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How to Get Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda - Non-Caribbean Citizens

December 5, 2024
How to Get Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda - Non-Caribbean Citizens

Dreaming of a second citizenship that offers not only global mobility and favorable tax benefits but also the chance to savor the world's sweetest pineapple? Look no further than Antigua and Barbuda. Established in 2012, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program provides a streamlined pathway to citizenship for discerning investors. Beyond the tangible benefits, this tropical paradise invites you to enjoy the island life.

By investing in Antigua and Barbuda, you not only secure a valuable second passport but also gain the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Caribbean. Whether it's through a contribution to the National Development Fund, or real estate investment, each pathway offers unique advantages tailored to your preferences.

So, why not explore the possibilities that Antigua and Barbuda have to offer? Secure your future, enhance your global mobility, and perhaps even enjoy a slice of the famed Antigua Black Pineapple along the way.

  • Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment Program offers a streamlined pathway to citizenship for investors, providing numerous benefits:
  • Investment Options:
    • National Development Fund (NDF): A minimum non-refundable contribution of $230,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four members.
    • Real Estate: Purchase of pre-approved properties valued at a minimum of $300,000, with a required holding period of five years.
    • Business Investment: A minimum investment of $1.5 million for a single investor or a joint investment totaling at least $5 million, with each investor contributing a minimum of $400,000.
  • Global Mobility: Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the Schengen Area, and the United Kingdom, and eligibility for a U.S. 10-year visa.
  • Tax Advantages: The nation imposes no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes, providing a favorable environment for financial planning.
  • Family Inclusivity: The program allows the inclusion of spouses, dependent children under 30, parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings, supporting family unity.
  • Efficient Processing: The application process typically takes 3 to 6 months, including background checks and submission of necessary documents.
  • Residency Requirement: To maintain citizenship, individuals must spend a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years.
  • By participating in this program, investors can secure a second citizenship that offers enhanced global mobility, significant tax benefits, and the opportunity to reside in a tropical paradise.

What is a Citizenship by Investment Program and How does it Work in Antigua and Barbuda?

The Citizenship by Investment program in Antigua and Barbuda was started in 2012 to give foreign investors a chance to obtain a world-class passport in exchange for an investment into the country. By meeting investment requirements or making one large donation, you can be on your way to obtaining an Antigua and Barbuda passport. This passport will make you a citizen of the twin-island nation, giving you full citizenship rights benefiting from a permanent residency, global visa-free travel, and much more. 

Benefits of Getting Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda as an Investor

1. Visa-Free Travel 

How can one of the most remote islands in the Atlantic unlock access to the entire world? Antigua and Barbuda, a tiny island nation, offers a passport that ranks among the most respected globally. With this passport, you and your family can travel visa-free to over 150 countries. The Schengen Area welcomes you for 90 days within every 180-day period, while Commonwealth membership grants you up to 180 days of continuous access to the United Kingdom. Even the United States has become more accessible, with the opportunity to apply for a 10-year visa. From the heart of the Caribbean, this passport opens doors to nearly every corner of the globe—a striking paradox in a Caribbean paradise. 

2. Financial Freedom

Antigua and Barbuda is more than a tourist destination. It is one of the best tax havens in the world where all of your finances will be untouched and away from prying eyes. With an Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, you will not have to worry about any tax on capital gains, inheritance, and income. All of your finances will be kept private and not shared with other countries or regulatory institutions. 

If you are looking for a tax haven in the Caribbean and want to learn more about how to get citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda contact a specialist today.

Beyond tax advantages and visa-free travel, obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through investment offers several additional benefits:

3. Dual Citizenship Permitted

Antigua and Barbuda allows individuals to retain their original citizenship while acquiring a second one, providing greater flexibility and security.

4. No Residency Requirements

There are no mandatory residency requirements, allowing citizens to maintain their current lifestyle without relocation.

5. Efficient Application Process

The application and approval process is straightforward, typically taking an average of 90 days, enabling investors to obtain citizenship promptly.

