Launched in 2013, Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program is known for its cost-effectiveness for larger families. Through its economic investment route, which starts at $230,000, investors can obtain second citizenship by making significant economic contributions.
The Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) of Antigua and Barbuda grants global mobility opportunities for many, including visa free or visa on arrival access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, and the UK (ETA required).
Key Takeaways for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
- To qualify for the Antigua citizenship program, applicants must choose one of the donation options. The minimum investment required is $230,000 for the National Development Fund. Other Antigua CBI investment options include real estate and business investments, as well as the University of the West Indies Fund (UWI).
- As one of the fastest Caribbean Citizenship by Investment programs, the processing time for an Antigua passport takes 6-9 months.
- In terms of family eligibility criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by investment, an applicant can include their spouse, children under 30, unmarried siblings, parents, and grandparents over 55 as dependents.
- During the application process, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program has required a mandatory virtual interview for its main applicants and dependents aged 16 or older for due diligence requirements.
- The Antigua passport program requires a minimum physical presence. The main applicant must stay in Antigua and Barbuda for 5 days over a 5 year time. If not, your Antigua passport will not be valid.
- The country also allows dual citizenship, meaning you can hold both your original nationality and Antigua and Barbuda citizenship simultaneously, provided your home country permits it.
What to Discover in This Guide?
- Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
- Who is Eligible to Get Citizenship by Investment in Antigua and Barbuda?
- Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
- What is the Cost of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship?
- Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Requirements
- How to Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Key Benefits of Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship
Visa Free Access for Antigua and Barbuda Passport Holders
Ranking 27th at the Get Golden Visa passport index, an Antigua passport is valid for 5 years; after each renewal, it will be valid for 10 years. With this second passport, you can enjoy visa free or visa on arrival access to over 150 countries. This includes significant business and travel destinations such as;
- The United Kingdom (requires ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization))
- Countries in the Schengen Area
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
This mobility means smoother travel for meetings, conferences, and networking events across continents. It also opens doors for exploring international markets.
Additionally, Antigua passport holders can be eligible for conditional visa free travel to Canada by air, using its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) by meeting the legal requirements.
For travel to the US, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are subject to US visa restrictions. Antigua and Barbuda nationals need visa bonds. They must post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on the interview. In addition, they must submit the Department of Homeland Security Form I-352.
Economic Advantages
Antigua and Barbuda offers a stable environment and a growing economy. The country is attractive for business due to its low tax regime. Remember that there is no worldwide income, inheritance, or capital gains tax.
Lifestyle Perks
Antigua and Barbuda have beautiful landscapes, a warm climate, and a vibrant culture. As a citizen, you can enjoy a high standard of living and the safety in Antigua. You will also have access to quality healthcare and education. The islands offer a sense of security and a relaxed pace of life. These make the country an ideal place for families and retirees.
Investment Opportunities
The citizenship by investment program itself offers various investment opportunities, whether through real estate purchases, business investments, or contributions to national funds.
Dual Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda’s approach to dual citizenship is one of openness and flexibility. It allows dual citizenship. While you retain your existing citizenship, you can also enjoy the benefits of Antiguian and Barbudan citizenship. This policy maintains your roots while expanding your global reach.
However, holding dual citizenship comes with specific legal considerations. Stay informed about the laws of both countries regarding dual nationality. Some nations may have restrictions or specific requirements for citizens who hold another country’s passport.
Tax Benefits
Antigua and Barbuda offers a favorable tax regime as one of no income tax countries like other Caribbean countries. If you become a citizen, you do not have to pay foreign income tax. However, consider the tax laws of your other country of citizenship. Some countries tax global income, and it can affect your financial planning.
Financial Planning
Antigua’s passport program also opens up diverse financial planning opportunities. It allows for more flexibility in investment, banking, and business operations across borders. This can be particularly advantageous to diversify your assets and income streams.
That’s why, according to Get Golden Visa’s internal insight, many investors today consider it as a part of broader portfolio planning, giving flexibility for offshore tax planning.
Who is Eligible for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship?
