HomeAntigua and Barbuda Citizenship By Investment Program: Ultimate Guide 2023 - Lincoln Global Partners

Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Guide

Since you’re here we are guessing you already understand the concept of Citizenship by Investment and you’re looking for the best bang for your buck that fits your international needs. The Caribbean is a popular Citizenship by Investment region, but are they all the same? Not quite! Although they are largely similar, each programme has a different set of numbers and attractions. How does Antigua and Barbuda compare to other citizenship by investment options in the Caribbean and world — well, it’s the most affordable for families of four.

If you are looking to secure second citizenship as a family, you must read this guide. Don’t stop reading either way because Antigua and Barbuda may still fit your individual needs as it has the most visa free travel of any other citizenship by investment Caribbean option. Here we will lay out the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment programme details. From what the two-island nation is like itself to the CBI programme background with costs, timelines, requirements and benefits and even the woes in between.

But just in case you are still wrapping your mind around exactly what citizenship by investment is, let's define it now.

A citizenship by investment programme is an initiative designed and implemented by the government of a country to draw in international investors. By doing so, their domestic economy can become more resilient. Thus, reducing the need to depend on one sector — tourism in the case of Antigua and Barbuda and most of the Caribbean. Citizenship by investment (CBI) opens additional revenue stream possibilities for the country to benefit from. On the flip side, CBI programmes grant high net worth individuals and their families an additional passport which is advantageous for a slew of reasons, namely increased global mobility.

Antigua and Barbuda: the basics

Are you looking for a two island second-home spot with pristine pink and white sandy beaches where blue seas collide into blue skies? Join the likes of Oprah Winfrey and make Antigua and Barbuda your place of escape.

Antigua and Barbuda are two separate islands located along the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. A total population of 100,000 inhabitants, Antigua is the larger of the two islands and home to 90% of the inhabitants. Barbuda maintains raw and untouched terrain, with only 2% of the overall population living there. Take a small plane or ferry to go from Antigua to Barbuda. Between the two islands there are 365 beaches — one for every day of the year. Choose between completely secluded quiet coves or lively and happening beach spots near the capital of Saint John.

Tourism generates the abundance of the country’s revenue, around 65%. Antigua is considered a more luxurious Caribbean destination to visit, meaning it is one of the costliest in the region. Exclusive high-end resorts line the coasts of Saint John’s. Regardless of price, culture holds true to Caribbean style, the Antiguan and Barbadian people are incredibly friendly, warm and welcoming.
Antigua trees

Citizenship by Investment in Antigua and Barbuda

Citizenship by investment in Antigua & Barbuda is a government approved programme allowing individuals and their families to obtain dual citizenship in exchange for investment into the country.

Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI programme is one of the leading in the Caribbean, especially for families. A great choice for high-net-worth investors looking to gain the benefits and securities associated with a second passport, such as visa free travel, tax efficiency and asset protection (and a second place to go — just in case).

Read on to find out more about this popular CBI destination and determine if it’s the place of your next passport.
Antigua and Barbuda, Devil's bridge

Advantages of CBI in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment program provides investors with a range of benefits. The program is reasonably priced, easily accessible and can significantly enhance one's global mobility and international opportunities. The main Antiguan Citizenship benefits can be seen below.
Cheapest Caribbean option for a family of four
Investment cost for a family of four don’t increase as it does for other CBI countries. With a $130,000 investment (including processing fees) you can obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship for your family of four (two adults and two children).
Visa free travel to 150 countries
Including the Schengen zone, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia and more.
Minimal application requirements
no education or language requirement, application process doesn’t require an interview.
No travel requirement during the application process
Complete all steps of the process without setting foot in the country.
Tax Benefits
Those who decide to relocate to Antigua and Barbuda and make it their tax residence can enjoy the generous tax benefits that come in par with Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. Residents in the country are only liable for income tax when their salary is generated in the state. However, there is zero tax on worldwide income.
Commonwealth Country and Legal System
Antigua and Barbuda is a Commonwealth country which gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 and became a full member of the Commonwealth of Nations in 1981. As a member of the Commonwealth, Antigua is part of an intergovernmental organisation of 52 member countries that are mostly former territories of the British Empire. Antigua and Barbuda therefore has a strong relationship with the United Kingdom and citizens can enjoy preferential benefits as commonwealth citizens.
A Safe Haven in The Caribbean
Antigua and Barbuda is a safe country. The two island nation enjoys very low crime levels.
Experienced programme with a strong track record
The Antigua and Barbuda CBI programme has been in effect for 10 years, the process is smooth and seamless without skepticism of its legitimacy.
Citizen of an island paradise
Gain the privilege to call those pink and white sandy beaches yours!

