Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program in 2025
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment is a strategic choice for those who are looking not just for a second passport, but for a reliable economic haven. Founded as a British colony in the 17th century, Antigua and Barbuda has evolved from a sugar plantation into an independent state with a stable democracy and one of the fastest growing investment regimes in the Caribbean region.
Today, the country offers favourable conditions for wealthy investors: there is no tax on global income, inheritance, or capital gains, and the citizenship program itself serves as a tool not only for mobility but also for global financial planning.
A strong banking sector, a stable currency pegged to the US dollar, and active government support for private investment create a favourable climate for preserving and growing capital.
Antigua and Barbuda is more than just a pair of islands — it is access to international recognition, asset protection, and freedom of movement without compromise.
How to Get Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda
The Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) of Antigua and Barbuda was launched in 2013 as a measure to diversify the economy and attract foreign capital. After the global financial crisis, the country’s government was looking for sustainable sources of income that could complement traditional industries such as tourism and agriculture. The program became part of the government’s strategy to strengthen the budget, develop infrastructure, and create jobs.
Since its launch, CIP has attracted thousands of foreign investors from all over the world. According to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, by 2025, more than 5,000 people — including family members — have acquired citizenship through investment. The program has established itself as one of the most effective and transparent in the Caribbean region, with a high level of compliance and international trust.
Investments received under the program have been directed toward social projects, the modernization of tourism facilities, and the development of healthcare and education. Thanks to the CIP, Antigua and Barbuda has strengthened its public finances and secured its position among the key players in the investment citizenship market.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Requirements
- The applicant must be over 18 years old.
- It is necessary to provide a medical certificate, including the absence of infectious diseases (for example, HIV).
- A clean legal record: no criminal record, serious violations of the law, or visa refusals. The applicant must not pose a threat to the security of the state.
- Mandatory implementation of one of the following investment options:
Investment Option | Minimum Amount | Conditions | Notes |
Donation to the National Development Fund (NDF) | from $230,000 | Non-refundable contribution + fees | Suitable for individual and family applications |
Real estate purchase | from $300,000 | Property must be held for at least 5 years | Only government-approved projects qualify |
Business investment | from $1,500,000 (individual) or $5,000,000 (joint) | Minimum 2 investors in a group, at least $400,000 each | Business project must be pre-approved |
Donation to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund | from $260,000 (incl. fees) | Available only for families of 6 or more | Includes a scholarship for one family member to study at UWI |
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Cost
- When submitting an application, government fees (processing and due diligence) are paid — an initial fee (10%), the rest — after receiving prior approval.
- The passport fee is $300 per participant.
- Spouse, children, and parents (according to the conditions) are included without increasing the base amount, but they require payment of fees and due diligence.
- Additional fees, transfers, and legal expenses increase the total amount by 5–10%.
Investment Option | Minimum Amount | Application Processing | Due Diligence Fees | Passport Fee | Notes |
Donation to NDF | $230,000 | $10,000 (single); $20,000 (family up to 4) + $10,000 per additional dependent | $8,500 (main applicant); $5,000 (spouse); $4,000 (children 18+); $2,000 (children aged 12–17) | $300 per person | Non-refundable contribution |
Real Estate Purchase | $300,000 | $10,000 (single); $20,000 (family up to 4) + $10,000 per additional dependent | Same as NDF | $300 per person | Must hold the property for at least 5 years |
Business Investment | $1,500,000 (individual) or $5,000,000 (group) | $10,000 (single); $20,000 (family up to 4) + $10,000 per additional dependent | Same as NDF | $300 per person | Must be pre-approved by the government |
Donation to the University of the West Indies (UWI) | $260,000 (for families of 6+) | Included for families of up to 6; + $10,000 per additional dependent | Same as NDF | $300 per person | Fixed amount; includes a scholarship for one family member to study at UWI |
How to Apply for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
1. Contacting a licensed agent
Applications are accepted only through officially accredited agents approved by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). Self-submission is not permitted.
2. Choosing an investment option
Four options are available:
- an irrevocable donation to the National Development Fund (starting from $230,000);
- purchase of approved real estate (starting from $300,000);
- investment in an approved business (from $1,500,000 individually or $400,000 per person as part of a group);
- donation to the University of the West Indies Foundation (from $260,000; available for families of 6 people or more).
3. Preparing of documents
A standard package is assembled, including:
- application forms AB1—AB5;
- copies of the passport, birth certificate, certificate of police clearance and health status;
- documents confirming the source of funds and investment intention.
4. Submission and initial fees
The application is submitted to the CIU. At this stage, the following fees are paid:
- 10% of the government fee;
- due diligence fee.
