Table of Contents
Historical Insight
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program (CBI) was formally introduced under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Act in 2013. The initiative aimed to drive economic growth by increasing foreign direct investments, particularly to enhance the country’s infrastructure and secure a sustainable future for its citizens.
Managed by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), the program oversees the due diligence process for applicants and monitors investments. It offers four primary pathways to citizenship, requiring a minimum investment of $230,000:
- Non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF)
- Approved real estate investment, whether sole or joint
- Business establishment
- Donation to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
By securing citizenship through this program, successful applicants and their families can enjoy visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including key destinations such as the EU Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Key Amendments to the Program
Over the years, the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program has undergone several updates to expand eligibility and adapt to global circumstances. Here are some notable amendments:
- May 2019: Antigua and Barbuda launched the Limited Time Offer (LTO), valid until October 31, 2020.
- April 2020: Iraqi nationals were allowed to apply for citizenship, opening the program to a broader applicant base.
- May 2020: The University of West Indies Fund option was introduced, allowing applicants to invest in education and development projects.
- April 2020: Stateless individuals from countries such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE became eligible for the program.
- March 2024: Antigua signed the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening regional collaboration.
- August 2024: The minimum investment requirement was raised from $100,000 to $230,000 under the MoU, further aligning the program with long-term national objectives.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Benefits
Become a citizen of the Caribbean community
No local or worldwide income tax
Visa-free access to 151 countries
Quick 4 to 5-month processing
No language or cultural tests required
Extensive family inclusion
Eligibility Criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Requirements for Primary Applicant
To qualify for the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, the main applicant must fulfill the following criteria:
- Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Character: Demonstrate strong moral character, supported by references such as bank statements and employer recommendations.
- Criminal Record: Provide evidence of a clean criminal record.
- Health: Maintain good physical health, free from any communicable diseases.
- Investment Capability: Be financially able to make a qualifying investment into the country.
- Residency Commitment: Commit to spending a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda within five calendar years of gaining citizenship.
- Oath of Allegiance: Be willing to take the required Oath of Allegiance, either in Antigua and Barbuda or at an authorized location, such as an embassy or consulate.
Family Inclusion Criteria
The citizenship program extends to close family members, with the following eligible for inclusion:
- Spouse: The current or future spouse of the main applicant.
- Children:
- Children under the age of 18.
- Children aged 18 to 30, provided they are financially dependent on the primary applicant or spouse.
- Adult children (18 or older) with physical or mental disabilities who require ongoing support.
- Parents/Grandparents: Dependent parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse, who are 55 years old or above.
- Siblings: Unmarried siblings of the main applicant or spouse, provided they are financially dependent.
Post-Citizenship Dependents
Even after obtaining citizenship, the program allows you to add eligible dependents for an additional fee:
- Spouse or other dependents aged 18 and older: $50,000.
- Dependent children aged 5 or younger: $10,000.
- Dependent children aged 6 to 17: $20,000.
Restricted Countries
Antigua and Barbuda maintain a list of restricted countries whose nationals are generally ineligible to apply for the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. These restricted countries include:
- Afghanistan
- Iran
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Yemen
- Sudan
- Russia
- Belarus
However, some individuals from these restricted countries may still be eligible under specific circumstances. Eligibility may apply to those who:
- Migrated from the restricted country before reaching the age of majority (adulthood)
- Have resided permanently in a country other than those listed for at least 10 years
- Do not have significant economic or other ties to any of the restricted countries
For individuals born in restricted countries, additional fees and enhanced due diligence checks may apply as part of the CBI application process. These extra steps help ensure that applicants meet all legal and security requirements necessary for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.
Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda offer multiple pathways to citizenship, one of the most popular options being the National Development Fund (NDF) contribution. This program allows both individuals and families to secure citizenship with several benefits, including tax exemptions and visa-free travel.
| National Development Fund | Single Applicant or Family (Up to 4) | Family of 5 or More |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Donation | $230,000 | $245,000 |
| Processing Fee | $30,000 | +$10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Due Diligence Fee |
Main applicant and spouse: $7,500 each Family members over 18: $4,000 each Family members aged 12-17: $2,000 each |
Main applicant and spouse: $7,500 each Family members over 18: $4,000 each Family members aged 12-17: $2,000 each |
| Passport Fee | $300 per passport | $300 per passport |
| Interview Fee | $1,500 per application | $1,500 per application |
2. Approved Real Estate Investment
Investors can make an Antigua and Barbuda real estate investment worth at least $300,000 in a government-approved real estate project, which includes private homes and luxury resorts.
| Real Estate Investment | Single Applicant or Family Up to 4 | Additional Family Member |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $300,000 | + $10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Processing Fee | $30,000 | + $10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Due Diligence Fee | Main applicant and spouse: $7,500 each Family members over 18: $4,000 each Family members aged 12-17: $2,000 each |
|
| Passport Fee | $300 per passport | |
| Interview Fee | $1,500 per application |
3. University of the West Indies Fund Donation
The main applicant must make a non-refundable donation of $260,000 to the University of the West Indies Fund (UWI). This option entitles one family member to a one-year, tuition-only scholarship at UWI.
