Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program: A comprehensive overview of the citizenship by investment program in Antigua and Barbuda, including eligibility criteria, the application process, fees, and benefits.
Antigua and Barbuda is a small Caribbean nation consisting of two main islands and several smaller ones. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly people. But did you know that Antigua and Barbuda also offers a Citizenship by Investment Program that allows individuals to obtain a second citizenship in the country?
In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, including eligibility criteria, the application process, fees, and benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for citizenship under the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- They must be at least 18 years old.
- They must have a clean criminal record.
- They must have a net worth of at least USD 100,000.
- They must be able to provide proof of the source of their funds.
Application Process
The application process for the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program is relatively straightforward and consists of the following steps:
Step 1: Choose an Authorized Agent
The first step in the application process is to choose an authorized agent who will assist you throughout the process. Authorized agents are licensed by the government of Antigua and Barbuda to assist with the citizenship by investment program.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Once you have chosen an authorized agent, you will need to submit your application, along with all the required documents, to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of Antigua and Barbuda. The application will include information about the applicant’s personal and financial background, as well as their proposed investment.
Step 3: Due Diligence
The CIU will conduct due diligence checks on the applicant to ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and have a clean criminal record. This process typically takes between 60-90 days.
Step 4: Investment
Once the due diligence checks have been completed, the applicant will be required to make their investment. This can be done in one of two ways:
- Real Estate Investment: The applicant can invest a minimum of USD 200,000 in an approved real estate project in Antigua and Barbuda. The investment must be held for a minimum of five years.
- National Development Fund: The applicant can make a donation of at least USD 100,000 to the National Development Fund of Antigua and Barbuda.
Step 5: Citizenship
Upon completion of the investment, the applicant will be granted citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, and a passport will be issued.
Fees
The fees associated with the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program are as follows:
- Due Diligence Fees: USD 7,500 per applicant (or USD 7,500 for a family of up to four)
- Processing Fees: USD 50,000 for the main applicant, USD 25,000 for the spouse, and USD 25,000 for each dependent under the age of 18.
Benefits
Obtaining second citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda through the Citizenship by Investment Program offers a range of benefits, including:
- Visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Schengen Area of Europe.
- The ability to reside in Antigua and Barbuda without any time restrictions.
- Tax benefits, including no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes.
- Access to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
- The opportunity to participate in the economic development of Antigua and Barbuda through investment in real estate or the National Development Fund.
In conclusion, the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program is an attractive option for individuals