Breathtaking views, sun-kissed shores, and tranquility, combined with the potential of a wise real estate investment, makes St. Maarten an irresistible destination for property enthusiasts and people looking to relocate to this unique island.   

BrightPath Caribbean offers complete relocation solutions with our team of experts and professional referral partners. Book a consultation today and start a flawless transition from the USA to St. Maarten.   

Now, let the expertise of  American real estate attorney, André Williams, be your compass to the best direction with three tips if you have been contemplating relocation from the USA to St. Maarten while managing real estate assets.    

 

Why does André Williams like St. Maarten? And what are his expert tips?

I am attracted to St. Maarten like you because of its perfect climate, azure ocean views, and secluded tranquility. It also affords an incredible opportunity to buy a primary or second home or purchase commercial property with a high rate of return. If you are seriously interested in purchasing a property in St. Maarten, you want to engage BrightPath Caribbean to help you find a property. Similarly, I am a real estate attorney and real estate investor so I can help you navigate the process of compliance with US tax rules and provide guidance on estate planning and corporate structuring for your real estate purchase in St. Maarten.   

 

Finding a Property

You should think about purchasing property of any kind in St. Maarten much like pursuing a long-term relationship. You should research the demography of the island and its culture, visit the island and stay in a prospective location long enough to become familiar with the area. You may also want to explore the community of expatriates here and local customs. Vivian and her team at BrightPath Caribbean can help you learn the market and evaluate whether you are getting a “good deal”. The good news is that you have an excuse to pack your bags for this due diligence.  

   

Foreign Ownership Rules  

Many countries have specific limitations on foreign ownership of land. For example, in Mexico, there are limitations on foreign ownership of property within 31 miles of the coast. In other countries, non-citizens may be required to obtain special residence permits or register with a government agency prior to closing a home purchase.   

St. Maarten has no restrictions on foreign ownership and encourages real estate investment by persons from other countries.  

   

U.S. Tax Rules/ Estate Planning/ Corporate Structure  

The last piece of foreign property ownership is accounting for any income or gain you may accrue due to the property. As a U.S. citizen, you are required to report to the IRS on your worldwide transactions. In addition, there are some other very onerous reporting requirements and penalties of $10,000 or more so please consult with me at the beginning of a transaction to ensure that your transaction is structured properly, and you are protected from exposure.   

Foreign real estate can be a smart investment – as long as you do your due diligence upfront, consult with an experienced US-based real estate attorney and advisors, and keep good records as you go. 

 

Do you have any questions?

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

 

The Caribbean region is a diverse and enchanting destination that not only boasts stunning natural beauty but also holds significant economic potential and investment opportunities. Year after year, more and more individuals are turning their attention to this vibrant area, whether it’s for significant real estate projects or the desire to start a business or retire in a place that offers a better quality of life. As the team at BrightPath Caribbean engages with clients and conducts consultations, one of the most frequently asked questions is: What about banking? 

The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on several factors. Let’s delve deeper into the world of banking in the Caribbean, with a specific focus on personal and business banking in Sint Maarten. 

When it comes to personal banking in Sint Maarten, opening a personal bank account is only possible if you are a legal resident. The process is quite similar to that of any other banking institution. You will need to provide documents such as your identification or residency document, proof of income, and perhaps a letter of recommendation from another bank. Additionally, you may be required to make an initial deposit to the account. All of these requirements must be fulfilled in person at the bank branch of your preference. If you are interested in opening a bank account but need assistance becoming a legal resident first, we are here to help. Request your free consultation with us, and we will guide you through the process step by step. 

On the other hand, establishing a business bank account in Sint Maarten is a slightly more complex procedure. Fortunately, at BrightPath, our corporate services team is well-equipped to handle your banking needs from start to finish. Setting up a business bank account in Sint Maarten requires an operational business or private fund foundation with all the necessary documentation to prove proper incorporation and fiscal activity. Our team can provide expert guidance and support throughout this process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for your business. 

When it comes to selecting the right banking institution for your business, it is essential to consider various factors. You will need to assess the services and rates offered by different banks, taking into account the specific requirements of your business model. For example, if your business relies on receiving credit card payments, you may need a bank that provides suitable merchant account services. Alternatively, if your business operates predominantly online, you may require seamless access to online banking facilities. Keep in mind that each service may entail additional documentation and paperwork, so it is crucial to be prepared for these requirements. 

