Buying Property as a Foreigner: The Alien Land Holding Licence

Foreign nationals usually need an Alien Land Holding Licence to own land in SVG. Here is who needs one, who is exempt, the process, the documents, and the fee.

Foreign nationals who want to own land in St. Vincent & the Grenadines generally need an Alien Land Holding Licence (ALHL) — sometimes called the Governor General's Licence. This guide explains the governing law, who is exempt, the process, and what the application requires.

The governing law

Ownership of land by foreign nationals in St. Vincent & the Grenadines is governed by the Aliens Land Holding Regulations. All foreign nationals wishing to acquire land must obtain a licence from the Government. Applications are made through the Office of the Prime Minister and registered through a local Attorney-at-Law.

Who does NOT need a licence

You do not need an Alien Land Holding Licence if you are any of the following:

  • Vincentians (citizens of St. Vincent & the Grenadines)
  • The spouse of a Vincentian
  • First-generation children born of Vincentian parents
  • Members of the Commonwealth

If you fall outside these categories, you will need the licence to acquire land.

The process, step by step

  1. Sale Agreement — putting the sale agreement in place usually takes about three (3) months, and the sale is subject to ALHL approval by Cabinet.
  2. Schedule / Abstract of Title — sets out the location and description of the land.
  3. Survey Plan — four (4) copies are required.
  4. Cover letter to the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office — usually completed by the lawyer processing the ALHL.
  5. Governor General's Licence / Alien Land Holding Licence — the licence itself is issued.
  6. Conveyance — the deed is transferred from the vendor (seller) to the purchaser (buyer).

What the application requires

Applicant C.V. containing: full name, home address, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, passport number (with place and date of issue), marital status, occupation, a character reference, and any other relevant detail.

Additional documents:

  • Certified copy of a letter of reference from your bankers
  • Certified copy of your police record
  • Four (4) copies of the Alien Land Holding Licence application
  • Four (4) copies of survey plans
  • Valuation of the property
A medical is often required now as well.

Application fee: EC$2,500.00 — non-refundable.

Next steps

Once you understand the licence, review the step-by-step buying guide and the closing costs & fees guide. Our team can connect you with a local attorney to handle the ALHL — get in touch.