Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Exploring the tropical paradise of Antigua and Barbuda is a dream for many. But what if I told you that dream could extend beyond a holiday? That's right, with Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment Program, you can become a citizen and get a second passport by investing in real estate or donating to a government fund.

The perks are tempting: citizenship for your whole family, the ability to live and work in Antigua and Barbuda and throughout most of the Caribbean region, along with significant tax and lifestyle advantages. I'll guide you through the ins and outs of this enticing opportunity, showing you how it's more than just a gateway to sun-soaked beaches—it's a strategic move for global mobility and financial savvy.

In this article, I will share why, in 2020, I decided to move to the Caribbean to take advantage of the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program. I’ll share the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and why as a savvy real estate investor, I still donated US $100,000+ to the Antigua and Barbuda government vs. the real estate investment route.

Why I Decided to Leave Canada and Move to the Caribbean

Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, Canada

As someone who's always tried to plan my life ten years in advance, the decision to leave Canada wasn't made lightly. After travelling to more than 50 countries and living in 4, I had decided that living more of a nomadic life was something I enjoyed. I also was facing 6 digital tax bills from the success I had had investing in Canadian real estate. The lure of strategic global mobility and the attractiveness of a Caribbean paradise finally convinced me to relocate to the Caribbean in 2020.

I also liked the idea of an alternative Plan B to provide a safe, stable environment amid global instability or a future pandemic. Years ago, I stumbled across the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program and others in the Caribbean. At the time I thought it was nuts to invest US $140,000 in a passport since I already had a top-tier Canadian passport. But the more research I did into relocating to the Caribbean, the more advantages of holding a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) passport; I could enjoy a spectacular tropical lifestyle and secure a future for my loved ones while having access to live, work, and do business throughout the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and CARICOM member states.

Another compelling reason for the move was Antigua and Barbuda's attractive tax regime. As an investor living and working in Canada, there's no denying that financial benefits played a significant role in my decision:

No capital gains tax
No inheritance tax
No income tax on worldwide income
No wealth tax

Tax efficiency is crucial for preserving wealth, and I saw an opportunity to benefit from these incentives while contributing to a growing economy reliant on tourism and investment.

Visa Free Access for Antigua and Barbuda Citizens

The guarantee of visa-free access to over 150 countries sweetened the deal in the rare event that I need to renounce my Canadian passport. With an Antigua and Barbuda passport, I could travel to various destinations, including the EU, UK, Canada (some restrictions apply), Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia, without the hassle of obtaining a visa for each trip.

I loved several Golden Visa programs around the world, including Portugal, Malta, Italy, and the Cayman Islands, but the ability to gain a second Antigua and Barbuda citizenship within as little as four months is remarkably efficient, and with investment options starting at $100,000, the path to a second passport seemed incredibly accessible.

For me, obtaining Caribbean citizenship by Investment wasn't just a personal privilege; it was a chance to becoming part of the Caribbean community, and invest in the stability and growth of my new home in Antigua.

What First Attracted Me to Citizenship by Investment

Global Mobility and Freedom

Best Places to Work Remotely in the Caribbean

My journey to Antigua citizenship by Investment was driven primarily by a desire for greater Global Mobility and Freedom. The ability to move across borders without the hindrance of stringent visa requirements was particularly appealing to me. Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment Program offered these freedoms, with visa-free travel to over 161 countries. The prospects of attending international conferences and networking events without the worry of visa denials or delays were irresistible. Imagine hopping on a plane to a spontaneous business meeting in Europe or taking a last-minute vacation to a multitude of exotic destinations—all achievable through the power of a Caribbean passport.

Tax Planning and Reduction

The attractive tax regime was the next compelling reason for choosing Antigua and Barbuda. Fundamentally, tax planning and reduction play a crucial role in preserving wealth, and this program provided the perfect structure. There's no arguing that the absence of capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and no income tax on worldwide income is a massive advantage for any young investor. The idea of retaining more of my hard-earned money while enjoying the lifestyle benefits that come with Caribbean citizenship by Investment was a big win. Short-term pain for long-term gain. When I considered my long-term financial goals, the tax advantages of Antigua and Barbuda stood out, promising an efficient way to manage my finances.

