Are you looking out of your window and dreaming of island life? Then it might be time to consider Antigua and Barbuda’s Golden Visa programme – officially known as its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme – which gives people a way to gain citizenship in this tropical paradise.
So, what does the golden visa look like? And how much do you need to invest to get it? Here, we take a look at what it would take to allow you to call Antigua and Barbuda home.
But first…
What Is the Antigua and Barbuda Golden Visa?
Launched in 2013, the Antigua and Barbuda golden visa, also known as the Citizenship by Investment Programme, allows people and their families to get full citizenship in exchange for an investment into the country.
Once paid, applicants get a passport that gives them full citizenship with the right to live, work, study and even pass citizenship on to future generations.
Why Move to Antigua and Barbuda?
Aside from the obvious (ahem, sea and sun!) there are a few reasons why moving to Antigua and Barbuda might be a good idea, including:
1. Travel perks: Visa-free travel to 150+ countries.
2. Fast processing: Most applications are approved within 6- 9 months, without even needing to visit the country.
3. Family-friendly: You can include your spouse, children up to 30, parents and grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings in one application.
4. Tax advantages: No personal income tax, no inheritance or wealth tax, and no capital gains tax.
5. Lifestyle: Flight links to North America and Europe, a stable political environment, and beautiful surroundings with sun all year round.
6. Low commitment: You only need to spend five days in the country over five years to keep your citizenship.
Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
To qualify for the Golden Visa, you must choose one of the following investment routes:
1. National Development Fund (NDF) Donation
- Minimum: $230,000 (non-refundable)
- Ideal for families up to four people
- Easiest and most cost-effective option
2. University of the West Indies Fund
- Minimum: $260,000
- For families of six or more
- Includes a one-year, tuition-only scholarship for one family member
- Scholarship valid for five years
3. Real Estate Investment
- Minimum: $300,000 in a government-approved real-estate project
- Must be held for at least five years
- Property can be resold after the holding period
- Co-investment allowed (each investor must contribute $300,000)
4. Business Investment
- $1.5 million for a solo investor, or
- $5 million total for two or more investors (min. $400,000 each)
- Must invest in an approved business venture
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you are:
- At least 18 years old
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have never been refused a visa from a country with which Antigua and Barbuda has visa-free travel
- Pass due diligence checks
- Provide financial and identity documentation
Your application can include:
- Your spouse
- Children up to age 30
- Parents/grandparents over 55
- Unmarried siblings of any age (for both the applicant and spouse)
How Long Does It Take?
Most applications are approved within 6 to 9 months after being filed, but the entire process can be done remotely.
There are no interviews and no language tests, however any applicants that are 16 and older will need to take part in a short virtual interview.
Is Antigua and Barbuda’s Golden Visa Worth It?
If you’re looking for a second passport that allows you to live a great outdoor lifestyle and enjoy the tax benefits of the Caribbean, then this might be the visa for you.
With a number of investment options, wide family inclusivity and a quick and easy process, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular golden visas in the Caribbean.
So, what are you waiting for? Sun, sea and sand await!