Navigating the process of setting up business bank accounts in Sint Maarten can be quite arduous without proper assistance. That’s where our corporate services team comes in. With our in-depth knowledge of the local banking landscape and our strong network of banking partners, we can guide you through the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and can focus on running your business smoothly. 

Banking in the Caribbean, including Sint Maarten, presents a diverse range of opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. The Caribbean banking sector continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its customers. Whether you are a resident, investor, or entrepreneur, exploring the banking options in the Caribbean can provide you with a solid foundation for financial growth and prosperity. 

At BrightPath, we understand the importance of personalized guidance when it comes to banking in the Caribbean. Our dedicated team of experts is here to help you navigate the intricacies of the banking industry, ensuring that you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Book a free consultation with our team today, and let us help you explore the exciting world of Caribbean banking. With our support, you can seize the opportunities that this beautiful region has to offer and embark on a path of financial success. 

 

Do you have any questions?

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

 

Every day a good number of real estate transactions happen in Sint Maarten, and do you know what most big investments have in common? A Private Fund Foundation protecting the asset. 

A Private Fund Foundation (PFF), known in Dutch as “Stichting Particulier Fonds” (SPF), is a legal entity protecting assets, investments or funds. Foreigners can create and fully participate in a PFF. With no members or shareholders. 

Unlike most private foundations, the PFF can make distributions to the incorporators and others without having a social or charitable purpose. Beneficiaries, if named, can have general or limited rights. 

A PFF is formed (incorporated) by the execution of a written legal document (Foundation Deed) in front of a local civil law notary. The deed is similar to a corporate articles of incorporation as it details the purposes, objectives, initial assets, and operations of the foundation. 

A Private Fund Foundation can own real estate. However, actively buying and selling real estate may be considered a business or enterprise. Collecting rent from tenants in owned real estate is not a business or an enterprise. 

Private Found Foundations are exempt from profit taxes (corporate and income taxes). This exemption rests upon one condition: the PFF does not operate a business or an enterprise for profit. However, the law states that investment activities and acting as a holding company do not qualify as business or an enterprise. 

What are the benefits of a Private Fund Foundation in Sint Maarten?

Total Foreign Participation:  A Sint Maarten PFF can be formed by a foreign founder and have foreign beneficiaries. 

No Taxes: The PFF is totally tax exempt unless actively engaged in business or enterprise activities for profit. However, U.S. residents and everyone subject to global income taxes must report all income to their governments. 

Privacy: If beneficiaries are appointed, their names never appear in any public records. 

Time for Formation: A Sint Maarten Private Fund Foundation can be formed and registered as fast as two business days with BrightPath.

Private Fund Foundations are widely used in Sint Maarten to protect real estate assets and point specific beneficiaries, a PFF will help you protect your investment for future generations. 

Every situation is unique, and we, therefore, advise you to consult with a tax advisory firm to tailor your estate planning. We can always introduce you to our referral partners for financial advice. 

Start Today!

Start the process for your own Private Fund Foundation today. Book a consultation with our team and let us assist you in the process of incorporation, and if you want your PFF to protect a Real Estate investment, let our sister company BrightFuture Realty help you with the purchase of your dream property. 

 

Do you have any questions?

Contact us today to begin your journey

 

If you’re looking to take a break from your life, the Caribbean Islands are calling. With crystal clear waters and some of the best beaches in the world, there’s no better place to relax and unwind on vacation. From exploring the islands to eating your way through local cuisine, here are seven reasons to be in the Caribbean today!

The People

The people in the Caribbean are some of the friendliest, most welcoming, and most helpful people you will ever meet. You will never walk down a street and feel like you are being judged or overlooked by anyone. The people are friendly, kind, respectful and happy!

Food

It is when you can indulge in the freshest and most delicious food at a very reasonable price. The Caribbean offers various cuisines, including Caribbean, Creole, and European. If adventurous, try local food like conch chowder or black cake. You won’t be disappointed!

The cuisine varies depending on what island you visit; each island has its famous specialties. Take Barbados, for example – this island is known for its seafood dishes like flying fish sandwiches or fresh conch salad! 

The residents here also serve up some mean jerk chicken which tastes incredible when eaten with rice & peas (also known as “callaloo“). In Jamaica, it is all about jerk pork, or chicken served as part of their famous Kingston 11 patties (an appetizer). If none sound appealing, why not try their famous fried dumplings? These crispy treats are sure to please any hungry traveler looking to get their hands on something tasty before hitting the town after dinner.

