13/12/24

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: Antigua and Barbuda revamps its citizenship by investment program — Key updates

As published on: traveldailynews.com, Friday 13 December, 2024.

Antigua and Barbuda’s revamped Citizenship by Investment Program continues to offer excellent opportunities for high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility and financial advantages.

Antigua and Barbuda has updated its Citizenship by Investment Program to reflect new requirements, fees, and benefits for applicants. These changes aim to streamline the process for high-net-worth individuals while ensuring the program remains competitive with other Caribbean nations offering similar opportunities. Lyle Julien, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains these key updates and what they mean for those interested in gaining Caribbean citizenship by investment.

What is Antigua and Barbuda second citizenship
By obtaining Antigua and Barbuda second citizenship, investors can enjoy visa-free travel to many countries. The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program has been a popular choice for high-net-worth individuals looking for greater freedom and financial opportunities.

The government allows investors to become citizens by making a qualified financial investment. This may include real estate, donations to national development funds, or business investments. In return, applicants receive citizenship for themselves and their families, providing numerous advantages.

Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program stands out for its inclusiveness. Investors can include not only spouses and children but also elderly parents and even unmarried siblings. This makes it one of the most family-friendly citizenship programs in the Caribbean.

Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program changes
As of 2024, Antigua and Barbuda has made significant changes to its Citizenship by Investment Program. These adjustments aim to maintain its competitiveness and enhance the inclusivity of family members. Here are some of the key updates:

Increased minimum investment thresholds:

the minimum real estate investment has been raised to $300,000;
contributions to the National Development Fund (NDF) now require $230,000 for up to four applicants;
for families of six or more, the high educational institution donation option now requires $260,000, which includes processing fees for the first six applicants.
From December 2023, all applicants, including dependents aged 16 and older, must undergo a virtual interview as part of the due diligence process.

9 benefits of getting Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment
1. Visa-free travel. Antigua and Barbuda citizenship grants visa-free access to many countries. This benefit makes it easier for business travellers and vacationers to move freely.

2. Dual citizenship allowed. Antigua and Barbuda permits dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality. This flexibility means you can hold two passports without renouncing your current citizenship.

3. Tax advantages. The country has no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or worldwide income tax. This is a major draw for investors looking to optimise their tax obligations. Moreover, Antigua and Barbuda offers a business-friendly tax environment with relatively low corporate tax rates, making it an appealing option for entrepreneurs.

4. Security and stability. Antigua and Barbuda offers political stability and a secure environment. Its robust legal system ensures property rights and investor protection. The country has a long-standing tradition of maintaining strong international relations and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

5. Citizenship for family members. Your spouse, children, siblings, parents and grandparents can be included in the application. The recent changes now make it easier to add dependents without facing higher fees. This means families can benefit together from the global mobility and tax advantages offered by Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.

6. Real estate investment returns. By investing in government-approved real estate, you not only gain citizenship but also have the opportunity to profit from property resale after five years. Real estate values in Antigua and Barbuda have been steadily rising, making this an attractive investment opportunity.

7. Lifetime citizenship. Antigua and Barbuda citizenship is for life. This makes it a permanent asset that provides security for you and your family.

8. Flexible residence requirements. Antigua only requires citizens to spend five days in the country within the first five years of holding citizenship. This minimal requirement is convenient for those with busy travel schedules or business commitments elsewhere.

9. Access to CARICOM markets. As a citizen, you’ll have access to markets within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), providing further business and investment opportunities. Being a part of this regional trade bloc can open doors for expanding businesses or accessing new markets.

How to apply for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship
Start with choosing your investment option. To begin the application process, decide which qualifying investment route best suits your financial goals. These include donating to the National Development Fund, investing in real estate, or funding an approved business venture.

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, the business investment route offers both citizenship and the potential for strong financial returns.

Submit the required documentation. Applicants must provide personal identification documents, proof of financial resources, and a clean criminal record. A government-approved agent must handle the application submission on your behalf. It’s important to ensure all documents are accurately prepared to avoid delays in processing.

Complete the background checks and due diligence. After submitting your application, Antigua’s authorities will conduct thorough due diligence checks. This step ensures that all applicants meet the program’s strict standards for transparency and legitimacy.

The process includes checks on financial background, international security databases, and personal history.

Make an investment. Once the due diligence process is complete, you’ll receive approval in principle. At this stage, you can finalise your investment and pay the required government fees. The approval guarantees your citizenship upon completion of the remaining steps.

Obtain your citizenship. After completing all steps, you and your family will be granted citizenship and issued Antigua and Barbuda passports. The entire process typically takes between three to four months. The speed of this process, combined with the program’s benefits, makes Antigua and Barbuda one of the most attractive options for obtaining second citizenship in the Caribbean.

Conclusion
Antigua and Barbuda’s revamped Citizenship by Investment Program continues to offer excellent opportunities for high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility and financial advantages. The recent changes make the program more attractive by expanding eligibility for family members, adjusting costs, and enhancing processing times. For those looking to secure a second citizenship by investment, Antigua and Barbuda remains a top choice.

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Antigua Barbuda Citizenship by Investment