Antigua and Barbuda citizenship: all options to obtain a Caribbean passport

1. Global mobility. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 150+ destinations, including Hong Kong, China, Singapore, the UK, and the Schengen Area.

2. Participation of family members. The citizenship application can include relatives: spouses, children under 30, parents, and siblings.

3. Commonwealth membership. Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the Commonwealth, entitling citizens to certain privileges in the UK and other member states. For example, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda can spend up to 180 days a year in the UK visa-free.

4. Plan B. The islands are attractive places to live or to own a safe haven, with excellent air links to North America and Europe.

5. Tax preferences. Antigua and Barbuda does not levy capital gains or real estate taxes, and income generated outside the country is not taxed.

6. CARICOM membership. Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the Caribbean Community, which includes 15 states. The union has a single market for many of its members, providing investors with attractive business opportunities. Additionally, passport holders may travel to other CARICOM states visa-free.

7. Dual citizenship. Antigua and Barbuda recognises dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain other nationalities unless their other countries require renunciation.

Antigua and Barbuda is home to a diverse population with a rich cultural heritage, offering opportunities for cultural exchange and community engagement

Only adult investors with no criminal records can participate in the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program. Also, there should be no severe illnesses.

The documents prove that investment conditions can be fulfilled only with money. It can be business income, salary, dividends, inheritance, or money from the property sale.

Document requirements list the following:

1. National passport.

2. Birth certificate.

3. Personal reference.

4. Marriage certificate.

5. Affidavit of support for each dependent.

6. Divorce certificate.

7. Basic application form.

8. Medical certificate form.

9. Investment confirmation form.

10. Photograph and signature certificate form.

11. Police certificate of no criminal record.

12. Tax returns and income statements.

Additional documents depend on the investment option. For example, if an investor chooses a property purchase, they provide a sale and purchase contract.

The application can include members of the investor’s family:

• a spouse;

• children under 30;

• parents and grandparents over 55;

• unmarried siblings.

Adult children, parents, and grandparents must be under the full financial support of the investor.

Antigua and Barbuda passports for family members can be obtained even after the investor has become a citizen. It is allowed to join the program: children, parents, and siblings.

Antigua and Barbuda citizenship applicants choose from 4 options:

• $100,000+ as a contribution to the National Development Fund, set to rise up to $200,000 by June 30th, 2024;

• $150,000+ as a contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund, only for families of 6 or more;

• $200,000+ as a purchase of real estate;

• $400,000+ as an investment in a business.

In addition, applicants pay a state processing fee of $30,000 if contributing to the National Development Fund, purchasing real estate or investing in a business.

The option with a contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund is only available to families of 6 people. The government fee for 6 people is already included in the donation. The investor pays an extra $15,000 if there are more family members.

If an investor buys real estate, the invested money can be returned. Only properties approved for the program are available to investors — they buy shares, apartments, and villas.

Real estate can be sold in 5 years; until then, owners receive 3—8% per year through rent.

Examples of properties in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip

$350,000 — $400,000

Apartments in a hotel complex by the sea

1

1

Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip

$300,000 — $2,850,000

Share, apartements, townhouse or villa in a resort on the coast of the island

56 m² — 619 m²

1—5

1—5

Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip

$400,000 — $450,000

Villa in a five-star resort complex

120 m²

2—3

1—2

Investors can purchase insurance packages to safeguard their investments, with liability insurance and hazard and fire insurance being the most common choices.

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Unit notes that throughout the program’s time of operation, investors have shown the most interest in the National Development Fund, with 76% of applicants opting for this route. Real estate investment accounted for 6% of applicants.

For children born in Antigua and Barbuda. Before October 31st, 1981, children born in Antigua and Barbuda acquired Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. Those born in the territory of Antigua and Barbuda after October 31st, 1981, also acquired citizenship, except for children born to diplomatic personnel.

For children born outside Antigua and Barbuda. Before October 31st, 1981, people born outside Antigua acquired citizenship if a parent or grandparent was a citizen.

Those born outside Antigua and Barbuda after October 31st, 1981, acquire citizenship if at least one parent was a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.

People residing in Antigua and Barbuda for more than 5 years may apply for naturalisation. Naturalisation in Antigua and Barbuda can be obtained by adult individuals who are of good character and intend to reside in Antigua and Barbuda.

Applicants must submit documents to the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship through the Chief Immigration Officer. They assess the applicant’s risk to public morality and safety, considering factors such as criminal activities or insufficient means.

Upon approval, applicants are required to take an Oath of Allegiance.

Affiliation. Under the law, individuals obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by affiliation if:

• individuals who were Commonwealth citizens who established a permanent residency and had lived in Antigua for a minimum of 7 years before October 31st, 1981;

• individuals who are Commonwealth citizens have become domiciled in Antigua and Barbuda post-independence and resided in the territory for at least 7 years;

• individuals who would have become nationals at independence but were ineligible solely because they had to renounce British citizenship to obtain another nationality;

• minors under 18 who were legally adopted by a national or would have been eligible to be registered as an adoptee while still minors had their parents been nationals.

Marriage. A person who has been married to an Antigua and Barbuda citizen for at least 3 years and is living with their spouse can register to become a citizen.

Antigua and Barbuda recognises the concept of dual citizenship, allowing individuals to hold citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda while also being citizens of one or more other countries.

Dual citizens of Antigua and Barbuda enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as other citizens, including the right to live, work, and study in the country, as well as access to healthcare and education services.

Dual citizens can freely travel to and from Antigua and Barbuda using either passport. They can also reside in the country without any restrictions imposed solely because of their dual citizenship status and participate in the political process of Antigua and Barbuda, including voting in elections and holding public office.

Antigua and Barbuda is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. Residents can enjoy a relaxed and picturesque environment, perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and sailing.

Warm сlimate. The islands boast a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy sunshine and outdoor living. The average temperature ranges from around +24°C in the cooler months to +29°C in the warmer months.

Temperatures are relatively consistent throughout the year due to the islands' proximity to the equator.

Cultural diversity. Antigua and Barbuda’s population is diverse and influenced by African, British, and indigenous cultures. This diversity enriches the local arts, music, cuisine, and traditions, creating a vibrant and dynamic community.

Healthcare. Antigua and Barbuda has healthcare facilities that offer quality medical services. Additionally, the government has been investing in healthcare infrastructure further to improve residents' access and quality of care.

Education. The country has a range of educational institutions, including public and private schools, as well as tertiary education options. Residents have access to quality education and opportunities for further studies abroad.

1. To become an Antigua and Barbuda citizen, individuals can pursue several avenues, including citizenship by birth, affiliation, naturalisation, marriage, and citizenship by Investment Program, CIP.

2. To obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment, applicants have several options, including making a minimum donation of $100,000 and purchasing real estate.

3. Antigua and Barbuda citizenship brings significant benefits, including visa-free travel to 150+ countries, favourable tax policies, and access to Commonwealth privileges.

4. Family members can also be included in the golden visa application, expanding the scope of benefits.

5. The country’s warm climate, cultural diversity, healthcare, and educational opportunities make it an attractive destination for permanent residents.

6. Antigua and Barbuda permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to hold citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda alongside citizenship from another country.