The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program allows foreign investors to get citizenship in exchange for an economic contribution to the nation, without significant residency requirements.
The program grants qualified investors and their families an idyllic life on a tropical island nation and an Antigua and Barbuda passport offering the opportunity to travel visa free to 151 countries.
Making a significant financial investment is the primary requirement, starting with a non-refundable donation of $230,000 to the country’s government fund, which supports national development projects in the nation.
This guide breaks down Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply step-by-step.
- Antigua CBI Program overview
- Antigua and Barbuda citizenship benefits
- Eligibility criteria for Antigua and Barbuda CBI
- Antigua and Barbuda CBI investment options
- Required documents for Antigua citizenship
- Antigua citizenship by investment application process
- Fees and charges for Antigua and Barbuda CBI
Key Program Details
- Visa free countries: 151
- Visa free to Schengen Area: Yes
- Formation: 2013
- Purpose: To attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.
- Tax framework: No income taxes
- Processing time: 6 months
- Minimum government fund contribution: $230,000
- Minimum education fund contribution: $260,000
- Minimum real estate investment: $300,000
- Minimum total for one applicant: $259,100
- Minimum total family of four: $267,900
- Eligible dependents:
- Spouse
- Children under 30 or with disabilities
- Parents and grandparents over 55 or with disabilities
- Unmarried siblings
- Passport validity:
- 10 years for citizens 16 and over
- 5 years for minors under 16
- Visit or residency requirement: Five days in the first five years
- Citizenship interview: Yes (virtual)
Overview of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Act of 2013 was established to promote economic growth by attracting foreign direct investment to support social and infrastructure development, ensuring a sustainable future for the country.
The program is overseen by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), the government authority responsible for handling qualifying investments, donations, and due diligence checks of eligible citizenship applicants.
To be granted citizenship and an Antigua and Barbuda passport, foreign investors have four investment options, starting from $230,000:
- Contributing to the National Development Fund (NDF)
- Investment in approved real estate projects
- Establishing an approved business
- Donating to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
Antigua and Barbuda allows dual citizenship, permitting Antiguans and Barbudans to obtain multiple citizenships. Successful applicants and their families are granted second passports, which allow them to access 151 countries without visas, including the UK, the EU Schengen Area, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, and China.
Benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
- Member of CARICOM and OECS: Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy the regional benefits of being citizens of the Caribbean Community and Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.
- Favorable tax regime: The Antigua and Barbuda tax regime does not impose personal income tax, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
- Visa free travel: Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can travel visa free to 151 countries, including EU Schengen states, the UK, China, and Russia.
- Extensive family inclusion: Dependent family members, including a spouse, children, parents, and grandparents, qualify for citizenship by investment.
- Investment after initial approval: The qualifying investment is made after receiving pre-approval, increasing confidence and reducing risk.
- Fast processing time: Antigua and Barbuda has the fastest citizenship timeline among Caribbean CBI countries, granting citizenship within six months.
- Security of a Plan B: Antigua and Barbuda provides a solid Plan B to ensure financial stability and access to a safer, more politically stable environment.
- No language or history exams: There are no language or cultural knowledge tests and no requirement to visit Antigua and Barbuda during the application process.
- Dual citizenship: Antigua and Barbuda allows dual citizenship, permitting successful applicants to maintain multiple citizenships and all privileges of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.
- Citizenship for future generations: Successful CBI applicants can pass citizenship down to a future spouse or future children.
- Long-term US Visa eligibility: Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can apply for a ten-year US visitor visa.
- Residence and Work Rights: Successful applicants can live, work, and study in Antigua and Barbuda, as well as other member states of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Access to healthcare: All Antigua and Barbuda citizens have access to healthcare from both public and private facilities.
