For many investors, citizenship approval feels like the final step. In reality, it is the beginning of a long-term relationship with Antigua and Barbuda.
While citizenship itself does not expire, passports do. And under Antigua and Barbuda’s framework, the first renewal carries an important compliance milestone.
As more families approach their five-year mark, it is important to understand how the renewal process works and how to plan ahead.
The Initial Five-Year Passport
Under the Citizenship by Investment Program, the first Antiguan and Barbudan passport is typically issued with five-year validity.
This initial term is linked to the country’s physical presence requirement, which is built into the citizenship framework to reinforce connection and credibility.
Citizenship remains permanent once granted. However, renewal of the passport after the first five years requires confirmation that certain obligations have been met.
The Five-Day Physical Presence Requirement
To renew the passport after the initial five-year period, citizens must demonstrate that they have fulfilled Antigua and Barbuda’s physical presence requirement.
This requires:
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Spending a minimum of five days in Antigua and Barbuda during the first five years of citizenship
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Providing evidence of travel and stay in the country
The five days do not need to be consecutive, and many clients incorporate this visit into property stays, business travel, or family holidays.
This requirement reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s long-standing emphasis on genuine engagement rather than purely transactional citizenship models.
What Happens After the First Renewal?
Once the physical presence requirement has been satisfied and the passport is successfully renewed, adult passports are generally issued with ten-year validity.
From that point forward, renewals follow the standard passport cycle.
Documentation and Processing Considerations
While procedures can evolve, passport renewal applications typically require:
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The current passport
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Updated passport photographs
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Applicable government fees
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Supporting documentation demonstrating compliance with the five-day presence requirement
Processing times may vary depending on government workload and whether the application is submitted in Antigua or through a diplomatic mission abroad.
Because timelines are not fixed, it is not advisable to wait until close to expiry, especially if international travel is planned.
When Should You Start the Renewal Process?
We recommend reviewing your passport expiry date well in advance.
As a general guideline, clients should contact us at least six months before expiry. This allows time to:
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Confirm whether the physical presence requirement has been satisfied
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Coordinate travel to Antigua if necessary
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Gather supporting documentation
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Submit the renewal with sufficient buffer before upcoming travel
An expired passport does not mean loss of citizenship. However, delays in renewal can temporarily restrict travel and create unnecessary inconvenience.
Why This Requirement Matters
Antigua and Barbuda was one of the first Caribbean jurisdictions to introduce a structured physical presence requirement within its citizenship by investment framework.
As regional programs continue to evolve toward greater substance and integration, this approach has positioned Antigua and Barbuda as a jurisdiction focused on credibility and long-term resilience.
For citizens, meeting the five-day requirement is typically straightforward. With proper planning, it becomes a natural part of maintaining a second citizenship.
How Citizens International Assists
Our role does not end at approval.
We assist clients with:
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Tracking key compliance milestones
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Advising on timing and travel planning
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Preparing renewal documentation
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Coordinating submission logistics
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Ensuring the process runs smoothly and efficiently
Second citizenship should function as a durable strategic asset. Proper maintenance ensures it continues to support global mobility, business flexibility, and long-term planning.
If your five-year anniversary is approaching, or if you are unsure whether your presence requirement has been satisfied, we encourage you to contact our team for guidance.
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