Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment & Passport Guide for 2025

Antigua and Barbuda offers a prestigious citizenship by investment program that grants individuals and their families a wealth of opportunities. The program provides a pathway to obtaining a second passport, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries worldwide, including the EU Schengen Area and the UK. This Caribbean nation’s citizenship program stands out for its efficiency and attractive investment options.

Investors have multiple pathways to acquire citizenship, with options starting at $230,000. These include contributions to the National Development Fund, real estate investments, university fund donations, and business ventures. The process is designed to be straightforward and efficient.

Key Program Details

• Visa-free countries: 151
• Visa-free to EU Schengen: Yes
• Taxes: No tax on global income
• Processing time: 4-7 months
• Government fund donation starting from: $230,000+
• Education fund donation (for families of 6+ family members): $260,000+
• Real estate purchase starting from: $300,000+
• Business investment starting from: $400,000+
• Total cost for 1 applicant: $250,300+
• Total cost for a family of 4: $266,200+
• Investment holding period: 5 years
• Eligible family members:
  • Spouse
  • Children under 30
  • Parents over 55
  • Grandparents over 55
  • Siblings of any age
• Passport validity:
  • 5 years for the first passport
  • 10 years for the second passport, etc. (after fulfilling the visit requirement)
• Visit or residency requirement: 5 days within the first 5 years after citizenship approval
• Interview requirement: Yes (online)
• The program offers a unique opportunity tailored for large families of six or more members: they can contribute $260,000 to a higher education institution (University of the West Indies). This makes Antigua the most cost-effective option for larger families. This route also entitles one family member to a one-year scholarship at the University of the West Indies.
• To learn more, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We will be pleased to help you figure out if the program is right for you, and we are available to help you through the process if you need our help. Click here to connect with us.

Update on Processing Times for Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment:

While the processing time is supposed to be 3-4 months, the Citizenship by Investment program in Antigua & Barbuda is currently facing significant backlogs. Please contact us to confirm the actual current processing timelines. By referencing our clients’ applications currently under processing and our most recent approvals, we can provide you with the most accurate expected timeline.

 

Overview of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program

Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program offers a pathway to citizenship through significant economic contributions. The program provides multiple investment options and a range of benefits for successful applicants and their families.

Historical Background

Antigua and Barbuda launched its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2013. The initiative aimed to attract foreign investment and boost economic development in the twin-island nation. Since its inception, the program has evolved to meet changing global standards and investor needs.

The program’s structure draws inspiration from similar successful initiatives in other Caribbean nations. Over the years, it has undergone refinements to enhance its appeal and ensure compliance with international regulations. These adjustments have helped maintain the program’s competitiveness in the global citizenship by investment market.

Program Benefits

Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda offers numerous advantages to investors and their families:

• Visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen Area, and Singapore
• Dual citizenship allowed
• No residency requirements
• Tax benefits, including no worldwide income tax
• Access to high-quality healthcare and education systems

The program also provides a fast-track process, with citizenship typically granted within months of application submission. Successful applicants gain the right to live and work in Antigua and Barbuda, as well as other CARICOM member states.

Investment Options for Citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda offers three primary investment routes to citizenship. Each option requires a significant financial commitment but provides different benefits and opportunities for investors. Investors can choose from several investment options, including:

1. Non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund
2. Real estate investment in approved projects
3. Investment in eligible businesses
4. Contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund

National Development Fund Contribution

The National Development Fund (NDF) contribution is a non-refundable donation to support Antigua and Barbuda’s economic growth. For a family of up to four, the minimum contribution is $230,000. For larger families, an additional $15,000 per person is required.

This option is often the quickest and most straightforward path to citizenship. The funds are used for various national development projects, including infrastructure improvements and social programs.

Investors choosing this route do not receive any returns on their contribution. However, it typically involves less paperwork and ongoing management compared to other options.

Real Estate Investment

Applicants can invest a minimum of $300,000 in pre-approved real estate projects. This investment must be maintained for at least 5 years. Properties can include luxury resorts, villas, and commercial developments.

Real estate investments offer potential for capital appreciation and rental income. Investors can choose from a range of projects across the islands, including beachfront properties and eco-friendly developments.