Eligibility Criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Main applicant
- Over 18 years old
- Of excellent character (proved through bank statements and employer references)
- Clean criminal record
- In good health
- Take an Oath of Allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda
- Spend a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years of obtaining citizenship
Qualifying dependents
- Spouse or future spouse
- Children of the main applicant or their spouse:
- Under 18 years old
- Aged 18 to 30, if supported by the main applicant or spouse (as well as their spouse and dependent children)
- Aged 18 or over who are physically/mentally challenged
- Dependent parents or grandparents of the main applicant or their spouse:
- Aged 55 or above and fully dependent
- Who are physically/mentally challenged
- Unmarried siblings of the main applicant or spouse
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Act treats biological, stepchildren, and legally adopted children equally. The Act allows financially dependent stepchildren and legally adopted children of the main applicant or their spouse to obtain citizenship.
Restricted countries
- Afghanistan
- Iran
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Yemen
- Sudan
- Russia
- Belarus
Specific individuals can apply for citizenship, provided:
- They migrated before the age of majority and/or have maintained permanent residence in any country other than those on the restricted country list for a period of at least ten years
- Have maintained no economic ties to any restricted country
Qualifying individuals born in restricted countries may incur additional costs to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport due to enhanced due diligence requirements.
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Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Several investment options are available from $230,000, including contributions to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund (NDF), investing in a joint or sole business venture, investments in approved real estate, or donations to the University of the West Indies Fund.
1. National Development Fund contribution
Obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda is possible following significant economic contributions of at least $230,000 (for a family of up to four) to the National Development Fund.
| National Development Fund | Single Applicant | Family of Up to Four | Family of 5 or more |
| Minimum Donation | $230,000 | $245,000 | |
| Processing Fee | $10,000 | $20,000 | +$10,000 for each additional applicant |
2. Approved real estate investment
Real estate investment applicants can make an Antigua and Barbuda real estate investment worth at least $300,000 in a government-approved real estate project, which include private homes and luxury resorts. Investment properties must be held for at least five years.
| Real Estate Investment | Single Applicant | Family of Up to Four | Additional Family Member |
| Minimum Investment | $300,000 | ||
| Processing Fee | $10,000 | $20,000 | +$10,000 for each additional applicant |
3. University of the West Indies Fund donation
The main applicant must make a non-refundable donation of $260,000 to the University of the West Indies Fund. The University of the West Indies Fund (UWI) option has no additional investment requirement or processing fees, making it suitable for large families of six or more. It also entitles one family member to a one-year, tuition-only scholarship at UWI.
| University of the West Indies Fund | Family of 6 or More | Additional Family Member |
| Minimum Donation | $260,000 | |
| Processing Fee | No fee | $10,000 for each additional applicant |
4. Approved business investment
There are two approved business investment options to qualify for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship program: Invest $1.5 million as a solo investor or make a joint investment by contributing $400,000 to an approved business enter valued at least $5 million. Approved industries include tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.
| Business Investment | Single Applicant | Family of Up to Four | Additional Family Member |
| Minimum Donation | OPTION 1: $1.5 million as a solo investor OPTION 2: $400,000 (in a $5 million joint enterprise) | ||
| Processing Fee | $10,000 | $20,000 | $10,000 for each additional applicant |
Important things to consider
- Minimum investment threshold: The minimum investment amount to make a family eligible for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment depends on the number of family members. The NDF qualifies a single applicant or family of four with a non-refundable contribution of $230,000. Including additional family members increases the required contribution by $15,000.
Required Documents for the Antigua Citizenship by Investment Program
As stated on the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment official website, cip.gov.ag, during the application, all documentation provided will go through a strict due diligence process adhering to the Antigua and Barbuda Official Unit (CIU) regulations, the government authority responsible for managing citizenship applicants.
The following documents are required:
Application forms:
- Citizenship by Investment Application Form AB1
- Photograph and Signature Certificate Form AB2
- Medical Certificate Form AB3
- Investment Confirmation Form AB4
- Licensed Agent Form Form AB5
Passport application forms:
- Antigua & Barbuda Passport L Form (16 and older)
- Antigua & Barbuda Passport M Form (Under 16)
Investment options
- Real Estate Developer Application Form AB8
- Business Investment Application Form AB9
Forms for Agents & Representatives:
- Representatives and Service Providers Form AB6
- Agent’s License Form Form AB7
Required documents for submission:
- Completed AB1-5 application forms
- Completed citizenship by investment forms, according to which of the investment options is chosen, AB8-AB9.
- Original Police Certificate from the country of citizenship or residence. This document is required for each country in which the person lived for 6 consecutive months or longer since reaching the age of 18.
- Original excerpt of the full birth record or certified copy of the birth certificate.
- Certified copy of proof of name change [if applicable].
- Certified copy of current passport(s) showing name, photo citizenship/nationality, date and place of issue, expiry date, passport number, and issuing country.
- Eight original passport-sized photos of each applicant taken within the last six months. One of the photos in each set of 8 must be certified.
- Medical Certificate including original results of an HIV test (an HIV test is required for all persons twelve (12) years and older applying for citizenship. The HIV test results must be not older than three months.
Other supporting documents required from the main applicant:
- At least one original bank reference letter issued by an internationally recognized bank, not older than six months.
- At least one original professional reference (e.g., from an attorney, notary public, official accountant, or other professional of similar standing) not older than six months.
- One original document of evidence of residential address (e.g., certified copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement showing full name and address or written confirmation from a bank, attorney, chartered accountant, or notary public).
- Original excerpt of marriage record or certified copy of marriage certificate(s) if applicable (i.e., if married persons apply together).
- Certified copy of divorce documents (if applicable).
- Statement of the source of funds to be invested in Antigua and Barbuda.
- An affidavit of support for each dependent (excluding spouse) over 18 years of age.
- Certified copy of Military Records or exemption from military service (if applicable)
Other documents required for the real estate investment route:
- Copy of duly executed real estate contract (Purchase and Sale Agreement) to be submitted with the application forms.
- Evidence of title transfer, to be submitted after the applicant receives approval in principle.
OBS: This is not an exhaustive list, as the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) may request additional documents if necessary.
Certification of documents
Ensure documents are certified and authenticated in accordance with Antigua and Barbuda immigration law. The certifying person should provide: Full name (in capitals), role, residential/business address, phone number, and email. If a notary public certifies a document as a true copy, authentication is needed through:
- Apostille, following the Hague Convention for jurisdictions that are party to it.
- Validation of the notary public’s certificate by the relevant government department for jurisdictions not part of the convention.
Oath of Allegiance
An Oath of Allegiance to Antigua and Barbuda must be sworn in the presence of a notary public or an individual authorized by the Antigua and Barbuda government to administer oaths for successful applicants and their family to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment. The oath can be taken in Antigua and Barbuda or at an embassy overseas, and it must be live-streamed for the CIU to witness.
Minimum stay requirement
Antigua and Barbuda has historically offered the only Caribbean program that requires applicants to maintain a minimum physical presence in the country.
Although visiting the country is not required to qualify for citizenship, a minimum residency requirement of five days during the first five years of citizenship is required to maintain citizenship status.
Leaders from all five Caribbean CBI nations announced a unified plan to introduce a 30-day minimum stay requirement for CBI applicants, with formal guidelines set for 2025.
Steps on How to Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Potential applicants must submit their citizenship application to an authorized agent licensed by the CIU.
| 1. Choose your investment route: Decide which of the four investment routes best aligns with your goals |
| 2. Select an Authorized Agent: From CIU’s list of approved Authorized Agents, choose one to submit your citizenship application. |
| 3. Complete all application forms: Complete all the forms and necessary documents as provided by your Authorized Agent. |
| 4. Submit your application: Your dedicated Investment Migration Specialist will submit the citizenship application on your behalf. |
| 5. Take the citizenship interview: As part of the citizenship process, you must complete the mandatory interview requirement, which can be done virtually. |
| 6. Receive the CIU approval of application: Within four to five months of submission, you will receive a confirmation letter with the status ‘approved in principle.’ |
| 7. Make your investment: Make the required investment and send proof to the CIU. |
| 8. Become a citizen: Take the oath or affirmation of allegiance at an Embassy, High Commission, or Consular Office of Antigua and Barbuda, and become a citizen. |
*The Antigua CIU only accepts citizen applications submitted by Authorized Agents.
