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May 1, 2026
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How to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport: 4 options explained

Foreigners obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship to enjoy visa-free travel to over 150 countries, optimise taxes, and broaden business opportunities.

There are four paths to an Antigua and Barbuda passport: descent, marriage, naturalisation, and investment of at least $230,000. In this article, we explore all of them.

Zlata Erlach
Zlata Erlach
Listed all the ways to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship
Fact checked by Elena RudaElena Ruda
Elena Ruda
Fact checked by Elena Ruda
Elena helped over 500 investors’ families to choose and obtain second citizenship or residency. She knows the pros and cons of each investment option and improves the industry expertise at the company.
Reviewed by Vladlena BaranovaVladlena Baranova
Vladlena Baranova
Reviewed by Vladlena Baranova
Vladlena leads preparation to Due Diligence and application for citizenship or residency by investment. She performs independent and in-depth analysis of investors’ situations and indicates possible risks. Vladlena helped to get second passports and residence permits to over 300 investors from all over the world.
All ways to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship

All ways to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship 

Foreigners can obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through four primary ways:

  • descent, if they have at least one parent or grandparent who is a national of the country;
  • marriage, if they are married to an Antigua and Barbuda citizen;
  • naturalisation, if they have lived in the country for five or more years;
  • investment, if they contribute at least $230,000 to the country’s economy.

Investment is the fastest path, as a passport can be obtained in just over 6 months without the need to live in Antigua and Barbuda.

Under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program, CBI, there are four options:

  1. Non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund: $230,000+.
  2. Contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund: $260,000+.
  3. Purchase of real estate: $300,000+.
  4. Business investment: $400,000+.

Antigua and Barbuda maintains a Restricted Countries List, which currently includes Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan[1]. Nationals of these states are generally not eligible to apply for citizenship by investment. Exceptions may apply if someone left their birth country before becoming an adult, or if they have lived for 10+ years in a non-restricted state without keeping financial links to their home country.

6 benefits of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship

For high-net-worth individuals, obtaining an Antigua and Barbuda passport provides freedom of travel, asset protection, tax optimisation, diversification of business opportunities, and the chance to build a personal safe haven in a politically and economically stable jurisdiction.

1. Visa-free travel

Holders of Antigua and Barbuda passport can travel to over 150 countries without visas. The list includes the Schengen states, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore. 

Antiguans can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, with the rule applying across all member states together rather than per country. Border officers check compliance with this limit, and the EU is introducing the Entry and Exit System, or EES, to make monitoring more accurate. This digital system will record biometric and travel data of non-EU nationals and gradually replace manual passport stamps[2].

To travel to the UK, all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation, ETA[3]. This online permit covers short-term visits for tourism, business, or transit and must be completed prior to departure

2. Favourable taxation 

Antigua and Barbuda does not levy taxes on personal income, wealth, inheritance, or capital gains. Tax residents also do not pay taxes on dividends, interest, or royalties.

Foreigners who buy properties under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program do not pay the land ownership licence fee, which is 5% in other cases.

3. Opportunities for businesses 

Holders of Antigua and Barbuda passports open bank accounts in Antiguan banks with less paperwork. They can secure loans, manage deposits, and conduct transactions.

Entrepreneurs establish companies in Antigua and Barbuda to enter the unified market within the Caribbean Community states and benefit from the free movement of capital, goods, and labour.

One of our clients asked whether, with a portfolio of around €1 million in shares and ETFs, it would be possible to transfer these to an international bank in Antigua and continue remote brokerage. 

The answer is yes: there are banks in Antigua and Barbuda with the necessary financial licences to provide such services. To ensure working only with duly licensed institutions, we always recommend consulting the Financial Services Regulatory Commission, FSRC, which publishes an up‑to‑date directory of licensed international banks.

Vladlena Baranova
Vladlena Baranova
Head of Legal & AML Compliance Department, CAMS, IMCM

4. Dual citizenship is allowed

Antigua and Barbuda recognises dual citizenship, so foreigners can obtain a second passport while retaining their other nationality. This rule applies to nationals of countries that also allow dual or multiple citizenship.

Many states recognise dual citizenship, including the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, and most Caribbean countries. Citizens of these nations can freely hold an Antigua and Barbuda passport without losing their original nationality.

However, some countries, such as China or India, prohibit dual nationality. This means their citizens must renounce their original nationality when obtaining another one.

