Understanding the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship costs and requirements is essential for investors looking to expand their global reach. The Citizenship by Investment Program offers several options tailored to your preferences and financial goals. It’s one of the quickest and easiest ways for high-net-worth individuals to experience Antigua and Barbuda’s passport benefits.
In this article, we break down the Citizenship by Investment Program cost and requirements for interested investors.
- The Citizenship by Investment Program allows individuals to gain an Antigua and Barbuda passport through economic contributions.
- Applicants must be over 18, have no visa refusals, and submit necessary documentation, including proof of ID, funds, address, and a police report.
- Investors can choose to donate to the country’s national development fund or purchase real estate to gain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. You can also invest in businesses or the University of the West Indies.
- Citizenship by investment applications can be processed in as little as three to six months.
- Antigua and Barbuda offers tax benefits, safety, excellent healthcare and education, and a vibrant lifestyle supported by its thriving tourism sector.
Overview of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program grants foreigners citizenship in exchange for a significant economic contribution to the country. Established by the government in 2013, the program has helped boost Antigua and Barbuda’s economic growth and fund local development.
Global investors choose Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program (also known as the country’s Golden Visa) for various reasons, including the high returns the booming tourism market is yielding, the dual passport with visa-free access to over 160 countries (including the UK, EU Schengen zone, Hong Kong, and many more), as well as the safety and quality of life it offers their families.
In August 2024, the country’s government increased the minimum investment amount of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program from $100,000 to $230,000, but kept it the same for both individuals and families – something uncommon among citizenship by investment programs.
Cost of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for citizenship, you have to choose from one of three investment options:
1. National Development Fund (NDF) Donation
This option requires you to donate $230,000 to an initiative that supports the nation’s development and public projects. It is the easiest way to get Antigua and Barbuda citizenship because of the simple nature of donations – no need for maintenance fees or additional payments after the initial investment.
However, there are some additional fees and due diligence costs you should be aware of. While the investment amount stays the same whether you are an individual, a couple, or a family of five, the other fees and due diligence costs vary:
Other fees include:
- $10,000 for an individual
- $20,000 for a family of up to four people (and $10,000 for each additional dependent)
Due diligence costs include:
- $8,500 for an individual
- $5,000 for a spouse
- $2,000 for dependents between the ages of 12 and 17
- $4,000 for dependents over 18
2. Real Estate Investment
With this option, you gain citizenship by making a minimum investment of $300,000 in government-approved real estate. Buyers and sellers also have to pay up to 7.5% in stamp duties, depending on the property type and location. Annual property tax also ranges from 0.1% to 0.5% of the market value, depending on the property’s use and classification.
Individual investors can expect to pay $10,000 in other fees and $8,500 for due diligence. A family of four will pay $20,000 in other fees, and an additional $5,000 in due diligence fees for the wife, $2,000 for dependents between the ages of 12 and 17, and $4,000 for dependents over 18.
Getting familiar with Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment requirements and costs should be the very first step in applying for a second passport. Once you know what to expect, including the benefits and additional considerations, you can make a more informed decision. Consulting experts like the team at Mirabello can help ensure the process is as seamless as possible.
FAQ
Antigua and Barbuda allows citizens to have second passports, making it convenient for investors with businesses or family in multiple jurisdictions.
It can take as little as three to six months to get an Antigua and Barbuda Golden Visa, making it one of the quickest routes to citizenship.
Yes, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program includes your spouse, children, and other qualifying dependents (such as parents), making it easy to bring along the whole family.
You will need the following documents:
- Proof of ID (Passport, ID, birth certificate, or adoption records)
- Proof of address
- Proof of funds and investment (bank statements)
- Employment records
- Education records
- A complete application form
- A legally certified police report about your criminal record
- If applicable, proof of a name change (a marriage certificate or divorce decree, for example)
- Two similar photos
You are not required to stay in Antigua and Barbuda if you have gained citizenship. However, you have to spend at least five days in the country within the first five years of receiving your Golden Visa.
