Among several countries offering citizenship by investment programs, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have consistently attracted attention as leaders in the Caribbean. This Antigua vs Dominica citizenship comparison guide pits these two island nations against each other, highlighting how their competitive citizenship by investment programs cater to the needs and aspirations of investors worldwide.
To apply for economic citizenship through one of these Caribbean CBI programs and obtain a second passport, investors must fulfill the specific eligibility criteria.
In our comparison of Commonwealth of Dominica vs Antigua and Barbuda citizenship, we provide insights into the following topics:
Why do investors consider an Antigua or Dominica passport?
Many foreign nationals experience geopolitical complexities and find it challenging to enter developed economies. Whether for business purposes or vacations, a Dominica or Antigua and Barbuda second passport opens up visa free travel opportunities for new citizens.
Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have reported a growing demand for foreign investors seeking passports due to the option to travel to destinations like the Schengen Area and the UK without visas.
Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica offer Caribbean citizenship programs for foreign investors who want to obtain second citizenship by investment. In addition to second passports, investors can benefit financially from available qualifying investments such as purchasing real estate.
Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program Benefits
Fast application process
Minimum investment threshold of $200,000
Multiple investment options
Family eligibility
No residency requirements
Favorable tax environment
Visa-free travel to over 140 countries
Dual citizenship
Antigua and Barbuda vs Dominica Citizenship: The Main Points
Antigua Citizenship by Investment | Dominica Citizenship by Investment | |
Application Time | Six months | Six to nine months |
Passport Global Ranking | 51st. Visa free access to China, Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, the UK, Ireland, and the Schengen Area | 76th. Visa free access to China, Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, and, the Schengen Area |
Qualifying Investment | NTF: $235,000 donation for a single applicant or a family of up to four Real estate: $270,000 joint purchase or $350,000 sole purchase | EDF: $200,000 donation for a single applicant and $250,000 donation for a family of up to four Real estate: $200,000 real estate investment |
Taxes | No personal income tax, wealth tax, gift tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax | No income tax on foreign income, wealth tax, gift tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax |
Residency Requirements | No stay requirements | No stay requirements |
Family Eligibility | Inclusion of spouse, dependent children under 30, unmarried siblings with no children, parents and grandparents | Inclusion of spouse, children under 30 in education, unmarried daughters under 25, parents and grandparents over 65 |
Application Requirements | No language or residency requirements | No language or residency requirements |
Calculate the cost of citizenship for you and your family, including all associated fees.
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda is a captivating island nation renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Comprising two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, along with a collection of smaller islands and islets, this sovereign state represents an idyllic destination that seamlessly blends the charm of the past with the promise of a vibrant future.
Most expats live in Antigua, the larger of the two islands, which is celebrated for its world-famous white sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters, and an enchanting coastline peppered with hidden coves and harbors. Barbuda, its smaller sibling, boasts pristine stretches of powdery beaches and is recognized for its tranquil, unspoiled atmosphere. The nation is even home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Nelson’s Dockyard. Located in St Paul Parish on the island of Antigua, it forms part of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park.
Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, Antigua and Barbuda holds a rich history and culture greatly influenced by its struggle for independence. Today, the country stands as a testament to resilience and progress, welcoming visitors and investors alike with open arms.
Investment options
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program was created in 2012 to encourage foreign investment in the country. The program offers four investment options from which applicants can obtain citizenship:
- Non-refundable donation of at least $230,000 to the Antigua and Barbuda National Development Fund (NDF)
- Non-refundable donation of at least $260,000 to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund. This option is geared towards families of at least six members and entitles one of the applicants to a one-year scholarship to the university.
- Minimum investment of $300,000 in government-approved real estate or shares of real estate projects. The investment must be held for five years
- Minimum investment of $400,000 in an enterprise worth $5 million, or a $1.5 million investment as a solo investor
Additional fees include processing fees, due diligence fees, and passport fees.