5. Creation of a safe haven

Antigua and Barbuda citizens can enter the country at any time and stay indefinitely. This can be particularly valuable in the case of instability in their country of origin or residence. 

Antigua and Barbuda is considered safe for travellers and residents. The UK government notes there is no recent history of terrorism in the country and advises only sensible precautions due to occasional incidents of crime[4].

Freedom House rates Antigua and Barbuda as Free, reflecting regular elections and broad protections for civil liberties. The country’s 2025 global freedom score is 83 out of 100[5].

Importantly, there is no requirement to live permanently in Antigua and Barbuda to retain citizenship. Once granted, the passport is valid for life, giving holders the freedom to relocate, use the country as a backup residence, or simply enjoy it as a safe haven when needed.

6. Holidays in a peaceful and beautiful country

With a tropical climate, Antigua and Barbuda enjoys warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for escaping cold seasons. The average air temperature throughout the year is +25…28°C, and the water temperature is +26…29°C.

The islands boast more than 300 beaches that offer powdery white sand and crystal‑clear turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Beyond the beaches, the islands feature lush landscapes, rolling hills, and nature trails.

All ways to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship
The best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda is between mid-December and mid-April when the air temperature is most pleasant

Citizenship by investment

When participating in the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program, the applicants choose one of four options. The minimum investment requirement depends on the chosen option. The investment amount for each option is fixed, regardless of the family composition. 

Non-refundable contribution — at least $230,000. The investor transfers money to the National Development Fund, which distributes it to support healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Purchase of real estate — at least $300,000. Investors buy government-approved properties, which may include apartments or villas in five-star resorts, or shares in such projects[6].

Investors may rent their properties out to earn an annual yield of 2 to 5%. Five years after obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, they are allowed to sell the real estate purchased under the program.

Real estate for sale in Antigua and Barbuda

Share in an oceanfront hotel complex
Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip
$300,000+
Share in an oceanfront hotel complex
How to obtain Antigua and Barbuda passport: 4 options explained
Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip
$350,000 — $400,000
Apartments in a hotel complex by the sea
1
1
How to obtain Antigua and Barbuda passport: 4 options explained
Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Philip
$300,000 — $2,850,000
Share, apartements, townhouse or villa in a resort on the coast of the island
56 m²+
1—5
1—5

Non-refundable donation to a higher education institution — at least $260,000. This option is designed specifically for large families, with a minimum of six people in one application. One of the family members under 29 can enrol at the university and receive a one-year student scholarship.

Business investment — at least $400,000. Investors contribute to government‑approved projects, such as restaurants, bridges, roads, cruise ports, or marinas[7].

There are two ways to support a business:

  1. If the applicant invests alone, they must contribute at least $1.5 million.
  2. If two or more people invest together, each contributes $400,000 or more. The total investment must be at least $5 million.

Additional expenses. In addition to the investment, the applicant is required to pay several fees, including processing, Due Diligence, interview, passport, and bank fees.

The processing fee is $10,000 for a sole investor and $20,000 for a family of up to 4 people. For each additional family member, an extra $10,000 is charged. This applies to all options except the university contribution, where the fee is included in the investment.

The Due Diligence fee is $8,500 for the investor, $5,000 for the spouse, $4,000 for an adult family member, and $2,000 for a child aged 12 to 17. Other fees start at $2,400.

Investor’s expenses under the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program

Investment optionExpenses for a single applicantExpenses for a family of fourExpenses for a family of six
Contribution to the National Development Fund$250,900+$266,800+$287,400+
Contribution to the University of the West Indies FundNot applicableNot applicable$277,400+
Real estate purchase$320,900+$336,800+$357,400+
Business investment$1,520,900+$1,536,800+$1,557,400+

Requirements to obtain Antigua and Barbuda сitizenship by investment

To qualify, applicants must meet personal and family eligibility requirements, submit the required documents, and satisfy physical‑presence conditions. All information is verified through multi‑layered Due Diligence, which includes a mandatory remote interview.

Eligibility criteria

The investor participating in the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program must meet the following requirements:

  • be over 18;
  • have no criminal record;
  • be able to prove the source of investment money;
  • have financial stability;
  • be in good health.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment program allows the inclusion of family members. The main applicant may add a spouse of the opposite sex, children under 30, financially dependent parents or grandparents over 55, and siblings.