| University of the West Indies Fund | Family of 6 or More | Additional Family Member |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Donation | $260,000 | $10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Processing Fee | No fee | $10,000 |
| Due Diligence Fee | Main applicant and spouse: $7,500 each | Family members over 18: $4,000 each |
| Passport Fee | $300 per passport | - |
| Interview Fee | $1,500 per application | - |
Approved Business Investment
There are two approved business investment options to qualify for Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship program: Invest $1.5 million as a solo investor or make a joint investment by contributing $400,000 to an approved business enterprise valued at least $5 million.
| Business Investment | Family of 6 or More | Additional Family Member |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Donation | OPTION 1: $1.5 million as a solo investor OPTION 2: $400,000 (in a $5 million joint enterprise) |
$10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Processing Fee | No fee | $10,000 for each additional applicant |
| Due Diligence Fee | Main applicant and spouse: $7,500 each Family members over 18: $4,000 each Family members aged 12-17: $2,000 each |
|
| Passport Fee | $300 per passport | |
| Interview Fee | $1,500 per application |
Fees and Processing Charges
Besides the required investment, obtaining direct citizenship requires paying fees to complete the application process:
- Government fee (processing fee)
- Due diligence fee
- Interview fee
- Passport fee
- Courier fee
For contributions to the National Development Fund (NDF) and real estate investments, applicants must pay a processing fee of $30,000 for up to four family members, plus $10,000 for each additional family member. The University of the West Indies Fund option does not require a government processing fee for the principal applicant and up to five dependents.
Additional fixed fees include:
- $7,500 for the main applicant and spouse (due diligence)
- $4,000 for dependents over 18, parents, and unmarried siblings
- $2,000 for dependent children aged 12-17
Other charges include:
- $300 per passport
- $1,500 per application (interview fee)
Required Documents for Citizenship by Investment
As stated on the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment official website cip.gov.ag, during the application, all documentation provided will go through the due diligence process performed by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), the government authority responsible for managing citizenship applicants.
Application Forms:
- Citizenship by Investment Application Form AB1
- Photograph and Signature Certificate Form AB2
- Medical Certificate Form AB3
- Investment Confirmation Form AB4
- Licensed Agent Form AB5
Passport Application Forms:
- Antigua & Barbuda Passport L Form (16 and older)
- Antigua & Barbuda Passport M Form (Under 16)
Citizenship by Investment - Investment Options
- Real Estate Developer Application Form AB8
- Business Investment Application Form AB9
Forms for Agents & Representatives:
- Representatives and Service Providers Form AB6
- Agent’s License Form AB7
Required Documents for Submission:
- Completed AB1-5 application forms
- Original Police Certificate from the country of citizenship or residence
- Original excerpt of the full birth record or certified copy of the birth certificate
- Certified copy of proof of name change (if applicable)
- Certified copy of current passport(s)
- Eight original passport-sized photos of each applicant
- Medical Certificate including HIV test results (for applicants aged 12 or older)
Other Supporting Documents from the Main Applicant:
- At least one original bank reference letter issued by an internationally recognized bank
- At least one original professional reference
- One original document of residential address evidence
- Certified copy of marriage or divorce documents (if applicable)
- Statement of the source of funds to be invested
- Affidavit of support for each dependent (if applicable)
- Certified copy of Military Records or exemption
Other Documents Required for Real Estate Investment Route:
- Copy of duly executed real estate contract (Purchase and Sale Agreement)
- Evidence of title transfer
Certification of Documents
Ensure documents are certified and authenticated in accordance with Antigua and Barbuda immigration law. The certifying person should provide the following details:
- Full name (in capitals)
- Role
- Residential/business address
- Phone number
Certification by Notary Public:
- Apostille, following the Hague Convention
- Validation of the notary public’s certificate by the relevant government department
Oath of Allegiance
An Oath of Allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda must be sworn in the presence of a notary public or an authorized individual. The oath can be taken in Antigua and Barbuda or at an embassy or consulate and must be live-streamed for the CIU to witness.
Steps on How To Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
- Choose your investment route: Decide which of the four investment routes best aligns with your goals.
- Select an Authorized Agent: From CIU's list of approved Authorized Agents, choose one to submit your citizenship application.
- Complete all application forms: Complete all the forms and necessary documents as provided by your Authorized Agent.
- Submit your application: Your dedicated Investment Migration Specialist will submit the citizenship application on your behalf.
- Take the citizenship interview: As part of the citizenship process, you must complete the mandatory interview requirement, which can be done virtually.
- Receive the CIU approval of application: Within four to five months of submission, you will receive a confirmation letter with the status 'approved in principle.'
- Make your investment: Make the required investment and send proof to the CIU.
- Become a citizen: Take the oath or affirmation of allegiance at an Embassy, High Commission, or Consular Office of Antigua and Barbuda, and become a citizen.
*The Antigua CIU only accepts citizen applications submitted by Authorized Agents.
Compliance and Legal Structure
The Citizenship by Investment Act of 2013 forms the legal basis for the citizenship program. The Act defines the program’s investment routes, investment thresholds, application processes, due diligence procedures, and applicant requirements before and after obtaining citizenship.
