Introduced in 2013 by the government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Citizenship by Investment Program has emerged as one of the most sought-after schemes in the Caribbean region. Interested individuals must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, and be in good health. In a unique twist to the program, future citizens are mandated to spend at least 5 days in the country within the first five years of gaining citizenship. This period also necessitates the completion of the oath of allegiance ceremony for the main applicant and any dependents over 18 years.
To obtain citizenship in Antigua, applicants can explore multiple premier investment routes. The most favoured choices include a non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund or venturing into government-approved real estate projects. Let’s delve deeper into these investment avenues.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Investment Options to Obtain Citizenship
Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program offers 4 different ways to interested applicants.
- The University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund: Supports the new UWI Five Islands Campus by contributing US$150,000 for a family of 6 with additional fees for further dependents.
The due diligence fee applies US$7,500 for the main applicant and US$7,500 for the spouse, varying amounts for dependents based on age, ranging from US$2,000 to US$4,000.
It is noteworthy that, founded in 1948, The University of the West Indies (UWI) is the Caribbean’s premier and most longstanding educational institution. It has consistently provided top-notch research and educational resources throughout the region. Individuals applying to the Citizenship by Investment Programme can select this avenue. One family member becomes eligible for a one-year scholarship at UWI by contributing to this fund.
- National Development Fund (NDF): Contribute to the NDF, which supports public sector projects and innovation. You should make a contribution of US$100,000 for a family of 4 or less. The minimum donation amount for a family of 5 or more will be US$125,000.
Processing fees: US$30,000 for a single applicant or family of 4 or less. Families of 5 or more: US$45,000 + US$15,000 for each additional dependent.
Both the primary applicant and their spouse are subject to a due diligence fee of US$7,500. Meanwhile, the fee for dependents varies by age, falling within a range of US$2,000 to US$4,000.
- Real Estate Investment: Invest at least US$400,000 in approved real estate, undertake a joint investment of US$200,000 between two related parties, or invest a minimum of US$200,000 for a unit/share in approved property. You must retain the property for five years before selling. Owners can resell as eligible investments after this period.
Processing fees: US$30,000 for a single applicant or family of 4 or less. Families of 5 or more: US$45,000 + US$15,000 for each additional dependent.
The main applicant and spouse each have a due diligence fee of US$7,500. Dependents are charged based on age, with fees ranging between US$2,000 to US$4,000.
- Business Investment: Approved businesses are eligible for investment under the Citizenship by Investment Program. Invest US$1,500,000 in an approved business or make a joint investment totalling US$5,000,000, with each investor contributing at least US$400,000.
Processing fees: US$30,000 for a single applicant or family of 4 or less. Families of 5 or more: US$45,000 + US$15,000 for each additional dependent.
The due diligence fee applies US$7,500 for the main applicant and US$7,500 for the spouse, varying amounts for dependents based on age, ranging from US$2,000 to US$4,000.
Procedure for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Based on Investment Option
- The National Development Fund (NDF)
Upon submitting your application, you’ll need to cover the full due diligence fees and 10% of the government processing fee. Once an approval letter is issued, the remaining government processing fees, passport fees, and your contribution are due. All fees are directly remitted to the Unit, with the contribution allocated to the Government Special Fund within a 30-day timeframe.
After these steps, the primary applicant and their family members will receive a Citizenship certificate of registration. This, along with relevant documentation, is processed by the Passport Office. Subsequently, your authorized representative will send you the Passports and Citizenship Certificate. When you first visit Antigua and Barbuda, you can complete the oath or affirmation of allegiance. Alternatively, this can be done at any Antigua and Barbuda Embassy, High Commission, or Consular Office.
- The University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
After you submit your application, the full due diligence fee is required. Once an approval letter is received, you’ll need to settle the passport fees and your contribution. These payments go directly to the Unit, with your contribution directed to the Government Special Fund within 30 days.
After payment, a Citizenship certificate of registration will be generated for the main applicant and their family. The Passport Office processes this certificate and other necessary documents. Your authorized representative will then send your passports and Citizenship Certificate to you. You can take the oath of allegiance upon your first visit to Antigua and Barbuda. Alternatively, this can be done at any Antigua and Barbuda Embassy, High Commission, or Consular Office.
- Real-Estate Investment
Applicants can hold real estate through a non-profit company as long as the company is compliant with Antigua and Barbuda’s regulations, isn’t offshore, and can verify its beneficial ownership. When choosing the real estate option for the Citizenship by Investment Programme, a binding agreement must be signed with a developer of an approved project before submitting the application. This process might take longer due to property selection and the mandatory 5-year holding period before resale unless shifting to another approved property.
The list of approved development projects in Antigua and Barbuda is published on the program’s official website. Therefore, checking the government website for the most updated list of approved real estate and projects before making any investment is strongly recommended.
