Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) has undergone key changes over the past few months, making it essential for investors to stay informed on updated requirements and investment options.
With multiple investment routes, broad family inclusion, and tax-friendly policies, the program remains a solid option for high-net-worth individuals looking to expand their global mobility and financial security.
With options ranging from contributions to government funds to real estate purchases and business investments, the program provides flexibility based on the investor’s financial goals.
Below, we outline the latest details of the program, including investment amounts, eligible dependents, and restrictions for certain applicants.
What is the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program?
Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign investors to obtain citizenship by making a qualifying financial contribution to the country. Established in 2013, the program was designed to drive economic development while offering investors the opportunity to secure a second passport.
The program for the fastest-growing economy in the Caribbean is designed to attract investment and support national economic growth while offering successful applicants the benefits of full citizenship.
Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda’s CIP provides a wide range of advantages for investors seeking a second passport, including:
-
Access to a well-established and structured investment migration program
-
Multiple investment options, catering to different financial preferences
-
Family-friendly policies that allow inclusion of spouses, children, parents, and other dependents
-
Opportunity to secure a second nationality with a legally recognized passport
-
Investment-based approach with a clear and defined application process
The Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) celebrated a record-breaking 2024, with visitor arrivals exceeding 1.2 million, a 17% increase from 2023.
Looking ahead to 2025, the momentum is set to continue with expanded cruise arrivals and new air connections, according to ABTA’s CEO. The twin-island nation is also setting its sights on becoming the Caribbean’s culinary capital, positioning itself as the go-to destination for world-class food and dining experiences.
Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
The program offers four distinct investment pathways, each catering to different investor needs.
Let’s see what they are below:
1. National Development Fund (NDF) Contribution
The National Development Fund (NDF) is a non-refundable contribution that supports government-approved projects. This is one of the simplest and most affordable pathways to citizenship.
Investment requirements:
-
Single applicant – $230,000 contribution + $10,000 processing fee
-
Family of up to four – $230,000 contribution + $20,000 processing fee
-
Family of five or more – $230,000 contribution + $20,000 processing fee + $10,000 per additional dependent
This route is ideal for investors who prefer a straightforward application process without ongoing obligations, such as property maintenance or business operations.
2. University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
This option is designed for families of six or more and includes a one-year tuition-only scholarship at the University of the West Indies for one family member.
Investment requirements:
-
Family of six – $260,000 (processing fees included)
-
Family of seven or more – $260,000 + $10,000 per additional dependent
This investment route is beneficial for larger families seeking an educational advantage while securing citizenship.
3. Real Estate Investment
Investors can qualify for citizenship by purchasing government-approved real estate valued at $300,000 or more. The property must be held for at least five years unless reinvested in another approved project.
Processing fees:
-
Single applicant or family of four – $10,000
-
Family of five or more – $20,000 + $10,000 per additional dependent
Beneficial ownership is permitted through a non-profit company, provided the company meets Antigua and Barbuda’s legal requirements and submits certified proof of ownership.
Since this option involves a real estate transaction, processing times may vary depending on the property. Applicants must sign a binding purchase agreement before submitting their citizenship application.
Upon approval, investors must complete all payments, after which a certificate of registration is issued. This document is required to apply for passports and take the oath of allegiance, which can be done in Antigua and Barbuda or at an overseas consulate.
4. Business Investment
Applicants can qualify by investing in an approved business in Antigua and Barbuda. This route is suited for those looking to contribute to the country’s economy through entrepreneurship or shared business ownership.
Investment requirements:
-
Single applicant – Minimum investment of $1,500,000
-
Joint investment (minimum 2 investors) – Total investment of $5,000,000 (each investor must contribute at least $400,000)
Processing fees:
-
Single applicant – $10,000
-
Family of four – $20,000
-
Family of five or more – $20,000 + $10,000 per additional dependent
The business investment option provides investors with the opportunity to actively participate in Antigua and Barbuda’s economy while securing citizenship.
Family Inclusion
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program allows investors to include multiple family members under a single application. Eligible dependents include:
-
Spouse of the main applicant
-
Children (0-30 years old) who are financially dependent
-
Adult children (18+) who are physically or mentally handicapped and fully supported by the main applicant
-
Parents and grandparents (55+ years old) who are financially dependent
-
Unmarried siblings of the main applicant or their spouse
-
Future spouse of the main applicant ($50,000 additional fee applies)
-
Future spouse of dependent children, if the child remains financially dependent
-
Future child of a dependent child ($10,000 for children under six years old; $20,000 for children aged 6-17)
This broad family eligibility makes the program one of the most inclusive Caribbean citizenship programs.
Restricted Nationalities
As of 2025, nationals from the following countries are generally restricted from applying:
-
Afghanistan
-
Iran
-
North Korea
-
Somalia
-
Yemen
-
Sudan
However, individuals from these countries may still be eligible if they meet the following criteria:
-
They hold permanent residence outside of their restricted country.
-
They have resided outside their restricted country for at least 10 years.
-
They do not engage in any business activity within their restricted country.
These restrictions are in place to ensure the security and international compliance of Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program.
Secure Your Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Today
Antigua and Barbuda has historically been among the Caribbean's most prosperous nations, largely thanks to its tourism industry and offshore financial services.
With its flexible investment options, tax advantages, and family-friendly policies, Antigua and Barbuda remains a top choice for investors seeking second citizenship. The program offers an efficient pathway to global mobility, financial security, and enhanced lifestyle benefits.
At High Net Worth Immigration, we specialize in guiding investors through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program. From selecting the best investment route to managing the application process, we provide end-to-end support.
Take the first step toward securing your second passport. Contact us today to learn more about how you can obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment.
