Antigua & Barbuda
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program presents a unique avenue for individuals seeking a second citizenship and passport. Tailored to cater to high-net-worth individuals, it offers a legitimate and expedited path to citizenship. Established in 2013, the program adheres to stringent due diligence procedures, ensuring the integrity of the process.
The allure of Antigua and Barbuda’s program extends beyond passport benefits to encompass economic and lifestyle advantages within its vibrant Caribbean community.
Investment options for acquiring citizenship in this twin-island nation include a monetary contribution to the National Development Fund, investment in real estate, or participation in an approved business venture. These avenues aim to foster economic growth while granting investors and their families the privileges of citizenship, including visa-free travel to numerous countries.
While the application process is straightforward, it is also rigorous, ensuring that all potential citizens meet the nation’s eligibility criteria, thus upholding its esteemed reputation on the global stage.
Key Takeaways
- Antigua and Barbuda offer citizenship through investment, providing benefits like visa-free travel.
- Citizenship can be obtained through contributing to the National Development Fund or investing in real estate/business.
- A stringent application process ensures that applicants meet all eligibility criteria for citizenship.
Advantages of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda bestows upon individuals and their families a multitude of benefits. These include:
- Visa-Free Travel
Possessing an Antigua and Barbuda passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including prominent destinations such as Schengen Area countries, the UK, and Canada.
- Dual Citizenship Recognition
The program legally acknowledges dual citizenship, enabling individuals to maintain their current nationality while reaping the benefits of possessing an Antiguan and Barbudan passport.
- Tax Benefits:
Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy the perk of no taxation on worldwide income, presenting an attractive proposition for investors seeking favorable tax environments.
Community Privileges
Citizenship extends privileges associated with membership in CARICOM (Caribbean Community) and the Commonwealth, fostering opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration.
The credibility of the program is upheld by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), the governmental body responsible for processing all applications. It maintains strict due diligence procedures to ensure the integrity of the citizenship by investment process.
Eligibility Criteria for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program outlines stringent requirements that applicants must satisfy to acquire citizenship. These requirements encompass both the main applicant and specific provisions for including dependent family members.
Main Applicant Requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda.
- Clean Record: A prerequisite for eligibility is a spotless criminal record, as the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) conducts rigorous due diligence checks to uphold the program’s integrity.
Criteria for Inclusion of Dependent Family Members:
- Dependent Children: Unmarried children aged 0-30, who are financially reliant on the main applicant, are eligible for inclusion.
- Dependent Parents: Individuals aged 55 and above, comprising parents of the main applicant or spouse, who reside with and receive full financial support from the main applicant.
- Dependent Siblings: Unmarried siblings aged 18 or older, without children, who rely on the main applicant or their spouse for financial support.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Programs
All dependents must undergo due diligence checks, and processing fees apply for both processing and due diligence purposes.
Option 1: The National Development Fund (Donation)
The National Development Fund aims to channel wealth towards fostering public and private sector growth through technological advancement, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Non-refundable Contribution:
Family of four or less: US $230,000
- Family of five or more: US $230,000
- Processing Fees (for Family of four or less): US $20,000
- Additional Dependents: US $10,000 per applicant
Option 2: Real Estate Investment
Applicants must invest in a government-approved real estate project within Antigua and Barbuda, with a minimum value of US $300,000 (resalable after five years).
Government Fees (for Family of four or less): US $20,000
Additional Dependents: US $10,000 per applicant
Option 3: University of the West Indies Fund
This option is tailored for large families (six or more members) and provides one applicant with a one-year scholarship covering tuition fees at the University of the West Indies.
Contribution (for Family of six): US $260,000 (inclusive of processing fees)
Additional Dependents: US $10,000 per applicant