Antigua and Barbuda

Move to Antigua

overview

Welcome to Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, located in the Caribbean, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. Its economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and financial services, with the twin islands offering a tropical paradise for visitors. The country’s rich heritage, from colonial history to lively festivals like Carnival, along with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, attracts tourists and expatriates seeking a tranquil and picturesque lifestyle

overview

Antigua and Barbuda Essentials

National Anthem

Fair Antigua, We Salute Thee

Independence Day

November 1, 1981

Haiko

Turquoise waters shine / Sailboats glide on gentle waves / 365 shores.

Interesting Tradition

Holds "Antigua Sailing Week," an internationally renowned regatta attracting sailors worldwide.

Weirdest Local Superstition

Whistling at night is believed to summon evil spirits

Strangest Law Still on the Books

Illegal to wear camouflage clothing in public, even for children.

overview

Come for the history, stay for the future

Come for the beaches, stay for the potential: Antigua and Barbuda blends idyllic island life with growing opportunities in tourism and sustainable development. Life flows between morning strolls on pristine beaches and afternoon work in St. John’s emerging business hubs, while evenings embrace the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean culture. With a focus on renewable energy and eco-tourism, Antigua and Barbuda is attracting entrepreneurs and digital nomads looking to balance work with paradise.

overview

Come explore

step into a twin-island paradise where life isn’t just about relaxation, but vibrant opportunities. Here, every beach, bay, and village invites you to embrace the warmth of the Caribbean spirit, where hospitality, culture, and adventure create a home away from home.

overview

Welcome to Antigua and Barbuda

Known for its 365 beaches and sailing culture where every day can be a beach day.

Antigua and Barbuda isn't just a country—it's a Caribbean symphony of sun, sea, and soul. Here, time drifts on turquoise waters and vibrant island rhythms, and even a simple stroll along its 365 beaches becomes a journey through paradise. This is a land where warm hospitality and breathtaking beauty create an unforgettable escape.

From the turquoise waters of Dickenson Bay to the historic charm of Nelson's Dockyard, Antigua and Barbuda offers an idyllic escape for every traveler. Whether you're drawn to the bustling markets of St. John's, the serene beauty of Barbuda's Pink Sand Beach, or the excitement of sailing through its azure seas, you'll find a twin-island nation rich in charm and adventure. With its welcoming people, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes, Antigua and Barbuda invites you to discover the heart of the Caribbean and create memories that last a lifetime.

Statistics

Savor the Flavor

Eat

Ducana (sweet potato dumplings with coconut, sugar, and spices) - Fungee and Pepperpot (cornmeal and vegetable stew with meats)

Drink

Sorrel Drink (hibiscus-based spiced beverage) - Antiguan Rum Punch (tropical rum cocktail with lime and nutmeg)

overview

Thirsty?

Beer

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

26.82

Wine

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

13.66

Coffee

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

-

Tea

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

0.04

overview

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

#1
Locals are called 'Antiguans' or 'Barbudans,' and they take pride in their history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
#2
Cricket is a beloved sport and often a topic of conversation in social settings.
#3
Music and dance, including calypso and steel pan, are integral to cultural celebrations and festivals like Carnival.
#4
Family and community gatherings are cherished, often revolving around shared meals of seafood, plantains, and rice dishes.
#5
It’s customary to greet others with a warm smile and a handshake, and showing respect is highly valued.

overview

Antigua and Barbuda Essentials

Representative Novel

Annie John by Jamaica Kincaid (Coming-of-age story exploring themes of identity).

National Animal

European fallow deer

National Pasttime

Cricket

National Souvenir

Handcrafted Shell Jewelry

National Dish

Fungee and Pepperpot

Famous Festival

Antigua Carnival

Famous Dance

Benna

Famous Music

Soca

overview

Did You Know?

Antigua and Barbuda has 365 beaches - one for every day of the year!

The island nation is home to the rare Antiguan Racer snake, which is found nowhere else in the world!

The highest point in Antigua and Barbuda is Mount Obama (formerly Boggy Peak), renamed in 2009 to honor President Barack Obama!

overview

Antigua and Barbuda’s Key Historical Events

1632

April 2014

The British established their first settlement on Antigua in 1632, marking the beginning of colonial rule that shaped the island's history and development.

17th-19th Century

July 2014

Sugar became the dominant crop, and enslaved Africans were brought to work on plantations. This era significantly influenced the demographics and culture of Antigua and Barbuda.

1834

February 2015

Slavery was abolished in Antigua and Barbuda in 1834, leading to a new social and economic structure on the islands.

1981

March 2015

Antigua and Barbuda gained full independence from Britain on November 1, 1981, becoming a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth.