International Real Estate

My interest in International Real Estate also aligned perfectly with Antigua and Barbuda's Citizenship by Investment Program. Investing in property on a paradise island provided me with a tangible asset and opened up avenues for potential rental income. Knowing I could diversify my investment portfolio while gaining a second citizenship was a game-changer. The minimum investment for real estate under the program is USD 200,000, which could be recouped after maintaining the property for a minimum of five years. This and the possibility of passive income through rentals solidified my decision.

A "Plan B" Just in Case

Lastly, having a "Plan B" for myself and my future family was a significant factor in my decision-making process. In a world where unpredictability is the only certainty, securing a second citizenship through investment offered peace of mind. It ensured that should circumstances change in my home country or globally; I had an alternative residence to turn to. The Antigua and Barbuda program presented this security, providing a safe haven and a Plan B passport, which resonates with the needs of many high-net-worth individuals looking for stability in our fast-changing world.

As I delved into the benefits, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program clearly emerged as the front-runner for fulfilling my personal and financial goals. It wasn't just about obtaining a second citizenship but crafting a life of freedom, financial prudence, and security.

Comparing Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs

The Caribbean offers a selection of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) opportunities, each with unique benefits. Here's my comparative analysis:

St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment

St. Kitts and Nevis boasts the oldest CBI program in the world, launched in 1984. Its appeal lies in its accelerated application process, which, for a higher investment, promises a passport in as little as 90 days. Investors in St. Kitts and Nevis can choose between donating to the Sustainable Growth Fund or investing in approved real estate. I strongly considered the St. Kitts and Nevis program, but at the time, it was an additional US $50,000, and I didn’t see a big advantage compared to the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program.

*At the time of writing this article the minimum donation to participate in the St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship program is US $250,000.

Grenada Citizenship by Investment

Grenada's CBI program in the past stood out for providing access to the USA E-2 Investor Visa, allowing citizens to operate a business and reside in the US. But since that access was lost, the program has become much less competitive. This wasn’t an important feature for me but is one of the reasons that the Grenada program is the past was so popular.

Grenada is one of the more livable islands in the Caribbean, but compared to Antigua and Barbuda, the HDI and average income is much lower and generally is considered not as livable.

St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment

Introducing their program in 2015, St. Lucia's CBI route is one of the newest. What's interesting here is the alternative of investing in government bonds, which is unique among its peers. The island's passport provides visa-free access to 145 destinations worldwide and requires a minimum investment, similar to the other programs.

Dominica Citizenship by Investment

Dominica's economic citizenship option is often highlighted for its competitive pricing and strong due diligence. With a strong focus on eco-sustainability, the country's program aligns with investors looking to contribute to environmental projects. But recently, this country has had their visa-free access to the UK revoked, and has had several reputational issues in the past. Although this is another affordable citizenship by-investment program starting at $100,000 plus fees, Antigua and Barbuda offers much better value.

My Choice: Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

My personal preference gravitated towards Antigua citizenship by Investment for several reasons. First, I liked the idea of living and investing in Antigua and Barbuda. It’s generally a well-run country with a stable government and political system, and I also feel that the real estate market is grossly undervalued. It is one of the safest and most livable in the Caribbean, known for its excellent boating, swimming, nightlife and hospitality.

Antigua and Barbuda's CBI program primarily offers compelling tax benefits: no capital gains, income, inheritance, or wealth tax on worldwide income. Additionally, investment opportunities like real estate or business development are quite attractive in their return potential. With the passport secured through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program, I gained visa-free access to over 155 countries, including major business hubs. The nation's focus on family inclusion gave me peace of mind that future generations would benefit from this decision.

Antigua and Barbuda's program, which requires a minimum contribution of $100,000 for a family of four, is quite similar to other Caribbean citizenship by investment programs, yet it stands out with its unique offerings. Therefore, while it's nestled among a suite of Caribbean options, it's clear why my preference aligns firmly with Antigua and Barbuda for global mobility, familial legacy, and financial savvy.

