Antigua & Barbuda

Program Overview

Antigua and Barbuda is an independent Commonwealth nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, renowned for its pristine turquoise waters, lush tropical landscapes, and 365 stunning beaches—making it one of the world’s most desirable island destinations.

Tourism serves as the primary driver of the country’s economy, contributing approximately 60% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with major visitor markets including the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Antigua and Barbuda is an active member of several international organizations, including the United Nations (UN), the British Commonwealth, CARICOM, and the Organization of American States (OAS).

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), established by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda under the 2014 legislation, is the official authority responsible for administering the Citizenship by Investment Programme, including the licensing of authorized agents and the processing of citizenship applications for investors and their eligible family members by making a significant economic contribution, subject to strict eligibility checks and due diligence.

Key Requirements

• The main applicant must be at least 18 years old and meet all criteria.
• Applicants must choose one of four investment options:
  • Minimum US$230,000 non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF)
  • Minimum US$300,000 investment in approved real estate (held for at least 5 years)
  • Minimum US$1.5 million business investment (or US$400,000 each in a joint US$5 million investment)
  • Minimum US$260,000 contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund
• All options are subject to government and due diligence fees.

Citizenship conditions & revocation:

• Citizens must spend at least 5 days in Antigua and Barbuda within 5 years.
• Citizenship may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or serious crimes (e.g., treason or sedition), with no refund of the investment.

Restricted Country List:

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda (Feb 26, 2020) designated certain countries as restricted under the Citizenship by Investment Programme: Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan.

Key points:

• Nationals of these countries are generally restricted, but may still apply if they meet specific conditions.
• Eligibility is possible if the applicant:
  • Migrated from the restricted country before reaching adulthood, and/or
  • Has lived outside those countries for at least 10 years, and
  • Has no economic ties to any restricted country.
• All such applicants must pass strict due diligence checks.

Purpose:

This policy is intended to protect the integrity and reputation of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship programme by ensuring only low-risk applicants are approved.

As of May 2026 – Rankings and travel access may vary depending on the passport index source and bilateral agreements in force at the time of travel. Travel access changes frequently and should be verified before travel. Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, subject to prevailing immigration regulations and bilateral agreements.

Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda may also travel to the United Kingdom for up to 6 months for tourism and business purposes without a visa; however, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is now required prior to travel to the UK.