Did you know that Antigua & Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program has one of the top rankings in the world?¹

As a trusted source of information, we're here to guide you through the process of obtaining citizenship in this breathtaking island nation. 

Our comprehensive article will ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed personal and professional decision.

Read on to find out if you’re ready to embark on this life-changing journey in Antigua and Barbuda…

*Disclaimer: All amounts mentioned in this article were correct at the time of publication and might have shifted since.

What Are the Benefits of Citizenship by Investment in Antigua & Barbuda?

Embarking on the path to citizenship through investment in Antigua and Barbuda offers a range of advantages for both you and your family.

Here are some key benefits you can enjoy:

• Visa-free travel to over 150 countries²
• Attractive tax regime with no global income, wealth, or inheritance tax
• Stable political environment and a secure lifestyle
• Access to a high-quality healthcare system and education opportunities
• Option to include family members in the application

What Are the Limitations of Citizenship by Investment in Antigua & Barbuda?

While the prospect of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is undoubtedly enticing, it's important to factor in the potential drawbacks that may impact your decision. 

Some of the limitations of the program include:

• A significant financial investment is required.
• There are strict eligibility requirements and due diligence procedures. 
• There are residency requirements for maintaining citizenship.
• Potential restrictions for dual citizens, depending on your home country.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to determine if Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment is the right choice for your future.

Which Investment Types Qualify for Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment?

As a prospective investor interested in the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, it's essential to understand the various investment options available to you to qualify for citizenship. 

Each route offers unique benefits and requirements, so let's explore these opportunities in greater detail to help you make an informed decision.

Read on. 

National Development Fund (NDF)

The National Development Fund is a government-established fund aimed at financing projects in areas such as infrastructure, education, and social development in Antigua and Barbuda

To qualify for citizenship through the NDF, investors must make a non-refundable contribution of at least US$100,000.³

Once your contribution is made, you'll receive an official receipt from the government confirming your investment. 

Real Estate Investment

Citizenship through real estate investment in Antigua and Barbuda is another promising route. 

The minimum investment required for this option is US$400,000, which must be held for a minimum of 5 years.⁴

Alternatively, there’s a joint investment route that requires 2 investors to invest US$200,000 each into a shared real estate project.

What’s more

Investors can choose from various projects, such as hotels, resorts, or villas. 

Upon completion of the investment, you'll need to provide proof of purchase, such as a property deed, to confirm your eligibility. 

Business Investment

If you're interested in making a more substantial financial commitment, consider investing in a pre-approved business project. 

A minimum investment of US$1.5 million is required for individual applicants, or a joint investment of at least US$5 million with each investor contributing no less than US$400,000.⁵ 

This option allows you to become directly involved in the growth of the local economy by creating jobs and stimulating industry. 

Proof of your investment should be submitted in the form of audited financial statements or other official documents.

University of the West Indies Fund

Contributing to the University of the West Indies Fund is another viable option for investors seeking Antiguan citizenship. 

A minimum non-refundable contribution of US$150,000 is required, which covers a family of up to 6 members.⁶

In return for your investment, one member of your family will qualify for a 1-year tuition scholarship at the University's Antigua campus. 

Your contribution will help support the development of higher education and research initiatives in the country.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship by Investment in Antigua & Barbuda?

When diving into the world of Antigua and Barbuda's CBI program, it's crucial to understand the major eligibility requirements that you'll need to meet. 

Let's take a closer look at these key factors and how they may influence your application process.

Our team has compiled the top 7 requirements you need to know about. 

Minimum Investment Amount to Qualify

As mentioned in the previous section, applicants must commit to making a significant financial investment in one of the government-approved options to be considered for Antigua and Barbuda's CBI program.

The approved investment routes include:⁷

• The National Development Fund
• Real estate investment
• Business investment 
• The University of the West Indies Fund 

The minimum investment amount varies depending on the chosen option, starting at US$100,000 with the National Development Fund.

Clean Criminal Record

A clean criminal record is mandatory for all applicants seeking citizenship through investment in Antigua and Barbuda.⁸ 

The government will conduct a thorough background check and due diligence process to ensure that applicants have no criminal history and pose no threat to the country's security or reputation.

Good Health

Applicants and their family dependents must also be in good health to qualify for Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship by investment program. 

You'll need to undergo a medical examination and provide a certificate proving that you and your family members are free from any contagious diseases and pose no serious health threats to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.

