Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Saint Kitts and Nevis
CapitalBasseterre
Population46,922
GDP$1.2bn
Area269 km²
RegionLatin America & Caribbean
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:11 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Carib Indians occupied the islands of the West Indies for hundreds of years before the British and French began settlement in 1623. During the 17th century, Saint Kitts became the premier base for British and French expansion into the Caribbean. The French ceded the territory to the UK in 1713. At the turn of the 18th century, Saint Kitts was the richest British Crown Colony per capita in the Caribbean, a result of the sugar trade. Although small in size and separated by only 3 km (2 mi) of water, Saint Kitts and Nevis were viewed and governed as different states until the late-19th century, when the British forcibly unified them along with the island of Anguilla. In 1967, the island territory of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla became an associated state of the UK with full internal autonomy. The island of Anguilla rebelled and was allowed to secede in 1971. The remaining islands achieved independence in 1983 as Saint Kitts and Nevis. In 1998, a referendum on Nevis to separate from Saint Kitts fell short of the necessary two-thirds majority.
Reference: 1998, 1983, 1971, 1967Geography
Location
Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Area
total: 261 sq km (Saint Kitts 168 sq km; Nevis 93 sq km)
land: 261 sq km
water: 0 sq km
land: 261 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative
1.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.
Land boundaries
total: 0 km
Coastline
135 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate
tropical, tempered by constant sea breezes; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
Terrain
volcanic with mountainous interiors
Elevation
highest point: Mount Liamuiga 1,156 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Natural resources
arable land
Land use
agricultural land: 23.1% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 19.2% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.4% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 3.5% (2022 est.)
forest: 42.3% (2022 est.)
other: 34.6% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 19.2% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.4% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 3.5% (2022 est.)
forest: 42.3% (2022 est.)
other: 34.6% (2022 est.)
Irrigated land
8 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Population distribution
population clusters are found in the small towns located on the periphery of both islands
Natural hazards
hurricanes (July to October)
volcanism: Mount Liamuiga (1,156 m) on Saint Kitts and Nevis Peak (985 m) on Nevis are part of the volcanic-island arc of the Lesser Antilles, which extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the south
volcanism: Mount Liamuiga (1,156 m) on Saint Kitts and Nevis Peak (985 m) on Nevis are part of the volcanic-island arc of the Lesser Antilles, which extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the south
Geography - note
smallest country in the Western Hemisphere in terms of both area and population; the two volcanic islands are separated by a 3-km-wide (9-mi-wide) channel called The Narrows; on the southern tip of baseball-bat-shaped Saint Kitts lies the Great Salt Pond; Nevis Peak sits in the center of its ball-shaped namesake island
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Kittitian(s), Nevisian(s)
adjective: Kittitian, Nevisian
adjective: Kittitian, Nevisian
Ethnic groups
African descent 92.5%, mixed 3%, White 2.1%, East Indian 1.5%, other 0.6%, unspecified 0.3% (2001 est.)
Reference: 2001Languages
English (official)
Religions
Protestant 75.6% (includes Anglican 16.6%, Methodist 15.8%, Pentecostal 10.8%, Church of God 7.4%, Baptist 5.4%, Seventh Day Adventist 5.4%, Wesleyan Holiness 5.3%, Moravian 4.8%, Evangelical 2.1%, Brethren 1.7%, Presbyterian 0.3%), Roman Catholic 5.9%, Hindu 1.8%, Jehovah's Witness 1.4%, Rastafarian 1.3%, other 5%, none 8.8%, unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)
Reference: 2011Age structure
0-14 years: 19.2% (male 5,314/female 5,277)
15-64 years: 68.1% (male 18,944/female 18,575)
65 years and over: 12.7% (2024 est.) (male 3,341/female 3,682)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 68.1% (male 18,944/female 18,575)
65 years and over: 12.7% (2024 est.) (male 3,341/female 3,682)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 46.9 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 28.2 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 18.7 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 5.3 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 28.2 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 18.7 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 5.3 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 38.6 years (2024 est.)
