and even retirement, estate, and tax planning if applicable.

Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about immigration requirements when purchasing real estate.  Important to consider is the fact that in St Maarten United States citizens and Dutch nationals do not require a real estate purchase on the island to qualify for legal residency.  Because of the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, the United States and Dutch nationals alike, qualify for permanent residency in Sint Maarten once they can satisfy general criteria based primarily on the following factors conditional to the approval of the local immigration authorities:

• Acceptable health insurance
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Acceptable certificate of good conduct

For the context of this article, to obtain legal residency through real estate in Sint Maarten, all other nationalities will be required to invest in real estate to apply for residency.  With BrightPath, retirees can apply for legal residency before making their real estate purchase.

All things considered, when making such an important decision as investing in real estate and obtaining legal residency in Sint Maarten, relying on a team or professionals all under one roof is available only with BrightPath Caribbean.

FAQ’s

1. Can I obtain a mortgage as a non-resident to purchase real estate in St. Maarten? Yes, non-resident buyers in St. Maarten can typically access mortgage financing for up to 65% of the property’s purchase price or appraisal value, whichever is lower. While legal residency is not mandatory for mortgage financing, obtaining residency may allow access to mortgages with a smaller downpayment.
2. What are the benefits associated with the ‘Penshonado Regime’ in St. Maarten? The ‘Penshonado Regime’ or Retiree Status offers an attractive 10% Personal Income Tax rate on qualifying foreign income for individuals aged 50 and above who meet specific criteria, including residing outside St. Maarten for at least 60 consecutive months before relocation. The regime requires registration with the Tax Inspector within two months of census registry registration and living in St. Maarten within 18 months thereafter.
3. How can a Private Fund Foundation (PFF) in St. Maarten benefit estate planning and asset protection? A Private Fund Foundation (PFF) provides avenues for capital investment and asset protection, facilitating estate planning in a tax-friendly manner. Benefits include exemption from Profit Tax on income (except business-related profits) and the ability to distribute funds to founders/beneficiaries. Moreover, assets owned by a PFF are not subject to transfer of ownership taxation upon inheritance, legacy, or gifting, potentially reducing succession tax liabilities.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

THINKING ABOUT MOVING TO THE CARIBBEAN?

Moving is tough – all of us who have made that big jump and relocated to another country can confirm it’s not the easiest experience. Change is often difficult. Do you know what’s even more difficult? From our experience at BrightPath, we would say that finding the right advisors to guide you in the decision-making process is often like finding a needle in a haystack. So, if you’re considering emigrating to the Caribbean, here are some tips to take into consideration if St Maarten is on your relocation radar:

1-No office, no thank you! – Needless to say, if you’re considering entrusting someone with your immigration process, you should definitely adopt this policy. The days of handing over your most private and confidential documents to someone who’s not licensed and doesn’t have a storefront (and reputable) business operation are a “no-no”. Save yourself a horror story and rely on this one as a rule of thumb.

2-Check for references – check, check, and check some more. Just because your friends took the big leap and did it themselves, doesn’t mean you should too. COVID-19 has caused changes to procedures, requirements, and timeframes. Make sure that you do your research, manage your expectations, and look online for reviews and credible feedback on available immigration services providers.

3-Rely on a team of experts – It’s important to sort out the best in their industry and rely on their specialty only. What does this mean? It means your real estate agent is your real estate specialist (period). Your banker is your banking specialist (period). Your tax advisor… well, you get the point. So, guess what? Your immigration specialist, is your immigration specialist (PERIOD).

4-Do it right and do it once – If you’re a US national obtaining legal residency on the island, in most cases it’s usually a one-time matter when applied for properly. Although other islands in the Caribbean may be actively promoting “live and work here” immigration programs targeting US nationals, St Maarten is unique in that The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty streamlines the residency process for Americans. What does this mean? That in most cases, your residency permit, once approved is for an indefinite period of time – no annual renewals and no additional fees. Once and it’s done. Even better is the fact that you get to keep your US passport and your rights as a US citizen. Applying for legal residency on the island of St Maarten does not have an impact on your US passport holding status.

