Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program – Complete Guide (2025)

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), launched in 2013, offers a fast-track route to obtaining a second passport in exchange for a qualifying investment. Known for its affordability, family-friendly options, and visa-free access to numerous countries, the program appeals to investors seeking global mobility, tax benefits, and access to the Caribbean lifestyle.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Antigua & Barbuda citizenship through investment, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Investment Options (choose one):
   • National Development Fund (NDF) Donation (Non-refundable):
     • $100,000 USD for a single applicant or family of up to four.
     • $125,000 USD for a family of five or more.
     • Processing fees: $30,000 for a family of up to four, plus $15,000 for each additional dependent.
   • Real Estate Investment:
     • Minimum $200,000 USD in government-approved real estate.
     • Must be held for 5 years.
     • Shared ownership (e.g., $200,000 split between two investors) is allowed.
   • Business Investment:
     • Invest $1.5 million USD as a sole investor in an eligible business.
     • Alternatively, $5 million USD can be invested by a group, with each individual contributing at least $400,000 USD.
   • University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund (For families of 6 or more):
     • Minimum $150,000 USD contribution.
     • Includes one year of tuition at UWI for one family member.
2. Main Applicant Must:
   • Be at least 18 years old.
   • Have no criminal record.
   • Be in good health and undergo a medical examination.
   • Pass government due diligence checks.
   • Show a legal and verifiable source of investment funds.
3. Eligible Dependents:
   • Spouse
   • Children under 18
   • Dependent children aged 18–30 (if financially supported)
   • Parents or grandparents above 55
   • Dependent siblings of the applicant or spouse (unmarried, under 26)

Benefits of Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship

1. Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Access to Over 150 Countries, including the UK, Schengen Area, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
2. No Residency Requirement, except a minimal 5-day stay in the country within the first 5 years of citizenship.
3. Dual Citizenship Allowed, with no requirement to renounce current nationality.
4. Tax-Friendly Jurisdiction:
   • No income, inheritance, wealth, or capital gains tax on worldwide income.
5. Fast Processing: Citizenship is typically granted within 3–6 months.
6. Family-Friendly Options: Affordable packages for large families and multi-generational applicants.
7. Access to Caribbean Community (CARICOM): Enables easier movement and opportunities within the region.
8. Lifetime Citizenship: Passed to descendants and not subject to revocation if requirements are met.

Application Procedure

1. Select Investment Option: Choose from NDF, real estate, business, or UWI Fund.
2. Appoint Authorized Agent: Applications must be submitted via a government-licensed agent.
3. Document Preparation: Submit documents including passport copies, police clearance, medical reports, and proof of funds.
4. Due Diligence Check: Conducted on all applicants over age 12.
5. Receive Approval in Principle: After due diligence, the government issues a conditional approval.
6. Complete Investment: Transfer donation or finalize property/business investment.
7. Oath of Allegiance & Passport: After investment confirmation, take the oath (can be done abroad) and receive your passport.