Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
A complete guide to Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment (CBI) for Italian citizens. Antigua offers the most extensive family inclusion among Caribbean CBI programs, with four investment options: a $230,000 NDF donation, a $300,000 real estate investment, a $260,000 University of the West Indies investment, and a $1,500,000 business investment. Visa-free access to 153+ destinations, including the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom, no continuous residency requirement, and full compatibility with Italian citizenship. On this page: investment options, requirements, the 5-step process, documents, tax benefits, a comparison of Caribbean CBI programs, and FAQs.
What is Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment and why does it offer the most extensive family inclusion?
citizenship by investment Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program established in 2013 and regulated by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Regulations 2014. The program allows foreign citizens—including Italian citizens —to obtain a second passport and full Antigua and Barbuda citizenship in exchange for a financial contribution to the country. Antigua and Barbuda stands out among the Caribbean CBI landscape for its broadest family inclusion : investors can include their spouse, children under 31 (with their spouses and children), parents and grandparents from 55 years of age, and unmarried siblings of any age in their —a unique extension among Caribbean programs.
The Antigua and Barbuda passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 151 countries and territories , including the entire Schengen Area , the United Kingdom , Hong Kong , Singapore , and Russia . For families with six or more members, the program offers a particularly advantageous option: a donation to the University of the West Indies ( UWI) Fund of $260,000, including processing fees, which represents the most economical route for large families. Dual citizenship is fully recognized.
The program is administered by the Citizenship by Investment Unit ( CIU ), established by the Prime Minister and based in St. John's . Starting in November 2023, a mandatory virtual interview for the principal applicant and all dependents aged 16 and over. Investment is only made after pre-approval. An Italian can obtain citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda without renouncing their Italian passport.
4 Investment Options for Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program has four routes : donation to the National Development Fund (NDF) , real estate investment , donation to the UWI Fund , and business investment .
Option 1 — Donation to the National Development Fund (NDF)
The National Development Fund is a government fund dedicated to the economic development of Antigua and Barbuda: infrastructure, tourism, renewable energy, healthcare, and education. The donation is non-refundable and the amount remains unchanged regardless of the number of family members included in the application (up to 4 people).
| Voice | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NDF Contribution — Single | $230.000 | Non-refundable donation |
| NDF Contribution — family up to 4 | $230.000 | Same amount as single |
| Additional employee (from the fifth) | $230,000 + increase | The fee remains unchanged; only the processing fee will increase |
| Processing fee — single | $10.000 | Non-refundable |
| Processing fee — family up to 4 | $20.000 | Non-refundable |
| Processing fee — each additional employee | $10.000 | From the fifth member |
| Due diligence — lead applicant | $8.500 | Non-refundable |
| Due diligence — spouse | $5.000 | Non-refundable |
| Due diligence — employee 12-17 years old | $2.000 | Per person |
| Due diligence — employee 18+ years old | $4.000 | Per person |
| Due diligence — minors under 12 | Free | No cost |
| Passport — every member | $300 | Per person |
| Mandatory interview | Included | Virtual, for applicants and employees 16+ |
Option 2 — Government-approved real estate investment
The real estate option involves purchasing a property in a CIU-approved project with a minimum investment of $300,000. Two applicants may make a joint investment, each with a minimum of $300,000. The property cannot be resold for five years.
| Voice | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum investment — project approved | $300.000 | Property in a project approved by the CIU |
| Joint investment (2 applicants) | $300,000 each | Each investor must invest at least $300,000 |
| Detention period | — | Minimum 5 years before resale |
| Processing fee — single / family | $10.000 / $20.000 | $10,000 for each additional dependent from the fifth |
| Due diligence | Like NDF | Same rates: $8,500 principal, $5,000 spouse, etc. |
| Passport — every member | $300 | Per person |
Option 3 — University of the West Indies Fund (UWI) — ideal for large families
The UWI is reserved for families of six or more members and represents the most affordable option for large families. The $260,000 contribution includes processing fees , making it significantly more affordable than the NDF donation for large families. One family member also receives a one-year scholarship at the University of the West Indies .
