The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program (CBI) was launched by the Antigua government in 2013 to improve the nation’s socioeconomic development. The program provides investors and their families the chance to secure citizenship by making one of four eligible investments:

  • Government fund non-refundable contribution
  • Real estate investment
  • Business investment
  • Donation to the University of the West Indies Fund (UWI)

After obtaining dual citizenship and a second passport, investors enjoy tax advantages, enhanced security, and visa free travel to 151 countries.

This guide provides everything you should know about citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda, including the investment requirements, the application process, associated government and processing fees, the timeline, and the benefits of Antiguan citizenship.

Overview of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI)

Historical insight

Citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda was introduced under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Act No. 2 of 2013 to promote economic growth by supporting infrastructure development and increasing foreign direct investment, ensuring a sustainable future for the country.

The citizenship program is overseen by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), the government authority responsible for handling qualifying investments, donations, and due diligence checks of eligible citizenship applicants.

In accordance with the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (Amendment) Regulations that came into effect on 1 August 2024, foreign investors have four options, starting from $230,000 to be granted citizenship and an Antigua and Barbuda passport. One of the primary approved investments includes contributing to the National Development Fund (NDF), a dedicated fund created under section 42(2) of the Finance Administration Act 2006 to finance government-sponsored projects, including public and private partnerships and approved charitable projects. Alternative investments include:

  • Sole or joint purchase of approved real estate projects
  • Establishing an approved business
  • Donating to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund

Successful applicants and their families gain several benefits, including visa free travel to over 150 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen Area, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia and China.

Key amendments to the program

May 2019: Antigua and Barbuda extends Limited Time Offer (LTO) until 31 October 2020.

April 2020: Iraq nationals now eligible to apply for citizenship.

May 2020: University of West Indies Fund option established.

April 2020: Permits stateless people from Brunei, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to apply for citizenship by investment.

March 2024: Signs the Caribbean Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

August 2024: Raises the minimum monetary contribution from $100,000 to $230,000 as per the MoU.

Ten Benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program

Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy the regional benefits of being citizens of the Caribbean Community and Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.

Member of CARICOM and OECS

Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy the regional benefits of being citizens of the Caribbean Community and Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.
The Antigua and Barbuda tax regime does not impose personal income tax, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.

Favorable tax regime

The Antigua and Barbuda tax regime does not impose personal income tax, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can travel visa free to 151 countries, including EU Schengen states, the UK, China, and Russia.

Enhanced travel freedom

Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can travel visa free to 151 countries, including EU Schengen states, the UK, China, and Russia.
Dependent family members, including a spouse, children, parents, and grandparents, qualify for citizenship by investment.

Extensive family inclusion

Dependent family members, including a spouse, children, parents, and grandparents, qualify for citizenship by investment.
The qualifying investment is made after receiving pre-approval, increasing confidence and reducing risk.

Investment only after initial approval

The qualifying investment is made after receiving pre-approval, increasing confidence and reducing risk.
Antigua and Barbuda has the fastest citizenship timeline among Caribbean CBI countries, granting citizenship within six months.

Quick citizenship timeline

Antigua and Barbuda has the fastest citizenship timeline among Caribbean CBI countries, granting citizenship within six months.
Antigua and Barbuda provides a solid Plan B to ensure financial stability and access to a safer, more politically stable environment.

Security of a Plan B

Antigua and Barbuda provides a solid Plan B to ensure financial stability and access to a safer, more politically stable environment.
There are no language or cultural knowledge tests and no requirement to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the application process

Flexible requirements

There are no language or cultural knowledge tests and no requirement to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the application process
Antigua and Barbuda allows dual citizenship, permitting successful applicants to maintain multiple citizenships and all privileges of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.

Dual citizenship permitted

Antigua and Barbuda allows dual citizenship, permitting successful applicants to maintain multiple citizenships and all privileges of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.
Successful CBI applicants can pass citizenship down to a future spouse or future children.

Citizenship for future generations

Successful CBI applicants can pass citizenship down to a future spouse or future children.

Eligibility Criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Requirements for the primary applicant

  • Be over 18 years old
  • Be of excellent character (proved through bank statements and employer references)
  • Hold a clean criminal record
  • Be in good health
  • Be able to make a qualifying investment
  • Spend a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda within five calendar years of registering as a citizen
  • Be willing to take the oath of allegiance online, in Antigua and Barbuda itself, or any Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate of Antigua and Barbuda

Requirements for family inclusion

  • Spouse or future spouse
  • Children under the age of 18
  • Children aged 18 to 30, if they are supported by the main applicant or spouse (as well as their spouse and dependent children)
  • Dependent children aged 18 or over who are physically/mentally challenged
  • Dependent parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse if aged 55 or above and fully supported by the main investor or spouse
  • Unmarried siblings of the main applicant or spouse

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Act treats biological, stepchildren, and legally adopted children equally. The Act allows financially dependent stepchildren and legally adopted children of the main applicant or their spouse to obtain citizenship.