Family eligibility
- Spouse or future spouse
- Children under 18
- Children aged 18 to 30, if supported by the principal applicant or spouse (as well as their spouse and dependent children)
- Dependent children aged 18 or older who are physically/mentally challenged
- Parents or grandparents of the principal applicant or spouse if aged 55 or over and financially dependent on the principal applicant or spouse
- Unmarried siblings of the principal applicant or spouse
Citizenship benefits
As a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda, you can enjoy the country’s relaxed tax environment. Benefits of Antigua citizenship over Dominica include personal income tax. There is also no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. The nation also boasts an excellent healthcare system, with Mount St John’s Medical Center being the most modern hospital on the Caribbean islands. The country’s economy depends primarily on the agricultural, banking, and tourism sectors and provides plenty of investment opportunities.
Antigua and Barbuda passport
Once issued, an Antigua and Barbuda passport is valid for five years. The passport ranks 51st on our Global Passport Index based on factors such as enhanced mobility, quality of life, and economic investment. As an Antigua and Barbuda passport holder, you can enjoy visa-free access to over 140 destinations, such as the Schengen Zone, Hong Kong, Russia, and Singapore.
Are you interested in applying for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment?
Contact us today to get the ball rolling. We will provide you with all the up-to-date information you need to complete your application and obtain second citizenship in this beautiful Caribbean nation.
Dominica Citizenship
Located in the heart of the Caribbean lies a gem of unparalleled natural beauty and ecological richness – Dominica. Often referred to as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” Dominica is a sovereign island nation that stands out among its Caribbean counterparts for its lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and a landscape that seems to have been sculpted by nature’s very hand.
Dominica’s allure extends far beyond its postcard-perfect landscapes. This nation has a rich tapestry of history, culture, and traditions, reflecting the influences of the indigenous Kalinago people, Europe, and Africa. In a world where modernization often overshadows natural treasures, Dominica has steadfastly preserved its pristine environment, earning recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a testament to the island’s commitment to conservation.
In addition to this, Dominica citizenship by investment is respect and has gained popularity among foreign investors for its affordability and fast processing time.
Investment options
- Non-refundable contribution of at least $200,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund
- Minimum investment of $200,000 in a pre-approved real estate development
In addition to the minimum contribution, applicants will also need to pay government fees, due diligence fees, application fees, passport fees, and a fee for the Oath of Allegiance. The overall cost of your application will depend on the number of dependents included in your application.
Family eligibility
- Spouse
- Children of the principal applicant or spouse under 18
- Children between 21 and 30 attending in full-time education and supported by the principal applicant or spouse
- Unmarried daughters under 25 supported by and living with the principal applicant or spouse
- Mentally or physically challenged dependent children supported by the principal applicant or spouse
- Dependent parents/ grandparents of the principal applicant or spouse over 65 years old
Citizenship benefits
There are many benefits to obtaining citizenship in the Commonwealth of Dominica and retiring in Dominica. The country boasts a favorable tax regime where you can benefit from no income tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax. The healthcare in the country provides inhabitants with access to hospitals, healthcare clinics, and a variety of medical services.
Dominica passport
The Dominica passport ranks 76th on our Global Passport Index and provides visa-free access to over 130 countries, including the Schengen Zone, China, Hong Kong, Russia, and Singapore. Once issued, a Dominica passport is valid for up to ten years. For children under 16, the passport is valid for five years.
Are you interested in applying for Dominica citizenship by investment?
Contact us today to get the ball rolling. We will provide you with all the up-to-date information you need to complete your application and obtain second citizenship in this beautiful Caribbean nation.
Main Conditions of the Antigua and Dominica CBI
The primary conditions that investors must meet to be eligible for both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica citizenship by investment include the following:
- Be over 18
- Have an outstanding character
- Be in good health
- Hold a clean criminal regard
- Pass a detailed background check
- Make the necessary investment
Restricted nationalities
Seven nationalities are prohibited from applying for Dominica’s citizenship program, and eight nationalities are prohibited from participating in Antigua and Barbuda’s.
Antigua and Barbuda: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen
Dominica: Belarus, Northern Iraq, North Korea, Sudan, Russia, and Yemen
Residency requirement
A key difference between Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica’s program is that Antigua and Barbuda citizens must fulfill a minimum residency requirement of five days in the first five years of obtaining citizenship. In contrast, Dominica citizens are not required to live in the country to maintain dual citizenship.
Which program is right for you?