| Voice | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UWI Contribution — Family of 6+ | $260.000 | Processing fee included in the contribution |
| Additional employee (from the seventh) | $10.000 | For each additional member |
| Due diligence | Like NDF | Same standard rates |
| Passport — every member | $300 | Per person |
| UWI Scholarship | Included | 1 year for a family member |
Option 4 — Investment in approved business
The business investment involves direct investment in a CIU-approved business in the tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
| Voice | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single investment | $1.500.000 | Only one investor |
| Joint investment (2+ people) | $5,000,000 total | Minimum $400,000 per participant |
| Processing fees and due diligence | Like NDF | Same standard rates |
General information about Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is an island nation composed of two main islands and the uninhabited islet of Redonda, located in the eastern Caribbean. With a surface area of approximately 442 km², the economy is based almost entirely on tourism (approximately 60% of GDP), with key markets in the USA, Canada, and Europe. The archipelago is famous for its 365 turquoise beaches, luxury resorts, and the port of Falmouth, which welcomes some of the world's largest cruise ships. The legal system follows the common law . Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the OECS and CARICOM , guaranteeing its citizens free movement and the right to work in member states. The country is also recognized as a cryptocurrency and blockchain-friendly destination.
Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda
To apply for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment , the principal applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum age: 18 years of age at the time of application
- Clean criminal record: Criminal record certificate from each country in which the applicant has resided for 6+ consecutive months since reaching the age of majority.
- Legal source of funds: documentation demonstrating the lawful origin of the assets and investment
- Good health: medical certificate
- No ties to restricted countries: Citizens of restricted countries can apply only if they emigrated before reaching the age of majority and/or have been permanent residents outside the restricted country for at least 10 years.
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship application allows for the most extensive family inclusion among all Caribbean CBIs: spouse ; children under 31 (including their spouses and children); children aged 18 and over with physical or mental disabilities; parents and grandparents aged 55 and over of the applicant and spouse; and unmarried siblings of any age of the applicant and spouse. The investor may also add dependents after obtaining Antiguan citizenship .
The 5-Step Procedure for Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Step-by-step procedure
Selecting the authorized agent and investment option
The first step is to find an authorized CIU agent and choose between four options: NDF, real estate, UWI (for families of 6+), or business. The agent will guide you through the entire process of obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment.
Document preparation and pre-assessment
The agent conducts a pre-assessment of eligibility and collects the necessary documentation: passport, certificates, criminal record apostilled from each country of residence for 6+ months, medical certificate, bank and professional references, proof of source of funds, bank statements, and resume. Preparation usually takes 3-5 weeks.
Presentation to the CIU and payment of initial costs
The agent submits the file to the CIU. The applicant pays the due diligence fee ($8,500 principal + family fee) and a 10% government fee (non-refundable). These fees are due upon submission and are non-refundable in the event of rejection.
Due diligence, virtual interview, and approval
The CIU conducts thorough background checks on criminal, financial, and reputational backgrounds. A mandatory virtual interview is conducted for the principal applicant and all dependents aged 16 and over. If successful, the CIU issues a letter of approval . The processing phase typically takes 4-5 months.
Investment payment, naturalization and passport
Upon approval, the applicant pays the balance of the government fee and completes the investment according to the chosen option. The CIU issues the Certificate of Citizenship and Antigua and Barbuda passports . The applicant and dependents must visit Antigua for at least 5 days within the first 5 years and take the Oath of Allegiance , which can be taken at a consulate.
Documents required for applying for citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda
The CIU requires the submission of the following documents for each applicant for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment :
- Passport: certified copy of a valid passport
- Birth certificate: full apostilled copy
- Marriage or divorce certificate: if applicable, apostilled copy
- Criminal record: certificate apostilled by each country of residence 6+ consecutive months after coming of age
- Medical certificate: issued by an authorized physician
- Bank references: letter from the reference bank
- Professional References: Letter from a Qualified Professional
- Proof of source of funds: documentation of the lawful origin of assets
- Bank statements: last 12 months
- Curriculum vitae: professional background and education
- Passport-sized photographs: recent photos compliant with international standards
- Completed CBI forms: for the main applicant and for each dependent
All documents must be in English or translated and apostilled for use in Antigua and Barbuda. An incomplete application will delay the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship .
Antigua and Barbuda Passport Benefits for Italian Citizens
Global mobility: visa-free access to 151+ destinations
The Antigua and Barbuda passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to over 151 countries and territories . Access includes the entire Schengen Area (90 days out of 180 days), the United Kingdom (up to 180 days with an eTA), Hong Kong (90 days), Singapore (30 days), Russia , and the entire Caribbean. Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda can obtain a B-1/B-2 visa for the United States valid for up to 10 years.
Unparalleled family inclusion
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program offers the most extensive family inclusion of all Caribbean CBIs. In addition to spouses and children, investors can include children under 31 with their spouses and children , parents and grandparents, and unmarried siblings of any age . For families of six or more members, the UWI option ($260,000 including processing fee) significantly reduces the cost per person.
