Professional Guide to Antigua Barbuda Citizenship by Investment in 2024

Are you considering Antigua Barbuda citizenship for its economic benefits and global mobility? Our comprehensive guide explains how the Citizenship by Investment program can unlock a world of opportunities, from visa-free travel to favorable tax conditions. Learn about the application process, eligibility, and what to expect once you become a citizen of this vibrant Caribbean nation.

Key Takeaways

• The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, started in 2013, is designed to attract foreign investors and has contributed to the nation’s economic growth with funds used for enhancing public services, infrastructure, and the quality of life for residents.
• Eligibility for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment requires applicants to be over 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, and pass due diligence checks. The program is inclusive, allowing for family inclusions such as dependent children, siblings, parents, and grandparents.
• Antigua and Barbuda offer multiple investment routes for citizenship, including contributions to the National Development Fund, real estate, and business investments, with the added benefits of tax advantages and global mobility through visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries.

Understanding Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Established in 2013, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program has rapidly grown into a significant contributor to the nation’s revenue. This program, which is overseen by the Citizenship by Investment Unit, has been designed to attract foreign investments that spur economic growth. The funds generated from program are used to:

• Foster the economic infrastructure of Antigua and Barbuda
• Develop industries such as tourism, real estate, and agriculture
• Improve public services and utilities
• Enhance the quality of life for residents

These investments make Antigua an attractive destination for investors looking to contribute to the country’s development while gaining citizenship.

Antigua and Barbuda stand out on the global stage for the following reasons:

• They offer citizenship to stateless persons
• They have crypto-friendly policies
• They have a robust tourism infrastructure
• Successful applicants can enjoy visa-free travel to over 140 countries
• They have a tax-friendly regime

These factors make Antigua and Barbuda an attractive destination for investors and global citizens.

Program Evolution

The Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) in Antigua and Barbuda was initiated in early 2013 following a Senate vote. Since its launch, the program has constantly evolved to ensure its appeal to global investors. One such enhancement was the introduction of a stipulation requiring investors to spend a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda.

The program has also made strides in increasing transparency. This is mainly seen in the National Development Fund option, which is preferred by the majority of applicants. This option includes stringent parliamentary oversight and regular detailed reports. This level of transparency ensures that the investors can track how their investments are utilized, thereby fostering trust in the program.

Key Objectives

The primary aim of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program is to:

• Stimulate Economic Growth: By inviting foreign investors to contribute financially, the program aims to inject capital into the Antigua and Barbuda economy, accelerating development across various sectors. This infusion of funds is vital for maintaining the country’s economic momentum and ensuring sustained growth.
• Support Government Projects: A significant portion of the investments received through the program is earmarked for government-led initiatives. These projects span a wide array of critical areas, including education, healthcare, and public services, all of which are foundational to the nation’s social fabric and collective well-being.
• Enhance Infrastructure Development: Recognizing the crucial role of infrastructure in national development, contributions from the citizenship program are strategically invested in the enhancement of key facilities. One of the standout focuses is on upgrading airport facilities, acknowledging the critical part they play in bolstering Antigua and Barbuda’s GDP by facilitating tourism and international business activities.
• Diversify the Economy: By channeling investment into various sectors, the program also aims to diversify the nation’s economic portfolio. This strategic diversification is essential for reducing dependency on a limited number of income sources, thereby insulating the economy from sector-specific downturns and promoting a more resilient economic structure.
• Create Job Opportunities: The influx of investments contributes to job creation, directly and indirectly. As projects get underway and businesses expand, new employment opportunities emerge, benefiting the local workforce and contributing to the reduction of unemployment rates.
• Enhance International Relations: The program serves as a bridge between Antigua and Barbuda and the global community. By attracting international investors, the nation not only benefits economically but also strengthens its ties with other countries, enhancing its standing on the global stage.
• Promote Sustainable Development: With an emphasis on funding projects that align with sustainable development goals, the program ensures that growth does not come at the expense of environmental degradation or social inequality. Investments are guided towards initiatives that promise long-term benefits for the nation and its people, balancing economic advancements with environmental stewardship and social equity.

Eligibility Criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

For you to be eligible for citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda, you must meet certain criteria. The main applicant must be over 18 years of age, possess a clean criminal record, and successfully pass thorough due diligence checks. The program does not impose any requirements regarding language proficiency, education, or management experience, making it accessible to a wider pool of investors.

Applicants are also allowed to include family members as dependents in their citizenship application. Dependents can include:

• unmarried siblings of the main applicant or their spouse who are financially dependent
• children up to 30 years old
• parents aged 55 and above who live with and are supported by the main applicant

However, it is important to note that investors cannot apply for citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda on their own; they must go through the stipulated processes.

