Antigua & Barbuda CBI Program

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 The Basics

The Antigua and Barbuda CBI Program, launched in 2013, lets you and your family snag citizenship—and a powerful Caribbean passport—by investing in the country. It’s a fast track to a second citizenship, offering global mobility, tax perks, and a Plan B, all without needing to move there full-time. In mid-2024, the minimum investment amounts went up to align with other Caribbean programs, but it’s still a standout for families and value-seekers.

New Investment Amounts (Post-July 31, 2024)The program offers four main paths to citizenship. Here’s what’s new and what you’ll need:

National Development Fund (NDF) Donation 

• Cost: $230,000 for a family of up to 4 (up from $100,000 pre-2024).  
• What It Is: A one-time, non-refundable gift to the government for national projects.  
• Extras: Add $8,500 due diligence for the main applicant, $5,000 for a spouse, plus $1,500 interview fees per person 16+.

University of West Indies (UWI) Fund Donation 

• Cost: $260,000 for a family of 6+ (up from $150,000).  
• What It Is: A donation to the UWI—includes a 1-year tuition-only scholarship for one family member.  
• Extras: Same due diligence and interview fees apply.

Real Estate Investment 

• Cost: $325,000 minimum (up from $200,000).  
• What It Is: Buy into a government-approved resort or property, hold it for 5 years, and you can sell it later (often with rental income).  
• Extras: $20,000 processing fee for up to 4 people, plus due diligence/interview costs.

Business Investment 

• Cost: $1.5 million solo, or $400,000 each in a $5 million joint venture.  
• What It Is: Invest in an approved business—less common due to the high entry point.  
• Extras: Similar fees as above.

Total cost for a family of 4 (NDF route) lands around $260k-$270k +fees.

Why It’s Worth It

• Fast Passport: 6-12 months processing—St. Kitts is quicker (3-6), but Antigua’s still speedy. You get a passport ranked #21 globally (150+ visa-free countries, like the UK and Schengen).  
• Tax Freedom: No income, capital gains, or inheritance tax—huge for tax rebels and retirees. Pair it with U.S. tax strategies to keep more cash.  
• Family Deal: $230k flat for 4 (vs. St. Kitts’ $300k) makes it the cheapest Caribbean CBI for families—great for retirees or discontents with kids.  
• Low Commitment: Spend just 5 days in Antigua within 5 years—ideal for nomads and entrepreneurs who don’t want to relocate.  
• Lifestyle: $1,500/month living costs, beaches, and stability—retirees and nomads love the vibe, 4 hours from Miami.

Who is it for?

• Digital Nomads: Schengen access and no residency hassle—work globally with a $230k passport.  
• Tax Rebels: Zero taxes on foreign income—save big vs. U.S. rates (e.g., $185k on $500k).  
• Retirees: $230k for 4, low living costs—stretch pensions further than Florida.  
• Political Discontents: Quick citizenship, Commonwealth stability—your EU-adjacent escape.  
• Small Business Owners: Real estate ($325k) offers ROI; citizenship opens banking perks.

Why Antigua Over Others?

• Vs. St. Kitts: Cheaper for families ($230k vs. $300k), but St. Kitts is faster and has no visit rule.  
• Vs. Portugal D2: $11k entry’s lower, but D2’s residency-only (no passport ‘til 5 years).  
• Vs. Costa Rica: $150k beats $230k, but no tax perks or EU travel like Antigua.

Antigua’s CBI is your sweet spot for family value, tax savings, and a quick second passport—$230k unlocks a world of options. Want to dig deeper into costs or steps? I’ve got you covered.

Disclaimer: I’m not a financial adviser—consult one. Rules can shift; check with Antigua’s CIU.