Why I Chose the Donation Route vs. Real Estate Investment

Lack of Citizenship by Investment Approved Properties

When I made my decision to obtain Caribbean citizenship by investment, I initially was focused on skipping the donation and opting for the real estate route. However, as I delved deeper, I quickly realized there was a lack of Antigua citizenship by investment-approved properties that matched my criteria or offered good value. Most properties were newer developments priced 20 - 30% above market or not in desirable locations. Moreover, legal restrictions can be an obstacle – it's a known fact that Antigua and Barbuda's law has stringent conditions for citizenship by investment in property. These barriers nudged me towards exploring other routes to gain my Caribbean citizenship.

Additional Processing Time

Another factor that solidified my choice was the additional processing time associated with the real estate investment route. Applying via the donation option is generally faster; a significant consideration for someone looking for efficient and swift global mobility. In the Caribbean citizenship by investment landscape, time frames are crucial, and the donation route tends to be more streamlined. While essential for maintaining the program's integrity, the meticulous due diligence process can be lengthy when real estate is involved. This includes property registration, processing fees, and additional layers of bureaucracy that can extend the acquisition of citizenship beyond three to six months – a period I found quite reasonable for the donation route.

While investing in an asset appealed to me, I wasn't prepared to wait an indeterminate amount of extra time for my investment to bear the dual fruits of property appreciation and citizenship status. Ideally, the quick turnaround time associated with a monetary contribution to a government fund or an approved charity was more aligned with my objectives of establishing a secure legacy and gaining immediate access to the myriad benefits of being a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.

Why I Choose Antigua and Barbuda as My Home Base

Safety and Amenities

Moving to Antigua and Barbuda wasn't just a spur-of-the-moment decision but a strategic one fuelled by the country's balance of safety and high-end amenities. As an investor seeking to mitigate risks, Antigua citizenship by investment offered me a safety net against various forms of liability. The stable political climate, low crime rates, and comprehensive healthcare and education systems convinced me I'd find security and comfort here. Moreover, day-to-day life is enhanced by luxury amenities. From gourmet restaurants to world-class spas and boutique hotels, all my lifestyle desires are met.

Flight Connections and Accessibility

Flight to Antigua — Direct Flight Access to VC Bird International Airport - Antigua and Barbuda

My international commitments need me to be globally mobile, and having a base in Antigua and Barbuda means I’m well-connected to the world. The country's strategic location and flight options make international travel seamless. With direct flights to Canada, the US, the UK and most of the Caribbean, I can easily plan for business or pleasure trips, and the strong passport that comes with my Antigua and Barbuda citizenship expands my visa-free travel network extensively, making it one of the most appealing Caribbean citizenship by investment options for frequent travellers like myself.

Undervalued Real Estate Market

The allure of an undervalued real estate market is difficult to ignore. As someone with an eye for investment opportunities, Antigua and Barbuda's property market stands out. There’s potential for significant appreciation in the value of the real estate here, especially when considering the luxury properties that draw affluent families and professionals working remotely in paradise. Whether it's beachfront villas or exclusive townhouses, I've noticed that prices are more attractive than other more developed Caribbean islands, making Antigua citizenship by investment an even more strategic choice.

Economic Growth Potential

Finally, Antigua and Barbuda's citizenship by investment isn't just about immediate perks. I'm thinking long-term. The nation's Economic Growth Potential is evident in its growing tourism industry and developments in sustainable energy sources. As a new business hub is forming, my Caribbean citizenship by investment positions me at the heart of these exciting opportunities. It's not merely a place of residence; it's a stepping-stone for expansive economic ventures and a strategic move for future-proofing my investments.

What I Learned Through the Application and Due Diligence Process

Everything in the Caribbean Takes Time

My journey to securing Antigua citizenship by investment taught me that patience is more than a virtue in the Caribbean; it's necessary. After submitting my application, the due diligence process began. Unlike other global investment opportunities, thorough verification in the Caribbean is not swift. On average, I learned to anticipate three to six months before approval came through.

During this period, my background, financial status, and security information were scrutinized meticulously by the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). Such diligence is vital to maintaining the integrity of Caribbean citizenship by investment programs, ensuring that only reputable individuals gain the privilege of citizenship.

