Antigua and Barbuda, two beautiful islands in the Caribbean Sea with white beaches, turquoise waters, and a sustainable economy, offers one of the most attractive citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs. This program, which began in 2013, allows wealthy investors and their families to obtain citizenship and a Caribbean passport through economic investment. The Antigua and Barbuda passport ranks 28th globally in 2025 and provides visa-free access to over 150 countries, including Schengen, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong. In November 2025, despite processing delays (3–6 months due to backlog), the program remains popular with no major changes to minimum investments, though mandatory interviews and the new digital platform emphasize greater due diligence. In this article, fully up-to-date information as of November 2025 is provided based on official sources from the CIU (Citizenship by Investment Unit) and recent changes. This program is ideal for tax optimization, passport diversification, and luxurious living in paradise.
What is Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment?
The Antigua and Barbuda CBI program allows non-citizen investors (outside the Caribbean) to obtain lifelong citizenship through financial contributions to the country’s economy. Citizenship includes a passport, the right to live/work in Antigua and Barbuda and CARICOM countries, and transfer to future generations. There is no requirement for permanent residency, but a minimum of 5 days visit in the first 5 years is mandatory.
Key benefits:
- No tax on global income, inheritance, or foreign investment.
- Commonwealth membership: Tuition discounts in the UK.
- Crypto-friendly: Support for blockchain and digital currencies.
- Extended family: Includes children up to 30 years old, parents/grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings.
Major Changes to the CBI Program in November 2025
- Mandatory interview: For all main applicants and dependents over 16, via video conference or in-person, to increase transparency.
- CIU digital platform: Launched in 2025 for faster applications and online tracking.
- Minimum residency: Confirmation of 5 days in the first 5 years; coordinated proposal with other Caribbean CBIs for 30 days in the future (not yet finalized).
- Processing delay: Due to high volume, average time 4–6 months (official: 3–4 months).
- Passport ranking: 152 visa-free/on-arrival countries (including EU/UK), no major changes.
Eligible Investment Options in 2025
Minimum investment is $230,000, depending on family size:
| Investment Options | Investment Option | Minimum Amount (Family up to 4) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Development Fund (NDF) | $230,000 (non-refundable contribution) | Fastest option; supports infrastructure. | |
| Real Estate | $300,000 (purchase) | 5-year holding period; rental or sale afterward. | |
| Business Investment | $1,500,000 (single) or $5,000,000 (joint) | Creation of at least 5 jobs; ABIA approval. | |
| University of the West Indies Fund (UWI) | $260,000 (for 6+ persons) | Focus on education; cost-effective for large families. |
For larger families, $15,000–$25,000 additional per person.
Requirements for Antigua and Barbuda CBI Citizenship Applicants
- Age over 18.
- Clean criminal record (due diligence by CIU and international firms).
- Proof of lawful source of funds.
- No language or integration test required.
- Mandatory interview for transparency.
Antigua and Barbuda CBI Application Process in 2025
- Select authorized agent: Only through CIU-licensed agents (such as ITCiLand).
- Gather documents: Passport, clean criminal record, proof of funds, medical certificates, and biometrics.
- Submit application: Online via CIU platform; pay $50,000 non-refundable for due diligence.
- Review and interview: 3–4 months; thorough due diligence.
- Final payment and oath: After approval, pay balance of investment + oath (video/in-person/consulate).
- Passport issuance: Within 1–2 weeks; 5-day visit in 5 years.
Additional costs (approximate for a family of 4):
- Due diligence: $7,500 (main) + $2,000–$4,000 (dependents).
- Processing: $30,000–$50,000.
- Passport: $300 per person.
- Agent fees: $20,000–$40,000.
- Total: Approximately $272,200+.
Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda CBI Citizenship in 2025
- Global mobility: Visa-free to 152 countries; ideal for business travel.
- Financial benefits: No tax on foreign income; retirement haven.
- Family: Broad dependent coverage; free education in local schools.
- Lifestyle: Safe islands with high GDP per capita; access to CARICOM.
- Transferability: Lifelong citizenship, inheritable by descendants.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship-by-investment program in November 2025, with stability, transparency, and global benefits, is a top choice for wealthy Iranians seeking a second passport without complexity. With faster digital processing and focus on due diligence, success is guaranteed. but choosing an authorized agent is key. At ITCiLand, as a CIU-licensed agent, we have managed over 90% successful cases in 2025. We handle the entire process from initial assessment to passport issuance with full confidentiality. Contact us now for free consultation and eligibility review.