Documents 

When applying, the investor provides the following:

  • valid passports of all family members in the application;
  • birth certificate;
  • marriage certificate, if applicable;
  • documents demonstrating the education level for each family member;
  • bank statement for the last 12 months showing cash flow and balance that is not less than the investment amount;
  • recommendation letter from the bank;
  • confirmation of residential address, such as a utility bill;
  • certificate of no criminal record;
  • documents confirming the origin of funds;
  • certificate of negative HIV status;
  • professional recommendation — the recommender must have known the main applicant professionally for at least five years;
  • history of wealth, describing sources of work and business income from the very beginning of the career to the present day. 

All papers must be translated into English, and copies of the documents must be notarised.

Physical presence

Applicants are not required to live in or visit Antigua and Barbuda while obtaining citizenship. However, after citizenship is granted, they must spend at least five days in the country within the first five years.

These flexible residency requirements, combined with the program’s affordability, has made it increasingly popular among international investors. The growing interest is reflected in the number of applications submitted over the years, as shown in the chart below.

Antigua passport applications
Number of citizenship by investment applications in Antigua and Barbuda steadily increased after 2020, reaching a record 739 applications in the first half of 2024

Citizenship by birth or descent

Persons born in Antigua and Barbuda are considered citizens by birth. This also applies to children born aboard a ship or aircraft registered in Antigua and Barbuda, as well as children found in the territory of the country if their parents cannot be identified.

Foreigners can obtain citizenship by descent if they have at least one parent or grandparent who is an Antigua and Barbuda citizen. Children adopted by Antiguans also receive the country’s citizenship.

Applicants for citizenship by descent usually provide the following documents:

  • application form;
  • valid passport;
  • birth certificate;
  • birth certificates of parents or grandparents who are Antiguans;
  • passport-size photos.

In the case of adoption, the application is filed by the adopters, who also attach the adoption certificate.

Citizenship by marriage

Foreigners can become citizens of Antigua and Barbuda if they have been married to a national of Antigua and Barbuda for at least three years, provided the marriage remains intact.

The basic list of documents required includes:

  • application form;
  • valid passport;
  • birth certificate;
  • marriage certificate;
  • passport-size photos.

The authorities may also require proof that the marriage is genuine. Documents such as lease agreements, mortgages, property deeds, vehicle registrations, or correspondence between spouses can serve as evidence.

Citizenship by naturalisation

To acquire citizenship by naturalisation, foreigners must live in Antigua and Barbuda for at least five years out of seven years before the date of the application. They must also continuously reside in the country for 12 months immediately preceding the said date.

Other requirements include being of good character and intending to live in Antigua and Barbuda.

If the person has served the government, they are not obliged to live in Antigua and Barbuda for the full term.

The basic list of documents provided by the applicant includes:

  • application form;
  • valid passport;
  • birth certificate;
  • marriage certificate, if applicable;
  • police clearance certificate;
  • bank statements;
  • passport-size photos.

All the documents are submitted to the Passport Office in St John’s.

When requesting citizenship by naturalisation, the foreigner pays an application fee of 200 Eastern Caribbean dollars or $74, and 5,000 Eastern Caribbean dollars or $1,850 for granting a certificate of naturalisation.

Antigua and Barbuda dual citizenship

Antigua and Barbuda allows its citizens to hold dual or even multiple citizenship. This flexibility means that individuals can retain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of an Antigua and Barbuda second passport.

It is important for potential applicants to understand their home country’s laws on dual citizenship. Some countries impose restrictions or conditions that may affect those wishing to hold more than one nationality. Therefore, thorough research and legal consultation are advisable to ensure a smooth transition to dual citizenship.

Why Antigua and Barbuda is more than a holiday destination and what its investment program offers

How to apply for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship: step-by-step process

Based on Immigrant Invest experience, obtaining an Antigua and Barbuda passport by investment takes at least 6 months. The process is entirely remote and conducted by a licensed agent.

PT2M
1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence
Preliminary Due Diligence

Immigrant Invest performs an initial assessment of the applicant to identify any potential refusal risks. If issues are detected, the legal team suggests solutions, such as gathering additional documents or selecting a different program. For this stage, the applicant only needs to provide their passport.

Preliminary Due Diligence reduces refusal risks to 1%.

Upon a successful check, Immigrant Invest enters into an agreement with the applicant.