Residency Requirements

While Antigua and Barbuda doesn’t require a lengthy physical residency to qualify for its CBI program, there’s a minimal requirement to maintain your citizenship. 

Specifically, you’ll be required to spend at least 5 days in the country within the first 5 years of obtaining your citizenship.

No Prior Denial

If you’ve previously been denied citizenship or a visa from a country with which Antigua & Barbuda has a visa-free travel arrangement, you may be deemed ineligible for its CBI program. 

This requirement is in place to ensure that only individuals with a clean immigration history can obtain citizenship through its investment program.

No Existing Sanctions or Restrictions

Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI application process involves in-depth due diligence and background checks on applicants. 

As such, applicants mustn’t be subject to any international sanctions or restrictions that could pose a risk to Antigua and Barbuda's reputation or national security. 

This includes being on watchlists, blacklists, or facing restrictions from international organizations.

Family Members’ Eligibility

Finally, Antigua and Barbuda's CBI program will allow you to include your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents or grandparents in your application. 

However, each family member must meet the same eligibility requirements as the primary applicant. 

What’s the Application Process for Citizenship by Investment in Antigua & Barbuda?

Navigating the application process for Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship by investment program can seem daunting for many.

However, with the right information and our comprehensive step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to securing your future in this Caribbean paradise. 

Here are the answers you're looking for:

Step-By-Step Application Process

Let's begin by exploring the 7 key stages of the application process and what you can expect along the way.

Take a look:

Step 1: Choose Your Investment Option

Before starting the application process, you'll need to decide on the type of investment that best suits your financial goals and preferences. 

As mentioned, Antigua and Barbuda offers several options, including the National Development Fund, real estate investment, business investment, and the University of the West Indies Fund. 

Each option has its own minimum investment amount, ranging from US$100,000 for the National Development Fund to US$400,000 for real estate investment.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Once you've selected your investment option, it's time to gather the necessary documentation to support your application. 

These include a range of documents, which we’ll cover in-depth in the following section. 

It’s important to note, however, that all documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.⁹

Step 3: Submit Your Application

With your investment choice made and your documentation in order, you can now submit your CBI application to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of Antigua and Barbuda. 

You'll need to complete the official application forms and include all required documents in your application, along with the non-refundable processing fees. 

These fees vary depending on the number of applicants and begin at US$50,000 for a single applicant and US$10,000 for each eligible dependent.¹⁰

Step 4: Undergo Due Diligence Checks

Once you’ve submitted your application, the CIU will conduct thorough due diligence and background checks to verify your history, criminal record, and financial standing. 

This is a crucial step in the process, as it ensures that only qualified and reputable individuals are granted citizenship through the program. 

Take note

Due diligence fees are applicable and vary depending on the number of applicants, with a cost of US$7,500 for the main applicant and additional costs for family dependents. 

Step 5: Receive Pre-Approval

Once the due diligence process is complete and your application meets all the requirements, you’ll receive an "approval in principle" from the CIU. 

This indicates that your application has been successful, subject to making the required investment.

Step 6: Make Your Investment

Upon receiving approval in principle, you'll need to make the necessary investment in your chosen option. 

It’s vital to ensure that you can provide proof of your investment.

Proof can be verified by submitting authentic copies of bank transfer receipts or property purchase agreements. 

Step 7: Obtain Your Citizenship Certificate & Passport

After completing your investment, the CIU will issue your Certificate of Registration as a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda. 

With this certificate, you can now apply for your Antiguan passport at the passport office or through an authorized agent. 

Passport fees are US$300 per person, and you should receive your new passport within a few weeks.¹¹

Required Documentation

When applying for citizenship through the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, it's equally important to understand, prepare, and submit all required documentation to ensure a smooth application process. 

Let's take a closer look at each major document you’ll be required to submit.

Application Document

The official CBI application form is the primary document required for the program. 

It provides essential information about the applicant and their dependents. 

You can download the form from the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) website, and you must submit it to the CIU along with all other necessary paperwork.

Marriage/Divorce Certificates

If you're including your spouse or dependents in your application, you'll need to provide marriage or divorce certificates, if applicable. 

These documents serve as proof of your marital status and family relationships. 

Ensure that they’re originals or certified copies, and if not in English, accompanied by a certified translation.

