CITIZENSHIP​

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda offers a Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) that has been in operation since 2013. This Caribbean nation’s programme is well-regarded for its affordability, diverse investment options and efficient processing. It grants citizenship to individuals and their families in return for significant economic investments.

Key Features of Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme:

Investment Options:

  • National Development Fund (NDF) Contribution: A non-refundable donation to the National Development Fund. The minimum contribution is $100,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four members, and $125,000 for a family of five or more.
  • Real Estate Investment: Purchase of government-approved real estate with a minimum value of $200,000. The property must be held for at least five years.
  • Business Investment: Invest at least $1.5 million in an approved business. Alternatively, two or more investors can make a joint investment totalling at least $5 million, with each contributing at least $400,000.
  • University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund: A contribution to the UWI Fund. This option requires a donation of $150,000 for a family of six or more, and it includes a year’s tuition for one family member at the University of the West Indies.

Residency Requirement:

Applicants must spend at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years of receiving citizenship.

Application Process:

  • Initial Consultation: Engage with an authorised agent to navigate the process.
  • Document Preparation: Collect required documents, including proof of identity, a clean criminal record, medical examination and financial records.
  • Application Submission: Submit the complete application through an authorised agent.
  • Due Diligence: Undergo a comprehensive due diligence process to ensure the integrity of the applicant.
  • Approval and Investment: Upon approval in principle, make the required investment and pay associated government fees.
  • Oath of Allegiance: Take the Oath of Allegiance either in Antigua and Barbuda or at any designated embassy or consulate.
  • Citizenship Certificate and Passport: Receive the Certificate of Naturalisation and apply for an Antigua and Barbuda passport.
Processing Time:
  • The standard processing time is approximately three to four months from submission to approval.

Benefits:

  • Visa-Free Travel: Antigua and Barbuda passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, Hong Kong and Singapore.
  • Dual Citizenship: The programme allows dual citizenship, so applicants do not need to renounce their existing nationality.
  • Tax Advantages: Antigua and Barbuda has no personal income tax, capital gains tax or inheritance tax.
  • Quality of Life: Beautiful scenery, pleasant climate and a high standard of living make Antigua and Barbuda an attractive place to live.
  • Family Inclusion: Spouse, dependent children under 30, and dependent parents or grandparents over 55 can be included in the application.

Strict Confidentiality:

  • The application process is confidential, and the government does not disclose information to the applicant’s home country.