The Main Applicant
Before choosing a path for applying to the citizenship by investment program in Antigua and Barbuda, you need to be sure if you are eligible:
- Being 18 years old
- Being of good character
- Having no criminal record
- Maintaining good health
- Being able to make an economic donation to the country
- Passing a thorough due diligence check
However, citizens of the following countries cannot apply for an Antigua and Barbuda passport by investment:
- Afghanistan
- Iran
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Yemen
- Sudan
- Russia
- Belarus
Family Eligibility for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
- The spouse
- Children who are 0-30 years of age who are financially dependent
- Physically or mentally disabled children who are 18 or older.
- Parents or grandparents who are 55 or older and financially dependent
- Unmarried siblings
You can also include your next generations for Antigua nationality:
- a future spouse of the main applicant (with a $50,000 fee)
- a future spouse of dependent children
- future child of a dependent child
Investment Options: How to Get an Antigua and Barbuda Passport
Antigua and Barbuda welcomes global citizens who want the fastest citizenship. Four investment and contribution options of the Antigua and Barbuda program are as follows:
- The National Development Fund
- Real Estate Investment
- Business Investment
- The University of the West Indies Fund
1. The National Development Fund (NDF)
The National Development Fund (NDF) in Antigua and Barbuda presents a streamlined avenue. This option involves a non-refundable contribution to the nation’s development initiatives. The minimum investment starts at $230,000.
For a single application:
- The processing fees: $10,000,
- Due diligence fee: $8,500.
For a family of up to four members:
- The processing fee is $20,000
Due diligence fees are:
- $8,500 for the main applicant,
- $5,000 for the spouse,
- $2,000 per dependent aged 12-17,
- $4,000 per dependent aged 18 or older,
- $5,000 for a benefactor.
For a family of five or more:
- The processing fee is $20,000, with an additional $10,000 charged for each dependent onward.
- Due diligence fees remain the same as for families of up to four members.
2. The Real Estate Investment
Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment suits investors seeking both a tangible asset and global mobility. The requirement is a minimum investment of $300,000 in approved real estate projects. The investor is required to hold the Caribbean real estate for at least five years. If you are looking for a tangible investment, this option is ideal.
What benefits will you get by choosing this option?
- Gaining citizenship
- Investing in a property in a prime location
- Potential financial ROI
- Rental yield potential around 2–5% on residential property
However, you must be ready for the third-party legal transfer or closing fees of 1–2% of the purchase price. Additionally, you will need to pay a stamp duty at 2.5%.
If you rent your property to tourists, the property is subject to a 17% Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) and a Tourism Guest Levy.
The real estate investment for approved projects in Antigua is $300,000 for all application categories.
For a single application:
- The processing fees: $10,000,
- Due diligence fee: $8,500.
For a family of up to four members:
- The processing fee is $20,000
Due diligence fees are:
- $8,500 for the main applicant,
- $5,000 for the spouse,
- $2,000 per dependent aged 12-17,
- $4,000 per dependent aged 18 or older,
- $5,000 for a benefactor.
For a family of five or more:
- The processing fee is $20,000, with an additional $10,000 charged for each dependent onward.
- Due diligence fees remain the same as for families of up to four members.
3. The Business Investment
Entrepreneurs and business-minded individuals can use this option to obtain citizenship based on the requirements determined by the Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA).
- Single Investor: You can invest a minimum of $1.5 million in a business. One alternative is to invest solely.
- Joint Investment: There will be a joint investment involving at least two persons totaling at least $5 million. Note that each person should at least invest $400,000.
For a single application:
- The processing fees: $10,000,
- Due diligence fee: $8,500.
For a family of up to four members:
- The processing fee is $20,000
Due diligence fees are:
- $8,500 for the main applicant,
- $5,000 for the spouse,
- $2,000 per dependent aged 12-17,
- $4,000 per dependent aged 18 or older,
- $5,000 for a benefactor.
For a family of five or more:
- The processing fee is $20,000, with an additional $10,000 charged for each dependent onward.
- Due diligence fees remain the same as for families of up to four members.
4. The University of the West Indies Fund (UWI)
Donating to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund blends philanthropy with global mobility. This donation is the right investment scheme, if you want to contribute to educational development. The minimum donation for a family of six and the minimum amount is $260,000.
