A note from Ruby: We have had more questions about the US visa situation in the last few months than about any other single topic. I wanted to write a clear, factual update that addresses it honestly while giving the full picture of the programme.”
The Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Programme at a Glance
This 2026 guide to Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment covers current fees, investment options, and the latest programme developments. The programme has been operating continuously since 2013, making it one of the longest-established in the Caribbean. It is administered by the government’s Citizenship by Investment Unit — a dedicated authority responsible for all applications, agent licensing, and due diligence. Main applicants must be over 18, pass a thorough background check, and make a qualifying investment in one of four approved categories. Processing typically takes three to four months from submission.
As background, Global Citizenship Partners has been a licensed authorised representative since the programme’s very first year. We have guided clients through every update, fee change, and regulatory development since. The information in this article reflects current requirements as verified with the CIU in early 2026.
The Four Citizenship Investment Options
Applicants may qualify through one of four routes. Each carries the same rigorous due diligence process. However, only the investment structure differs.
National Development Fund — USD 230,000
The NDF contribution is the most widely used option and the most straightforward. Applicants make a one-time, non-refundable payment to a government-administered fund that parliament oversees and an internationally recognised accounting firm audits annually. The single USD 230,000 contribution covers the principal applicant and immediate family. This includes a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents over 55. No additional NDF contribution is required for included family members. Government processing fees and due diligence fees apply per person on top of this.
Approved Real Estate — USD 300,000
This route requires the purchase of a property from a government-approved development at a minimum value of USD 300,000, held for five years before resale is permitted. It is the only option where applicants can potentially recover a portion of their original investment — and the only route with genuine asset upside. The CIU designates approved developments, and GCP works only with developments that offer genuine investment merit alongside programme compliance.
Business Investment — USD 1,500,000 / USD 5,000,000
A standalone investor may apply with a minimum investment of USD 1,500,000 in a CIU-approved business. Alternatively, two or more investors may apply jointly with a combined investment of at least USD 5,000,000, each contributing a minimum of USD 400,000. This route suits clients who wish to establish a genuine commercial presence in Antigua, or whose investment rationale extends beyond citizenship alone.
UWI Development Fund — USD 260,000
Available to families of six or more, the UWI Fund combines the citizenship contribution with a one-year tuition scholarship at a University of the West Indies campus for one family member. At USD 260,000 inclusive of base processing fees, it represents exceptional value for larger families.
Current Fee Schedule
In addition to the investment amount, each application carries government processing fees and individual due diligence fees. The following applies to all four investment options.
Government processing fees: USD 10,000 for a single applicant; USD 20,000 for a family of up to four persons; USD 10,000 for each additional dependant beyond four. Due diligence fees are: USD 8,500 for the principal applicant, USD 5,000 for a spouse, USD 2,000 per dependent child aged 12–17, and USD 4,000 per dependent aged 18 and over. A passport fee of USD 300 per person applies at issuance. Furthermore, all fees are quoted in US dollars. Fees change without notice — always confirm current rates with GCP before committing.
It is also worth noting that 10% of the government processing fee and 100% of the due diligence fee is payable on submission of the application. The balance is due on receipt of an approval-in-principle letter from the CIU.
The Passport
The CIU issues the Antigua and Barbuda passport with a five-year validity. Holders can renew it provided they have spent at least thirty days in Antigua and Barbuda during that period — renewals must go through a Local Licence Agent. It provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 150 countries, including the United Kingdom (ETA Visa), Ireland, the full Schengen Area of European countries, Qatar, Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, China, and Singapore. For clients whose primary passports carry significant travel restrictions, this represents a meaningful and lasting improvement.
It is worth noting that the passport does not confer automatic voting rights — holders wishing to vote in Antigua and Barbuda must qualify separately under the Representation of the People Act (to qualify, you must reside in Antigua for 5 years). However, holders of this passport are allowed multiple dual citizenships.
The US Visa Situation — What Applicants Need to Know
In December 2025, the US administration issued a presidential proclamation imposing partial visa restrictions on Antigua & Barbuda nationals. The stated reason was concern about citizenship by investment programmes operating without residency requirements. The restrictions took effect on 1 January 2026 and cover new applications for tourist and business visas, student visas, and immigrant visas for permanent residency. Under a preliminary agreement between the two governments, nationals who held valid US visas as of 31 December 2025 retain their entry rights.
Importantly, the Antiguan government has strongly and publicly disputed the basis of the proclamation. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has pointed out that parliament enacted new legislation introducing a mandatory 30-day physical residency requirement. This directly addresses the concern cited by Washington. Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador confirmed that State Department officials expressed surprise at the country’s inclusion. High-level diplomatic engagement is ongoing. A 180-day review cycle is built into the proclamation, and both governments have committed to active engagement during that window.
For prospective applicants, however, the practical implications depend on your specific circumstances. The restrictions affect Antigua and Barbuda nationals — not applicants from third countries seeking citizenship through the Antigua Barbuda citizenship by investment programme. If US travel is a priority for you, this is a development to discuss with us directly. We can assess your specific situation and give you an honest picture of the current position. For clients whose priorities are travel within Europe, the UK, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf, the picture is clear. The Antigua and Barbuda passport remains as strong as it has ever been in those markets. The Antigua Barbuda citizenship by investment programme itself is fully operational.
Next Steps for Your CBI Application
The Antigua & Barbuda citizenship by investment programme remains one of the most credible and well-administered citizenship by investment programmes in the world. In fact, it has operated for over a decade. Its inclusive family definition and four investment pathways make it the right choice for a wide range of circumstances.
If you are considering an application, we encourage you to speak with us directly. If you have questions about how recent developments may affect your situation, we can help with that too. Moreover, an initial consultation with Ruby or McAlister carries no charge and no obligation. We will provide an honest, precise assessment of your circumstances and a full fee breakdown for your family.