male: 38.8 years
female: 38.3 years
Reference: 2024male: 38.8 years
female: 38.3 years
Population growth rate
0.56% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
11.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
7.4 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
population clusters are found in the small towns located on the periphery of both islands
Major urban areas - population
14,000 BASSETERRE (capital) (2018)
Reference: 2018Sex ratio
at birth: 1.02 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.91 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.91 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
74 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
0.87 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.2% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
3.09 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Reference: 2018Hospital bed density
4.3 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
22.9% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 8.84 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 3.73 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 1.02 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 3.89 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.21 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 3.73 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 1.02 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 3.89 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.21 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
57.2% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 19 years (2015 est.)
male: 18 years (2015 est.)
female: 20 years (2015 est.)
Reference: 2015male: 18 years (2015 est.)
female: 20 years (2015 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 5 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Charles III | — | 2022-09-08 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Terrance Drew | — | 2022-00-00 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
conventional short form: Saint Kitts and Nevis
former: Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis
etymology: explorer Christopher COLUMBUS visited the islands in 1493 and named one for his own patron saint; a common nickname for Christopher during the following centuries was Kit or Kitt, and Saint Kitts is still referred to as Saint Christopher; the name of Nevis is said to derive from the original Spanish name "Las Nieves" (The Snows) and refers to its cloud-topped mountain
note: note: Nevis is pronounced NEE-vis
conventional short form: Saint Kitts and Nevis
former: Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis
etymology: explorer Christopher COLUMBUS visited the islands in 1493 and named one for his own patron saint; a common nickname for Christopher during the following centuries was Kit or Kitt, and Saint Kitts is still referred to as Saint Christopher; the name of Nevis is said to derive from the original Spanish name "Las Nieves" (The Snows) and refers to its cloud-topped mountain
note: note: Nevis is pronounced NEE-vis
Capital
name: Basseterre
geographic coordinates: 17 18 N, 62 43 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the French name translates as "low land" in English; the reference is probably to the city's location in a valley
geographic coordinates: 17 18 N, 62 43 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the French name translates as "low land" in English; the reference is probably to the city's location in a valley
Administrative divisions
14 parishes; Christ Church Nichola Town, Saint Anne Sandy Point, Saint George Basseterre, Saint George Gingerland, Saint James Windward, Saint John Capesterre, Saint John Figtree, Saint Mary Cayon, Saint Paul Capesterre, Saint Paul Charlestown, Saint Peter Basseterre, Saint Thomas Lowland, Saint Thomas Middle Island, Trinity Palmetto Point
Legal system
English common law
Constitution
history: several previous (pre-independence); latest presented 22 June 1983, effective 23 June 1983
amendment process: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires approval by at least two-thirds majority vote of the total Assembly membership and assent of the governor general; amendments to constitutional provisions such as the sovereignty of the federation, fundamental rights and freedoms, the judiciary, and the Nevis Island Assembly also require approval in a referendum by at least two thirds of the votes cast in Saint Kitts and in Nevis
Reference: 1983amendment process: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires approval by at least two-thirds majority vote of the total Assembly membership and assent of the governor general; amendments to constitutional provisions such as the sovereignty of the federation, fundamental rights and freedoms, the judiciary, and the Nevis Island Assembly also require approval in a referendum by at least two thirds of the votes cast in Saint Kitts and in Nevis
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 14 years
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 14 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022); represented by Governor General Marcella LIBURD (since 1 February 2023)
head of government: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance DREW (since 6 August 2022)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by governor general in consultation with prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the governor general usually appoints the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister; deputy prime minister also appointed by governor general
Reference: 2023, 2022head of government: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance DREW (since 6 August 2022)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by governor general in consultation with prime minister