Identity & Residential Proof

To prove your identity and current residency, you'll also need to submit documents such as your national ID card, driver's license, or utility bills. 

These documents help the CIU verify your personal information and confirm your residential address.

Passport Copies

Additionally, you’ll be required to provide clear, color copies of the biographical pages of your current passport and those of any dependents included in your application. 

By submitting passport copies, you enable the CIU to verify your nationality, identity, and travel history. 

Birth Certificates

Original or certified copies of birth certificates for the main applicant and all dependents will also be required. 

A birth certificate will serve as proof of age and nationality, helping to establish eligibility for Antigua and Barbuda’s program.

Police Clearance

To qualify, a necessary prerequisite for Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program is also to have a clean criminal record and background. 

As such, applicants must submit a police clearance certificate from their country of residence and any country where they’ve lived for 6 months or more in the past 10 years. 

This document is crucial for verifying that you have a clean criminal record and that you meet the eligibility requirements for the CBI program. 

Medical Examination

A medical examination is also required for all applicants and dependents, proving they’re in good health and free from any contagious diseases. 

The examination must be conducted by a licensed medical practitioner, and the results should be submitted along with the application.

Passport-Sized Photos

Recent passport-sized photos of each applicant and dependent must be provided as part of their applications too.  

These photos will be used for identification purposes and will also appear on your Antigua and Barbuda passport if your CBI application is successful. 

Proof of Investment

When the time comes, you’ll also need to provide proof that you’ve met Antigua and Barbuda’s investment requirements. 

In particular, you'll need to provide proof in the form of a bank transfer receipt or a property purchase agreement.¹²

These documents are essential to demonstrating that you've met the minimum investment requirements for the program.

Reference Letters

Applicants will also be required to submit personal reference letters from individuals who can attest to their character, reputation, and capabilities.  

Reference letters help the CIU assess your suitability for its CBI program.

Professional Reference Letters

In addition to personal references, applicants must also provide professional reference letters from employers, business partners, or other professional contacts. 

These letters offer additional insight into the applicant's work history and professional standing.

But why?

In doing so, the ICU can make informed decisions on your potential contribution to the country and economy. 

Proof of Funds

To demonstrate your financial capability, you must provide documents such as bank statements, tax returns, or investment portfolios. 

This proof of funds is crucial for ensuring that you have the financial means to make the required investment and maintain your citizenship.

Declaration of Source of Funds

A declaration of the source of funds is also required, explaining how you acquired the funds for the CBI program. 

This document helps the CIU verify that your investment comes from legitimate sources and complies with anti-money laundering regulations.

Affidavit of Support for Dependents & Proof of Relationship

If you're including dependents in your application, you’ll be required to submit an affidavit of support stating that you’ll financially support your family dependents for the duration of their stay in Antigua and Barbuda. 

Additionally, you'll also need to provide proof of your relationship to the dependents. 

These may take the form of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers. 

What Costs Are Involved in Citizenship by Investment in Antigua & Barbuda?

When considering the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, it's crucial for investors to take into account all the associated costs. 

This knowledge will help you budget effectively and make informed financial decisions throughout the application process. 

Let’s take a look at a breakdown of each major cost with the help of WorldPassports’ expert team. 

Investment Amount

The first and major cost that you’ll incur will be the required investment. 

The investment amount will depend on the option you choose: 

• National Development Fund: US$100,000
• Real estate investment: US$200,000
• Business investment: US$1.5 million individually or US$5 million jointly
• University of the West Indies Fund: US$150,000

This will be your primary financial commitment, which is required for obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda.

Government Fees

Government fees are non-refundable processing fees that will cover the administrative costs of your application. 

These fees vary significantly depending on your chosen investment route but can range anywhere from US$10,000 to US$50,000. 

These costs may be paid directly to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) when you submit your application.

Due Diligence Fees

Due diligence fees cover the cost of your and your family's dependents' background checks conducted by the CIU. 

The main applicant and spouse will be required to pay US$7,500 each, and each family dependent aged 18 and above will be required to pay US$4,000.

Additionally

Children under the age of 18 will be required to pay US$2,000.

Passport Fees

Once your citizenship is approved, you'll need to pay passport fees of US$300 per person to obtain your Antigua and Barbuda passport. 

These fees cover the production and issuance of the passport, which can be applied for at the passport office or through an authorized agent.