Antigua and Barbuda CBI Investment Options

So, how exactly do you get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment? There are four investment options available to prospective citizens. The majority of applicants choose to make a contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF), which requires an investment of $100,000 for a family of up to four people and has a processing fee of $30,000. Alternatively, you could opt for a business or real estate investment of $400,000, but it does not guarantee a return on your investment. Then there is the $150,000 university donation pathway. Additional fees for passports, due diligence, and agent fees are also applicable. Ultimately, it’s up to you which option suits you best, but a contribution to the National Development Fund is usually the most cost-effective and straightforward route to get Antigua citizenship by investment.

Invest in National Development Fund (NDF)

Hands down the most popular option to acquire citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda. It’s the cheapest option for Antigua’s programme and similarly around the world.

Investment: $100,000 to the National Development Fund for a family of four. An additional $25,000 for each additional dependent. 

Processing Fees: $30,000 processing fee for a family of four and $15,000 for each additional dependent.

Invest in Antigua Real Estate

Only about 1-2% of investors opt for real estate in Antigua and Barbuda. The island’s reliance on tourism and yearly threat of hurricanes makes it difficult to recoup investment funds. Also, not many people are interested in making the islands their place of permanent residence. 

Still, some investors choose this option, and depending on your personal circumstances it could be the right move for you. We’re not saying you cannot make a return on investment in Antigua, because it is possible, just be aware of the potential risks. 

Investment: $200,000 minimum piece of real estate

Keep in mind, you can’t sell your real estate within the first 5 years of citizenship.

Check out our is a list of CIU approved real estate options below. 

Government Fees: $30,000 for a family of four and $15,000 for each additional dependent. 

This means a family of four can invest $230,000 and in the best case scenario sell their real estate after 5 years and make back their entire investment. 

Government Approved Antigua CBI Project

Moon Gate Penthouses

Approved by Antigua's citizenship by investment program, The Moon Gate Luxury Penthouses offer investors the opportunity to acquire a freehold investment. Owners can use all the amenities attached to the affiliated resort. There is an optional income-producing rental program offering turn-key solutions.

Put your money towards a local Antiguan Business

Invest 1.5 million into an approved Antiguan or Barbuda business

Plus a $30,000 processing fee for up to a family of 4

Besides investing in real estate, CBI applicants can invest in an eligible business on the ground in Antigua and Barbuda to qualify. The eligible qualifying amount for a principal applicant is $1.5 million dollars. Similarly to the real estate option, the amount can also be split among two CBI applicants towards a joint investment on an approved business totaling at least $5 million dollars. Each person must contribute $400,000 into the joint investment. 

For those who want to invest in or start a business, there is a certified list of government-approved projects they can choose from.

Don’t forget that the processing fee is $30,000 for the initial applicant and $15,000 for each additional applicant.

Donate to the University of the West Indies

As of May 2020, families with six or more members can now donate to the University of the West Indies (UWI) and qualify for automatic citizenship for all six applicants. 

As an additional perk to this option, one family member will receive a full one-year scholarship to the university.

Investment: Make a one-time $150,000 donation to the University of West Indies (UWI)

Government Fees: The $150,000 donation already accounts for all processing fees; however, should you wish to add another family member, an additional $15,000 will be required.

Account for Additional Costs

The true cost to acquire a Caribbean passport is often underestimated. Marketing materials often highlight the minimum investment cost without looking at the other fees. It is important to note that besides the investment itself, there are a number of fees that must be paid directly to the government and to the service provider.

There are additional fees to complete the process beyond the investment cost. Account for the following expenses:

Due Diligence:

$7,500 for each adult applicant; $2,000 for each dependent age 12-17; $4,000 for each dependent over the age of 18

Passport Fee:

$300 per passport

Assistance (Agent):

Get in touch with us to discuss

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship By Investment Requirements

Besides meeting investment Criteria there are a number of other Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment requirements the main applicant must meet.

Key Requirements

Key Requirements for the main applicant

Besides meeting investment Criteria there are a number of other Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment requirements the main applicant must meet.

  • be at least 18 years old 
  • of good character
  • not have any criminal history
  • be in excellent physical health
  • make an approved investment
  • spend at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda within five calendar years of registering
  • swear an oath of allegiance to the country either in Antigua and Barbuda or at an Antiguan Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate.

Dependent rules – Who can apply as a dependent?

Children, including dependent children of main applicant or spouse up to the age of 30.

Applicant’s spouse.

Dependent parents of both the investor and their spouse, over the age of 55.

Siblings of the investor, if unmarried

Future spouse of main applicant for a fee of $50,000

Future spouse of dependent child when the dependent child is financially dependent

Future child of a dependent child (fees based on age)

Antigua and Barbuda CBI Required Documents

To obtain Antiguan citizenship, you will need to provide the following documents.

