What is the difference between the Saint Lucia bond route and the NEF donation?

The two routes suit different priorities. The National Economic Fund (NEF) is a non-refundable donation starting around US$240,000 for a family of up to four, with no money returned but a lower upfront commitment.

The government bond route requires a larger US$300,000 outlay plus a US$50,000 administration fee, but the bond principal is returned after the five-year hold (it simply earns no interest in the meantime). Choose the bond if you prefer to recover capital later and can lock it up for five years; choose the NEF if you want the lowest net cost and simplicity.