You will be investing in the future and the education of the Caribbean community. Your donation will directly support the University of the West Indies Fund. Additionally, one family member will be eligible for a one-year scholarship each year.
The University of the West Indies Fund investment: $260,000
For a family of six:
- There are no processing fees.
The due diligence fees are:
- $8,500 for the main applicant,
- $5,000 for the spouse,
- $2,000 per dependent aged 12–17,
- $4,000 per dependent aged 18 or older,
- $5,000 for a benefactor.
For a family of seven:
- $10,000 contribution for each additional dependent after the 7th dependent.
The due diligence fees remain the same.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Cost
Antigua and Barbuda offers various investment options, each with its specific cost structure for potential investors.
| Application Category | Processing Fees | Due Diligence Fees |
| Minimum Contribution: $230,000 | ||
| Single Applicant | $10,000 | $8,500 |
| Family of up to 4 | $20,000 | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Family of 5 or more | $20,000 (+$10,000 per extra dependent onward) | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Application Category | Processing Fees | Due Diligence Fees |
| Minimum Investment: $300,000 (Must hold for at least 5 years) | ||
| Single Applicant | $10,000 | $8,500 |
| Family of up to 4 | $20,000 | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Family of 5 or more | $20,000 (+$10,000 per extra dependent onward) | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
• Stamp duty: 2.5%.
• Tourist rental taxes (if applicable): 17% Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) and a Tourism Guest Levy.
| Application Category | Processing Fees | Due Diligence Fees |
| Single Investor Route: Minimum $1.5 Million | Joint Investment Route: Minimum $5 Million total ($400,000 minimum per person) | ||
| Single Applicant | $10,000 | $8,500 |
| Family of up to 4 | $20,000 | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Family of 5 or more | $20,000 (+$10,000 per extra dependent onward) | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12-17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Application Category | Processing Fees / Contribution | Due Diligence Fees |
| Minimum Donation: $260,000 (Includes eligibility for a 1-year university scholarship for one family member) | ||
| Family of 6 | No processing fees ($260,000 investment covers base) | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12–17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
| Family of 7 or more | $10,000 contribution for each additional dependent after the 7th dependent | Main Applicant: $8,500 Spouse: $5,000 Dependent (12–17): $2,000 each Dependent (18+): $4,000 each Benefactor: $5,000 |
Expenses For a Family of Four
| Investment Option | Contribution | Processing Fees | Due Diligence Fees | Total Estimated Cost |
| National Development Fund (NDF) | $230,000 | $20,000 | $17,500 (Main: $8,500, Spouse: $5,000, 2 Dependents 12–17: $4,000) |
$267,500 |
| Real Estate Investment | $300,000 | $20,000 | $17,500 (Main: $8,500, Spouse: $5,000, 2 Dependents 12–17: $4,000) |
$337,500 |
| Business Investment (Joint) | $400,000 | $20,000 | $17,500 (Main: $8,500, Spouse: $5,000, 2 Dependents 12–17: $4,000) |
$437,500 |
| UWI Fund | $260,000 | Not eligible | $17,500 (Main: $8,500, Spouse: $5,000, 2 Dependents 12–17: $4,000) |
$277,500 |
Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship Cost Calculator
| Cost Item | Details | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Government and Investment Fees Cost | $0 | |
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Requirements
Due Diligence Check
Antigua and Barbuda requires a due diligence check for each main applicant. Through financial background check, the Antigua and Barbuda CIU ensures transparency and prevents money laundering.
Minimum Residency Requirements
For Antigua CIU, there is a residency requirement to maintain your citizenship status. To obtain citizenship, successful applicants must visit Antigua at least 5 days within the first 5 years.
Interview
To pass a comprehensive due diligence check, the main applicant and their dependents aged 16 and over must attend a virtual interview. The interview costs $1500 per applicant.
Required Documents
Document Certification
Required documents for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment application must be certified and validated. It is to ensure that documents are properly certified and recognized internationally.
The certifying person must provide their full name, role, and contact details (address, phone number, and email).
When a notary public certifies a document as an accurate copy, it must be further validated by:
- An apostille, if the country is a member of the 1961 Hague Convention.