Required Documentation

To obtain Antiguan citizenship, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Original or certified copy of a full birth record. 
  • Certified, colored copy of current passport with name, photo, citizenship/nationality, date and place of issue, expiry date, passport number, and issuing country. 
  • Photograph and signature certificate, or N/A for children below 18 or dependents.
  • 6 original passport-sized photos taken within the last 6 months, with a neutral expression.
  • One photo needs to be affixed to the Medical Examiner Declaration. 
  • Proof of residential address, valid within the last 3 months, such as a certified copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement with full name and address. 
  • Proof of name change, if applicable. 
  • Permanent residence card, if applicable. 
  • National identity card, if applicable. 
  • Marriage or divorce certificate, if applicable.
  • Copy of military service card, if applicable. 
  • Affidavit from spouse or ex-spouse regarding children.
  • Affidavit of support for dependents. 
  • Education certificates and transcripts. 
  • Professional and academic certificates of all applicants over 18. 
  • Professional reference letter, valid within the last 6 months, from an attorney, chartered accountant, or other similar professional.

Supporting Documentation:

In order to have your application for citizenship by investment considered, you must also provide supporting documents that include:

  • a certified copy of your current and expired visas
  • A police certificate from your country of birth and any other countries in which you’ve resided for at least a year (no more than 6 months old),
  • custody or legal guardianship records
  • a statutory declaration of a non-accompanying parent of a qualifying dependent under 18 indicating that they have no objection to their child acquiring St Lucian citizenship, and a certified copy of a photo ID of the non-accompanying parent bearing their signature.

Certification

Additionally, any documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation into English. All documents must have an apostille to be legally used within Antigua and Barbuda. If you plan to invest in real estate, then you’ll need a sale agreement. Business investors must get their project approved.

Citizenship By Investment in Antigua and Barbuda Process

Now that we know the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program requirements let’s take a look at the process in more detail.
Antigua and Barbuda CBI

How to get an Antigua Passport in 7 steps

Considering the costs and requirements for citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda, we will give you a summary of the process to obtain the passport. Licensed agents are the only individuals able to assist you with the application. Lincoln Global Partners is qualified to help you.

The entire process will vary in time depending on how long it takes you to gather all of the required documentation and whether there is an existing backlog of applicants. If there is no backlog, investors can expect the entire process to take anywhere between 3-6 months. The steps for how to get citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda are as follows.

1. Book a free consultation with Lincoln Global Partners

Our team of citizenship by investment specialists are dedicated to helping you find the right investment options that meet the necessary requirements to guarantee a successful application. They will assess your individual circumstances and present the best investment options for you based on your criteria.

2. Gather Documents: 

A comprehensive checklist will be supplied to you and an experienced citizenship specialist will accompany you through the documentation retrieval process. They will carefully inspect each document to confirm that all requirements have been satisfied.

3. File Application 

To begin the application process, you can either work with an advisor or proceed individually through an authorized agent. A 10% fee of the government fee must be paid upfront before the application can be initiated; this is usually $3,000 for those who opt for the donation route.

4. Due Diligence Phase (3 months)

Expect the government to take three months to make a decision on your application. 

Upon receiving the Certificate of Registration of Citizenship you will have 30 calendar days to complete your investment and make all required payments. 

5. Receive your pre-approval

Once the Government has reviewed the application and made a decision, you will receive an accompanying letter detailing the outcome.

6. Complete your investment

Upon receiving pre-approval for citizenship by investment in Antigua, it is time to proceed with your investment. (non-refundable contribution, purchase of real estate or investing in a local business).

6. Get A Passport

To obtain an Antiguan passport, you will be required to visit an Antiguan Embassy, High Commission, or Consular office to take the Oath of Allegiance. After doing so, you will receive your passport, valid for a period of five years. 

7. Maintain Citizenship Validity

To maintain its validity, you must visit Antigua and Barbuda five days per year for the first five years of citizenship. Subsequent passports are valid for a period of ten years and won’t require you to visit the country.

GLOBAL MIGRATION SOLUTIONS

Interested in a free consultation with one of our specialist residency & citizenship by investment advisors?

Antigua and Barbuda CBI Program Background

Here is a bit of background information so you know just what you're getting into.

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of Antigua and Barbuda was established in 2013. Throughout the years the programme has seen ups and downs. In 2017, investment minimums were lowered to be more competitive with other citizenship by investment programmes across the Caribbean. The changes made Antigua and Barbuda the cheapest option for a family of four through a $100,000 investment minimum. 

Following this cost reduction applications for citizenship by investment in Antigua have skyrocketed, and Chinese nationals now constitute nearly a third of all applications. The other two-thirds are made up of citizens from Bangladesh (8%), Libya (7%), Russia (7%), Syria (5%), Lebanon (5%), and other countries.  