Explore the Islands

While you’re on the islands, make sure to explore. Explore the cities and neighborhoods that have been around for hundreds of years. Explore the beaches and take in the beauty of nature. Explore the culture and learn about its history. And explore the food—you won’t be disappointed!

Beaches Beaches Beaches

• Grand Anse, Grenada
• Chateau Beach, St. Lucia
• Oualie Beach, St. Lucia

The great thing about these beaches is that they’re all different in their way. But what makes them unique? Let’s start with Grand Anse: it’s the largest beach in Grenada and has been named the best beach in the Caribbean by Trip Advisor (and who are we to disagree with that?). It also has excellent facilities for families thanks to its shallow waters and calm waves; this is where you’ll find people swimming and playing water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking!

As for Chateau Beach, well, it’s just beautiful! The sand is pure white, and palm trees surround it, so there are plenty of places to relax under shade if you feel like sunbathing or swimming around in clear blue waters. There are plenty of bars along this stretch if you grab a drink before heading home or a meal at one of the nearby restaurants! As for Oualie Beach, let us know how much fun you had once you visited.

You can take a Jet Ski Trip.

If you need to figure out what a jet ski is, it’s a type of personal watercraft. These are popular Caribbean activities and books at many resorts and hotels. You can take a jet ski trip for an hour, a day, or even both! It all depends on your budget, time constraints, and how much fun you want to have.

You can go solo or group up with friends to make it more exciting. If at most five people are at your party, it will cost around $100 per hour. If there are over five people, the price doubles to $200 per hour but includes insurance against any accidents that could occur while riding them together on open water (so no need to worry about getting hurt).

You can Jump Out of a Plane

Now is your chance if you’ve ever wanted to be James Bond jumping out of a plane! You can get a tandem skydive certificate or solo jump on many Caribbean islands. This adrenaline-filled activity will allow you to experience freefalling at high speeds and seeing the earth from above. It will also leave you with memories that will last forever. It’s something everyone should try at least once in their lifetime!

Stay at a 5 Star Resort

One of the best things about staying on the Caribbean islands is that you can stay at a five-star resort. Many five-star resorts throughout the islands, including Jamaica and Cuba. With so many choices for accommodations, it will take time to decide where to stay. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when deciding which hotel to choose:

• What type of activities do they offer? If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, then a resort with fewer activities might be better suited than one with tons of fun going on all day.
• What is their reputation? It is sometimes black-and-white, but if Google says that people love this place, it will be pretty good!
• How much does it cost per night? Some 5-star resorts can get pretty expensive depending on how luxurious your needs, so try searching around before booking anything just yet!

After reading this article, book your flight now!

The Caribbean islands are a great place to spend your vacation. You will enjoy the beautiful weather, friendly people, delicious food, and beautiful beaches. You won’t regret it!

To sum up, we hope this article has inspired you to take the leap and experience life in the Caribbean islands. It can be hard to make such a big decision, but it will improve your life! So what are you waiting for? Give BrightPath Caribbean a call now!

One of the most well-liked tourism locales worldwide is the Caribbean. It consists of more than 5,000 islands, reefs, and cays, all of which have different attractions and pricing points. The Caribbean is ideal for beach bums, honeymooners, and anybody wishing to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. It is especially popular among North Americans trying to escape the cold.

You don’t have to choose expensive all-inclusive mega-hotels with hundreds of cramped rooms and buffets overflowing with fast food to enjoy the same stunning beaches and luxuriously warm blue seas as the high rollers. Islands scattered across these tempting seas offer fantastic, engaging, and affordable places to stay. If you plan and keep an eye on costs while there, you can easily travel across the Caribbean on a budget.

You should know when to go.

Prices fall worldwide from June through August, which is the low season. During the northern hemisphere’s peak season, which lasts from December to March, prices and airfares rise in an inverse relationship with temperature. If avoiding the cold is crucial, you may search for travel dates during the first two weeks of December, after the US Thanksgiving holiday, and once again during the second part of January. 

Expect small discounts, not huge ones, even though winter crowds tend to get smaller at these times.

Book a room ahead of time.

In peak season, hotel rates remain constant regardless of how far out you book your trip. Large hotels and resorts often offer a variety of specials that may imply significant discounts for those prepared to commit several months before they want to visit, in contrast to smaller hotels and guesthouses that frequently have rate cards that don’t alter depending on demand. Again, spending time browsing online travel agencies will result in savings. Look for offers that provide extras like free meals, excursions, and accommodation upgrades.

