The Live It Extended Stay Program, officially branded as "Don't Just Visit, Live It," is Saint Lucia's initiative enabling foreign nationals to live on the island for up to one year while working remotely. Launched in April 2021 by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, the program allows remote workers, freelancers, students, and self-employed individuals with income sourced from outside Saint Lucia to obtain a one-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visa. Notably, Saint Lucia does not impose a minimum income threshold, making it one of the most accessible digital nomad programs in the Caribbean. The visa fee of USD 75 for a full year is also among the lowest in the region.
The visa is issued for up to one year with multiple-entry capability, allowing holders to leave and re-enter Saint Lucia freely throughout the validity period. There is no minimum stay requirement or maximum absence rule. Upon expiry, a new application must be submitted. Visa-exempt nationals (including from the US, Canada, UK, and CARICOM states) who enter without the Live It visa are initially admitted for 6 weeks and may extend their stay through 30-day extensions at XCD 200 each.
Spouse and children may accompany the main applicant by each submitting separate non-immigrant visa applications to the Immigration Department. Each dependant must provide their own supporting documents and is subject to the same USD 75 visa fee. The main applicant must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support all accompanying family members.
Non-residents (present fewer than 183 days in a tax year) are taxed only on Saint Lucia-sourced income. Those present for 183 days or more who are not "ordinarily resident" are taxed on local income plus any foreign income remitted to Saint Lucia. Foreign-sourced income that is not remitted to the country is not taxed.
Applications are submitted via email to the Immigration Department at [email protected] or [email protected] at least two weeks before the intended travel date. The process works as follows:
Alternatively, applicants may apply through SLTA-approved Island Specialists (Barefoot Holidays, Serenity Vacations & Tours, or St. James Travel & Tours), who arrange accommodation and facilitate the visa process. All travellers must also complete an electronic entry form via the online Immigration & Customs Portal (travelslu.govt.lc) up to 3 days before arrival.
Visa holders may only work remotely for employers, clients, or businesses located outside Saint Lucia. Working for any employer or business based in Saint Lucia is strictly prohibited and would require a separate work permit. The visa does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship.