Top reasons why you should consider moving to Sint Maarten
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By BrightPath Caribbean
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Nov 19, 2021
TOP 3 REASONS MOVING TO ST. MAARTEN
If you are a citizen of the United States and you are considering starting a business, working, or retiring in the Caribbean, here are some reasons why Sint Maarten should be on the top of your list. As the most recognized regional immigration services provider, operating throughout the English-speaking Caribbean, the team at BrightPath can offer you objective advice, as well as reliable immigration and relocation services in order for you and your family to safely move to the Caribbean.
Here are some important facts that make Sint Maarten a very attractive destination for US nationals wanting to relocate abroad:
1) The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty: Under article 3 paragraph 1 sub f. of the National Ordinance on Admission and Expulsion, Dutch citizens born outside of Sint Maarten (or the former Netherlands Antilles), will be legally admitted to Sint Maarten under the following two conditions – (i) Certificate of Conduct; and (ii) Housing and sufficient means to provide in their own livelihood.
What does this mean? In summary, if you can prove no criminal background and that you have sufficient verifiable funds, BrightPath can start your immigration process to get you legal residency.
Why does this benefit US nationals? Because under The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, US Nationals are given equal privileges as Dutch citizens born outside of Sint Maarten and/or The Former Netherlands Antilles
Will obtaining residency affect your status as a US passport holder? The answer is no. You keep your US passport and you also acquire the right to live, work, retire, or even start your business on Sint Maarten.
2) Tax Benefits: Sint Maarten has no property taxes. Yes, that means you can purchase real estate here and not have to worry about annual property taxes. It’s absolutely property tax-free. There are also no taxes on goods or services and no capital gains tax. You can also import all your personal belongings free of any taxes because there are no custom duties on imported goods.
3) Real Estate and Banking: Sint Maarten’s real estate sector is holding strong with retained values on property, and in many cases, showing appreciation over time. Although the official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Florin (NAf), transacting in United States currency is widely practiced with no licensing required for bank accounts in US dollars. Internationally recognized banks still continue to operate on island, offering a stable banking system, with little to no sign of change in the foreseeable future.
Do you have any questions?