This option appeals to those seeking a tangible asset along with citizenship. It’s important to conduct due diligence on the chosen property and consider factors such as location, developer reputation, and market conditions.

Business Investment

The business investment option requires a minimum investment of $1,500,000 in an approved business venture. Alternatively, two or more applicants can make a joint investment of at least $5,000,000, with each contributing a minimum of $400,000.

This route is designed for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand businesses in Antigua and Barbuda. Eligible sectors include tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

Business investments can create employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. Investors should carefully evaluate market conditions, regulatory environment, and potential returns before committing to this option.

Application Process and Processing Time

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment involves several steps. Applicants must meet specific criteria, submit required documentation, and pay associated fees.

While the processing time is supposed to be 4-5 months, the Citizenship by Investment program in Antigua & Barbuda is currently facing significant backlogs. Please contact us to confirm the actual current processing timelines. By referencing our clients’ applications currently under processing and our most recent approvals, we can provide you with the most accurate expected timeline.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a clean criminal record
• Pass due diligence checks
• Demonstrate a legally obtained source of funds
• Commit to one of the investment options.

Dependents can be included in the application, such as spouse, children under 28, and parents over 58.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed application forms (AB1, AB2, AB3, AB4, AB5)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Certified copy of current passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificates
• Medical examination results
• Proof of address
• Professional and educational certificates
• Bank statements and financial references
• Source of funds documentation

All documents must be in English or accompanied by certified translations.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment program is grounded in a robust legal framework. The country’s legislation clearly outlines the eligibility criteria and regulations for obtaining citizenship through investment.

Citizenship Legislation

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program Act of 2013 forms the legal foundation for the program. This act defines the investment options, application procedures, and requirements for applicants. The law stipulates that applicants must make a qualifying investment and pass due diligence checks.

Key provisions include:

• Minimum investment thresholds
• Application fees and processing timelines
• Grounds for denial or revocation of citizenship
• Rights and obligations of new citizens

The government regularly reviews and updates the legislation to maintain program integrity and competitiveness.

Dual Citizenship Regulations

Antigua and Barbuda recognizes dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality. The country’s laws do not require new citizens to renounce their existing citizenship.

Important aspects of dual citizenship include:

• Equal rights and privileges for dual citizens
• No residency requirements to maintain citizenship
• Passport renewal process for dual citizens

Dual citizens must comply with the laws of both Antigua and Barbuda and their other country of citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prospective investors often have questions about the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program. The following addresses key aspects of the application process, benefits, costs, and options available.

What are the steps involved in obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment?

The process begins with selecting an authorized agent. Applicants then choose an investment option and submit required documents. The Citizenship by Investment Unit reviews the application. Upon approval, applicants make the investment and take the oath of allegiance.

How many countries can Antigua and Barbuda passport holders visit without a visa?

Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can travel visa-free to approximately 140 countries. This includes destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The passport offers significant global mobility benefits for investors and their families.

What is the total cost for acquiring citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through investment, including all fees?

The minimum investment starts at $230,000 for the National Development Fund contribution. Additional costs include due diligence fees, processing fees, and passport fees. The total can range from $250,000 to $400,000 depending on the chosen investment route and family size.

How long does the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment process typically take?

The standard processing time for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship applications is supposed to be 3-6 months. This timeline covers document submission, background checks, and final approval. However, the Citizenship by Investment program in Antigua & Barbuda is currently facing significant backlogs. Please contact us to confirm the actual current processing timelines. By referencing our clients’ applications currently under processing and our most recent approvals, we can provide you with the most accurate expected timeline.

What are the investment options available for obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda?

Investors can choose from four main options:

1. A $230,000 contribution to the National Development Fund
2. A $300,000 minimum investment in approved real estate projects
3. A $260,000 contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund
4. A $1.5 million business investment

Is it possible to gain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by marriage and what are the requirements?

Citizenship by marriage is possible in Antigua and Barbuda. The foreign spouse must be married to an Antiguan citizen for at least three years. They need to reside in the country for a minimum of two years before applying. The process involves submitting various documents and passing a background check.