Including eligible dependents post citizenship approval

  • Spouse or other dependent aged 18 or over: $50,000
  • Dependent child aged five or younger: $10,000
  • Dependent child aged 6 to 17: $20,000

Restricted countries

Antigua and Barbuda’s restricted countries list includes:

  • Afghanistan
  • Iran
  • North Korea
  • Somalia
  • Yemen
  • Sudan
  • Russia
  • Belarus

Specific individuals can apply for citizenship, provided:

  • They migrated before the age of majority and/or have maintained permanent residence in any country other than those on the restricted country list for a period of at least ten years
  • Have maintained no economic ties to any restricted country

Qualifying individuals born in restricted countries may incur additional costs to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport due to enhanced due diligence requirements.

Calculate the cost of citizenship for you and your family, including all associated fees.

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Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

1. National Development Fund contribution

Obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda is possible following significant economic contributions of at least $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund.

The non-refundable contribution is designed for investors seeking the most affordable, fastest and straightforward route to qualify for citizenship by investment.

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

Passport Fee

$300 per passport

Interview Fee

$1,500 per application

2. Approved real estate investment

Real estate investment applicants can make an Antigua and Barbuda real estate investment worth at least $300,000 in a government-approved real estate project, which include private homes and luxury resorts.

Approved real estate investment applicants benefit from a lucrative investment with a high-income potential without the requirement to make a larger qualifying investment to include family members.

Real Estate Investment

Single Applicant or Family Up to 4

Additional Family Member

Minimum Investment

$300,000

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

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.

The University of the West Indies Fund (UWI) option has no additional investment requirement or processing fees, making it suitable for large families of six or more. It also 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

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

4. 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 enter valued at least $5 million.

Potential investors, such as entrepreneurs, can use the business investment option to create jobs for locals and contribute to the economy. Approved industries include tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.

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)

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

Regarding processing fees, the amount is determined by the investment chosen and the number of dependents included. For contributions to the NDF and real estate investments, investors must pay a $30,000 processing fee for up to four family members and $10,000 for each additional family member. In contrast, the University of the West Indies Fund option does not entail a government processing fee for the principal applicant and up to five dependents.

All other applicable fees are fixed amounts, which include a due diligence fee per applicant of $7,500 for the main applicant and spouse, $4,000 for dependent children, parents, and unmarried siblings over 18, and $2,000 for dependent children aged 12 to 17. The Antigua and Barbuda passport fee is $300, and the mandatory interview fee is $1,500.

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 a strict due diligence process adhearing to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) regulations, the government authority responsible for managing citizenship applicants.

The following documents are required:

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 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 Form AB7

Required documents for submission:

  • Completed AB1-5 application forms
  • Completed citizenship by investment forms, according to which of the investment options is chosen, AB8-AB9.
  • Original Police Certificate from the country of citizenship or residence. This document is required for each country in which the person lived for 6 consecutive months or longer since reaching the age of 18.
  • 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) showing name, photo citizenship/nationality, date and place of issue, expiry date, passport number, and issuing country.
  • Eight original passport-sized photos of each applicant taken within the last six months. One of the photos in each set of 8 must be certified.
  • Medical Certificate including original results of an HIV test (an HIV test is required for all persons twelve (12) years and older applying for citizenship. The HIV test results must be not older than three months.

Other supporting documents required from the main applicant:

  • At least one original bank reference letter issued by an internationally recognized bank, not older than six months.
  • At least one original professional reference (e.g., from an attorney, notary public, official accountant, or other professional of similar standing) not older than six months.
  • One original document of evidence of residential address (e.g., certified copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement showing full name and address or written confirmation from a bank, attorney, chartered accountant, or notary public).
  • Original excerpt of marriage record or certified copy of marriage certificate(s) if applicable (i.e., if married persons apply together).
  • Certified copy of divorce documents (if applicable).
  • Statement of the source of funds to be invested in Antigua and Barbuda.
  • An affidavit of support for each dependent (excluding spouse) over 18 years of age.
  • Certified copy of Military Records or exemption from military service (if applicable)

Other documents required for the real estate investment route:

  • Copy of duly executed real estate contract (Purchase and Sale Agreement) to be submitted with the application forms.
  • Evidence of title transfer, to be submitted after the applicant receives approval in principle.

OBS: This is not an exhaustive list, as the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) may request additional documents if necessary.

Certification of documents

Ensure documents are certified and authenticated in accordance with Antigua and Barbuda immigration law. The certifying person should provide: Full name (in capitals), role, residential/business address, phone number, and email.

If a notary public certifies a document as a true copy, authentication is needed through:

  1. Apostille, following the Hague Convention for jurisdictions that are party to it.
  2. Validation of the notary public’s certificate by the relevant government department for jurisdictions not part of the convention.

Oath of Allegiance

An Oath of Allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda must be sworn in the presence of a notary public or an individual authorized by the Antigua and Barbuda government to administer oaths for successful applicants and their family to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment. The oath can be taken in Antigua and Barbuda or at an embassy overseas, and it must be live-streamed for the CIU to witness.