Favorable tax regime
Antigua and Barbuda does not impose any personal income tax , capital gains tax , inheritance tax , or wealth tax . There is no taxation on worldwide income. Holders of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment who maintain tax residency in Italy remain subject to Italian tax law.
Full compatibility with Italian citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda recognizes dual citizenship . Italy allows its citizens to hold multiple citizenships. An Italian can obtain citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda while retaining all their Italian rights. Citizenship is for life and is transferable to future generations.
Comparison of Citizenship by Investment Programs in the Caribbean
| Characteristic | Antigua and Barbuda | St. Kitts and Nevis | Dominica | Grenada | St. Lucia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 2013 | 1984 | 1993 | 2013 | 2015 |
| Minimum donation (family ≤4) | $230.000 | $250.000 | $200.000 | $235.000 | $240.000 |
| Minimum real estate investment | $300.000 | $325.000 | $200.000 | $270,000 + $50,000 | $300,000 + $50,000 |
| Visa-free countries | 151+ | 156+ | 145+ | 148+ | 146+ |
| Sibling inclusion (any age) | Yes (unique) | No | No | Only 18+ unmarried | Only under 18 |
| Family option 6+ | UWI $260K (fee incl.) | No | No | No | No |
| Visa-free access to China | No | No | No | Yes (30 days) | No |
| US E-2 Treaty | No | No | No | Yes (unique) | No |
| Residency requirement | 5 days/5 years | No | No | No | No |
| Due diligence (main) | $8.500 | $10.000 | $7.500 | $5.000 | $8.000 |
| Average timing | 6-9 months | 4-6 months | 3-6 months | 6-8 months | 3-9 months |
| Dedicated page | This page | St. Kitts and Nevis | Dominica | Grenada | St. Lucia |
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program is the strategic choice for large families and those seeking the widest possible family inclusion. The UWI option ($260,000 for families of 6+, including fees) is unbeatable in terms of cost per person. For those seeking the lowest initial cost, Dominica remains the most accessible. For access to China and the E-2 treaty, Grenada is preferable. For the strongest passport in terms of destinations, St. Kitts and Nevis leads the way.
Visa-free travel with an Antigua and Barbuda passport: top destinations
The Antigua and Barbuda passport offers visa-free or simplified entry to 151+ countries and territories :
- Europe — Schengen Area: all 29 Schengen countries for stays of up to 90 days out of 180 (with future ETIAS), including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland
- United Kingdom: Entry with eTA for stays up to 180 days
- Asia: Hong Kong (90 days), Singapore (30 days), South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines
- Caribbean and Latin America: all CARICOM and OECS countries (free movement with identity card), Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Cuba
- Non-Schengen Europe: Russia, Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia
- Africa: Botswana, Eswatini, Tanzania (visa on arrival), Kenya (eTA), Egypt (visa on arrival)
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia (eVisa), Jordan (visa on arrival)
The Antigua and Barbuda passport does not allow visa-free access to the United States (a 10-year B-1/B-2 visa is available), Canada, Australia, and China. Combining it with permanent residency in Panama expands your international mobility and planning options.
Antigua and Barbuda Taxation for Citizenship by Investment Holders
Antigua and Barbuda does not impose personal income tax , capital gains tax , inheritance tax , gift tax , or wealth tax . The country does not tax worldwide income. Holders of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment who maintain tax residency in Italy remain subject to Italian tax law. Antiguan citizenship does not automatically change tax residency. International planning—possibly combined with tax residency in Panama —requires specialized advice.
Legal Notice on Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program is governed by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Regulations 2014 , as amended. The competent authority is the Citizenship by Investment Unit ( CIU ), located in St. John's, Factory Road. Applications must be submitted exclusively through authorized agents . The information provided is based on current legislation and the official fee schedule published on cip.gov.ag.
Granting Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment is at the sole discretion of the CIU . The CIU may reject any application if the applicant provides false information, omits relevant data, or poses a risk to the country's reputation. Failure to meet the five-day visit requirement within the first five years may result in the passport not being renewed.
FAQ — Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment?
How long does it take to obtain an Antigua and Barbuda passport?
Is it true that I need to visit Antigua and Barbuda?
What makes the UWI option for large families special?
Can I keep my Italian citizenship?
Can I include my siblings in the application?
What happens if my application is rejected?
Can I add family members after naturalization?
What is the difference between Antigua citizenship and Panamanian residency?
Is citizenship passable to future children?
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