It's Not What You Know but Who You Know

In my 20’s I learned that networking is a key part of success in business. This couldn't be truer in this smaller Caribbean island where everybody knows everybody. With a population of around 100,000, Antigua and Barbuda is like a large village with 1 or 2 degrees of separation. It's essential to connect with local professionals who have not only the expertise but also the contacts to streamline the process. The teams I worked with—legal and tax experts, real estate agents, and other investors —provided invaluable guidance.

Their experience within the Antiguan and Barbudan community and their time-honoured relationships with developers and the CIU paved the way for a smoother application process for me. Tapping into this network of trusted insiders enabled me to sidestep foreseeable obstacles and brought a sense of ease to what can be a daunting process.

Don't Be Pennywise Pound Foolish. Just Do It.

Investing in a second citizenship is not a decision to be taken lightly or done on the cheap. Bot on the flip side, is a time-sensitive opportunity that most likely will not be available in the future. When considering Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment, I quickly realized the importance of not cutting corners and looking for a cheaper path. I learned that skimping on professional guidance or attempting to save by choosing to go the real estate route ended up costing me more in the long run. It's about value, not just cost.

The key takeaway from my gained knowledge and experience is that the right amount of time, a solid network, and strategic investment ensure that obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment is not only achievable but extraordinarily rewarding.

Conclusion

Securing citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda has been a journey worth taking. It requires patience, strategic investment, and the right connections. I've learned that cutting corners usually doesn’t pay off if you're serious about successfully navigating this path. I advise committing fully to the process, understanding that it's not just a transaction but a step towards expanding your global footprint. With the right approach and mindset, you'll find the rewards far exceed the effort invested.

In conclusion, my experience with the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program has been life-changing. The feeling when you actually receive the passport is similar to getting the key to your first car or house. It’s a feeling of ownership and freedom. As an investor and global traveller, I've found unparalleled value in this opportunity, not only for the financial benefits and global mobility it offers but also for the chance to be part of the vibrant Caribbean community. I believe the Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment program was the best investment I have ever made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did you choose the donation route instead of investing in real estate for Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program?

The donation route was quicker and more straightforward compared to the real estate option, which involved complex legal processes and delays. Many real estate options were also overpriced or in less desirable areas, making the donation a more efficient way to obtain citizenship and access global mobility.

What are the benefits of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

Antigua and Barbuda offers several advantages, including:

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the EU, UK, and Hong Kong.
No capital gains, inheritance, or worldwide income tax.
Family inclusion in the CBI application, securing benefits for future generations.
Access to live, work, and do business across the Caribbean (CARICOM and OECS).
A high standard of living, with beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and a vibrant community.

How long does the application process take?

The process typically takes 3 to 6 months, with the donation route being faster than the real estate option. Real estate applications require additional time for property registration, approvals, and due diligence, while the donation option streamlines the process for quicker citizenship approval.

Is Antigua and Barbuda a good long-term place to live?

Yes. Antigua and Barbuda offers a high quality of life with modern amenities, reliable healthcare, and strong travel connections to the US, Canada, and Europe. It’s known for its safety, friendly community, and luxurious lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and retirees.

What challenges did you face during the application process?

The biggest challenge was adjusting to the slower pace of Caribbean bureaucracy. However, working with trusted local professionals streamlined the process and ensured smooth progress. Choosing the donation route also helped me avoid additional delays that often arise with real estate investments.

**Bio**

International Real Estate Investor and Entrepreneur. Founder **@Offshore Freedom** | Host of the **@CaribbeanRealEstatePodcast**
We help successful investors and entrepreneurs live and invest tax-free in the Caribbean and buy real estate internationally.

Schedule a consultation with Dan Merriam, and let him help you design the life of your dreams and achieve Offshore Freedom™. Ask questions and get answers about the Caribbean, tax planning, banking, international real estate, second residencies, citizenship by investment and lifestyle design,

Writer in Tax Reduction, International Tax Planning, Travel, Golden Visa, Second Residence, Real Estate Investing, Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment, Antigua Citizenship, Caribbean Citizenship, Global Mobility, Technology, Asset Management, Lifestyle Planning, Company Formation, Offshore Banking, Asset Protection, Technology, Entrepreneurship

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship: Why I Donated Over US $140,000