Do you have any questions?

CONTACT US

BrightPath specializes in immigration services for persons who wish to relocate to Sint Maarten and the English Caribbean.  Along with our affiliate, BrightFuture Realty, we offer integrated relocation services, and our head office is based in St Maarten. Our network expands throughout the English Caribbean region. BrightPath’s immigration and relocation services are also available on the islands of Dominica, St. Kitts, and Antigua, and the country of Belize.

Minimum Investment to Become a Resident

St Maarten has remained throughout the years one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for American, Canadian, and European nationals alike.  The French flair of Saint Martin and the variety of nightlife and entertainment of the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) offer many an island appeal, filled with activities, the safety of a low crime rate, and dazzling properties with ocean views that remain comparatively low in price to other locations.

Because of the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, Americans require proof of a minimum amount of funds of only US$ 20,000 United States dollars.  These can be in a retirement account, money market, investment or trading account, current account, or savings account, and can remain in the country of origin.  The proof of funds is supported with recent statements in the name of the applicant and if further required, a bank reference letter confirming the tenure and average balances on the account.  This makes real estate investments for Americans particularly attractive on Sint Maarten (Dutch side), because to qualify for permanent residency, Americans do not need to make one particular investment for a pre-determined amount.  Instead, Americans can invest in real estate freely from ocean-view studios starting in the mid US$100,000 range to spectacular ocean-front villas starting at US$1,000,000 with our recommended real estate agency, BrightFuture Realty.

The collaboration with BrightPath Caribbean and BrightFuture Realty makes available to persons relocating to Sint Maarten a synchronized team offering you specialized services such as tax advisory and estate planning, immigration services, mortgage and bank account opening, and real estate sale-purchase transactions with a systematic, organized, and transparent approach.  Our experience spans over a decade and is growing rapidly in demand for persons who want to transition into island life with a team of professionals who understand the dynamics of emotions as well as the necessary steps that all form a part of this change.

For persons who do not have American citizenship, having access to a transparent immigration process and temporary residency is also of great importance. On the Caribbean island of St Maarten, BrightPath can facilitate immigration programs to cater to investors and retirees alike of all nationalities.

A Property

For persons seeking to obtain legal residency through real estate as investors on Sint Maarten, a real estate purchase of a minimum amount of US$ 510,000 United States dollars is required before applying for residency under the Investor program. If you are a passport holder of the United States of America, under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, we may request legal residency before making the real estate purchase. For more information on the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty read here, and consider scheduling a free consultation with a representative of BrightPath that can provide you tailored solutions, integrating all aspects of the residency process, including real estate.

For retirees, BrightPath can provide you with tax advisory services, including an introduction to the “penshonado regime” which offers tax incentives for retirees age 50 and over who become legal residents of Sint Maarten.  For persons who are not American citizens, a real estate purchase of a minimum of US$ 255,000 United States dollars is required to secure your temporary residency which will be required to be renewed annually, without interruptions, for a minimum period of five (5) years before a request for permanent residency can be filed.  The professionalism and vast knowledge of the team at BrightPath Caribbean and BrightFuture Realty, ensure that the real estate investment and required timeframes and documentation related to your pursuit of permanent residency are a seamless and efficient process.

 

Working

For American citizens that wish to relocate to Sint Maarten, under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, regardless of age, once the criteria have been met, the residency permit secured by BrightPath and granted by the Immigration and Border Protection Services bears no end date (the same is permanent) and allows the person to live and work freely on the island without required sponsorship from a particular employer.  Residency permits granted to American citizens do not require renewals or extensions.

If you are not an American citizen, a separate work permit must be obtained to secure employment in Sint Maarten. To learn more about work permits, click here.  Both the investor and retiree residency programs do not allow for employment on the island and in the case of the retiree program, employment is definitively restricted for immigration purposes.

