Antigua and Barbuda
Citizenship by Investment

Why does Antigua & Barbuda have a citizenship by investment program?

The program was introduced to promote economic growth, attract real estate development, increase foreign direct investment to the country, support the development of infrastructure and provide for a sustainable future.

How long does it take to get Antigua Citizenship through investment?

La Vida has extensive experience submitting CBI Applications to Antigua and other Caribbean countries. It allows us to quote our own actual figures based on a sizeable number of submissions for each program. Figures you see elsewhere on the web could be borrowed, generically quoted or amended to suit the message. We also caution against agents claiming quicker times. Everyone submits to the same processing unit and there is no favouritism. An agent influences the timeline based on their efficiency in processing prior to submission and ensuring the application is complete and accurate. And then further, in dealing efficiently and knowledgeably with any questions that come back from the CBI unit.

The latest timeline (taken as last two-year moving average) from submission to approval of citizenship for Antigua is 8.3 months. The fastest approval time we have experienced during that period was 3.4 months. Please bear in mind, as with all CBI programmes, once approved there is a further period of bank clearing, making the investment and issue of the citizenship certificate before the application and receipt of a passport. The average additional time for this for Antigua was a further 4.4 months.

Prior to submission, it typically takes applicants an average of 2-6 weeks to gather all the necessary documents to compile their file before submission. La Vida’s team will assist with all aspects of the process. Our market leading client portal offers complete security for documentation and efficient and transparent processing, enabling clients to update their documents at their own pace and track their progress. We feel this leads to the most stress free and efficient process in ensuring a complete and accurate file for submission.

One further point for Antigua is the backlog of CBI applications. This is already built into the figures above. But as we approach the end of 2024 the backlog is past its peak. We hope and expect processing times will come down rapidly from here.

Do I have to pay tax in Antigua?

You are not required to pay any income tax on your worldwide income in Antigua and Barbuda or capital gains tax. You are only required to pay tax on any income derived in Antigua and Barbuda.

Do I need to take a language test for citizenship in Antigua?

No, you do not need to speak English to apply for Antiguan citizenship through investment. There is no language test

What Due Diligence Is Required for Antigua Citizenship by Investment?

There are no interviews. However, all applicants undergo rigorous screening prior to consideration by the Citizenship by Investment Unit. Complete files will be forwarded to an international, unbiased third-party due diligence service provider who will conduct detailed background checks on all applicants before the application is approved.

How long is my Antiguan passport valid for after citizenship is granted?

Once you have been granted citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, this is for life. However, your Antigua passport has a validity period of five years. All applicants will be required to renew their passports every five years. The renewal fees are minimal, currently around $1,000 pp.

Do I need to travel to Antigua & Barbuda to complete the process?

There is no requirement to visit Antigua to process your Citizenship by Investment application. The entire process can be completed remotely through La Vida’s experts.

What happens once my Antigua Citizenship application has been accepted?

A certificate of registration of citizenship will be issued and submitted to the passport office. Your authorized agent/representative will forward your passports and Citizenship Certificate to you.

Can I apply for the Antigua Citizenship by Investment programme if I have a health condition?

All applicants are required to undertake a full medical check, certified by a registered doctor as part of the application process for Antigua. This includes supplying a HIV test and full blood count and completing the official medical form. Even if the medical report states the applicant has an existing health condition, it is still possible to apply in most cases. Please contact us for specific circumstances and we can clarify based on your personal situation.

Can unmarried or same sex couples apply for Antigua’s Citizenship Programme?

Applicants must be legally married if wanting to apply together under one family application. Unfortunately, same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognised in Antigua or the other Caribbean nations offering CBI programmes. In this circumstance, the best solution is for the two individuals to apply as single applicants separately.

Alternatively, if you wish to apply with your partner, then you could consider one of the European Golden Visa programmes where same-sex marriage and unmarried couples are eligible to apply together.

What Is the Minimum Investment Required for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship?

The minimum investment starts at $230,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four, depending on the chosen investment route. Additional fees such as due diligence and processing fees apply.

What Are the Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment?

Applicants can choose from four investment routes: a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF), investment in approved real estate projects, establishing an approved business, or donating to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund. ​

Will I qualify for the Antigua Citizenship by Investment programme?

Other than making the required investment applicants will need to pass the Antigua government’s Due Diligence and Anti Money Laundering requirements. The DD and AML tests are extensive and fees are payable on application. However before committing La Vida can provide an initial and free assessment on your likelihood of success for the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program through our own due diligence pre-screening. In addition to our own tests this uses the two most prominent commercially available products available to scan for potential issues and adverse media. Please contact our advisors if you would like your free assessment before proceeding.