Personal Requirements

In addition to the eligibility criteria, there are several personal requirements that applicants must meet. These include:

• A non-refundable due diligence fee for thorough background checks to ensure that applicants have no criminal records or dubious financial history
• Attending an interview as part of the due diligence and vetting procedures
• Dependents over 12 years old are also subject to due diligence checks.

Applicants must be of good character, which involves being in good health and having a clean criminal record. They must also submit a comprehensive dossier that includes a birth certificate, valid passport copies, police clearance certificate, proof of residence and address, and financial references.

Family Inclusions

One of the unique aspects of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program is its provision for family inclusions. The main applicant can include dependent children under 30 years, dependent parents or grandparents over 55 years, and unmarried siblings without age limits in the Antigua citizenship application. However, additional government fees are attracted for each dependent included in the application.

Financial Implications and Due Diligence

While the family inclusion provision adds significant value to the citizenship application, it does come with additional financial obligations. Each dependent added to the application attracts specific government fees, reflecting the costs associated with processing their inclusion and the issuance of citizenship documents and passports.

Furthermore, to maintain the integrity of the program and ensure the safety and security of Antigua and Barbuda, all additional dependents are required to undergo the same rigorous due diligence checks as the main applicant. These checks are critical for assessing the background and credibility of all individuals included in the citizenship application, safeguarding against any potential risks.

In addition to the due diligence fees, dependent-specific fees and passport fees are also applicable. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing the additional applications and the issuance of passports, ensuring that all family members enjoy the full benefits of Antiguan and Barbudan citizenship.

Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda offer several investment routes to potential citizens. These include contributions to the National Development Fund, real estate investments, the UWI Education Fund and the establishment of a company. Each of these options has its distinct requirements and benefits, allowing investors to choose the one that best suits their financial capabilities and investment goals.

For instance, a contribution to the National Development Fund requires a minimum investment of $100,000 for a single applicant, exclusive of due diligence and processing fees. The UWI Education Fund provides an alternative donation route for larger families, with a minimum contribution starting at $150,000 for a family of six or more. On the other hand, investment in real estate requires a minimum commitment of $200,000, while business investment options require a more significant contribution.

National Development Fund (NDF)

The National Development Fund (NDF) is a non-profit fund established under the Finance Administration Act 2006. Its main task is to fund government-sponsored projects and approved charitable investments. For a single applicant or a family of four or less, the NDF requires a one-time contribution of $100,000. Families of five or more are required to contribute $125,000, with specific offers available for larger families.

Contributions to the NDF provide a significant source of revenue for the government, aiding in projects that improve the lives of residents and support the nation’s development. Government fee, in the form of due diligence fees for the NDF application, are $7,500 for the investor and spouse, $2,000 for children aged 12-16, and $4,000 for dependent parents, siblings, and children aged 17 or older.

Real Estate Investment

For those interested in real estate, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program offers a viable path. To qualify for citizenship by investment through real estate, an investor must make a minimum investment of $400,000 in a government-approved project individually or a joint purchase split between each applicant investing at least $200,000.

It is crucial to note the following requirements when applying for citizenship by investment under the real estate option:

1. The invested real estate can only be resold after a minimum of five years, unless it is being sold to a subsequent Citizenship by Investment applicant for an officially approved real estate property.
2. An applicant must sign a purchase and sale agreement.
3. An applicant must pay due diligence fees along with part of the government processing fee upfront.

Business Investment

For those who prefer to invest in businesses, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program provides an attractive option. The business investment option includes a minimum investment of $1.5 million as a sole investor or a joint business venture with a minimum total investment of $5 million, in which each investor contributes at least $400,000.

Investment in eligible businesses, whether existing or proposed, is required to contribute to job creation and the economic development of Antigua and Barbuda. To ensure the business’s legitimacy and potential contribution to the nation’s economy, applicants must submit a comprehensive business proposal and provide evidence of funds, which will undergo a strict due diligence process.

University of the West Indies (UWI)

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program includes a unique option that combines the pursuit of global citizenship with the support of higher education in the Caribbean region. This option involves making a minimum non-refundable contribution of USD 150,000 to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund. This contribution not only opens the door to citizenship for the donor and their family but also directly benefits the educational landscape of the Caribbean by supporting one of its premier institutions.

Investment Amounts and Fees

When considering the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program, it’s crucial to be aware that the investment amounts and associated fees are not static. These financial requirements are determined by the government and can be adjusted based on economic factors, policy changes, or in response to the program’s evolving needs. As such, prospective investors must undertake due diligence by consulting with official government sources.

Additionally, seeking guidance from professional advisors who specialize in citizenship by investment programs is highly recommended. These experts are well-versed in the latest developments, investment thresholds, and fee structures. They can provide tailored advice based on an individual’s specific circumstances, investment goals, and family considerations. Professional advisors can also assist with navigating the application process, ensuring that all legal and financial documentation meets the program’s requirements and is submitted correctly.