Retirement

Thinking of retiring in the Caribbean? If your answer is yes, Sint Maarten has a lot to offer American citizens and our team of experts at BrightPath Caribbean and BrightFuture Realty are at your availability.  You can schedule your free, no-obligation, consultation here.

If you have already made an investment in St Maarten and you wish to explore legalizing your stay, contact the experts at info@brightpathcaribbean.com As the Caribbean region’s most recognized and trusted immigration services provider – with complete solutions all under one roof – rely on BrightPath to make your dream of living in the Caribbean a reality.

Whether you want to obtain more information about tax incentives in Sint Maarten for retirees, or asset protection and estate planning through private fund foundations, BrightPath Caribbean has the resources, knowledge, and experience to make your retirement in the Caribbean a breeze.

 

FAQ’s

1. What are the minimum investment requirements for obtaining legal residency in Sint Maarten, particularly for American citizens, retirees, and investors?

For American citizens, residency in Sint Maarten can be obtained with proof of funds of as low as $20,000 USD, while investors are required to make a real estate purchase of at least $510,000 USD. Retirees need to invest a minimum of $255,000 USD in real estate to secure temporary residency.

2. How does the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty impact residency requirements for American citizens relocating to Sint Maarten?

Under the treaty, American citizens do not need to make a specific investment to qualify for permanent residency. They can freely invest in real estate, with options ranging from ocean-view studios to ocean-front villas, making the process particularly attractive for American investors.

3. What are the specific tax incentives available for retirees in Sint Maarten, and how does one qualify for them?

Retirees aged 50 and over can benefit from tax incentives under the “penshonado regime” by becoming legal residents of Sint Maarten. To qualify, retirees need to meet certain criteria outlined by the program, which can include minimum investment requirements and residency duration.

4. Can you explain the process of obtaining legal residency through real estate investment for non-American citizens in Sint Maarten?

Non-American citizens seeking residency through real estate investment in Sint Maarten must purchase property with a minimum value of $255,000 USD. Temporary residency is granted initially and must be renewed annually without interruptions for at least five years before applying for permanent residency.

5. What services does BrightPath Caribbean offer to individuals interested in relocating to Sint Maarten, and how can they assist in the residency process?

BrightPath Caribbean offers a range of services, including immigration assistance, tax advisory, real estate transactions, and more. Their team of professionals provides tailored solutions to individuals seeking residency in Sint Maarten, guiding them through each step of the process to ensure a seamless and efficient transition to island life.

 

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

WANT TO OPEN A BUSINESS BANK ACCOUNT IN ST. MAARTEN?

Are you ready to open a business bank account in St. Maarten for your local business? There are many different ways BrightPath Caribbean can assist you with opening a bank account here on the island. We have relationships with all major banks in St. Maarten and can assist you with opening a business account from start to finish, making the process completely stress-free. Each bank has its own specific requirements, which we always consider when opening a new bank account in St. Maarten for our clients. We are also able to assist you with opening multiple bank accounts in various currencies.

Opening a Business Bank Account in St. Maarten

You can open a business bank account in St. Maarten at any of the several international banks located on the Dutch side. Whether you’re from Canada, the USA, or Europe, BrightPath Caribbean has all the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you open a bank account in St. Maarten in just three simple steps.

To open a business bank account in St. Maarten, your business must be active, and you should have all required documents, which are outlined below. Most banks have the same general requirements, but some banks may have their specific requirements.

Documents needed to open a business bank account in St. Maarten:

• Articles of Incorporation of your business.
• Excerpt from the Chamber of Commerce.
• Shareholder’s registry.
• Business license.
• Director’s license.
• Bank reference letter.
• 2 forms of valid photo ID.
• Proof of address (two utility bills).
• Financial statements and/or business plan.
• More documents may be required.

After you have gathered all of the documents above, BrightPath Caribbean can help you open a business bank account in St. Maarten quickly and easily! There is a waiting period to process your new business bank account, but once approved, you can begin using your St. Maarten business bank account right away!

Do you have any questions?

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INVEST IN ST. MAARTEN WITH BRIGHTPATH CARIBBEAN TODAY!