3 to 5 weeks
Collection of documents
Collection of documents

Lawyers compile a list of necessary documents for the applicant to gather and submit. Then, lawyers get the papers notarised and apostilled and fill out the required forms. If needed, certified translators are arranged by the legal team.

The documents are then submitted to the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit.

6+ months
Due Diligence
Due Diligence

Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda conduct thorough checks using international databases like Interpol and Europol, as well as online resources. If further information is required, they may request additional documents, which could extend the review period.

1 day
Interview
Interview

All applicants over 16 must undergo an interview, which is conducted online in English or the applicants’ native language. All family members participate in the interview together with the investor. This is part of the Due Diligence process.

Up to 1 month
Fulfilment of investment requirements
Fulfilment of investment requirements

The applicant proceeds with the investment only after receiving approval from the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit.

It is not required to come to the country at this stage as the investment is made remotely.

Up to 1 month
Receiving citizenship documents
Receiving citizenship documents

After completing the process, investors take an oath of allegiance via video conference, at the consulate, or in Antigua and Barbuda.

Passports and naturalisation certificates can be picked up at Immigrant Invest’s office or delivered by courier to a preferred address.

Mandatory interview for citizenship applicants

Since 2023, all applicants for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment over 16 must complete a mandatory remote interview[8]. While Caribbean nations have long applied strict Due Diligence checks, the formal interview is a relatively new measure introduced to further strengthen the integrity of the application process. 

In Antigua and Barbuda, the interview is usually conducted by government officials, though in some cases, independent third‑party Due Diligence firms may also be involved.

Interview format and content

The interview is conducted remotely via secure video conference, allowing applicants to participate from their current location. Its purpose is to confirm the applicant’s identity and to clarify or verify the information provided in the application, rather than to test knowledge of Antigua and Barbuda’s history, laws, or language.

Questions typically focus on:

  • applicant’s personal background;
  • source of funds used for the investment;
  • reasons and goals for obtaining a second citizenship.

The process is concise, usually involving 10—15 questions, and takes less than an hour. 

Interview attendance rules

Interviews are normally held in English, though other languages may be available if required. Applicants must attend alone, ensuring a direct and personal exchange without outside influence. Following the session, officials or Due Diligence firms may request additional documents or clarifications if necessary.

Preparation and support by Immigrant Invest

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth interview. At Immigrant Invest, we guide clients in advance so they understand the format, know what types of questions to expect, and feel ready to discuss their financial background and future plans with confidence. This support helps applicants approach the interview with clarity and ensures their application progresses without delays.

Antigua and Barbuda passport visa‑free countries

An Antigua and Barbuda passport allows one to enter the Schengen Area, Caribbean states, the UK, and some South American countries without visas. 

Other countries, such as South Korea and the Maldives, require Antiguans to obtain an ETA in advance or a visa on arrival at the border. 

For the Schengen Area, a similar pre-travel screening called EES will apply to visa‑exempt visitors and must be completed online before departure once it comes into force. While a standard visa can take several weeks, an ETA, EES or visa on arrival is typically issued within minutes. 