6. Stable Political Environment

Antigua and Barbuda boasts a stable democratic government based on the British parliamentary system, ensuring a secure and predictable environment for citizens.

7. High-Quality Healthcare and Education

Citizens have access to quality healthcare services and educational institutions, contributing to an enhanced quality of life.

These benefits make Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment Program an attractive option for investors seeking a second citizenship.

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Investment Opportunities: How Can You Become an Investor in Antigua and Barbuda?

There are a few paths to citizenship by investment. How to get citizenship in Antigua or Barbuda is up to you. You can either purchase qualifying real estate or make a direct contribution to the country through their national development fund. There is also the less popular option of heavily investing in a business in the country. All of these options offer the same citizenship and benefits while remaining accessible for many.

Before discussing the options, let’s look at the chart below to see what are the main countries of origin of applicants based on official data from the Citizenship by Investment Unit, Antigua and Barbadua.

1. Antigua National Development Fund

There is nothing simpler than making a direct contribution. How the Antigua National Development Fund offers Antiguan and Barbuda citizenship is simple. Investors play a proactive role in advancing the country's growth while securing their citizenship journey. A minimum non-refundable donation to the National Development: 

  • $230.000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four members
  • $245.000 for a family of five or more.

 It stands as one of the most straightforward paths to acquiring Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment. There are other fees and due diligence that must be accounted for during the process which a specialist can break down for you. 

2. Real Estate Investment

If you are wondering how to obtain citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, the government streamlines the citizenship by investment process for real estate,  with pre-approved properties for investors. With a diverse range of real estate projects available, there's an investment opportunity to suit every individual's needs for citizenship, residency, and financial growth. Those interested in acquiring real estate must retain their purchased property for a minimum of five years to maintain their passport status. This setup allows investors to make the most of their real estate investment while retaining their Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. To qualify for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, the property must be valued at over $300,000 and receive government approval. It's crucial to hold onto the property for five years to ensure the validity of citizenship.

Get a complete breakdown of the costs and fees associated with an experienced consulting company that will streamline the process.  

3. Business Investment

Those interested in starting or investing in a business in Antigua and Barbuda can expect full cooperation from the government. To qualify for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, a single investor must invest a minimum of $1.5 million towards a company, while a group of investors must collectively invest at least $5 million, with each member contributing $400,000 of their funds. With a thriving economy and a consistent increase in visitor numbers, this tropical destination presents a promising opportunity for your next business venture.

4. Eligibility Criteria

The main applicant must be over 18 years old and have no criminal record. If you are interested in including your family, your spouse can receive citizenship with your investment, and children who are dependent on you will also qualify. With a large family, there will be a need for greater investment which you can learn more about here

How to Get Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program?

Getting your Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is quite simple. It can be done completely remotely, so you never even have to visit the island during the entire process. All you have to do is figure out what you are willing to invest for citizenship and leave the rest to a consulting company. 

  1. Contact Your Trusted Partner Firm: At  Mirabello Consultancy we specialize in guiding investors like you through the Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment program. We offer personalized assistance, starting with a complimentary preliminary background check to ensure your eligibility. By partnering with experienced experts, you can navigate the citizenship application process with complete confidence.
  2. Prepare Your Documents: With comprehensive guidance, you can begin gathering all the necessary documents for your citizenship application. These documents typically include personal identification, financial statements, proof of funds, and any additional supporting paperwork required by the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). 
  3. Citizenship Application Submission: Once all your documents are in order, we will assist you in compiling and submitting your application to the CIU. We'll ensure that your application adheres to the government's guidelines and requirements, maximizing your chances of approval. By entrusting this step to experienced professionals, you can navigate any complexities with confidence, knowing that your application is in capable hands.
  4. Mandatory Virtual Interviews: All main applicants and dependents aged 16 and older are now required to attend mandatory virtual interviews as part of the application process.
  5. Make Your Investment: After the CIU processes your application for a minimum of three months, they will issue a "Letter of Approval in Principle" for successful applications. At this stage, you'll need to fulfill the investment requirement within 30 days to finalize your citizenship application. We will guide you through this critical step, whether you choose to make a contribution to the national development fund or invest in approved real estate. Our expertise ensures that you meet all deadlines and requirements, paving the way for attaining your Antigua & Barbuda citizenship.
  6. Receive Your Citizenship: Within a month of investing, your passport and certification of naturalization will be delivered to you. 
  7. Lay back and enjoy your slice of paradise:  Antigua Black Pineapple, the sweetest pineapple in the world. 