If you are looking to explore the possibility of starting or expanding your business abroad, choose to invest in St. Maarten! Our beautiful island has the highest per capita income of the Dutch Antilles, and a robust, thriving economy – among other benefits. With professional guidance and advice, St. Maarten is an ideal place in the Caribbean for you to guarantee a consistent and secure return on your investment.

Whether you’d like to start or expand your own business or purchase an existing business on the island, BrightPath Caribbean can help you invest in St. Maarten! We are trusted professionals who are experts in investing in St. Maarten. Since we are also the island’s leading immigration service, BrightPath Caribbean can help you get residency in St. Maarten through your investment.

Besides the beautiful scenery, lovely people, and warmer climate, there are many other reasons why you should invest in St. Maarten and we’ve included some of them here.

Why you should invest in St. Maarten:

1. The possibility of earnings in US dollars or euros.
2. Duty-free imports and exports, and no property taxes.
3. A growing economy, with new opportunities for investment.
4. More than 2.5 million tourists to visit your business throughout the year.

Do you have any questions?

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MOVING TO ST. MAARTEN

With warm weather, a relaxed style of living, and beautiful nature everywhere you look, there is no doubt why living in Sint Maarten is a dream for many.

Moving to any place implies several steps and things you need to consider before taking the next step. Relocation always means a real estate search, gathering personal documents for your immigration process, finding the proper school if you have kids, getting your pets ready to travel by meeting the requirements of the new country, and sometimes means opening a new business or starting a new job. All these things are exciting and overwhelming at the same time, this is why having the right assistance around is of great value.

Sint Maarten is a multi-cultural island, making it a very highly attractive location for anyone looking to relocate here. One of the great facts about St, Maarten is its international connectivity, with direct flights from Europe, the USA, and most of the surrounding islands, Sint Maarten also has the biggest port in the region with no import-export taxes, meaning you can move and bring your personal belongings and even your vehicle with ease, and no property taxes for your real estate investment.

GET READY TO ENJOY LIFE IN FLIP-FLOPS!

Adapting to St. Maarten won’t be an issue when you love the Caribbean style of living. Small changes will always take place, like a change in your wardrobe, so, get ready to live life in flip-flops!

Once you become a resident, you will integrate easily, opening a bank account won’t be an issue, and finding a property, purchasing, and getting a loan with a local bank if you wish, will be easier as a resident.

It is important to have professional assistance throughout the process, accurate information and experience will make a difference in any relocation process. BrightPath Caribbean has handled more than 1,800 files, we believe in clear information, and we know the importance of time frames for any person moving and making a lifestyle change, our team will support you during the first application and will follow-up and send you reminders for your residency renewals (if it applies to you).

WE CAN HELP YOU GET RESIDENCY IN ST. MAARTEN

At BrightPath Caribbean we are experts in immigration to St. Maarten, with over 10 years of experience, we have become the point of reference for trusted immigration and corporate services, so, before you move to the island, get in touch with us to find out how we can simplify your move to St. Maarten. Immigrating to St. Maarten can be a complicated process, but if you have the necessary documents in order and can pay the associated fees, you should be able to obtain residency in a few months!

Residing legally in Sint Maarten will depend on how the applicant chooses to obtain residency. It could be as an investor, or a business start-up, maybe a local employer wants to offer an employment opportunity to a prospective team member abroad or you have decided to retire in St Maarten and enjoy the warm weather.

SO, WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR RESIDENCY?

The list of documents needed to apply for residency in St. Maarten is quite similar to the immigration requirements in most countries. The local authorities will need to know your personal information in documents such as passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and sometimes death or divorce certificates. The applicant will have to show financial documentation, the approval of a work permit from the labor department in Sint Maarten, or the purchase of real estate. It will all depend on what program you will be applying for residency.

BrightPath Caribbean can assist you with your document ordering and save you all the turmoil that comes with it and all the additional steps involved, from following up on the ordered documents to the legalization or the apostilled requirements, and receiving them in our office, saving you valuable time and minimizing any stress. *

Every case is different, this is why booking a consultation with our team should be your next step. You will receive tailored information to your needs and discuss in detail the requirements for the program that works best for you.