2017

October 2016

Hurricane Irma devastated Barbuda, leading to the evacuation of its entire population for the first time in 300 years. This event highlighted the islands' vulnerability to climate change.

MOBILITY

Access Antigua and Barbuda Residency Rights on the GlobalPassport™ Platform 

NO. OF Mobility Assets

1

MOBILITY

Citizenship Pathways and
Residency Requirements

Citizenship by Birth
No
Citizenship by DESCENT
Yes
Citizenship by MARRIAGE
3 years
DUAL Citizenship
Yes
RESIDENCY BY Naturalization
7
PASSPORT VALIDITY
10 years, 5 years for children

MOBILITY

Passport Power

Visa Free Countries

130

Performance Class

Global Contender

Passport Grade

B

Rank

80

Score

122.5

This visa grants access to:

• 30% of the world's population 

• 63% of UNESCO sites 

• 34% of global GDP 

• 38% of the world's land area 

MOBILITY

Visa-free access to:

MOBILITY

Number of American Emigrants to Antigua and Barbuda by Year 

Year
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
Antigua and Barbuda
1,308
1,733
2,157
2,313
2,469
2,626
2,747

MOBILITY

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Select up to 3 Mobility Assets
Mobility Asset
Approval Time (est.)
Appointment Availability
Term (i.e. duration)
Minimum Investment
Physical Presence Requirement
Cost of Living
English Usage
Quality of Life
Healthcare Ranking
Passport Power
Visa-free Country Access
Number of American Expats
More Details

Rankings

Antigua and Barbuda's Global Rankings 

Antigua and Barbuda, located in the Caribbean, is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. Its economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and financial services. With 365 beaches to explore, warm hospitality, and historical sites like Nelson's Dockyard, the twin-island nation attracts travelers and expatriates seeking a tranquil and picturesque tropical lifestyle.

Exceptional performance
Standard performance
Needs Improvement
Rankings are based on 2023-2024 Global Indices and Assessments from recognized international organizations. Updated quarterly to reflect the most recent available data
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Cost of Living
2024
-
-
Quality of Life
2024
-
-
Safety
2024
-
-
Happiness
2024
-
-
Tax Burden
2024
-
-
English Proficiency
2023
-
38
Rule of Law
2024
Moderate
-
Healthcare System
2024
-
-
Pleasant Climate
2024
-

Healthcare

Healthcare Overview

Key Health Indicators

Median Age

76.5

years

Life Expectancy

25.80%

years

Obesity Rate

16.00%

Tobacco Use

11.50%

Sources

Health care Indicators

Health Expenditure

8.0

of GDP

Hospital Beds

3.3

per 1000 people

Doctors

2.9

per 1000 people

Out-of-pocket

19.20%

of total expenditure

Sources

Healthcare

Did you Know?

Public-Private Healthcare System

Antigua and Barbuda has a dual healthcare system, with both public and private services available. Public healthcare is affordable but often limited in resources, prompting many residents and expatriates to opt for private healthcare for quicker access and specialized care.

Emergency Care Access

Antigua and Barbuda has emergency care services available primarily in urban areas like St. John's. While ambulances and emergency departments are accessible, response times and services may be limited in more remote areas.

Medical Evacuations

For critical medical conditions requiring advanced care, Antigua and Barbuda offers medical evacuation services to nearby countries like the United States, Puerto Rico, or other Caribbean nations with specialized facilities.

Healthcare for Expats

Expatriates in Antigua and Barbuda can use both public and private healthcare facilities. Private clinics and hospitals generally provide higher-quality services and are the preferred choice for many expats seeking international standards of care.

Private Health Insurance

Many expatriates and long-term residents in Antigua and Barbuda opt for private health insurance to ensure access to private healthcare facilities, faster treatment, and coverage for more advanced medical procedures.

Healthcare

United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000 - 2021)

The World Health Organization's United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000-2021) data describes the coverage of essential health services, defined as the average coverage of essential services based on tracer interventions that include reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases and service capacity and access, among the general and the most disadvantaged population.
Source:

Healthcare

Antigua and Barbuda Healthcare Cost Calculator

$ 0

0.00 %

This calculator helps you compare healthcare expenditures between different countries based on per capita health spending data. The tool provides a straightforward comparison by allowing you to:
1. Select your current location from the dropdown menu
2. Choose a comparison country to see the difference in healthcare costs

The calculator displays two key metrics:
• Healthcare Expense Difference: The absolute dollar amount difference in per capita healthcare spending between the selected countries
• Percentage Difference: The relative difference expressed as a percentage
Please note that these calculations are based on annual per capita health expenditure data, which includes current prices and purchasing power parities (PPP). The figures represent total healthcare spending, encompassing both public and private healthcare expenses. For the most accurate planning and decision-making, please consult with healthcare providers or insurance companies in your target country for specific coverage options and costs.
Source:

cost of living

Cost of Living Overview

Antigua and Barbuda has a moderate to high cost of living, reflecting its status as a popular tourist and expatriate destination. The cost of living is higher in urban areas like St. John’s and in tourist hotspots, while rural areas are more affordable. Housing costs can be significant, especially for waterfront properties and modern apartments. Groceries and imported goods are relatively expensive due to the reliance on imports, though local produce is more affordable.

