Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment has shown a 25% annual growth rate since 2024. It attracts investors with affordable entry thresholds, family-friendly policies, and access to many visa-free destinations.
In this article, Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains the reasons behind this rapid growth, who qualifies, and how the application process works.
Why choose Antigua and Barbuda citizenship
This dual-island country is a Caribbean safe haven with a favourable tax regime, stable political environment, and excellent international connections.
Applicants value the freedom of travel and the benefits of citizenship by investment, including:
- Antigua and Barbuda citizenship visa-free countries;
- Commonwealth membership privileges;
- no income or inheritance taxes;
- option to include family members;
- short processing time — 6 months;
- minimum stay of just 5 days in 5 years.
Investors receive a naturalisation certificate, after which they can apply for a passport.
Investment options
Antigua and Barbuda offers four official investment routes.
Contribution to the National Development Fund: $230,000. This is a non-refundable contribution to state projects.
Purchase of real estate: minimum $300,000 in approved developments. Property must be held for at least 5 years.
Business investment:
- $1.5 million as a solo investor;
- $5 million minimum for joint ventures with each contributing $400,000 or more.
University of the West Indies Fund: $260,000 for a family of 6 or more.
Each option has specific government fees, Due Diligence, and processing costs.
Eligibility requirements
To apply, an investor must:
- Be over 18 years of age.
- Have no criminal record.
- Pass background checks.
- Make a qualifying investment.
- Spend 5 days in Antigua and Barbuda within 5 years.
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) oversees each application and ensures compliance with security and legal standards.
Who can be included in the application
Applicants may include the following family members:
- spouse;
- children under 30;
- parents and grandparents aged 55+;
- unmarried siblings under 18.
Dependants added after citizenship is granted must go through a separate but simplified process.
Step-by-step application process
The standard process takes six months:
- Preliminary assessment and onboarding. The applicant signs an agreement with an authorised agent such as Immigrant Invest.
- Document preparation. Includes identity documents, proof of funds, medical reports, and police certificates.
- Submission to the CIU. The agent submits the complete application.
- Due Diligence review. Independent background checks by global agencies and CIU review.
- Approval in principle. The CIU issues a letter of approval and requests the investment or contribution.
- Investment and proof. Applicant makes the required contribution or investment and submits proof.
- Citizenship granted. The CIU issues a naturalisation certificate, allowing the applicant to obtain a passport.
The programme requires the investor to visit Antigua and Barbuda for at least 5 days in the first 5 years.
Tax benefits
Antigua and Barbuda has a no-tax policy on global income, capital gains, inheritance and wealth.
Citizens who reside in the country benefit from its territorial tax system. Local income may be taxed, but generous exemptions and investor-friendly policies apply to tourism, agriculture, and innovation sectors.
There is no requirement to become a tax resident, though residency is possible.
Conclusion
Antigua and Barbuda has emerged as one of the most accessible and reliable Caribbean citizenship by investment destinations. The 25% annual growth since 2024 confirms the programme’s growing international appeal.
It combines affordability, family inclusivity, and global mobility — key factors for today’s investors seeking security and flexibility.
