11 Benefits of Antigua & Barbuda Passport and How to Obtain Status

The Antigua and Barbuda passport offers global mobility, tax benefits, dual citizenship, and Commonwealth advantages. These perks, accessible through various paths including Citizenship by Investment, make it a valuable asset for international opportunities. Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains the main benefits and how to get them.

1. Visa-free travel opportunities

Like other Caribbean citizenship by investment, Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship status provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries. Key destinations include the Schengen Area, the UK (up to six months), Hong Kong, and Singapore. This enhances travel convenience for passport holders.

2. Favorable tax environment

Tax optimization is among the advantages of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.

Antigua and Barbuda offer significant tax benefits. There is no personal income tax or taxes on wealth, inheritance, or capital gains. This is ideal for those looking to optimize tax obligations and manage wealth efficiently.

3. Dual citizenship support

Antigua and Barbuda allow dual citizenship, meaning individuals can retain their original nationality while acquiring a new one. This flexibility increases global mobility and access to different legal or tax environments.

4. Economic stability

The economy of Antigua and Barbuda is stable, driven by tourism and financial services. Tourism alone accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s GDP. The construction sector, supported by foreign direct investment (FDI), also plays a crucial role in developing the economy.

In 2023, the economy grew by 5.7%, following 8.5% growth in 2022. Inflation, which peaked at 9.2% at the end of 2022, has moderated to around 5% by mid-2023. The country’s fiscal deficit has been decreasing, with the government set on reducing public debt from 87% of GDP in 2022 to 69% by 2028.

5. Commonwealth benefits

As a Commonwealth member, Antigua and Barbuda enjoy its benefits. Many universities in Commonwealth countries offer scholarships, reduced tuition fees, or special admission criteria for students from other member states, including Antiguan and Barbudan students.

Commonwealth citizens often benefit from streamlined visa processes and reciprocal rights, depending on bilateral agreements between member countries. This potentially simplifies living, working, and studying in the Commonwealth for citizens of Antigua and Barbuda.

Additionally, the Commonwealth cooperates in areas like governance, development, and cultural exchange, enhancing global opportunities for Antigua and Barbuda even further.

6. Secure environment

Antigua and Barbuda have relatively low crime rates. While there was an 8% rise in reported crimes in 2023, the country remains one of the safest in the Caribbean. Healthcare is supported by 26 community health facilities, and education shows a 98.9% literacy rate.

7. English-speaking population and broad expat community

English is the official language, making communication easy for expatriates. A growing expat community from the US, Canada, and the UK have settled here for retirement and work opportunities. There are international schools and social groups to support this community.

8. Proximity to the US and Europe

Antigua and Barbuda’s location in the Caribbean offers excellent proximity to the US and Europe. It is about 1,300 miles southeast of Miami, with direct flights taking 4-5 hours. For Europeans, direct flights from London take around 8 hours. This location enhances tourism, business, and trade.

9. Pleasant lifestyle

Antigua and Barbuda offer a tropical lifestyle with warm temperatures year-round and 365 beaches. Leisure activities include yachting, water sports, and cricket. The country also has luxury resorts, golf courses, and spas.

10. Resilient business and investment environment

The Antigua and Barbuda passport provides global mobility for business, with visa-free access to over 150 countries. As a member of CARICOM, citizens enjoy freedom of movement within the Caribbean, enhancing regional business opportunities.

The real estate market is attractive, driven by the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Prices in popular areas range from $325,000 to $4 million. The market is resilient and offers opportunities for rental income and property appreciation.

11. Citizenship program

Citizenship approval can be granted within 6 months.

Eligibility requirements for the investor include:

• at least 18 years old;

• clean criminal record;

• proof of legal source of funds.

Spouses, dependent children up to 30, parents over 55, and unmarried siblings can be included.

Investment options:

1. National Development Fund (NDF): $230,000 as a non-refundable donation.

2. University of the West Indies Fund: $260,000 as a non-refundable contribution.

3. Real estate: $300,000 in government-approved titles, that should be held for at least five subsequent years.

4. Business: $400,000 million in an eligible business; joint investments are allowed with a higher threshold.

Application process:

1. Choose an investment option. Decide on NDF, real estate, business, or university funds.

2. Prepare documents. Gather passport, proof of address, medical certificate, police clearance, and financial documents.

3. Apply. Submit the form and documents to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).

4. Pay fees. The application fee is about $25,000 for a family of four; due diligence fees vary.

5. Wait for approval. Processing typically takes 6 months.

6. Invest. Complete the required investment once approved.

7. Receive citizenship. Obtain the Certificate of Citizenship after confirmation of investment.

In a nutshell

To obtain an Antigua and Barbuda citizenship means to get significant benefits, including visa-free access to over 150 countries, favorable tax conditions, dual citizenship, and Commonwealth privileges.

While Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is one way to obtain it, the passport’s advantages apply to all holders.