The Process of Getting Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda

Obtaining citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda typically involves following a structured process. Below is a general outline of the key requirements and steps involved:

  • Choose an Eligibility Pathway. Antigua and Barbuda offers various pathways to citizenship, including:
    • The Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP).
    • Naturalization after residency.
    • Citizenship through marriage to a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.
  • Meet the Basic Requirements
    • Applicants must generally fulfill the following criteria:
    • Be at least 18 years old.
    • Have a clean criminal record.
    • Be in good health.
    • Demonstrate financial capability to support themselves and dependents
  • Investment Options for CIP Applicants
    • For those applying through the Citizenship by Investment Program, one of the following investments is required:
    • Contributing to the National Development Fund (NDF).
    • Investing in pre-approved real estate projects.
    • Investing in a business approved by the government.
    • Donating to the University of the West Indies Fund (for families of six or more).
  • Submit Required Documentation. Applicants must prepare and submit several documents, including:
    • A valid passport.
    • Birth certificate(s).
    • Marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Police clearance certificate.
    • Proof of investment or financial statements.
    • Undergo Background Checks
    • A thorough background check is conducted to ensure applicants meet the legal and ethical standards required for citizenship.
    • Pay Application and Due Diligence Fees
    • Applicants are required to pay non-refundable fees for processing and due diligence checks.
    • Attend an Interview (if required)
    • In some cases, applicants may be required to attend an interview to further assess their eligibility.
    • Receive Approval and Take the Oath of Allegiance
    • Once approved, applicants are invited to take the Oath of Allegiance, after which they receive their certificate of citizenship.
    • Apply for a Passport

After obtaining citizenship, individuals can apply for an Antigua and Barbuda passport, granting them visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries.

You can decide how you want to get citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through different streamlined options. Whether you go for a direct investment into a fund or want to invest, you can secure an Antigua and Barbuda passport in as little as six months. Once you decide how you want to acquire an Antigua and Barbuda passport, your path to citizenship can be completely streamlined with the help of a consulting company. You will soon be on your way to financial freedom with no taxes, a passport that can get you almost anywhere, and residency in a tropical paradise.

FAQ

How long does it take to get Antigua citizenship?

Antiguan and Barbuda citizenship can be acquired in as little as six months! You can get in contact with a consulting agency to streamline the process and make sure you are prequalified. After finding and making an investment, your passport can be delivered to you in as little as a month.

Is Antigua cheap to live in?

Antigua and Barbuda has a relatively low cost of living compared to more developed countries. Wages are quite low and the East Caribbean Dollar, the island’s currency, remains at a stable EC$2.70 per USD. While there is a booming tourism industry, residents can enjoy affordable housing and a low cost of living.

How safe is it in Antigua and Barbuda?

Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered a safe destination, with crime rates remaining relatively low. However, like many other tourist destinations, petty crime can still affect travelers. It's advisable to exercise caution, especially with your belongings. Lock up your valuables in a hotel safe, avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry or electronics, and stay aware of your surroundings. As always, exercising basic common sense goes a long way. 

Overall, Antigua and Barbuda continues to be one of the safer Caribbean nations, but it's always prudent to take sensible precautions to protect your personal safety.

Read more about "Is Antigua Safe for Expats and Investors? A Guide to Safety" here

What language do they speak in Antigua and Barbuda?

Nearly 100% of the population speaks English.

Is Antigua a tax haven?

Yes, Antigua and Barbuda is one of the most favorable tax havens in the world! There is no income, inheritance, or capital gains tax. The government also ensures that no other country or financial regulatory institution can access information about your funds.

Read more about Antigua and Barbuda Taxes For Foreign Investors.

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