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the governor general usually appoints the leader of the majority party or majority coalition as prime minister; deputy prime minister also appointed by governor general
Legislative branch
legislature name: National Assembly
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 16 (11 directly elected; 4 appointed)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 8/5/2022
parties elected and seats per party: St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) (6); Concerned Citizens' Movement (CCM) (3); Peoples Labour Party (PLP) (1); People's Action Movement (PAM) (1)
percentage of women in chamber: 31.3%
expected date of next election: October 2027
Reference: 2027, 2022legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 16 (11 directly elected; 4 appointed)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 8/5/2022
parties elected and seats per party: St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) (6); Concerned Citizens' Movement (CCM) (3); Peoples Labour Party (PLP) (1); People's Action Movement (PAM) (1)
percentage of women in chamber: 31.3%
expected date of next election: October 2027
Judicial branch
highest court(s): the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is the superior court of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; the ECSC is headquartered on St. Lucia and consists of the Court of Appeal -- headed by the chief justice and 4 judges -- and the High Court with 18 judges; the Court of Appeal travels to member states on a schedule to hear appeals from the High Court and subordinate courts; member of the Caribbean Court of Justice
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
Political parties
Concerned Citizens Movement or CCM
Nevis Reformation Party or NRP
People's Action Movement or PAM
People's Labour Party or PLP
Saint Kitts and Nevis Labor Party or SKNLP
Nevis Reformation Party or NRP
People's Action Movement or PAM
People's Labour Party or PLP
Saint Kitts and Nevis Labor Party or SKNLP
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Jacinth HENRY-MARTIN (since 15 September 2023)
chancery: 1203 19th St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 686-2636
FAX: [1] (202) 686-5740
email address and website: stkittsnevis@embskn.com
Embassy of St.Kitts and Nevis to the USA – and Permanent Mission to the OAS (embassydc.gov.kn)
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Reference: 2023chancery: 1203 19th St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 686-2636
FAX: [1] (202) 686-5740
email address and website: stkittsnevis@embskn.com
Embassy of St.Kitts and Nevis to the USA – and Permanent Mission to the OAS (embassydc.gov.kn)
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Kitts and Nevis; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Kitts and Nevis
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ITU, MIGA, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Independence
19 September 1983 (from the UK)
Reference: 1983National holiday
Independence Day, 19 September (1983)
Reference: 1983Flag
description: divided diagonally from the lower left side by a broad black band with two five-pointed white stars; the black band is edged in yellow; the upper triangle is green, and the lower is red
meaning: green stands for the island's fertility, red for the struggles of the people from slavery, yellow for year-round sunshine, and black for the people's African heritage; the white stars stand for the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis but can also express hope and liberty, or independence and optimism
meaning: green stands for the island's fertility, red for the struggles of the people from slavery, yellow for year-round sunshine, and black for the people's African heritage; the white stars stand for the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis but can also express hope and liberty, or independence and optimism
National symbol(s)
brown pelican, royal poinciana (flamboyant) tree
National color(s)
green, yellow, red, black, white
National coat of arms
the coat of arms of Saint Kitts and Nevis features a Carib who represents the original inhabitants of the islands, and a fleur-de-lis and rose that represent the French and English who arrived in the 1620; the shield also features the poinciana (the national flower) and a traditional boat; three hands hold the torch, which represents the quest for freedom: the hand of an African, a European, and a person of mixed ethnicity; pelicans (the national bird) support the shield, with a sugarcane plant and a coconut tree that symbolize the land
National anthem(s)
title: "God Save the King"
lyrics/music: unknown
history: in use since 1745
lyrics/music: unknown
history: in use since 1745
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 1 (cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
selected World Heritage Site locales: Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Kitts and Nevis official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Assembly | — | 15 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
high-income, tourism-based Caribbean OECS economy; better debt balancing; CARICOM and ECCU member; growing offshore financial and telecommunications hub; environmentally fragile; unique citizenship-driven growth model
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $1.465 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $1.448 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $1.388 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $1.448 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $1.388 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $31,300 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $31,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $29,700 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $31,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $29,700 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 1.3% (2024 est.)