Package offers that involve travel to the island may also be available from large resorts and Internet booking services. These can, but don’t always, result in significant total savings. Analyze the cost of traveling individually so you can compare package deals intelligently.

You should eat local food.

Like nearly anywhere on the globe, eating with locals will almost always result in lower prices, better cuisine, and food that more accurately reflects local preferences. Just don’t expect to sit at a table overlooking the waves. One thing to keep in mind is that people in the Caribbean often eat supper at about 6 o’clock.

Be careful when selecting resorts.

Even if you find a fantastic price on resort lodging, you are not required to do all your business there. The resort was offered at a low price because the printer manufacturer earns its money by selling you accessories like ink cartridges. The same is true with resorts; once you are in your hotel, they want to make money off of you by upselling you on expensive services and extras.

One significant source of revenue is the resort activities desk. Instead, choose a beachside independent activities provider. Look online for suggestions from locals who can give you more exciting and personal experiences than resorts.

Please message us if you have any queries. Lastly, thank you for forwarding this article to a friend who might like to visit the Caribbean!

Turquoise-blue water, pearl white sand, and lush palm trees. We all dream of visiting the Caribbean at least once in our lifetime. Some are lucky enough to not only visit the gorgeous Caribbean islands but also find a home to move to the Caribbean permanently.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves right away. While you may want to immigrate to the Caribbean one day in your life, now let’s talk about a much-deserved vacation to the Caribbean islands.

So how do you pick the best Caribbean islands out of the 28 countries and 750 islands? It’s simple: take inspiration from this blog and add these five stunning Caribbean islands to your bucket list. We also have a reason for you to visit each of these places!

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is a sister island in the Caribbean that’s known for one of the richest heritage and architectural buildings. St. Kitts and Nevis is also a golfer’s paradise as the island has a wide range of golfing activities you can indulge in. Do you want to transport yourself back to the 1800s? Visit the historical sites on this sister island.

Anguilla

If you want to live in the Caribbean like a free spirit, visit Anguilla. Anguilla is the dream destination for sports enthusiasts, known for some of the best water sports activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving.

Belize

Belize is known for its coral reefs, buzzing nightlife, and great contemporary infrastructure. If you want to experience a luxurious vacation in the Caribbean, then Belize is the place you need to be. Offering a wide range of activities, beaches, and cuisine, Belize has it all in one place.

Antigua and Barbuda

The land of 365 beaches! Antigua and Barbuda is presumably the only island in the world with 365 beaches. So if you’re a fan of exotic scenery, delicious Caribbean cuisine, and ferry boats, head over to Antigua and Barbuda. This island will offer you both a boho-chic feel and a metropolis vibe with its unique island life.

St. Maarten

And if you ever want to move to the Caribbean for good, then visit St. Maarten once. This part Dutch and part French island is known as the Friendly Island and is a hub of everything amazing. From vibrant city life to multiculturalism, St. Maarten has everything you wish for in a place.

At BrightPath Caribbean, we offer immigration consultancy and business incorporation services. If you wish to relocate to the Caribbean and start a new life, reach out to us.

The current employment market globally is ever-changing and very dynamic. Statistics show that employers are sourcing skilled employees remotely. At BrightPath, we offer regional solutions for immigration, corporate, and banking services that support your business, and in the case of work permits; support your Human Resources department, saving your company time and money.

Work permits in Sint Maarten are requested by the prospective employer and require a two-part process with the labor and immigration departments. Read this article below on five things you must know before applying for a work permit in St. Maarten.

1. Verifiable Documents must be Readily Available

Diplomas and relevant skill certificates must be presented in original form for applying for a work permit in St. Maarten. Further, the documents must be validated by the issuing educational institution. If presenting copies, these must be notarized by a licensed notary in the country of origin.

2. Work Experience must be Substantiated

Reference letters notarized in the country of origin must be obtained to verify the period of previous employment and state the applicant’s role and responsibilities.

3. Stay Abroad During the Application Process

Unless the prospective employee holds Dutch or American (USA) citizenship, the applicant must await the decision for both work and residency permits while remaining abroad.

4. Employers (not employees) are the Petitioner

The employer must request work permits. Moreover, evidence of tax compliance is a pre-requisite for all employers seeking to acquire a work permit for a foreign employee in St Maarten.

5. Health Insurance is Mandatory

For application purposes, health insurance is now an up-front requirement. Therefore, employers must verify that their foreign employees hold a valid health insurance policy.

 

Let Us Help Your HR Department!