Cost of Gasoline

-

per liter

Cost of Meal

-

(Inexpensive Restaurant)

Monthly Rent

-

(1 bedroom, City Center)

Monthly Utilities

-

(85m² Apartment)

Domestic Beer

-

(0.5 liter draught)

VAT Rate

15.00%

cost of living

Antigua and Barbuda Cost of Living plus Rent Map

cost of living

Antigua and Barbuda Cost of Living Calculator

This calculator helps you compare the cost of living between different countries based on a consumer basket designed for a moderate lifestyle. The estimation includes common expenses such as groceries and everyday items, rent and utilities, public and private transportation, dining and entertainment, as well as essential services like healthcare visits, fitness memberships, and personal care. Please note that these costs are estimates and can vary significantly depending on the specific city, lifestyle choices, and current market conditions.

0.00 %

$ 0

Moving to this location offers monthly savings of:

Additional monthly costs in this location:

cost of living

Antigua and Barbuda Rent Calculator

100
4500
0
100
4500
4097

Budget-Friendly

Fair-Market

Premium

High-end

Luxury

Budget-Friendly

Fair-Market

Premium

High-end

Luxury

$ 0

Cost of Rent difference:

Taxation

Taxation Overview

Antigua and Barbuda has a relatively simple tax system. There is no personal income tax on worldwide income. Corporate tax rate is 25% for standard companies. VAT stands at 15% for most goods and services. Property tax applies and social security contributions are mandatory. For tax purposes, businesses need a tax identification number. Antigua and Barbuda has limited tax treaties.

Tax Residency Requirement

183 days

Worldwide Income Taxation

No

Higher Rates for Foreign Assets

No

US Double Taxation Treaty

No

Personal Income

Progressive tax rate based on income levels

0.00%

Personal Capital Gains

Flat rate on investment gains

0.00%

Inheritance

Based on inherited amount and relationship

25.00%

Corporate Income

Standard corporate tax rate applied to business profits

25.00%

Corporate Capital Gains

Tax rate applied to capital gains from corporate investments

0.00%

Dividends

Withholding tax rate applied to dividend distributions

0.00%

Interest

Withholding rate interest payment to non-residens

0.00%

Royalties

Withholding tax rate for royalty payments

0.00%

Work Assignment

Foreign individuals become tax residents after residing in Antigua and Barbuda for at least 183 days in a calendar year

Overall Ranking

Global position in PWC’c Ease of Paying Taxes ranking

145

Ease of Paying Taxes Score

Overall score based on multiple factors

58.9

Total Tax and Cotribution Rate

TTCR percentage including all mandatory contributtions

43.0
%

Time to Comply

Annual hours required to comply with tax regulations

177
HOURS

Number of Payments

Total number of tax payments required annually

57

Post-filing Index

Score measuring the ease of processes after filing taxes

69.4
%

taxation

Antigua and Barbuda Tax Burden Map

taxation

Antigua and Barbuda Income Tax Calculator

This calculator helps you estimate your income tax obligations based on your personal situation and country of residence. The calculation includes essential tax elements specific to each jurisdiction, such as personal allowances, various types of deductions or tax credits, and progressive tax rates where applicable. The estimation considers multiple key inputs that vary by country, including your annual gross income (in USD), marital status when relevant, number of dependent children, as well as additional factors like medical expenses, educational costs, and retirement contributions.

The calculator provides three main results:
• Total Deductions and/or Tax Credits (based on jurisdiction-specific rules)
• Net Taxable Income (income subject to tax)
• Final Income Tax amount
Please note that these calculations are estimates and can vary significantly depending on specific circumstances, additional income sources, special deductions, and changes in tax regulations across different countries. Some jurisdictions may use tox credits instead of deductions, have different qualifying criteria for dependents, or consider various types of expenses differently. For precise tax planning and compliance, please consult with a qualified tax professional familiar with your jurisdiction's tax laws.
Source:

CLIMATE

Climate Type

Tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season from May to November, with the possibility of hurricanes or tropical storms; dry season from January to April; trade winds moderate the climate year-round

Average Temperature

27.5°C

Humidity

75

%

Average Annual Precipitation

1,036 mm

mm

Rainless Days per Year

200

Best Time to Travel

November-April

Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaining Residency or Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda

Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our tools guiding you towards residency or citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda.