Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda

After careful thinking, you’ve decided that you want to retire abroad. No wonder why: Retiring abroad can upscale your lifestyle, give you access to tax benefits, and allow you to enjoy stunning places at decent costs. With its tropical weather, turquoise waters, sandy white beaches, and great tax benefits, Antigua and Barbuda is a paradise for many retirees. If you’re still undecided or need more information about retiring in Antigua and Barbuda, this guide is for you. We tell you why retiring

Benefits of Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda exclusive lifestyle in the Caribbean

Antigua and Barbuda has the reputation of being the ‘Romantic Caribbean island.’ Every year newlyweds come in droves to spend their honeymoons in the country. It is easy to understand why: Antigua and Barbuda is magnificent. With its 365 sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, breathtaking reefs, and prime vegetation, one can’t help but feel in paradise.

Whether you are into shopping, sailing, or hiking, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Antigua. Since Antigua and Barbuda islands are themselves very different, they’ll accommodate different tastes. Antigua is the economic heart of the country and provides for exclusive services and infrastructures, while Barbuda is less developed and a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Boasting a very low crime rate, the country is also ideal for retirees seeking to live peacefully, with great weather. For those worried about being stranded on the island, do not worry, Antigua and Barbuda has a brand new international airport located in St John — the capital city — with direct flights to the US, Canada, and Europe.

Antigua and Barbuda cost of living for retirees

Antigua and Barbuda’s cost of living is higher than the rest of the Caribbean countries. This is mostly due to the country’s tourist profile combined with a high demand to live here.

Living in Antigua and Barbuda is approximately 20 percent cheaper than in the US. Therefore, you need to be aware that retiring in Antigua and Barbuda won’t necessarily be cheap, but that is to be expected in a place where the quality of life is optimal.

A good thing to point out is that renting in Antigua and Barbuda is very affordable. You’ll pay around $740 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center and around $370 if located outside the city center. The cost of utilities is about the same price as in Europe or the US.

Healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda

There are two main medical facilities in Antigua and Barbuda that provide high-quality healthcare: Mount St. John’s Medical Hospital and the Adelin Private Clinic — both located in St. John. While these facilities provide high-quality medical care, it is important to be aware that for some types of conditions or treatments, patients may need to seek treatment abroad.

When moving abroad, it is highly recommended to purchase private insurance with full medical coverage. Bupa and Allianz offer very good options for international expats.

Immigration Options to Retire in Antigua and Barbuda

While Antigua and Barbuda does not have a specific immigration scheme for retirees, it does offer a very appealing citizenship by investment program. Launched in 2012, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program gives investors the incredible opportunity to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship in exchange for an economic investment. 

Below are the three investment routes you can take: 

• Make a $230,000 donation to the government’s National Development Fund 
• Buy a $300,000 pre-approved property
• Donate $260,000 to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
• Invest $400,000 to establish a business 

Get unlimited access to the country, enjoy tax benefits, and access to 151 Antigua and Barbuda visa free countries by receiving the Antigua and Barbuda passport.  

Real Estate Investment in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is an excellent place to invest in real estate, especially through the Antigua and Barbuda Golden Visa program, as you’ll qualify for citizenship.

Antigua and Barbuda real estate investment requirements:

• You must buy an Antigua property worth at least $300,000.
• The property must come from a ‘pre-approved’ area and be listed under the government’s approved development projects
• The investment must be held for a minimum of five years

If you’d like to invest in Antigua and Barbuda outside the program, there are many fantastic property options available, ranging from colonial houses and luxury villas to brand-new condos and beautiful beachfront properties. On average, property prices range between $255,000 and $12 million.

Tax Benefits to Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda

Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda is a great ‘plan B’ if you would like to benefit from a more advantageous tax system. In Antigua and Barbuda, citizens by investment are not subjected to Antigua taxes on income, capital gains tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda

Can I retire in Antigua and Barbuda as a foreigner?

Yes, you can definitely retire in Antigua and Barbuda as a foreigner. There is no specific Caribbean immigration service to obtain a retirement visa; however, thanks to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment scheme, you can become an Antigua and Barbuda citizen and obtain a Caribbean passport in exchange for an economic investment.

How is the quality of life in Antigua and Barbuda for retirees?

Antigua and Barbuda offers retirees a fantastic quality of life. Not only will you be able to enjoy first-class beaches and sunny weather all year long, but there are many outdoor activities to pursue in the country. From sailing, snorkeling and kayaking to hiking, golfing and tennis, you’ll never be bored. Retirees also access numerous Antigua real estate investment opportunities.

Is it expensive to retire in Antigua and Barbuda?

Retiring in Antigua and Barbuda is more expensive than in many other Caribbean islands, but this is due to the high quality of life the country offers, and the high demand of people choosing it as a retirement destination.

Is Antigua and Barbuda safe for retirees?

Antigua and Barbuda has a very low crime rate and is considered a safe country for retirees to live by the Caribbean Sea. Jolly Harbour and Falmouth Harbour are two of Antigua’s safest towns, home to large retirement communities.

What are the visa requirements for retiring in Antigua and Barbuda?

The Antigua Tax Residency Program allows retirees to obtain Antigua permanent residency by establishing the country as their tax residency. The Antigua and Barbuda visa requirements for the program are a minimum annual income of $100,000 and an annual flat tax of $20,000; however, the potential tax benefits include a lower overall tax liability. Retirees can also opt for Antigua’s citizenship program by donating $230,000 to the government fund or making a minimum investment of $300,000 in approved real estate.

How can retirees engage with local communities and culture in Antigua and Barbuda?

Retirees can connect with Antigua’s local communities by participating in cultural events like the Antigua Carnival, which showcases the country’s rich heritage through steel bands, dance, and performances celebrating J’ouvert. Additionally, retirees can explore local markets like Colesome Farmers Market to interact with vendors and sample authentic cuisine.

Are there any specific retirement communities or developments in Antigua and Barbuda?

While there are no specific Antigua retirement communities or developments, towns like Jolly Harbour, St Paul, Non Such Bay, and Falmouth Harbour are some of the prime Caribbean destinations for retirees, with many living in properties inside pre-approved real estate developments.