- Official confirmation from the relevant government authority if the country is not part of the Hague Convention.
Application Process: How to Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Here is the step-by-step application process for citizenship by investment in Antigua.
Step 1: Choose Your Investment Program
First, decide on your qualifying investment route for the Antigua Passport program and eligibility through an authorized agent. As mentioned above, options include the national development fund, real estate, a business investment, or a donation to the University of the West Indies Fund. Each has specific requirements and benefits.
In this step, you can contact Get Golden Visa. Our experts will help you to find the best investment option and streamline the process. At the same time, our team will conduct your preliminary Due Diligence checks.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
Next, compile the necessary documents. This includes a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance, and proof of investment. Ensure all documents are up to date and accurately reflect your information. At this stage, you do not need to make any investment prior to citizenship approval in principle.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you have your documents and investment ready, submit your application to the Antigua Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). Make sure that all paperwork is in order.
Step 4: Due Diligence and Processing
After submission, your application undergoes a due diligence check by the Citizenship Unit. This is a critical step. There will be a verification process for your background and investment. Expect this to take around three to six months.
Step 5: Approval and Citizenship
Once you receive Approval in Principle, you complete your selected investment or contribution. Ultimately, you will receive your certificate of registration as a citizen and take an oath of Allegiance.
Step 6: Passport and Residency
As the final process, apply for your Antiguan and Barbudan passports, costing $300 per person. Remember the last step. You must spend at least five days in the country within the first five years of your citizenship.The passport will be valid for 5 years at first, then you can extend it to 10 years.
Get Golden Visa: Who We Are and How We Can Help You
Get Golden Visa is a global mobility consultancy firm. We have been guiding foreign investors in 16 residency and citizenship programs worldwide since 2014. Through our offices in Lisbon, Istanbul, Athens, and London, we provide both in-person and online meetings to meet our investors, understand their investment goals and priorities.
Contact us and talk to one of our experienced team members to help you with any and all your questions in your quest for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment or other Caribbean Citizenship programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Citizenship by Investment in Antigua and Barbuda
How does Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI Program benefit the country’s economy?
The program generates around 15% of the government’s annual revenue and drives significant investment in construction and real estate. It has funded the country’s shift to renewable energy, supported post-storm reconstruction in Barbuda, and helped Antigua and Barbuda repay its entire external debt to the IMF by boosting national liquidity and tax revenues.
Can I immigrate to Antigua?
Yes, you can immigrate to Antigua. There are various pathways, including through the Citizenship by Investment program or by obtaining a work or residence permit. The citizenship process and requirements vary depending on the method chosen.
How much is the immigration fee in Antigua?
The immigration fee in Antigua varies. It depends on the type of visa or permit you are applying for. For detailed and current fee structures, it is best to check government fees.
Can foreigners buy property in Antigua and Barbuda?
The answer is yes. As a foreigner, you can buy property in Antigua and Barbuda. However, non-citizens need to obtain a Non-Citizen Land Holding License, which comes with a fee. On the other hand, they can apply for its citizenship program and buy Antigua and Barbuda real estate from a government-approved project.
Is it cheaper to live in Antigua?
The cost of living in the Caribbean varies depending on lifestyle choices and location within the island. Generally, living costs can be higher compared to some countries due to the importation of goods. However, it can be affordable with local market choices and lifestyle adjustments.
Can you retire in Antigua?
Retiring in Antigua is easy for foreigners. US citizens can stay for up to 180 days without a visa. To stay longer, you can apply for permanent residency or get citizenship by investment.
Can US citizens hold dual nationality with Antigua and Barbuda?
Yes, Antigua allows dual citizenship, and the US does not stop its citizens from having another passport. This means US citizens can get Antigua citizenship without losing their nationality.
How long can you stay in Antigua?
Foreigners can live in Antigua by applying for permanent residency, citizenship by investment, or a remote work visa (valid for two years). US citizens can also stay for 180 days without a visa and apply for extensions if needed.
Does Antigua have a tax agreement with the United States?
No, Antigua does not have a tax treaty with the US. But it has no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax, making it attractive for investors and retirees.