To learn more about how BrightPath Caribbean can support your business in successfully obtaining work and residency permits for key personnel, schedule your free consultation today.

 

Do you have any questions?

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

 

Despite there being no recent statistics available, it’s estimated that owing to the political unrest and pandemic, at least nine million Americans have immigrated out of the country. A large number of these immigrants are moving to the Caribbean to enjoy retired life, start a business or merely enjoy the simplicity of life the pristine beaches offer.

To make the immigration process easier and hassle-free, Americans and Canadians largely rely on immigration consultants. However, sometimes finding a shady business disguised as an immigration agency can be a major setback. So to find a credible and reliable immigration consultant service, here are some tips to remember.

Start with Referrals

The best way to begin your search to hire an immigration consultant is by asking for referrals and recommendations from peers. This way, you can know the firsthand experience of people you trust and find an agency that has fulfilled their client’s expectations. You can also check online reviews at this stage to know the agency’s reputation.

Proceed to Credentials

Once you contact an immigration consultant, check for their credentials. Credentials include their registration number, association with local bodies, cognition at the embassy of the country you want to immigrate to, and certifications. If an immigration agency happily provides these details, you can consider them for your immigration to the Caribbean.

Ask for Experience

Ask your immigration consultant to share their experience details, their number of years in the business, the number of immigrants they have helped settle in the Caribbean, and other details. You can also ask the agency to put you in touch directly with your consultant so that you can speak to them directly.

Weigh in Your Options

Some Caribbean countries offer Immigrant by Investment Program, while others offer retirement plans to immigrants. Make sure to discuss all your options and immigration plans with your consultant and see how informed and clear they’re.

Inquire About Process

The immigration process to the Caribbean countries takes somewhere around three to six months. Some Caribbean countries also require foreigners to stay in the country for a while before granting residence or citizenship. Check with your agent the requirements of the Caribbean country you’re immigrating to and understand the time frame. Ask your agent about their frequency of communication and updates during this period.

Sign a Contract

Once you’re fully satisfied and have understood the process, have your immigration agency draft a contract. This will entail information like the agency’s details, estimated time frame, and the cost of the process, including your consultant’s fee.

Find the Right Agency

An immigration consultant that fits all criteria is the one you should be hiring for your immigration services. You can also get in touch with us at BrightPath Caribbean to start the process and obtain a residency permit at the earliest.

You require financial security during retirement more than ever before. However, studies suggest that less than half of Americans are prepared for their retirement life, and even lesser have ever spoken to retirement consultants to plan their old age.

According to estimates, one needs approximately 70 to 90 percent of their income to maintain their lifestyle during retirement. Luckily, with a low housing cost and tax exemptions, moving to the Caribbean is often considered a sensible decision for retirees.

So what do you need to do if you plan to retire and settle in the Caribbean? Well, here’s a basic guide to planning a comfortable retirement with specifics to help you find the perfect home in one of the 23 Caribbean countries.

Start Saving

Ideally, one should start saving at 45 years of age to retire after 60. However, if you have not done so already, you can opt for a 10-year retirement saving plan to save 15 percent of your gross annual income. And no matter what happens, do not touch your retirement fund at all!

Pick a Location

Depending on your current lifestyle and preferred choice of retirement life, find a location in the Caribbean that you love the most. While St. Maarten is known to have one of the lowest crime rates globally, Belize offers a 29% lower cost of living than the US. So make a pick according to your needs and preferences.

Plan for Medical Coverage

Since Medicare does not offer coverage to Americans living outside of the US, you can either opt for a medical insurance plan to obtain private healthcare services or have substantial funds to fly out to Mexico or the US for your medical needs.

Set Your Goals

Retirement goals consist of various things you can or want to do in your retirement life. You can either start a business in St. Maarten, or set up an off-shore company in Anguilla right away. Whatever you picture yourself doing when you retire, start working towards it. Moreover, some Caribbean countries like Belize require you to put in funds to benefit from their retirement funds. Speak to your consultant and look into every aspect of it.

Get Professional Help

Get in touch with a retirement consultant to get started with the process. A retirement consultant in the Caribbean can walk you through the legality of the process and help you in acquiring a residency permit, setting up a bank account, and buying property.

If you are looking for a retirement consultant in the Caribbean that offers you transparent services with dedication, reach out to us at BrightPath Caribbean. We have helped thousands of clients immigrate to the Caribbean and start businesses, acquire residence and even earn citizenship. Schedule a free Zoom consultation with us today to begin the process.