EU May Suspend Visa-Free Access for CBI Countries After LIBE Committee Approval

EU Advances Crackdown on “Golden Passport” Schemes.

The EU Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) has approved amendments to the Visa Suspension Mechanism (VSM) targeting non-EU countries that offer citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs.

Countries affected may include:
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Dominica
- Grenada
- St. Kitts & Nevis
- St. Lucia

The move follows concerns over security risks, money laundering, and lack of due diligence.

What Are the Proposed Changes?

The amendment to Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 states. Visa-free access must not be used to market citizenship to investors.

The suspension mechanism can be triggered by:
– spike in serious crimes,
– deterioration of diplomatic relations,
– increase in illegal migration through these states.

The EU stresses concern with “passport sales” without real ties to the issuing country.

Strategic Concerns

EU officials warn that such schemes can undermine Schengen security by enabling third-country nationals to circumvent EU border controls.
The Commission previously raised red flags about Vanuatu, Turkey, Montenegro, and Moldova over similar concerns.

Economic and Diplomatic Impact

If the new proposal is ratified:
- CBI countries may lose their visa-free status with the EU.
- Investors holding passports from those countries could face visa restrictions.
- Governments may be forced to restructure or abolish CBI programs.

Conclusion

The EU is sending a strong message: visa-free travel is a privilege, not a loophole. Countries that wish to retain access to the Schengen Area must align with European security and integrity standards. The move will reshape the future of global investment migration programs and force a reevaluation of citizenship-for-cash models.