Steps on How To Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Potential applicants must submit their citizenship application to an authorized agent licensed by the CIU.

1. Choose your investment route: Decide which of the four investment routes best aligns with your goals

2. Select an Authorized Agent: From CIU's list of approved Authorized Agents, choose one to submit your citizenship application.

3. Complete all application forms: Complete all the forms and necessary documents as provided by your Authorized Agent.

4. Submit your application: Your dedicated Investment Migration Specialist will submit the citizenship application on your behalf.

5. Take the citizenship interview: As part of the citizenship process, you must complete the mandatory interview requirement, which can be done virtually.

6. 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.'

7. Make your investment: Make the required investment and send proof to the CIU.

8. 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 accept citizen applications submitted by Authorized Agents.

 

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.

Pros and Cons of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

Pros

  • Family-friendly: The most affordable Caribbean citizenship by investment for a family application of two or more applicants.
  • Well connected: Antigua and Barbuda has frequent direct flights to New York, Miami, London, Toronto, and Montreal, among other major cities.
  • Long-term US visa: Citizens can apply for a ten-year visitor visa to the US.
  • Excellent global mobility: An Antigua and Barbudan passport facilitates visa free access to over 150 destination, including CARICOM member states the EU Schengen Area, China, and Russia.

Cons

  • Residency requirement: The only Caribbean CBI program with a residency requirement.
  • Extreme weather: Antigua and Barbuda is vulnerable to hurricanes.

Antigua and Barbuda CBI Comparison with other Caribbean Nations

The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program is one of five Caribbean citizenship programs. Here is a brief comparison of the highlights of each Caribbean citizenship by investment program:

  • Antigua and Barbuda: The most affordable Caribbean citizenship by investment program for a family of four.
  • Dominica: The most affordable real estate citizenship program.
  • Grenada: The only Caribbean CBI country offering eligibility to the US E2 Visa
  • St Kitts and Nevis: The first country to establish a citizenship by investment program. It provides the strongest Caribbean passport by investment.
  • St Lucia: Provides the most investment options, including the option to invest in infrastructure projects with a minimum amount of $250,000.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Citizenship by Investment in Antigua and Barbuda

How to become a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda?

The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program requires an minimum investment of $230,000. Investment options are:

  • National Development Fund donation (minimum $230,000)
  • Approved real estate project investment (minimum $300,000)
  • Approved business venture investment (minimum $400,000)
  • University of the West Indies Fund donation (minimum $260,000)

You must have no criminal record, no serious health problems, and be older than 18. The application process for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship program takes six months to complete.

Must I visit Antigua and Barbuda for the citizenship by investment program?

You don’t need to visit Antigua during the CBI application process. After obtaining a citizenship certificate, the personal visit required to maintain it is five days during the first five years. Minimum residence requirements must be met to renew your passport for the first time.

Can you buy Antigua citizenship?

You can’t buy Antigua and Barbudan citizenship or a passport. However, for an investment overview, Antigua and Barbuda offers citizenship to foreign nationals who contribute to the country economic development.

How strong is the Antigua and Barbuda passport?

The Antigua and Barbuda passport ranks 59th on the Global Passport Index. It grants visa free and visa on arrival access to over 150 destinations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, the UK, and Europe’s Schengen zone. You’re granted citizenship for a lifetime, and the passport has an initial five-year validity, after which your Antiguan passport can be renewed every ten years.

Can I live and work in Antigua and Barbuda with citizenship?

Obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda allows you and your family full residency rights, including the ability to live, work, and study in the country. 

Can you have dual citizenship in the US and Antigua and Barbuda?

Both Antigua and Barbuda and the United States allow their citizens to hold multiple citizenship.

How much does it cost to invest in Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment cost starts at $230,000. The four investment routes are:

  • A $230,000 National Development Fund contribution
  • Real estate purchases in an approved project with a minimum value of $300,000
  • Contributing $260,000 to the University Fund
  • Approved business investments – solo ($1.5 million) or joint ($400,000)

Additional fees include government/processing fees, due diligence fees, passport fees, and interview fees.

Can I include my family in my Antigua citizenship application?

You can include the following dependents in your citizenship by investment application:

  • Spouse or future spouse
  • Dependent children
  • Parents and grandparents aged 55 or older
  • Unmarried siblings

If you would like to include them at a later date, you can do so with an additional fee.

How long does it take to get citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda?

Provided you fulfill all Antigua and Barbuda citizenship requirements, the citizenship timeline in Antigua and Barbuda takes six months until the issuance of an approval letter.

What is the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship By Investment Programme?

The Antigua Citizenship by Investment Programme, also known as the Antigua and Barbuda Investor Visa, is a program allowing foreigners to obtain an Antigua second passport in exchange for making an investment in the country.

Is Antigua citizenship worth it?

Most successful applicants of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program find that citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda is worth it due to the lower investment requirement, the short four- to five-month processing time, the country’s strong passport for visa free access, the right to hold citizenship next to an existing citizenship, and the right for family members and a future child to obtain citizenship.