industry: 21.1% (2024 est.)
services: 65.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 21.1% (2024 est.)
services: 65.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Agricultural products
coconuts, tropical fruits, root vegetables, vegetables, eggs, pulses, sweet potatoes, watermelons, cucumbers/gherkins, tomatoes (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
tourism, cotton, salt, copra, clothing, footwear, beverages
Industrial production growth rate
-2.7% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 3.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 3.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 3.8% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 3.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 3.8% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $262 million (2020 est.)
expenditures: $281.889 million (2020 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2020expenditures: $281.889 million (2020 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2017: 62.9% of GDP (2017 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2017note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
15% (of GDP) (2020 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2020note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$169.221 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$122.386 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$111.685 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$122.386 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$111.685 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $504.391 million (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $579.568 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $542.983 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $579.568 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $542.983 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Malta 49%, USA 21%, Turkey 7%, St. Vincent & the Grenadines 5%, Guyana 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
ships, measuring instruments, beer, electrical transformers, electrical control boards (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $642.934 million (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $669.168 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $606.856 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $669.168 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $606.856 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 50%, Italy 11%, China 8%, Japan 2%, UK 2% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, ships, cars, jewelry, poultry (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $294.748 million (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $286.075 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $293.98 million (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $286.075 million (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $293.98 million (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: East Caribbean dollars (XCD) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 2.7 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2.7 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2.7 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2.7 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2.7 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 2.7 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 2.7 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 2.7 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 2.7 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 2.7 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$169.221 million (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$122.386 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$111.685 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$122.386 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$111.685 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $504.391 million (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $579.568 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $542.983 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $579.568 million (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $542.983 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Malta 49%, USA 21%, Turkey 7%, St. Vincent & the Grenadines 5%, Guyana 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
ships, measuring instruments, beer, electrical transformers, electrical control boards (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $642.934 million (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $669.168 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $606.856 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $669.168 million (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $606.856 million (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 50%, Italy 11%, China 8%, Japan 2%, UK 2% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, ships, cars, jewelry, poultry (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 72,000 kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 182.455 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 39.522 million kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 182.455 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 39.522 million kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 95% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 2.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 2.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 2.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Petroleum
refined petroleum consumption: 2,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 81.454 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 16,000 (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 33 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 33 (2022 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
74 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 6.2% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 5.9% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
3.09 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Reference: 2018Hospital bed density
4.3 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
22.9% (2016)
Reference: 2016Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 19 years (2015 est.)
male: 18 years (2015 est.)
female: 20 years (2015 est.)
Reference: 2015male: 18 years (2015 est.)
female: 20 years (2015 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
English common law
Judicial branch
highest court(s): the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is the superior court of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; the ECSC is headquartered on St. Lucia and consists of the Court of Appeal -- headed by the chief justice and 4 judges -- and the High Court with 18 judges; the Court of Appeal travels to member states on a schedule to hear appeals from the High Court and subordinate courts; member of the Caribbean Court of Justice
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by the British monarch; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
St. Kitts and Nevis Defense Force (SKNDF); Regular Force, Coast Guard Force (SKNDF Coast Guard), Reserve Force, Cadet Force
Ministry of National Security: the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (2025)
Ministry of National Security: the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 200 active Defense Forces (2024)
Reference: 2024Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the SKNDF is lightly armed with equipment from Belgium, the UK, and the US (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18 years of age for voluntary military service for men and women (under 18 with written parental permission); no conscription (2025)
Military - note
SKNDF's missions include protecting the country's territorial integrity, assisting the police in combating the illegal narcotic trade and other crimes, and providing humanitarian and disaster relief assistance; the force also has a regional role through the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS); St. Kitts joined the RSS in 1984; RSS signatories (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) agreed to prepare contingency plans and assist one another, on request, in national emergencies, prevention of smuggling, search and rescue, immigration control, fishery protection, customs and excise control, maritime policing duties, protection of off-shore installations, pollution control, national and other disasters, and threats to national security (2025)
Reference: 2025, 1984International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Jacinth HENRY-MARTIN (since 15 September 2023)
chancery: 1203 19th St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 686-2636