Once the application is initiated, the applicant covers the due diligence fees and a portion of the government processing fee. Post approval, the remaining fees and property investment amounts are due. A certificate of registration is then issued to the primary applicant and their family for passport processing. For passport collection and oath-taking, the applicant can either visit Antigua and Barbuda or one of its Embassies, High Commissions, or Consular Offices.
- Investment in Business
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) recommends businesses to the Cabinet for the Citizenship by Investment Program. After business investment approval, the CIU reviews citizenship applications. The process involves the initial payment of due diligence fees and a portion of government processing fees. After receiving approval, the remaining fees and the business investment amount are due within 30 days. Specific investment terms are negotiated individually, but the investment must be transferred within 30 days of approval.
After all requirements are met, the primary applicant and their family receive a passport processing registration certificate. Applicants can then either travel to Antigua and Barbuda or visit one of its overseas offices to collect their passports and take the oath of allegiance.
Benefits of Investment in Antigua & Barbuda and Receive Antiguan Passport
The program offers a plethora of advantages, including:
- visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including Schengen States and the UK.
- The citizenship process, guaranteed by law since its inception, is streamlined to ensure applicants receive their new status within 6 months.
- Antigua & Barbuda offers an attractive tax regime without taxes on global income, capital gains, or inheritance.
- Minimal residency requirements necessitating only a 5-day stay over five years, which can be split or taken at once.
- There’s no need to give up one’s original citizenship.
- You can add eligible dependents to your application.
Important Facts about Antigua and Barbuda CIP
Those keen on the program often ask if family members can be included in the application. The answer is affirmative: qualifying family members like children under 18, students under 28, spouses, and parents over 58 can be added either during the application process or later for an extra fee. The government doesn’t impose prerequisites for interviews, language proficiency, or work experience. While a pre-citizenship visit isn’t a requisite, a post-citizenship visit of five days is mandatory, during which the Oath of Allegiance ceremony should be undertaken. Passports have an initial validity of 5 years and can be renewed for 10 years, but a minimum stay of five days is required after gaining citizenship.
Once your citizenship application for Antigua & Barbuda is accepted, a certificate of registration will be issued and passed to the passport office, after which your authorized agent will send you the Citizenship Certificate and passports. There’s no need for applicants to be in Antigua & Barbuda during the application process. However, a visit to take an oath or affirmation of allegiance is mandatory after receiving the passport. These islands’ officials fully recognize dual citizenship.
While investment via cryptocurrencies is being considered, it’s not yet in place. Antigua & Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program aims to boost the economy, lure real estate development, and foster a sustainable future.
Reasons to Choose Antigua and Barbuda CIP
A member of the Commonwealth, the islands have a stable political climate and enjoy a promising economic outlook, coupled with a thriving tourism sector. Antigua and Barbuda also have a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of African, British, and Caribbean influences that can be seen in their architecture, festivals, and daily life. The official language is English, making it easily accessible for business and leisure travellers.
Why Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship is Appealing:
- Mobility: One of the main attractions of the Antigua and Barbuda passport is the visa-free or visa-on-arrival access it offers to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Zone, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
- Tax Benefits: The nation practices a favourable tax regime. Citizens benefit from no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or global taxation on personal income.
- Quality of Life: Beyond its sandy shores, the islands offer excellent healthcare and educational facilities, making it suitable for families. The country also boasts a low crime rate, ensuring a peaceful environment for its residents.
- Ease of Investment: The Antigua and Barbuda government has simplified acquiring citizenship through investment. Options range from real estate investments, contributions to the National Development Fund, or investments in business ventures.
- Minimal Residency Requirement: To retain their citizenship, individuals must spend a minimum of only 5 days in Antigua and Barbuda, allowing for significant flexibility.
- Cultural and Natural Richness: As a citizen, one can immerse in the nation’s vibrant cultural festivals and enjoy nature’s wonders, such as the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda.
- Growing Economy: The nation has a burgeoning economy, particularly in sectors like tourism, real estate, and finance. This provides ample business opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs.
Entrusted with your dreams, Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) ensures a meticulous yet straightforward process. Each application undergoes rigorous due diligence, ensuring this esteemed program retains its global reputation. Once embarking on this journey, you could be the proud owner of an Antiguan and Barbudan passport in just 3-6 months.
Upon receipt of your passport, you are invited to spend at least five memorable days in these paradise islands during the first five years of your newfound citizenship. Acquiring citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda provides a passport with significant global mobility and an opportunity to be part of a culturally rich, economically stable, and naturally breathtaking nation. For individuals looking for a mix of business and leisure opportunities in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment program stands as one of the most attractive options available.
For further information or inquiries, contact our specialists at CBF. With our experienced licensed agents on board, we can guide you to the optimal investment route for acquiring the Antigua and Barbuda passport.
