The Antigua vs Dominica citizenship by investment represents an opportunity for interested investors looking to expand their wealth. Two of the most popular programs are Antigua and Barbuda’s and Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programs. Both offer unique benefits, investment options, and opportunities for global mobility.
This guide compares Antigua vs Dominica citizenship programs in terms of benefits, costs, processing time, and lifestyle appeal, helping you decide which is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Antigua and Barbuda offers visa-free access to 151 countries (including the UK) with a minimum $230,000 investment, while Dominica starts at $200,000 but covers 135 countries, excluding the UK.
- The key differences between the two programs lie in cost, family eligibility, travel access, and residency requirements — Dominica has no residency obligation, while Antigua requires a 5-day visit within the first five years.
- Both programs offer favorable tax environments with no capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes, and both recognize dual citizenship.
- Choosing between the two depends on your priorities: Dominica suits budget-conscious investors seeking flexibility, while Antigua and Barbuda is better for larger families and broader global mobility.
What is the difference between Antigua and Dominica citizenship?
While Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica both offer well-established Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, they differ in several important aspects, including investment requirements, family eligibility, global mobility, and residency obligations.
The main differences are that Antigua and Barbuda offers better global mobility, allowing visa-free access to approximately 151 countries including the United Kingdom, and permits the inclusion of unmarried siblings in the application, which broadens family eligibility. Additionally, Antigua and Barbuda requires new citizens to fulfill a minimal residency obligation of five days within the first five years of obtaining citizenship, providing a chance to experience the country firsthand.
In contrast, Dominica is recognized as one of the cheapest Caribbean citizenship programs, with a lower minimum investment requirement and no residency or visit requirements, making it an attractive option for investors seeking flexibility. Dominica’s passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 135 countries, including the Schengen Area and China, but excludes the United Kingdom.
Both programs provide investment options that include a minimum $200,000 real estate purchase in government-approved projects, as well as contributions to respective state funds such as Dominica’s Economic Diversification Fund and Antigua’s National Development Fund or West Indies Fund.
Furthermore, Antigua and Barbuda’s program offers a wider variety of investment options, including donations to the University of the West Indies Fund and business investments, whereas Dominica focuses primarily on economic diversification through real estate and fund contributions.
Due diligence processes in both countries are thorough, requiring background checks and interviews for applicants aged 16 and older to ensure the integrity of the programs. Both countries recognize dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of a second citizenship.
Time, family eligibility and cost for obtaining Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica Passport
Travel Visa Access — Antigua & Barbuda: 151 (includes UK). Slightly wider global travel access. Dominica: 135 (excluding the UK). Good global travel access, but slightly less than Antigua.
Family Eligibility — Antigua & Barbuda: Spouse, children, parents, grandparents, siblings (Allows for the inclusion of unmarried siblings.) Dominica: Spouse, children, parents, grandparents.
Residency Requirement — Antigua & Barbuda: Requires a 5-day visit within the first 5 years of citizenship. Dominica: No visit or residency is required.
Minimum Investment Cost — Antigua & Barbuda: $230,000+ (varies by family size & option). Dominica: $200,000.
Processing Time — Antigua & Barbuda: 4–6 months. Dominica: 3–4 months.
Lifestyle Appeal — Antigua & Barbuda: Developed tourism, strong infrastructure, beach lifestyle. Dominica: Eco-living, peaceful, nature-focused.
Why do investors invest into passports of Antigua and Barbuda or Dominica?
Investors choose to invest in the passports of Antigua and Barbuda or Dominica primarily to gain greater global mobility, financial flexibility, and personal security. Both countries’ Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs offer an efficient and legal pathway to obtain a second passport, which can unlock a wide range of advantages for international investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking long-term stability and freedom.
Here are the 5 key reasons why Antigua and Dominica continue to attract global investors:
Strategic Tax Advantages
Both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have favorable tax environments, making them attractive for wealth management and estate planning.
- No personal income tax on worldwide earnings
- No capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes
This allows investors to protect their assets and structure their finances efficiently.
Family Security and Legacy Planning
Caribbean countries' CBI programs allow investors to include their immediate and extended family members under one application.
- Antigua and Barbuda even allows unmarried siblings, parents, and grandparents to be included.
- Dominica includes spouses, children, and dependent parents/grandparents.
This makes citizenship not just a personal asset but also a family legacy that can be passed down to future generations
Real Estate and Business Opportunities
Both Antigua and Dominica provide investment routes through real estate, starting at $300,000 and $200,000 respectively. Investors can purchase government-approved properties, such as luxury resorts or eco-friendly developments, with the potential for capital appreciation or rental income.
Additionally, citizenship opens the door to local business opportunities, tax incentives, and access to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).
Backup Citizenship and Global Flexibility
A second passport serves as an insurance policy against geopolitical instability or travel restrictions. Should an investor face limitations in their home country, dual citizenship ensures continued access to travel, relocation, or alternative residence options.
Global Mobility and Passport Power
One of the strongest motivators for investing in Caribbean citizenship is the ability to travel visa-free or visa-on-arrival to over 140 countries.
- Antigua and Barbuda offers access to around 150+ destinations, including the United Kingdom, Schengen Area, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
- Dominica provides access to 140+ destinations, including the European Union Schengen Zone and China.
For entrepreneurs and frequent travelers, this means fewer visa hassles and smoother international business operations.
Where are Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica located
Antigua and Barbuda as well as Dominica are Caribbean island nations located in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, part of the Lesser Antilles island chain. Both countries sit nearly 800 kilometers (approximately 500 miles) off the coast of South America, offering tropical climates, breathtaking natural beauty, and warm, welcoming cultures.
Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, its vibrant cultural scene, and its luxury tourism infrastructure, while Barbuda is quieter and known for its pink-sand beaches and wildlife sanctuaries.
Dominica, officially called the Commonwealth of Dominica, lies south of Guadeloupe and north of Martinique. Often known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” Dominica is celebrated for its lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, hot springs, and pristine rivers. Covering about 750 square kilometers, it’s a haven for eco-tourism and sustainable living.
Both countries belong to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), fostering economic cooperation and regional stability. Geographically, they are located east of Puerto Rico and are just a short 1–2-hour flight from major Caribbean hubs such as Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Antigua’s own international airport
Rights of a Passport holder
Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Travel. Both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica passports grant visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, Singapore, and Hong Kong, with Antigua offering slightly broader coverage.
Moving to the Country. Foreigners who acquire citizenship through investment can move to the country at any time. As a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda or Dominica, you have the full right to live, work, and study in the country without any restrictions. Enjoy the Caribbean lifestyle with year-round sunshine and relaxed island living.
Dual Citizenship. Both nations permit dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality while enjoying the rights and benefits of their new one.
Consular Protection. Passport holders can seek consulate assistance from Antigua and Barbuda or Dominica embassies and consulates worldwide, ensuring safety and support while travelling.
Taxes. Some investors choose to move to the Caribbean to become tax residents, as spending at least 183 days a year in the country can make them eligible for local tax benefits and help reduce their overall tax obligations.
Comparison of taxes in Antigua and Dominica for individual tax residents
Personal Income Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: No tax on worldwide income for non-residents; residents are taxed only on local income. Dominica: No tax on worldwide income.
Capital Gains Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: No capital gains tax. Dominica: No capital gains tax.
Inheritance / Estate Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: No inheritance or estate tax. Dominica: No inheritance or estate tax.
Wealth Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: No wealth or net worth tax. Dominica: No wealth tax.
Corporate Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: 25%. Dominica: 25% (on local business income).
Property Tax — Antigua and Barbuda: Low annual rates. 0.1% to 0.5% of a property's assessed value. Dominica: Low rates, typically around 1% depending on the property.
How to Renew Your Passport
Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica must renew their passports every five or ten years, depending on the passport type and age of the holder. Antigua and Barbuda citizens are required to spend at least five days in the country within the first five years after obtaining citizenship to maintain their status.
The validity of the Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica passports are the following
- 10 years - passports issued to adults aged 16 and older require renewal every decade.
- 5 years - For minors under the age of 16, necessitating more frequent renewals as children grow and their identification details may change.
Renewal is a straightforward process that can be completed either locally or through an authorized consulate abroad, providing flexibility for citizens residing both within and outside the country. This system ensures that passport holders maintain up-to-date travel documents that reflect their current identity and eligibility for international travel.
Both countries expect their citizens to abide by local laws, fulfill any applicable tax obligations, and keep their personal information up to date with the respective government authorities. Maintaining a clean legal record and adhering to these obligations ensures the continued validity of one’s citizenship and passport privileges.
How to Decide Between Antigua and Dominica for Citizenship by Investment
When choosing between Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica for citizenship by investment, it’s important to consider your budget, lifestyle goals, and travel needs. Both programs offer visa-free access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom, but they differ in terms of cost, family inclusions, and residency requirements.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Dominica is ideal. It has one of the lowest investment thresholds in the Caribbean and no residency requirement, making it perfect for those who prefer flexibility and minimal commitments.
On the other hand, Antigua and Barbuda appeals to larger families since it allows unmarried siblings and extended family members to be included in the same application. It also offers better global mobility with slightly more visa-free destinations, plus a five-day residency requirement within the first five years, which can be a great opportunity to experience island life firsthand.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your long-term goals. If your priority is cost-efficiency and ease of maintenance, Dominica may be the better choice. But if you value broader travel access and family inclusivity, Antigua and Barbuda could offer greater benefits.
Both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica offer attractive Citizenship by Investment opportunities the right choice depends on your investment goals and lifestyle preferences.
Contact Mirabello Consultancy today for a free consultation and let our experts help you determine which Caribbean passport best aligns with your objectives.
FAQ
The easiest Caribbean island to get citizenship often depends on your personal goals and budget. However, Dominica is widely considered the easiest due to its straightforward application process, no residency requirement, and lower minimum investment of $100,000 for a single applicant. Antigua and Barbuda also has a smooth process but requires a short five-day residency within the first five years of citizenship.
Investors can compare both countries based on investment amount, family inclusions, travel freedom, and residency rules. Antigua and Barbuda is ideal for families, offering the option to include unmarried siblings and extended relatives, along with better global mobility. Dominica, on the other hand, is more budget-friendly and does not require any residency. Both nations grant lifetime citizenship and visa-free access to over 140 destinations, including the Schengen Area and the UK.
In the Caribbean countries, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica both hold highly respected passports. However, Antigua and Barbuda’s passport typically ranks slightly higher, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 150 countries, while Dominica’s passport grants access to about 145 countries. Both provide excellent global mobility for business and leisure travelers.
Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 destinations, including the United Kingdom, Schengen Area countries, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia. However, visa agreements can change, so it’s always best to check the latest official government or embassy list before traveling.
Dominica citizens can travel visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival to around 145 countries, including the United Kingdom, Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Like Antigua, this list can change periodically, so travelers should always confirm entry requirements before booking international trips.
Yes. There are regular flights between Antigua and Dominica, operated mainly by Caribbean Airlines and LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport). The flight takes about 45 minutes to one hour, making travel between the two islands quick and convenient for business or leisure.
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