Core requirements include:
- Minimum investment amounts
- Due diligence procedures
- Application fees
- Application process and timeline
- Grounds for citizenship denial, revocation, and renouncement
- Rights and responsibilities of new citizens
Dual citizenship law
Antigua and Barbuda recognizes dual citizenship, allowing successful applicants to maintain two citizenships or more. Multiple citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda includes parity in rights and privileges for citizens with multiple citizenships, such as the right to vote, access social services, and maintain a passport.
Why Choose Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment?
- Plan B: Gain second citizenship and flexibility for you and your family through citizenship of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
- Attractive tax regime: Enjoy low Antigua and Barbuda taxes, with no personal income tax on worldwide earnings or wealth tax.
- Visa-free travel: Visa-free access to 151 countries, including the UK, EU, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
- Quick citizenship process: Obtain citizenship within 4 to 6 months.
- Flexible requirements: No language or cultural tests required; the entire process can be done remotely.
- Family inclusion: Include your spouse, children, siblings, parents, and grandparents in your application.
Pros and Cons of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Pros
- Family-friendly: Offers one of the most affordable Caribbean citizenship programs for families of four or more.
- Well connected: Frequent flights to major hubs such as New York, London, and Miami.
- Long-term US visa access: Citizens are eligible for long-term visitor visas to the United States.
- Global mobility: Antigua and Barbuda passports allow visa-free access to over 150 countries.
Cons
- Residency requirement: Antigua and Barbuda require applicants to reside in the country for at least five days over five years.
- Extreme weather: The region is prone to hurricanes.
Antigua and Barbuda CBI Comparison with Other Caribbean Nations
- Antigua and Barbuda: The most affordable Caribbean citizenship program for a family of four.
- Dominica: Offers the most affordable real estate investment option.
- Grenada: The only Caribbean CBI program offering access to the US E2 Visa.
- St. Kitts and Nevis: Provides one of the strongest passports in the Caribbean for global mobility.
- St. Lucia: Offers the most investment options, including infrastructure projects.
How Can World of Citizen Help You?
World of Citizen is a boutique migration consultancy with years of expertise in residence and citizenship by investment. With offices worldwide, we have guided hundreds of clients to acquire citizenship, residence visas, and homes while diversifying portfolios. From initial consultation to the submission of your application, we ensure a smooth, successful process tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Citizenship by Investment in Antigua and Barbuda
How to become a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda?
To obtain citizenship through Antigua and Barbuda’s investment program, you must make a minimum investment of $230,000. The program offers four main investment options:
- National Development Fund contribution (starting from $230,000)
- Real estate investment (minimum $300,000 in a government-approved project)
- Business venture investment (minimum $400,000 in approved businesses)
- University of the West Indies Fund contribution (minimum $260,000)
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have no serious health issues, and hold a clean criminal record. The entire process typically takes six months.
Must I visit Antigua and Barbuda during the citizenship process?
No, you are not required to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the application process. However, after obtaining citizenship, you will need to spend at least five days in the country within the first five years. This is necessary to renew your passport for the first time.
Can you purchase Antigua citizenship?
Antigua and Barbuda do not allow the outright purchase of citizenship. However, through the Citizenship by Investment Program, you can obtain citizenship by making a qualifying investment that contributes to the nation’s economy.
How strong is the Antigua and Barbuda passport?
The Antigua and Barbuda passport ranks 59th globally. It grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including popular destinations like the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Schengen Area of the European Union. Citizenship is for life, and passports can be renewed every ten years.
Can I live and work in Antigua and Barbuda if I get citizenship?
Yes, obtaining citizenship through the investment program grants you full residency rights. This means you and your family can live, work, and study in Antigua and Barbuda.
Can I hold dual citizenship with Antigua and Barbuda and the US or other countries?
Yes, Antigua and Barbuda allow dual citizenship. You can maintain your existing citizenship while enjoying the benefits of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship as well.
How much does it cost to invest in Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?
The minimum investment is $230,000, with four available options:
- $230,000 to the National Development Fund
- $300,000 minimum for real estate purchases
- $260,000 contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund
- $400,000 or more in approved business ventures
Additional fees apply for processing, due diligence, and administrative procedures.
Can I include my family in my Antigua citizenship application?
Yes, you can include your spouse or future spouse, dependent children, parents and grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings in your application. There may be additional fees for including family members, especially if you do so after your initial application.
How long does it take to get citizenship through investment in Antigua and Barbuda?
The citizenship approval process takes approximately six months from the time your application is submitted until you receive an approval letter.
What is the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program?
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program allows individuals to obtain citizenship in exchange for a qualifying investment in the country’s economy. This program is a pathway to acquiring a second passport for you and your family, offering increased global mobility and financial flexibility.
Is Antigua citizenship worth it?
Many successful applicants believe that Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship is worth the investment. The program offers a low investment threshold, a quick processing time, and access to a strong passport with visa-free travel. Additionally, it provides opportunities for family members to benefit from citizenship and ensures that you can retain your original nationality.