DOT hails Global Citizen programme a success

There have been more than 100 applications from families, couples and individuals who want to make the Cayman Islands home, under the Department of Tourism’s Global Citizen Concierge Programme, first launched in October 2020. As a result, the DOT said the programme had been a resounding success and had attracted “significant interest” from people who want to be able to work in Cayman remotely for their onshore businesses. They are allowed to live and work in Cayman for up to two years but have to meet certain criteria, including earning at least U$100,000 per year (single person), US$150,000 per couple or US$180,000 for a family. Successful applicants have come from the United States and Europe, the DOT said.

Minister for Tourism and Transport Kenneth Bryan said they were extraordinarily proud of the programme, which was developed and led by the DOT from concept to implementation.

“The positive feedback from applicants reinforces that the Cayman Islands remains a much sought-after destination, despite the COVID pandemic closing our borders. I am committed to ensuring the continued success of the GCCP and will work closely with my colleagues to amplify the benefits of being a Global Citizen in the Cayman Islands,” he stated.

The Cayman Islands has had to compete not only with other Caribbean destinations to woo wealthy individuals to become temporary residents, but also with countries around the globe offering a similar service, so it had to provide such individuals with a reason to come to Cayman other than the beach and great weather. As such, a key attraction has been the flexibility of a 24-month stay, which provides extended stability when compared to other destinations which may only offer a six month stay or less.

It should be noted, however, that successful applicants cannot become legal residents of the Cayman Islands through this programme, but they do have the ability to leave and return to the country throughout their 24-months stay, once they have met the minimum requirement of at least 90 days per 12 months stay on-island. The DOT said that they had to strictly stick to the mandatory travel protocols, including pre-approval through the TravelCayman process.

For more information on the Cayman Islands and to apply for the Global Citizen Concierge Program, visit www.visitcaymanislands.com. The Global Citizen Concierge Program call centre is open Monday - Friday, 9:00am – 4:30pm CST and Saturday, 10:00am - 2:00pm CST by US Toll Free number: 001-833-418-1191 or by email at globalcitizen@caymanislands.ky.