Legal Fees

The legal fees you’ll be required to pay will vary significantly depending on the complexity of your application and the services provided by your legal representative. 

It's essential to work with an experienced attorney to ensure a smooth application process and compliance with all legal requirements.

Translation Fees

If any of your documents aren’t in English, you'll need to have them translated by a certified translator. 

The cost of translation services usually ranges between US$0.10 and US$0.20 per word.

For a full document, the cost could be anywhere from US$30 to US$100 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the document.

However, your specific translation fees depend on the provider and the number of documents to be translated.

Notarization & Apostille Fees

Some documents may require notarization or an apostille to be considered valid. 

Notarization fees typically range from US$5 to $15 per document, while apostille fees can vary from US$20 to $100 per document, depending on the issuing country's regulations.

However

These fees will vary significantly depending on the country issuing the documents and the specific requirements of your application.

Health Insurance

Although not a direct cost of Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program, we highly recommend obtaining health insurance for you and your dependents when relocating to Antigua and Barbuda. 

The cost of coverage will depend significantly on your provider and the plan you choose.

Tax

When obtaining citizenship through Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship by investment program, it's essential to understand the tax implications and regulations that you’ll incur in the country. 

Antigua and Barbuda operates on a territorial tax system, meaning that residents are only taxed on income earned within the country. 

This means that income generated outside of Antigua and Barbuda isn’t subject to local taxation. 

This is important…

Additionally, there’s no personal income tax in Antigua and Barbuda. 

However, residents are required to pay Social Security contributions, which are calculated based on a percentage of their salary (currently 10%, with 4% paid by the employee and 6% paid by the employer). 

In addition

There’s a corporate tax rate of 25% on profits earned by businesses operating within the country.

Other taxes in Antigua and Barbuda include a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on goods and services, a property tax (ranging from 0.1% to 0.5% of the property value), and a 2% stamp duty on real estate transactions.

Our team of experts highly recommends consulting a local tax expert to ensure that you fully comprehend your tax obligations in Antigua and Barbuda. 

Visa Fees

Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the application process. 

Generally, these fees are US$100 for a single-entry visa, with multiple-entry visas potentially costing more.

It’s important to note that your visa fees will vary based on your country of origin and the type of visa you’ll require.

Travel & Accommodation

Travel and accommodation expenses may be incurred when visiting Antigua and Barbuda for document submission or property inspection. 

These costs will depend significantly on your choice of transportation, lodging, and personal preferences.

Renunciation of Current Citizenship 

In some cases, an additional cost may be encountered if you’re required to renounce your current citizenship to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. 

This process may involve costs such as legal fees and administrative charges, depending on your home country's regulations.

What’s the Processing Time for Citizenship by Investment Applications in Antigua & Barbuda?

When considering the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, it's important to be aware of the processing time involved in obtaining citizenship. 

Knowing the expected time frame allows you to plan accordingly and manage your expectations during the application process.

Our knowledgeable team will walk you through the 2 major considerations. 

Average Processing Time

Typically, the processing time for citizenship by investment applications in Antigua and Barbuda ranges from 3 to 6 months. 

This time frame includes the due diligence checks, government review, and approval process. 

However, it's essential to keep in mind that the actual processing time may vary depending on the complexity of your application and the efficiency of the authorities involved.

Expedited Processing Options

As of 2025, there aren’t official expedited processing options available for Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program. 

To ensure a smooth and timely application process, we recommend submitting all required documentation accurately and promptly and working with an experienced legal representative to guide you through the process and help you avoid any potential delays.

Does Antigua & Barbuda Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Antigua and Barbuda allow dual citizenship, which means that you can hold citizenship in this Caribbean nation alongside your existing citizenship from another country. 

This policy is advantageous for investors, as it enables them to enjoy the benefits of Antiguan citizenship without having to renounce their original nationality.

Saying this…

It's essential to verify whether your home country also permits dual citizenship, as some countries may require you to relinquish your original citizenship upon obtaining a new one. 

Common Questions

In Conclusion

Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship by investment program offers an attractive opportunity for investors seeking a second passport and access to numerous benefits.

With our in-depth guide on the various aspects of the application process, investment options, and tax implications, you can make an informed decision about whether this program is right for you. 

The WorldPassports team wishes you all the best in your pursuit of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about other CBI programs, feel free to browse through our other country-specific article selections. 

Learn More: Investment by Citizenship Programs