Visa-free countries and conditions for entering

Country Region Condition of entry
Albania Europe Visa-free
Andorra Europe Visa-free
Angola Africa Visa-free
Armenia Middle East Visa upon arrival
Australia Oceania eTA
Austria Europe Visa-free
Bahamas The Caribbean Visa-free
Bahrain Middle East eTA
Bangladesh Asia Visa upon arrival
Barbados The Caribbean Visa-free
Belgium Europe Visa-free
Belize Central America Visa-free
Benin Africa eTA
Bhutan Asia eTA
Bolivia South America Visa upon arrival
Bosnia and Herzegovina Europe Visa-free
Botswana Africa Visa-free
Brazil South America Visa-free
Bulgaria Europe Visa-free
Burkina Faso Africa eTA
Burundi Africa Visa upon arrival
Cambodia Asia Visa upon arrival
Cameroon Africa eTA
Cape Verde Africa Visa upon arrival
Chile South America Visa-free
Colombia South America Visa-free
Comoros Africa Visa upon arrival
Congo-Kinshasa Africa eTA
Costa Rica Central America Visa-free
Croatia Europe Visa-free
Cuba The Caribbean Visa-free
Cyprus Europe Visa-free
Czechia Europe Visa-free
Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Africa eTA
Denmark Europe Visa-free
Djibouti Africa eTA
Dominica The Caribbean Visa-free
Dominican Republic The Caribbean Visa-free
Ecuador South America Visa-free
Egypt Middle East Visa upon arrival
El Salvador Central America Visa-free
Equatorial Guinea Africa eTA
Estonia Europe Visa-free
Eswatini Africa Visa-free
Ethiopia Africa eTA
Fiji Oceania Visa-free
Finland Europe Visa-free
France Europe Visa-free
Gabon Africa eTA
Gambia Africa Visa-free
Georgia Europe Visa-free
Germany Europe Visa-free
Greece Europe Visa-free
Grenada The Caribbeans Visa-free
Guatemala Central America Visa-free
Guinea Africa eTA
Guinea-Bissau Africa Visa upon arrival
Guyana South America Visa-free
Haiti The Caribbean Visa-free
Honduras Central America Visa-free
Hungary Europe Visa-free
Iceland Europe Visa-free
India Asia eTA
Iran Middle East eTA
Ireland Europe Visa-free
Italy Europe Visa-free
Jamaica The Caribbean Visa-free
Jordan Middle East Visa upon arrival
Kazakhstan Asia eTA
Kenya Africa eTA
Kiribati Oceania Visa-free
Kyrgyzstan Asia eTA
Laos Asia Visa upon arrival
Latvia Europe Visa-free
Lebanon Middle East Visa upon arrival
Lesotho Africa Visa-free
Liechtenstein Europe Visa-free
Lithuania Europe Visa-free
Luxembourg Europe Visa-free
Madagascar Africa Visa upon arrival
Malawi Africa Visa-free
Malaysia Asia Visa-free
Maldives Asia Visa upon arrival
Malta Europe Visa-free
Mauritania Africa Visa upon arrival
Mauritius Africa Visa-free
Micronesia Oceania Visa-free
Moldova Europe Visa-free
Monaco Europe Visa-free
Mongolia Asia eTA
Montenegro Europe Visa-free
Mozambique Africa Visa upon arrival
Nepal Asia Visa upon arrival
Netherlands Europe Visa-free
Nicaragua Central America Visa-free
Nigeria Africa eTA
North Macedonia Europe Visa-free
Norway Europe Visa-free
Oman Middle East eTA
Pakistan Middle East eTA
Palau Oceania Visa upon arrival
Panama Central America Visa-free
Papua New Guinea Oceania eTA
Peru South America Visa-free
Philippines Asia Visa-free
Poland Europe Visa-free
Portugal Europe Visa-free
Qatar Middle East Visa upon arrival
Romania Europe Visa-free
Russia Europe Visa-free
Rwanda Africa Visa upon arrival
Samoa Oceania Visa upon arrival
San Marino Europe Visa-free
Serbia Europe Visa-free
Seychelles Africa Visa-free
Sierra Leone Africa Visa upon arrival
Singapore Asia Visa-free
Slovakia Europe Visa-free
Slovenia Europe Visa-free
Solomon Islands Oceania Visa upon arrival
Somalia Africa Visa upon arrival
South Africa Africa Visa-free
South Korea Asia eTA
South Sudan Africa eTA
Spain Europe Visa-free
Sri Lanka Asia eTA
St Kitts and Nevis The Caribbean Visa-free
St Lucia The Caribbean Visa-free
St Vincent and Grenadines The Caribbean Visa-free
Suriname South America Visa-free
Sweden Europe Visa-free
Switzerland Europe Visa-free
São Tomé and Príncipe Africa eTA
Tajikistan Asia eTA
Tanzania Africa Visa-free
Thailand Asia eTA
Timor-Leste Asia Visa upon arrival
Togo Africa Visa upon arrival
Trinidad and Tobago The Caribbean Visa-free
Tunisia Africa Visa-free
Turkey Europe Visa upon arrival
Tuvalu Oceania Visa upon arrival
Uganda Africa Visa-free
Ukraine Europe Visa-free
United Kingdom Europe Visa-free
Uzbekistan Asia Visa-free
Vanuatu Oceania Visa-free
Venezuela South America Visa-free
Vietnam Asia eTA
Zambia Africa Visa-free
Zimbabwe Africa Visa-free
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How to renew an Antigua and Barbuda passport

Antigua and Barbuda issues a first passport valid for five years to new citizens[9]. After fulfilling the requirement of spending at least five days in the country during the first five years, the next passport is typically issued for 10 years.

