What is Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment?
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a program that allows individuals and families to obtain citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through significant investment. This offers a second passport that provides access to visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the EU and UK, and a great opportunity for those looking to make a strategic investment in a beautiful Caribbean nation.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we provide expert advice and support to individuals looking to apply for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment, ensuring they meet all the requirements for a smooth application process.
Eligibility for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✅ Minimum Investment: A qualifying investment in real estate, a donation to the National Development Fund (NDF), or a business investment.
✅ Clean Criminal Record: The applicant and family members must have a clean criminal record.
✅ Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for the applicant and their dependents.
✅ Residence Requirement: Applicants are required to stay in Antigua and Barbuda for at least 5 days during the first 5 years of citizenship.
📌 Family members of the main applicant (spouse, children, and sometimes parents) can also apply for citizenship.
Investment Options for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
There are four main options for investment under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program:
1. National Development Fund (NDF) Contribution
- Minimum contribution: $100,000 for a single applicant.
- Higher contributions required for family members or additional dependents.
- The donation is non-refundable and contributes directly to the country’s development.
2. Real Estate Investment
- Minimum investment: $400,000 in a government-approved real estate project.
- Investment must be held for at least 5 years before it can be sold.
- The property must be part of an approved project by the government, and it offers an opportunity for capital appreciation over time.
3. Business Investment
- Applicants can invest in a business or entrepreneurial venture that benefits the economy and creates jobs.
- The minimum investment for business-related citizenship can vary, but generally, the amount needs to meet the requirements set by the government.
4. University of Antigua and Barbuda Donation
- Applicants must donate at least $150,000 to The University of Antigua. This contribution supports educational development and provides applicants with a pathway to the program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Step 1: Choose Your Investment Option
- Determine which investment route (NDF donation, real estate, business investment, or university donation) best suits your goals and financial situation.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
📌 Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
📌 Proof of Investment (contract, receipt, or proof of donation).
📌 Proof of Financial Stability (bank statements, tax returns, employment records).
📌 Criminal Record Certificate (from your home country and any other country of residence).
📌 Health Insurance (covering the applicant and dependents).
📌 Completed Application Form – Signed and filled out.
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Submit the completed application and all supporting documents to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
- Applicants may need to pay a non-refundable government processing fee.
Step 4: Due Diligence and Background Check
- Antigua and Barbuda conducts due diligence checks to ensure that applicants and their family members meet the necessary legal, financial, and personal requirements.
- The due diligence process usually takes between 2-3 months.
Step 5: Make the Investment
- After the due diligence process, applicants will be asked to make the required investment (either donation or real estate purchase).
- The investment must be made after receiving preliminary approval from the CIU.
Step 6: Citizenship Approval
- Citizenship is granted after the investment is confirmed and all checks are cleared.
- The applicant and family members will receive a Certificate of Naturalization confirming their citizenship status.
Step 7: Apply for an Antigua and Barbuda Passport
- After receiving citizenship, applicants can apply for an Antigua and Barbuda passport, which provides visa-free access to over 130 countries.
Processing Time for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
🕒 Application Processing Time: 3-6 months from submission of the application.
🕒 Due Diligence: 2-3 months.
🕒 Final Approval & Investment Confirmation: Typically 1-2 months after due diligence is complete.
Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
✔️ Visa-Free Travel to over 130 countries, including Schengen Zone, the UK, and Hong Kong.
✔️ Dual Citizenship is permitted, meaning you can retain your original nationality.
✔️ Tax Benefits – No worldwide income tax in Antigua and Barbuda.
✔️ Business and Investment Opportunities – Open doors for expanding or establishing a business in the Caribbean.
✔️ Pathway to Residency in the UK – Antigua and Barbuda citizens can apply for a UK visa under the Commonwealth citizens’ pathway.
✔️ Family Inclusion – Spouse, children, and in some cases, parents and grandparents can also apply for citizenship.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
❌ Proving the Source of Funds
Solution: Provide complete documentation for the source of funds (e.g., bank statements, employment records, business ownership proof).
❌ Delays in Processing
Solution: Submit complete and accurate documents and apply in advance of your planned travel dates.
❌ Meeting the Investment Requirements
Solution: Ensure your investment meets the program’s standards and work with an experienced consultant to guide you through the process.
FAQs About Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Q1: Can my family apply for citizenship with me?
- Yes, your spouse, children under 30, and in some cases, dependent parents and grandparents can also apply.
Q2: What is the minimum investment required?
- The minimum investment is $100,000 for a donation to the National Development Fund (NDF). Real estate investment requires a minimum of $400,000.
Q3: How long do I have to stay in Antigua and Barbuda to retain citizenship?
- You must stay in the country for at least 5 days within the first 5 years of obtaining citizenship.
Q4: Can I sell my real estate investment after receiving citizenship?
- You must hold the property for at least 5 years before selling.
Q5: Is there a minimum stay requirement after becoming a citizen?
- No, there is no minimum stay requirement after citizenship is granted, except for the initial 5-day stay requirement.
Why Choose Sahin Legal Consultancy for Your Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Application?
✅ Expert Legal Guidance – We assist you in choosing the best investment option for citizenship.
✅ Comprehensive Document Review – Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
✅ Application Assistance – Helping you with document submission, due diligence, and the entire process.
✅ Fast-Track Process – We expedite your application to ensure a timely approval.
📞 Call us today to start your Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment application!
📍 Based in London – Assisting clients worldwide with Antigua and Barbuda citizenship and immigration services.