Tax Advantages of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

One of the most attractive features of obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is the tax advantages it offers. Antigua and Barbuda do not levy tax on worldwide income, making it an appealing destination for investors looking for tax-friendly regimes. This means that your global income, whether it comes from your business, investments, or salary, is not subject to tax in Antigua and Barbuda.

Moreover, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda do not have to pay capital gains tax, tax personal income, or inheritance taxes. This provides significant financial benefits, especially for those with substantial assets or investments. Additionally, establishing tax residency in Antigua can prevent double taxation in countries that have taxation treaties with Antigua and Barbuda.

Global Mobility with an Antigua and Barbuda Passport

Having an Antigua and Barbuda passport, also known as an Antigua passport, offers significant global mobility benefits. Passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including:

• All Schengen Area countries
• South Korea
• Singapore
• The United Kingdom
• Canada

This privilege of visa free access allows for easier international travel, whether for business, leisure, or family visits.

Through the Citizenship by Investment Program, citizens can be granted citizenship and:

• Apply for a ten-year B-1/B-2 visa for the United States
• Spend up to 180 consecutive days in the UK
• Acquire an Electronic Travel Authorization for certain countries before traveling

This level of global mobility positions the Antigua and Barbuda passport highly on the global stage, enabling its citizens to traverse the world with relative ease.

Living in Antigua and Barbuda

Living in Antigua and Barbuda is a unique experience. The country offers a high quality of life, a welcoming community, and numerous cultural amenities. Residents can enjoy the nation’s diverse landscapes and commercial hubs like the capital, St. John’s, which offers shopping, arts, culinary experiences, and historic sights.

Antigua and Barbuda also boast:

• a relatively lower cost of living compared to countries like the US or UK, making it an affordable destination
• a high adult literacy rate of 99.0%, with 12 years of compulsory education starting at age five
• higher education institutions like Antigua State College and the University of the West Indies.

Application Process and Timeline

The application process for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is straightforward and typically takes 6-9 months for processing, with an additional 2-6 weeks for document gathering. The initial consultation to select an investment option and estimate costs is typically completed within one day. Preparation and submission of the application, including notarized and legalized documents and medical certificates, can take between 2 and 4 weeks.

After this, the documents are reviewed for validity before being submitted to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship-by-Investment Unit. Government processing, including due diligence checks, takes between 6 to 9 months. After receiving government approval, the investment must be completed within 30 days.

Passports are then sent to the applicants approximately 4 weeks after completing the investment.

Working with a Professional Firm as Part of the Citizenship by Investment Program

Working with a specialists can significantly streamline the citizenship application process. A proffesional firm, such as Imperial Citizenship, is a consulting company that assists applicants at every stage of obtaining citizenship by investment, offering assessment of options, application facilitification, and compliance assistance.

Specialists guide investors through a structured application process, ensuring completeness and adherence to complex legal requirements which reduces the likelihood of application denial due to non-compliance. With their expertise, specialists minimize risks of application rejection or citizenship revocation, and provide assistance that is beneficial to investors.

Renewing and Maintaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

Once you have obtained your Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, it is important to know how to maintain it. To maintain your citizenship, a minimum five-day stay on the islands is required within the first five years of obtaining citizenship. After the initial five-year period, Antigua and Barbuda do not impose a minimum stay requirement to maintain citizenship.

Renewing your Antigua and Barbuda passport is straightforward, with a standard processing time of approximately ten working days. The initial passport is valid for five years, with subsequent renewals providing a ten-year validity period. For passport renewal, individuals must submit the following documents:

• Application forms
• The expired passport
• Passport photos
• Proof of the five-day stay
• If applicable, a sworn affidavit documenting personal detail changes.

Summary

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment offers numerous benefits, from fiscal advantages to global mobility. With a straightforward application process, flexible investment options, and the ability to include family members, it is an attractive option for investors seeking dual citizenship. While the process may seem complex, working with a professional firm can ease the journey. It’s time to take the leap and explore the opportunities that Antigua and Barbuda citizenship can offer you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get an Antigua and Barbuda passport?

To get an Antigua and Barbuda passport, you can obtain citizenship through investment by contributing to the National Development Fund or investing in real estate/business. Additionally, you must meet all eligibility criteria during the stringent application process. Good luck!

How much does it cost to become a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda?

Becoming a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda can cost a minimum of $100,000 for a contribution to the National Development Fund, with other investment options available at higher amounts. Keep this in mind if considering citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda.

What are the benefits of obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship offers benefits such as visa-free travel to over 140 countries, no worldwide income tax, and a high quality of life. These advantages make it an appealing option for many individuals.

Who can be included in the citizenship application?

You can include your dependent children, parents, and unmarried siblings in your citizenship application. This allows family members to apply together and potentially gain citizenship at the same time.

How long does the application process take?

The application process usually takes 6-9 months for processing, and additional time is needed for document gathering. It is important to plan accordingly for the potential timeline.