Although the Cayman Islands is not a sovereign nation, it maintains active relationships with many countries through the United Kingdom, its status as a global financial center, and its tourism-dependent economy. Cayman engages the world primarily in areas of finance, travel, trade, environmental cooperation, and disaster management.
1. United Kingdom – Primary Relationship
Type:
British Overseas Territory (BOT)
Governor:
Appointed by the King, represents the Crown
Defense & Foreign Affairs: Managed by the UK
Rights:
Caymanians hold British Overseas Territories citizenship (BOTC) and may apply for full UK citizenship
Military Support: UK assists with natural disasters and security
Legal Ties: Final court of appeal is the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (UK)
Relationship is close but occasionally tested over issues like same-sex marriage laws, beneficial ownership registers, and environmental regulations.
2. United States – Economic & Travel Partner
Area
Details
Tourism:
Majority of Cayman’s tourists come from the U.S. (over 80%)
Finance:
Cayman is a popular jurisdiction for U.S. hedge funds and investment
Flights:
Daily direct flights to Miami, Tampa, Dallas, New York, etc.
Education & Health: Many Caymanians study or get medical treatment in the U.S.
Cooperation:
Works with U.S. on anti-money laundering, tax compliance (FATCA)
The U.S. is Cayman’s most significant non-UK international partner.