The CBI programme was massively successful in 20190 as applications soared 66% from 2018 numbers. The investment market of Antigua and Barbuda has become a billion-dollar market.

Antigua Caribbean

Drawbacks of CBI in Antigua and Barbuda

Because even the best things aren't perfect, and we are here to be real with you.

It’s no secret the island-nation faces the threat of disastrous hurricanes. Antigua and Barbuda have witnessed devastating damages from hurricanes in recent decades. The severe aftermath of 2009’s Hurricane Ivan is what set the CBI programme in motion. Thus, be forewarned — investors, particularly real estate investors, run the risk of losing their return on investment. Despite uncontrollable climate factors, if you simply need a second passport to smoothly grant you dual citizenship and substantially increase global mobility, Antigua and Barbuda is a great choice and your best option it to donate to the NDF.

What Else?

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Union (EU) are exerting a significant degree of pressure on island-states offering citizenship by investment programmes, notably Antigua and Barbuda. This is due to their skepticism surrounding the adequacy of the due diligence process on applicants, as well as concerns regarding money laundering and a lack of transparency. (Read up on Mehul Choksi’s case for some background on the matter.)

In a bid to ensure these countries abide by the principles of transparency and share information appropriately, the EU has put them on their Tax Haven Blacklist, which has led Canada to cancel its bilateral agreement which allowed visa-free travel for Antiguans. This “blacklisting” could be seen as a way for wealthy and economically prosperous states to force smaller countries to accept a higher tax rate, thus making traditional offshore tax havens less attractive to investors.  

This strategy has been employed to varying degrees of success, with some countries being removed from the blacklist after making changes to their financial and CBI systems, only to be re-listed shortly after.  

The impact of the OECD’s attempts to reduce “harmful tax competition” is yet to be seen, however, it is certain that the existing conditions may not remain in existence for much longer.

Life in Antigua and Barbuda

The minimum stay requirement is a mere 5 days. That's simply a must needed vacation. The vast majority of investors who acquire citizenship by investment in Antigua utilize the benefits of their newfound passport without actually living in the country.

However, If things go pear shape in your home country or if you simply fancy living in Paradise for a few months per year, then having a second passport in a beautiful two island nation can be far more than a global mobility asset.

Antigua and Barbuda offer a unique getaway experience, perfect for tourists looking for a taste of paradise. From the warm and sunny climate to the luxurious resorts and unspoiled beaches of Barbuda, this twin-island nation has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or just a chance to relax, Antigua and Barbuda have the perfect setting. Plus, with easy air connections to major hubs in North America and Europe, it’s plausible to have a second home here. Hosting over one million visitors per year, it’s no surprise this destination is one of the most popular holiday spots in the world.

As a former British colony, Antigua and Barbuda have English influenced customs such as the driving and English being the main language. In true Caribbean fashion, the people are exceptionally friendly and laid back. Local stands sprinkle the roadsides selling fresh juices, jams and other local delicacies. And the scenery isn’t all beaches, there is Mount Obama too — the highest mountain peak honorarily named after U.S. former President Barack Obama. 

Antigua waters

Apply for Antigua citizenship with Lincoln Global Partners

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program is a great opportunity for individuals to gain citizenship in this beautiful Caribbean nation. The Antiguan program offers many benefits such as economic and investment opportunities, full immigration benefits, a second passport, and the ability to live, work and study in Antigua and the Caribbean.

Lincoln Global Partners is a specialist international investment migration firm with offices in the UK, UAE and Brazil. Our professionals are experts in the field of citizenship by investment and we are ready to assist you every step of the way with your Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment application.

Contact Us to start the process and Become a Global Citizen in 2023

FAQ's Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ'S
How do I buy Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

You could make one of four investments to qualify for citizenship: (1) contribute a minimum of $100,000 to the National Development Fund; (2) purchase real estate valued at no less than $200,000; (3) start a business with a minimum investment of $1.5 million; or (4) make a minimum donation of $150,000 to the University of the West Indies Fund. To be considered for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment programme you must have good character and health, have no criminal record, be at least 18 years of age, and capable of making the minimum investment requirement.

How long does the passport last?

The initial passport will be valid for 5 years. At the expiration you can subsequently renew your passport for an additional 10 years if you fulfilled the residency requirement in the first 5 years.

Is there a residency requirement for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment?

Yes, if you can call it that. After receiving the Antiguan passport newfound citizens are obligated to visit Antigua and Barbuda one per year for a minimum of five days. Investors are only obliged to follow this residency requirement for the first 5 years of citizenship.

How does the Antiguan passport rank?

The Antiguan passport ranks 63rd in the Global Passport Index.

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