Caribbean citizenship by investment is entering a new chapter. Antigua & Barbuda, along with Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, and St Lucia, has signed a draft regional agreement to tighten programme rules and bring them closer to the standards seen in the U.S. and Europe.
The proposed reforms include:
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Residency obligations: Applicants may need to spend at least 30 days in Antigua within the first five years of citizenship.
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Orientation and integration: A national course will help new citizens connect more deeply with their adopted country.
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Limited issuances: Application numbers may be capped, making access more exclusive.
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Conditional passports: Passports may initially be issued for five years, with renewals tied to compliance.
While these measures still require parliamentary approval, the direction of travel is clear: governments are moving toward stricter frameworks.
Why This Matters for Families Considering Citizenship
Until legislation is passed, Antigua & Barbuda’s programme remains under its current terms: a minimum investment of USD $230,000 and background checks, with no residency requirement beyond a one-time five-day visit within five years.
Industry experts believe those who act now will secure more favourable terms. “Families looking to secure a second citizenship in Antigua should act now before stricter rules take effect,” notes Lyle Julien of Immigrant Invest.
At the same time, some view the reforms as a positive development. Nick Stevens, CEO of NTL Trust, argues that visiting the islands is a natural step: “I am totally in favour of the requirement to visit and get to know the islands. I cannot imagine ever travelling on the passport of a country I have never visited.”
A Shift Toward Real Estate and Lifestyle Investments
Experts agree the residency element will likely drive greater demand for real estate-based applications over contribution-only models. Citizenship through property not only secures a passport but also provides a tangible lifestyle foothold: a home to enjoy, a base for tax planning, and an asset that can appreciate over time.
As analyst Aysever observes, investors naturally lean toward “options with tangible returns” when given the choice. A second home, rental yield potential, and guaranteed time on the island offer value that goes beyond the passport itself.
At Citizens International, we have long advocated for this approach. In our view, the most powerful outcome is citizenship combined with premium property ownership.
Why Apply Now
Global demand for Plan B solutions continues to rise. Instability, shifting tax regimes, and mobility restrictions are driving families to secure second citizenships as a hedge against the unknown.
Today’s Antigua & Barbuda programme remains one of the most attractive globally:
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Minimum investment from USD $230,000
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Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to 150+ countries
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No tax on worldwide income, inheritance, or capital gains
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Dual citizenship allowed
But as programmes align to international standards, higher thresholds and stricter obligations are inevitable.
Secure Your Citizenship with Citizens International
Our licensed team makes the process seamless from start to finish, combining legal expertise, tax planning, and access to Antigua’s leading property developments.
Call our head office weekdays at +1 268 562 8585 or book a 30-minute consultation with our team today.
Don’t wait until these changes are passed into law. Take advantage of Antigua & Barbuda’s citizenship by investment programme under its current favourable terms, and secure your family’s future today.
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