Citizenship processing time
The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship timeline is about six months, beginning from submitting the complete application to issuing citizenship documents.
Month one (preparation)
- Choose the qualifying investment
- Choose an Authorized Agent
- Prepare the required documents and submit to the CIU
Months two to four (processing)
- The CIU outsources background checks
- Complete the virtual interview
- Make the required investment
Months four to six (Approval)
- Pay the passport fee and obtain a Certificate of Registration
- Obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport
Fees and Processing Charges of Antigua CBI
Besides the required investment, obtaining direct citizenship requires paying fees to complete the application process:
- Government fee (processing fee)
- Due diligence fee
- Interview fee
- Passport fee
- Courier fee
| Fee | Main Applicant | Spouse | Dependent (Over18) | Dependent (12 to 17) | Dependent (Under 12) |
| Due Diligence Fee | $7,000 | $5,000 | $4,000 per applicant | $2,000 per applicant (16 and over) | N/A |
| Interview Fee | $1,500 per applicant | N/A | |||
| Passport Fee | $300 per passport | ||||
Regarding processing fees, the amount is determined by the investment chosen and the number of dependents included. For contributions to the NDF and business and real estate investments, investors must pay a processing fee of $10,000 as a single applicant or $20,000 for up to four family members, and $10,000 for each additional family member. Antigua and Barbuda CBI lawyers determine their own fees to hand applications.
In contrast, the University of the West Indies Fund option does not entail a government processing fee for the principal applicant and up to five dependents. The courier fee varies dependent on the licensed agent, typically costing about $300 per applicant.
Including eligible dependents post citizenship approval
- Spouse or other dependent aged 18 or over: $50,000
- Dependent child aged five or younger: $10,000
- Dependent child aged 6 to 17: $20,000
Estimated expenses for a family of four
Here is an example of the estimated Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment cost for a family of four, including government fees. The example includes a primary applicant, spouse, and two children aged 9 and 17.
| Costs | NDF Contribution | Real Estate Investment | UWI Fund Contribution | Business Investment (Joint) |
| Investment Required | $230,000 | $300,000 | $260,000 | $400,000 |
| Processing Fee | $20,000 | $20,000 | No fee | $20,000 |
| Due Diligence Fee | $14,000 | $14,000 | $14,000 | $14,000 |
| Interview Fee | $4,500 | $4,500 | $4,500 | $4,500 |
| Passport Fee | $1,200 | $1,200 | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Total | $269,700 | $339,700 | $279,700 | $439,700 |
Antigua and Barbuda CBI Comparison with Other Caribbean Nations
The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program is one of five Caribbean citizenship programs. Here is a brief comparison of the highlights of each Caribbean citizenship by investment program:
- Antigua and Barbuda: Offers the most affordable Caribbean citizenship by investment program for a family of four.
- Dominica: Offers the most option to purchase property and acquire citizenship.
- Grenada: Is the only Caribbean CBI country offering eligibility to the US E2 Visa program.
- St Kitts and Nevis: Was the first country to establish a citizenship by investment program.
- St Lucia: Provides the most diverse investment options.
About Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is a sovereign Commonwealt country in the Eastern Caribbean. It is famous for its 365 beaches and inviting paradise, which attract large numbers of affluent travelers and celebrities. For that reason, tourism is the primary driver of Antigua’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), generating around 60 percent of the country’s GDP. The US, Canada, and Europe are the primary targets of tourism in Antigua and Barbuda.
As a member of the United Nations, the British Commonwealth, CARICOM, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the Organisation of American States (OAS), Antigua and Barbuda contributes to international cooperation on trade, security, and development.
The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program was established in 2013 to improve national development, and the Global Citizen Solutions rated it as the top citizenship program in its Global Residency and Citizenship by Investment Report. The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) was formed by the Honourable Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda to govern the program, process all applications, and issue and monitor Authorized Agent licenses.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship byCitizenship by investment- Investment options investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
