Being alive in 2018 means living in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape. It means less security and stability in one’s home country — especially if that home country is a dominant Western power.
Luckily, being alive in 2018 also means that having dual citizenship is an option. Having two passports enables you to work, live, travel, and invest in more areas of the world than you could previously imagine. While financial reasons are often the driving force for savvy business people looking for a second citizenship, the significance of personal security for both you and your family should not be overlooked.
There is nowhere more appealing for second citizenship than the Caribbean, particularly Antigua and Barbuda, where you can enjoy pristine beaches and coastlines while also taking advantage of the innovative financial services and superior communications infrastructure.
If you are considering Caribbean citizenship, read on to discover four more reasons why Antigua and Barbuda is one of the most desirable countries for second citizenship.
1. Antigua and Barbuda is a stable, prosperous independent country.
Let us introduce you to Antigua and Barbuda, an independent Commonwealth country encompassing the two islands of Antigua and Barbuda as well as several smaller ones.
Located where the Atlantic and Caribbean meet, Antigua and Barbuda is respected around the world as a tropical paradise destination thanks to its stunning reef-lined beaches, rainforests and resorts. With English as its official language and a currency (the Eastern Caribbean dollar, EC$) that is fixed with the US dollar, it is no surprise that tourists and expatriates alike greatly enjoy spending time here.
In fact, one of the reasons people return again and again (and then choose to obtain citizenship) is because the idyllic islands are incredibly safe with a low crime rate. As a member of the United Nations and the British Commonwealth, the country as a whole is politically and economically stable.
Antigua is a constitutional Monarchy which means it has its own elected parliament, although the British Queen continues to be represented on the island by a Governor General.
2. An Antigua and Barbuda passport is a strong travel document.
Due to its status as a stable, prosperous independent country, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda benefit from having a strong travel document. By having this passport, you will be able to travel to 136 countries, including Hong Kong, the UK and Europe with visa-free entry or visa on arrival. No more difficult visa requirements!
Because it is a member of the Commonwealth, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda have special privileges in the UK and other Commonwealth countries.
3. Antigua and Barbuda boasts a large expat community.
But, just because you can travel frequently, doesn’t necessarily mean you will want to. Judging by the large expat community that resides in Antigua and Barbuda, there is plenty to keep you occupied and satisfied on the islands.
Whether you prefer to spend your spare time playing golf, diving or sailing around some of the best waters in the Caribbean, you can be assured that Antigua and Barbuda has something for you. To integrate with the locals, get used to playing cricket on any empty piece of land.
If you are looking to move your children to the islands, you will be pleased to know that the education system in Antigua and Barbuda is massively influenced by the British system, meaning there are both public and private schools available.
4. Antigua and Barbuda has excellent tax policies (for you).
Should you decide to become a tax resident* in Antigua and Barbuda, there are several significant taxes, including wealth and inheritance, which you will no longer have to worry about. On the islands, there is no capital gains taxation nor inheritance tax which can be a considerable draw for high-income people around the world.
Antigua & Barbuda abolished all personal income tax in 2017 which is one of the most appealing aspects of tax residency here.
For those who are living between two places, there are tax treaties and regulations that can assist in protecting you from paying taxes on the same income in two different countries.
*Tax residency requires minimum annual residency and professional tax advice must be sought in Antigua and in the home country.
What is the cost of obtaining citizenship?
Currently, the cost of obtaining citizenship for Antigua and Barbuda is $100,000 and up. Additional charges include:
- A $25,000 application fee for a family of 4 or less ($15,000 for every other dependent family member)
- $7,500 for the due diligence procedure for the principal applicant and spouse, $2,000 – for every child between the ages of 12 and 17, and $4,000 for each child from 18 to 25 years old, as well as for each parent over 55
- $300 for a passport fee
- Licensed Agent Professional Services Fee
Alternatively, if you are at least 18 years old and do not have a criminal record, you can invest at least $400,000 in a real estate project on the islands and become a citizen.
Antigua and Barbuda currently presents the lowest price on the market for second citizenship in the Caribbean. Whichever route you decide to pursue, obtaining Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment via government donation, real estate or business investment, the process usually takes 3-5 months.
Have you ever considered moving to Antigua and Barbuda? Or anywhere else in the Caribbean? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below!
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