Increasing globalization and uncertainty have made citizenship one of the most valuable personal assets. It offers various business and lifestyle benefits to investors and their families. This has given rise to government-run citizenship by investment programs, which grant eligible foreign applicants passports in exchange for a financial contribution to the country’s economy. The Caribbean offers some of the most popular citizenship by investment programs.
This article compares the Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia citizenship by investment programs, exploring the costs, investment options, and business advantages to help investors determine which program aligns best with their goals.
- Both Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia offer competitive citizenship by investment programs with unique benefits, including tax policies, political stability, and international mobility.
- St. Lucia has a lower initial investment requirement for single applicants, while Antigua and Barbuda is more cost-effective for families.
- St. Lucia offers a refundable government bond investment option, making it attractive for investors seeking capital preservation.
- Antigua and Barbuda has a more developed banking sector, facilitating easier international financial transactions.
- The choice between the two programs depends on factors such as family considerations and investment goals.
Overview of the Caribbean Citizenship Programs
A second citizenship from one of the Caribbean countries is one of the best ways to safeguard family and wealth against political and economic instability. Caribbean citizenship grants investors global mobility, opening up greater freedom of travel and secure diversification of assets. The island countries' British Commonwealth connection and other international treaties \mean investors get access to the UK, Canada, Schengen area, and even the USA – in addition to the CARICOM (Caribbean community).
Caribbean citizenship by investment programs are regulated by local and regional laws. This means they share some common compliance bodies, like the JRCC (where Caribbean nations share information amongst themselves on potential security threats).
Because of these agreements, the Caribbean passports are some of the most powerful globally, with Antigua and Barbuda ranking 24th and St. Lucia ranking 27th (January, 2025).
Overview of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program was established in 2013 to help boost the country’s economy. Foreign investors can make a non-returnable donation to the National Development Fund (NDF), purchase property, contribute to the University of the West Indies (UWI), or invest in/start local businesses. In turn, you get high returns from the growing tourism market, visa-free access to over 160 countries, as well as safety and a high quality of life for your family.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Options
There are four routes to Antigua and Barbuda citizenship to choose from:
- National Development Fund (NDF) Donation
The easiest way to get an Antigua and Barbuda passport is by donating to an initiative that supports the nation’s development and public projects. In August 2024, the national government changed the minimum investment amount from $100,000 to $230,000 – reflecting its increasing popularity.
While there’s no need for maintenance fees after your initial investment, there are some additional fees and due diligence costs you should consider.
- Real Estate Investment
If you purchase government-approved real estate for $300,000, you qualify for citizenship. Antigua and Barbuda offers various property types to choose from, including luxury homes, rental apartments and condos, and even affordable homes. However, with most of the island nation undergoing property development as residential areas reach their maximum occupancy, this might change in the near future. Some popular areas to invest in at the moment include Fort James to Blue Waters, Pillar Rock to Five Islands, Pearns Point to Johnson’s Point, Falmouth Harbour to Galleon Bay, and more. After five years, the property can be sold again.
- Business Investment
Individual investors can put down $1.5 million in an existing enterprise or new venture that has been approved by the government. You can also join other investors and combine your contributions (like a consortium).
- UWI Investment
For a minimum contribution of $260,000 to UWI, investors and their families receive citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, as well as a one-year scholarship for one of the family members. This option only covers up to six family members.
Choosing between Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia citizenship requires a thorough understanding of their differences, as each program offers distinct benefits that cater to various investor profiles. Factors such as investment opportunities, requirements, family, and long-term goals play a crucial role in making the right decision. With the right advice, you can get through the process efficiently and secure a second passport that best supports your lifestyle and investment ambitions.
FAQ
St. Lucia's donation requirement starts at $100,000 for a single applicant, while Antigua and Barbuda's minimum donation requirement is $130,000 (including processing fees). However, Antigua and Barbuda becomes more cost-effective for families, as it allows up to four family members under the same $130,000 contribution, whereas St. Lucia charges additional fees per dependent.
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment process usually takes between four to six months, whereas St. Lucia can be quicker; between three and six months.
Yes, both Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia allow applicants to include spouses, children, parents, and even siblings. Antigua and Barbuda offers a more family-friendly structure, particularly for larger families.
Neither country requires permanent residency, but Antigua and Barbuda has a physical presence requirement: new citizens must spend at least five days in the country within the first five years. St. Lucia has no such requirement, offering more flexibility for those who do not wish to relocate.
