Program Benefits:

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries with an Antigua and Barbuda passport (including Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, and Schengen Area)

Option to include extended family members: Spouses, dependent children under 31 (and their spouses and children), parents and grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings can be included in the citizenship application

Special privileges in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth member countries

Attractive living destination with excellent transportation links to North America and Europe

Investment Options:

Main applicants must be over 18 years old and can choose one of these four options:

Non-refundable contribution of USD 230,000 to the National Development Fund

Non-refundable contribution of USD 260,000 to the University of the West Indies

Real estate purchase of minimum USD 300,000 in an approved project (5-year holding period, joint investment possible)

Business investment option: Either USD 1.5 million individually or minimum USD 400,000 per person in joint ventures (minimum total of USD 5 million)

Application Process:

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) evaluates applications and conducts comprehensive due diligence

Applications with incomplete or incorrect information will be rejected

Virtual interviews required for applicants over 16 years after application approval

Passports are issued in Antigua and Barbuda

Minimum 5-day residence requirement in the island nation during the first 5 years of citizenship

For real estate investments, it’s crucial to select a project capable of providing all necessary documentation

When discussing the real estate market in Antigua and Barbuda, one must consider the island lifestyle. Antigua and Barbuda offers the opportunity to own a piece of paradise and the lifestyle that comes with it. While this is what many real estate buyers seek, the profit potential that such investments can offer is also a major part of the decision-making process.

With some of the most sought-after properties in the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda provides an attractive environment for real estate investment. As a result, the country’s real estate sector has witnessed a significant increase in interest from foreign buyers in recent years. The real estate market in Antigua and Barbuda offers buyers a unique lifestyle — one that’s all about the experience.

Are there any restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Antigua and Barbuda?

Foreign nationals need a non-citizen land holding license. However, if the client is applying for citizenship through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, no license is required.

Everything you need to know about buying premium real estate in Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program.

Property Holding Period

Minimum of five years

Investment

Minimum real estate investment

USD 300,000

Property Type

Single or joint ownership

Rental Income Opportunity

2-5% for residential property

What additional costs will be involved in the real estate transaction?

The buyer is responsible for third-party legal transfer or closing fees of 1-2% of the purchase price. Additionally, they are responsible for paying the national standard buyer’s stamp duty of 2.5%.

What returns can be expected from real estate investment in Antigua and Barbuda?

Under normal conditions, estimated returns range between 2.5% and 3%. (However, this was not the case during most of 2020 due to challenges from the Covid-19 pandemic.)

How is rental income taxed?

Short-term rental income is subject to ABST tax at a rate of 17%.

What other taxes and fees apply to real estate in Antigua and Barbuda?

Owners must pay property tax to the state as determined by the Revenue Authority.

How can property be acquired in Antigua and Barbuda?

For non-citizens, a land holding license must be obtained to purchase real estate. The alternative is to obtain citizenship by purchasing property in one of Antigua’s premium real estate developments.

Does the applicant need to open a bank account to purchase property, and if so, what is the procedure?

While foreign investors are not required to open a bank account on the island to purchase real estate, it is recommended to open an account after acquiring property to manage property-related business activities.