*Service subject to applicant’s nationality

 

FAQ’s

1. What are some key considerations for individuals planning to relocate to St. Maarten, and how can professional assistance simplify the process?

Relocating to St. Maarten involves several steps such as real estate search, immigration documentation, schooling for children, and pet travel preparations. Professional assistance, like that provided by BrightPath Caribbean, can streamline the process by offering accurate information and guidance tailored to individual needs.

2. What are the advantages of residing in St. Maarten, particularly in terms of lifestyle, banking, and property ownership?

St. Maarten offers a relaxed Caribbean lifestyle with international connectivity, making it attractive for residents. Becoming a resident facilitates easy integration, including opening bank accounts and purchasing property with local bank loans. Moreover, the absence of property taxes and import-export taxes further enhances the appeal of residing in St. Maarten.

3. What are the typical document requirements for applying for residency in St. Maarten, and how can BrightPath Caribbean assist applicants in navigating this process?

Document requirements for residency in St. Maarten include personal identification documents, financial documentation, and proof of work permit approval or real estate purchase. BrightPath Caribbean offers assistance in document ordering, legalization, and follow-up, tailored to individual needs, thereby saving applicants time and minimizing stress in the application process.

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today to begin your journey to residency!

 

5 TIPS FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

If you need to apply for a residency permit or a work permit in St. Maarten, you’ll have to visit local government offices and you’ll want your government appointments in St. Maarten to go smoothly. Before attending any government appointment, it is essential to prepare and to have all your documents completed. It’s not enough to just have your documents ready though, you also need to understand the process of the permit you are applying for, among several other things.

To ensure your government appointment in St. Maarten goes smoothly, BrightPath Caribbean has put together five tips we think will help you

5 Tips to Ensure a Smooth Government Appointment in St. Maarten:

 

Be patient: When attending an appointment at a government office, oftentimes, depending on the time of your appointment, it may be quite busy and hectic. Be prepared to wait a while in a long lineup, so bring a book or a magazine and a fully charged phone to keep yourself occupied while waiting.

Prepare your documents: This is very important. If all your documents are not prepared, filled in, available, or in order, it will make your government appointment much longer and inconvenient. If you are unprepared for your government appointment, you risk losing the appointment slot and having time-sensitive documents expire. Make sure that you know which documents need to be legalized, translated, apostilled copied and signed. Find out as much as possible about the documents that are required for your work permit request or residency application.

Do your due diligence: Similar to the previous point, make sure you know everything about where, when and how you are supposed to make an appointment with the appropriate departments. When you adequately prepare – or do due diligence – for your government appointment in St. Maarten, it is more likely to go smoothly. Simply “showing up” to government offices in St. Maarten is not usually helpful and may take longer than if you had made an appointment. To make your government appointment in St. Maarten go smoothly, find out where the office you need is located, who you will need to speak with and what time you need to be at the office. We recommend arriving at government offices in St. Maarten 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment time. Also, check out the office’s Facebook page, website, Instagram, and/or Twitter account for any important updates.

Dress appropriately: In addition to being well prepared, it is important to look neat, clean, and decent. Comb your hair, brush your teeth, make sure your clothes are clean and ironed, and do not have any stains, holes or tears. Unfortunately, you are less likely to be taken seriously if your appearance is less than presentable at the government offices in St. Maarten.

Be polite: After waiting for a long period of time at a government office in St. Maarten, you are likely to be annoyed or frustrated. Despite your frustration, it is important to remain respectful of other people and staff at the government office. Also understand that government personnel are likely frustrated, maybe because they have had to deal with a never-ending lineup, or people are unprepared and arguing. It is therefore important to remain rational, cool, calm and collected. Losing your temper in a government office in St. Maarten will not benefit you in any way and will prevent any hope of the appointment going smoothly.

Do you have any questions?

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