Antigua and Barbuda citizenship offers a second passport with global advantages. The country provides a well-established Citizenship by Investment Programme, or CIP, that grants economic and personal benefits to investors. The process is structured, offering multiple investment options and a straightforward path to citizenship.
Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains Antigua and Barbuda passport benefits.
What Is Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment
Antigua and Barbuda’s second citizenship offers a second passport in exchange for an investment. The CBI was introduced in 2013 to attract foreign capital. Investors can obtain citizenship by making a financial contribution to the country’s economy. The program is recognized for its affordability compared to similar options in the Caribbean.
Key features of the program:
- no residency requirement, except for a five-day stay within five years;
- multiple investment routes, including donations and real estate;
- family members can be included in the application;
- dual citizenship is allowed;
- quick processing time of four to six months;
- lifetime citizenship with no renewal requirements.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Benefits
Visa-free travel. Citizens can visit many countries without a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. These include the UK, the Schengen Area, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Favorable tax system. There is no tax on personal income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains for non-residents. Inclusion of family members. Investors can include a spouse, children, parents, and even siblings in their application.
Affordable investment requirements. Compared to other Caribbean programmes, Antigua and Barbuda has one of the lowest minimum investment thresholds.
No language or business requirements. Applicants do not need to take language tests or demonstrate business experience. Strategic location. Antigua and Barbuda is well connected to North America and Europe, making travel convenient.
Fast application processing. The government processes most applications within four to six months. Access to quality education and healthcare. The country offers good educational institutions and a developing healthcare system.
Stable political and economic environment. Antigua and Barbuda are Commonwealth countries with strong democratic systems, making them safe places to invest and live.
Eligibility Criteria and Investment Options
Basic eligibility requirements:
- the main applicant must be at least 18 years old;
- a clean criminal record is required;
- the applicant must pass Due Diligence checks;
- the source of investment funds must be legal;
- applicants must not have been denied a visa to a country with which Antigua and Barbuda has visa-free agreements.
Investment options:
- National Development Fund donation — non-refundable contribution of at least $230,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four.
- Real estate investment — a minimum of $300,000 in a government-approved real estate project.
- Business investment — a minimum investment of $400,00 in an approved business.
- Higher education institution — a contribution of $260,000 for a family of six or more, which includes one year of tuition for one family member.
How to Apply for Caribbean Passport and Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Advantage
Application process:
- Choose an investment option. Select one of the four approved routes.
- Submit an application. Work with an authorized agent to prepare and submit the required documents.
- Undergo Due Diligence. Authorities will verify background information and financial sources.
- Receive approval. If approved, the applicant makes the full investment payment.
- Obtain citizenship. Once the investment is completed, applicants receive their Antigua and Barbuda passports.
- Take a five-day stay. Within five years, new citizens must visit Antigua and Barbuda for at least five days.
Processing times vary based on Due Diligence checks. Most applicants receive approval within four to six months. Applicants do not need to renounce their original citizenship. Antigua and Barbuda allows dual nationality, making it a favorable choice for investors who wish to retain their existing passports.
How to Renew Antigua and Barbuda Passport
Antigua and Barbuda passports are valid for five or ten years. Renewal requires proof of compliance with the program’s conditions.
Renewal process:
- Prepare documents. Submit a passport renewal form, photos, and the expired passport.
- Provide proof of residence compliance. Show evidence of the required five-day stay.
- Pay renewal fees. Fees vary depending on the type of renewal.
- Receive a new passport. The new passport is issued after processing.
Citizens must renew their passports before expiration. Failure to renew on time may require reapplying for citizenship verification.
Conclusion
Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme offers a range of benefits. Investors gain visa-free travel, tax advantages, and the ability to include family members. The process is efficient, with flexible investment options. The country provides a stable political environment and strong global mobility.