5. Due diligence and approval
The CIU reviews the documents and verifies the source of capital. This procedure takes 3–6 months. After verification, preliminary approval is granted.
6. Completion of the investment
After receiving approval, the following is performed:
- transfer the main investment amount;
- payment of the remaining fees;
- registration of ownership (when buying real estate).
7. Taking the oath and obtaining the passport
After completing all the stages, the applicant is issued a certificate of citizenship. The oath can be taken either in Antigua and Barbuda or at a consulate abroad. The passport is issued after the oath.
The minimum registration period is 4–6 months.
A prerequisite is to stay in Antigua and Barbuda for at least 5 days during the first 5 years after obtaining citizenship.
Antigua and Barbuda Passport Benefits
- Visa-free access
More than 140 visa-free countries, including the Schengen Area, Great Britain, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
- Tax haven
There are no taxes on global income, inheritance, or capital gains — maximum asset security.
- Citizenship for the entire family
Including children, parents, and even siblings — without increasing the investment.
- Fast and bureaucracy-free
Citizenship in just 4–6 months without exams, residency, and language requirements.
- Minimum obligations
You only need to spend 5 days on the islands within the first 5 years — without permanent residency.
- Dual citizenship allowed
The country allows dual and triple citizenship — without unnecessary formalities.
- Geopolitical stability
A stable democracy, British-style legal system, and a currency pegged to the US dollar.
- Islands of Dreams — for life and a plan B
Citizenship provides access to life in one of the most beautiful regions of the Caribbean.
Antigua and Barbuda Passport Rank & Visa-Free Countries List
The passport of Antigua and Barbuda offers high mobility and attractiveness.
World ranking: ranks 24th to 28th in the leading indexes (Passport Index — 24, VisaIndex — 28, Henley — 26), demonstrating a stable position in the top 30 strongest passports.
Passport holders have access to 152 countries and territories, including the entire Schengen Area, the United Kingdom (up to 180 days), China, Russia, Singapore, and many Caribbean territories.
Antigua Passport Renewal
After the initial five-year period, the document is renewed for 10 years. To extend it, you only need to spend 5 days in Antigua and Barbuda within 5 years. The process is completed through an agent or consulate, without personal interviews or exams. Required: passport, certificate, form AB10, and proof of stay.
Fixed cost: the extension costs $1,000 for adults and $500 for children.
The application is processed within 4–6 weeks; an accelerated version is available for an additional fee. The updated document preserves visa-free access to more than 150 countries, including the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom.
Dual Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda officially allows dual and multiple citizenship. This provision is enshrined in the country’s legislation, which is based on the English common law system — one of the most respected and stable legal models in the world. Under this system, holding a second passport is not considered a violation or a reason for automatic deprivation of citizenship.
The applicant does not need to renounce the citizenship of his country: the passport of Antigua and Barbuda can be used as an additional tool for international mobility, tax optimization, and asset protection. This is especially important for citizens of countries where dual citizenship is allowed, such as the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Switzerland, Russia, and most EU member states.
It is important to keep in mind that some countries, such as Germany, India, or China, have restrictions on dual citizenship. Therefore, before applying to the program, it is recommended to consult a lawyer regarding the national legislation of the country of origin.
Antigua Citizenship for UK Citizens
Antigua and Barbuda, a former British colony that gained independence in 1981, maintains strong ties with the United Kingdom through its membership in the Commonwealth and adherence to British common law. This historical connection provides a solid foundation of legal stability and institutional familiarity for UK citizens. For British nationals seeking global mobility, asset protection, or a strategic second citizenship, Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment Program offers an attractive pathway. With shared legal traditions, English as the official language, and visa-free access to over 150 countries — including the UK itself — Antigua stands out as a natural and historically aligned choice for UK investors looking to expand their global presence.
FAQ
Yes, a valid passport is required to travel to Antigua and Barbuda.
Indeed, the primary applicant can include their spouse, children (under the age of 30 or individuals with disabilities), parents or grandparents (over the age of 55), and unmarried siblings in a single application for citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through investment.
The Antigua and Barbuda passport unlocks visa-free access to over 150 countries, including the UK and all of Europe.
Yes, U.S. citizens must present a valid passport to enter Antigua and Barbuda.
Yes, Antigua and Barbuda proudly allows dual citizenship with no restrictions.
A clear, professional 45×35 mm photo on a white background — just smile naturally and let your passport to paradise begin.
Yes, a valid passport is required to travel to St. John’s, Antigua (as well as to any part of Antigua and Barbuda outside the OECS region).
The Antigua and Barbuda passport opens doors to over 152 countries — global freedom in your pocket.
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