Citizens can apply in person or through a licensed agent at the Passport Office in St John’s, Antigua, or via Antigua and Barbuda’s overseas consulates and missions.

Processing times vary depending on where the application is submitted, but passports are generally reissued within a few weeks.

When renewing an Antigua passport, applicants must demonstrate that they have met the five-day stay requirement within the first five years of citizenship. To do this, they need to submit any two of the following documents:

  • entry and exit stamps in the Antigua and Barbuda passport;
  • copy of a hotel receipt;
  • boarding pass;
  • confirmation from property management if they own a residence.

Applicants must also provide documents that confirm their residential address in Antigua and Barbuda. This includes a recent utility bill together with either a residential registration, a rental agreement, or a title deed. This requirement ensures that the government has up-to-date contact details and valid proof of residence.

Key things to know about living in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda offers a unique mix of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for residents and investors. The nation consists of two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, with St. John's as the capital and main commercial hub. English is the official language. 

Currency

The currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar, EC$, which is pegged to the US dollar at EC$2.70 for $1. That is EC$1 equals about $0.37. The long-standing peg, maintained by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, supports predictable pricing and financial planning for residents and investors.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is higher than in some other Caribbean nations, mainly due to reliance on imported goods. However, it remains about 20% lower than in the United States or the United Kingdom.

Rental prices vary by location. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,800 per month, while outside the city centre it costs around $1,200. A three‑bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $2,500, and outside the city centre, about $1,500. Basic utilities for an 85‑square‑metre apartment cost around $290 per month.

Due to import costs, staple items can seem expensive. A litre of milk costs about $2.3, and a dozen eggs around $6.24. A meal at a local restaurant averages $9.25, while a three‑course meal for two at a mid‑range restaurant is about $92.5.

Culture and community

The islands celebrate a rich cultural heritage, with events like Carnival featuring music, dance, and traditions. Local cuisine blends African, British, and indigenous influences, with popular dishes like pepperpot and ducana. The welcoming local population fosters a lively and inclusive community atmosphere.

Antigua and Barbuda passport by investment
Nelson Dockyard is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a venue for sailing events, reflecting the rich maritime culture of Antigua and Barbuda

Healthcare and education

Antigua and Barbuda has both public and private healthcare facilities. The main public hospital, Mount St. John's Medical Center in St. John's, offers a variety of services. Residents often opt for private health insurance to cover services not provided by the public healthcare system.

The education system follows the British model, with options ranging from primary schools to higher educational institutions, including a campus of the University of the West Indies. Private and international schools are available for expatriate communities.

Transportation

Public transportation is available but limited, so many residents prefer owning a vehicle. Imported vehicles incur high import duties, and fuel costs are relatively high, with a litre of gas costing around $1.34. Taxis are widely available, and cycling is also popular due to the island's size.

Antigua and Barbuda is well-connected by air, with V.C. Bird International Airport offering flights to major destinations in North America and Europe.

Key takeaways about Antigua and Barbuda citizenship

  1. Foreigners obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by descent, marriage, naturalisation, or investment.
  2. Obtaining citizenship by naturalisation takes at least five years, while citizenship by investment is obtained within 6+ months.
  3. Under the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program, the applicant must invest at least $230,000 in the country’s economy.
  4. Some benefits of an Antigua and Barbuda passport include visa-free travel to over 150 countries, opportunities for business and banking in the Caribbean, tax optimisation, and an opportunity to create a safe haven. 
  5. Antigua and Barbuda recognises dual citizenship.
  6. The first Antigua passport is valid for 5 years, after which it can be renewed for 10 years, provided the holder has spent at least five days in the country during this period.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

The longest path to Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is naturalisation. To obtain a passport this way, foreigners must live in the country for at least 5 years. Citizenship by investment can be obtained in 6+ months.

Marriage is a faster route, requiring the foreigner to be married to an Antigua and Barbuda citizen for three years. There is no specific timeframe for obtaining citizenship by descent, but the process usually takes several months.

What are the benefits of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

Some benefits of the Antigua and Barbuda passport include:

  • visa-free travel to 150+ countries;
  • opportunity to have dual citizenship;
  • creation of a safe have;
  • tax optimisation;
  • simplification of running a business.

Are Antiguans British citizens?

No, Antiguans are not UK citizens. Although Antigua and Barbuda was once a British colony, it gained independence in 1981 and is now a sovereign nation.