FAX: [1] (202) 686-5740
email address and website: stkittsnevis@embskn.com
Embassy of St.Kitts and Nevis to the USA – and Permanent Mission to the OAS (embassydc.gov.kn)
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Reference: 2023chancery: 1203 19th St. NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 686-2636
FAX: [1] (202) 686-5740
email address and website: stkittsnevis@embskn.com
Embassy of St.Kitts and Nevis to the USA – and Permanent Mission to the OAS (embassydc.gov.kn)
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Kitts and Nevis; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Kitts and Nevis
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ITU, MIGA, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth of Nations (Commonwealth) | member | 1983-00-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1983-09-23 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
International organization participation
ACP, ACS, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ITU, MIGA, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 5 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
V4
Airports
2 (2025)
Heliports
1 (2025)
Railways
total: 50 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 50 km (2008) 0.762-m gauge on Saint Kitts for tourists
Reference: 2008narrow gauge: 50 km (2008) 0.762-m gauge on Saint Kitts for tourists
Merchant marine
total: 341 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 16, general cargo 85, oil tanker 59, other 159
Reference: 2023by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 16, general cargo 85, oil tanker 59, other 159
Ports
total ports: 2 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 0
small: 0
very small: 2
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Basseterre, Charlestown
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 0
small: 0
very small: 2
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Basseterre, Charlestown
Environment
Environmental issues
deforestation; soil erosion and silting affects marine life on coral reefs; water pollution from uncontrolled dumping of sewage
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical, tempered by constant sea breezes; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
Land use
agricultural land: 23.1% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 19.2% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.4% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 3.5% (2022 est.)
forest: 42.3% (2022 est.)
other: 34.6% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 19.2% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.4% (2022 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 3.5% (2022 est.)
forest: 42.3% (2022 est.)
other: 34.6% (2022 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 31.1% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 1.06% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 1.06% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 269,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 269,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from petroleum and other liquids: 269,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
8 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 32,900 tons (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Total water withdrawal
municipal: 15.4 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 0 cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 200,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 0 cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 200,000 cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
24 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 16,000 (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 33 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 33 (2022 est.)
Broadcast media
national state-operated TV network that broadcasts on 2 channels; cable subscription available for local and international channels; national state-operated radio network; mix of state-owned and privately owned broadcasters with about 15 radio stations (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.kn
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 47,075 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 47,050 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 47,008 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 46,952 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 46,870 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 46,763 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 46,709 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 46,758 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 46,843 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 46,922 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $1,006,818,519 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $1,056,977,778 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $1,076,548,148 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $1,107,855,556 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $883,922,222 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $858,622,222 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $981,429,630 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $1,055,651,852 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $1,122,388,889 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $1,183,514,815 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 7,725 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 7,958 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 9,854 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 10,825 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 11,826 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 12,011 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 11,543 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 12,179 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 13,154 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 13,872 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | -202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -202 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -92 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 0 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 0 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -7 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 18 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 46,922 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 46,992 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 46,922 | 2025 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 7,958 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 17.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 13,872 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | 18 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 36 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 63 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Legal since 2022 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Yes | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans some anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $1,183,514,815 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $25,223 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 2.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 3.6% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | High income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 72.3 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 1.5 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 31.9% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 76.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 137.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 3.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 100.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 1.5% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 5.7% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 13.9 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 42.3% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 118.9 per 100 | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 46.7 per 100 | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 11,720 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 17.3000° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -62.7309° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 17.2717° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -62.6667° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC−04:00, America/St_Kitts | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | constitutional monarchy, federal monarchy | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: availability) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:10:30