To travel to the UK, all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation online. With the ETA, they can stay in the UK for up to 180 days a year.

How can I get citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda?

Foreigners can obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship on four grounds:

  • descent, if they have at least one parent or grandparent who is a national of the country;
  • marriage, if they are married to an Antigua and Barbuda citizen;
  • naturalisation, if they have lived in the country for five or more years;
  • investment, if they contribute at least $230,000 to the country’s economy.

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

Becoming a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda under the most affordable investment option costs at least $250,900 for a single investor. This sum includes the contribution of $230,000 to the National Development Fund and additional fees, specifically $10,000 for a processing fee, $8,500 for Due Diligence, $1,500 for the interview, $300 for the issuance of a passport, and $600 as a bank commission.

How to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment?

To get citizenship by investment, foreigners must contribute to Antigua and Barbuda’s economy. There are four options to do so:

  • non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund — $230,000+;
  • contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund — $260,000+;
  • purchase of real estate — $300,000+;
  • business investment — $400,000+.

The process of obtaining a passport takes at least 6 months and includes signing an agreement with Immigrant Invest, collecting documents, undergoing Due Diligence, and fulfilling investment requirements.

Does Antigua allow triple citizenship?

Yes, Antigua and Barbuda allows triple citizenship, as the country recognises dual citizenship without restrictions. This means that individuals can hold citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda alongside their original passport and another nationality, provided that their home country also permits dual or multiple citizenship.

Is Antigua citizenship worth it?

Yes, Antigua and Barbuda citizenship can be considered a valuable investment for many individuals. It offers visa-free access to over 150 countries, favourable tax regulations, and the ability to live and work in a beautiful Caribbean country. 

Moreover, the investment requirements for citizenship are relatively accessible compared to other CBI programs. Antigua and Barbuda’s minimum contribution is $230,000 to the National Development Fund. Comparable thresholds in other Caribbean programmes include:

  • Grenada — $235,000;
  • St Lucia — $240,000;
  • St Kitts and Nevis — $250,000.

Is it possible to change a name before a passport is issued?

Yes, it is possible to change your name before the Antigua and Barbuda passport is issued. The request must be made during the application process and supported with legal documents such as a deed poll or court order. The Citizenship by Investment Unit reviews and approves the change before issuing the naturalisation certificate and passport.

What documents are required to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

For any route to citizenship you must provide standard identity, background, and financial documents proving your identity, residence, and lawful funds, including:

  • valid passports for all applicants;
  • birth certificates;
  • marriage certificate, if applicable;
  • police clearance certificates;
  • proof of address;
  • bank statements and reference letter;
  • proof of legal source of funds;
  • medical certificate, including HIV test;
  • professional or educational references, if available.

If you apply by investment, you must provide evidence of your chosen option and the legitimacy of your funds, including:

  • signed application and Due Diligence forms;
  • wealth history and proof of asset origin;
  • investment documentation matching the selected option;
  • interview notice and proof of fee payment;
  • documents for any dependants proving their identity, your relationship and, where relevant, dependency or consent.

If you apply by descent, you must prove a direct blood or legal link to an Antiguan or Barbudan ancestor, using birth certificates, passports or citizenship certificates, and civil registry records to establish the lineage.

If you apply by marriage, you must show a valid, genuine, and subsisting marriage through civil records and evidence of shared life, such as a joint lease, mortgage, property deed, shared bank accounts, or correspondence.

If you apply by naturalisation, you must document lawful residence, good character, and ties to the country using entry/exit records, residence permits, tax and utility statements, employment or business registration, and letters attesting to character if requested.

All documents must be in English, with certified translations where needed. Copies should be notarised, and apostilles provided when applicable.

Sources

  1. Source: Restricted countries list, CIU Antigua and Barbuda
  2. Source: ETIAS operation, European Commission
  3. Source: UK ETA requirement, High Commission for Antigua and Barbuda in the UK
  4. Source: Antigua and Barbuda safety, The UK Government
  5. Source: Democracy level, Freedom House
  6. Source: Approved investment real estate, CIU
  7. Source: Approved business projects, CIU
  8. Source: Antigua and Barbuda citizenship regulations, CIU
  9. Source: Antigua and Barbuda passport, CIU 

How to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport: 4 options explained
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How to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport: 4 options explained
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