As you can see Caribbean citizenship by investment comparison, both of these Caribbean citizenship programs offer reliable and beneficial ways for you to obtain Caribbean citizenship. So, let’s take a look at some key factors that can help you decide which of the two is best for you.
Visa free countries
Both countries offer visa-free travel to over 140 countries across the globe, including the European Union Schengen zone, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Russia. In addition to this, Dominica citizens enjoy visa free access to China, while Antigua and Barbuda citizens benefit from visa free travel to the UK, and China. Antigua offers the more valuable Caribbean passport for visa free travel purposes, with access to 151 vs 135 with Dominica’s.
Country | Antigua and BarbudaPassport Holders | Dominica Passport Holders |
Schengen Countries | Visa free | Visa free |
OECS Countries | Passport free | Passport free |
China | Visa free | Visa free |
United Kingdom | Visa free | Visa required |
Hong Kong | Visa free | Visa free |
Ireland | Visa free | Visa required |
South Korea | eTA | eTA |
Qatar | E-visa | Visa required |
Thailand | Visa required | E-visa |
Passport validity
When comparing Antigua vs Dominica passport validity, all Antigua and Barbuda passports require renewal every five years. In contrast, Dominican passports are valid for five years for children under 16 and ten years for citizens 16 and over.
Antigua and Barbuda vs Dominica passport renewal
Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica both offer straightforward passport renewal processes for citizens. Antigua and Barbuda citizens must fulfill a minimum residency requirement to renew their passports after the five-year expiration date. Dominica is more lenient, allowing citizens to reside outside the country permanently and qualify for passport renewal after the ten-year expiration date. Both passports can be renewed in the country or at an Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission overseas.
Investment options
While the Dominica program offers fewer investment options – the Economic Diversification Fund and real estate investment – it is the most affordable of the two investment programs for a solo investor. Antigua, on the other hand, offers four investment routes – the National Development Fund, real estate investment, business investment, and the University of the West Indies Fund option.
Citizenship cost
In a Dominica vs Antigua citizenship cost comparison, both country’s citizenship program is appealing, depending on the number of applicants. Dominica offers the cheapest Caribbean citizenship program for single applicants and Antigua offers the cheapest for families of four or more. The minimum contribution amount for a solo applicant in Dominica is $200,000 vs $235,000 in Antigua. Whereas a main applicant and up to three dependents can obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment with a minimum contribution of $235,000 vs $250,000 in Dominica.
Citizenship timeline
For a time to citizenship comparison between Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, the average processing time in Antigua is six months, whereas Dominica citizenship takes between six to nine months.
Quality of life
Both Caribbean nations offer an excellent quality of life to their inhabitants. Their healthcare systems offer access to good-quality medical infrastructure and services, while their education systems offer schooling at all levels. The weather is generally pleasant, with many locations experiencing two main seasons – wet and dry. You’ll also find plenty of world-class beaches with crystal blue waters that allow for activities such as snorkeling, diving, swimming, surfing, kayaking, parasailing, and jet skiing.
Dual citizenship
Both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica recognize dual citizenship and allow the inclusion of family members in the application to obtain second citizenship. However, Dominica does not allow the inclusion of siblings, while Antigua does.
The Antigua and Barbuda passport is valid for five years initially, and then for ten years following its renewal. A Dominica passport is valid for five years if the holder is younger than 16 and ten years if the holder is 16 and older.
Flexible requirements
For many, the flexible stay requirements of the Caribbean CBI programs are a great attraction. The application process for both programs can be completed online, and citizenship is lifelong once granted. Dominica has no residency requirement to maintain citizenship, while Antigua and Barbuda requires applicants to spend a minimum of five days in the country during the first five years after obtaining citizenship. Both programs require a Caribbean citizenship interview.
Family inclusion
Each citizenship program allow for the inclusion of family members for those considering Dominica or Antigua citizenship for families. Dominica’s requirements are stricter than Antigua’s and does not allow for the inclusion of siblings.
Antigua and Barbuda CBI strong points
- Most affordable for larger families
- Family of four: $230,000 minimum contribution
- Family of six or more: $260,000 minimum donation
- Family-friendly requirements with the option to include siblings, children up to 30, and parents and grandparents aged 55 and over.
- Antigua passport allows visa-free entry to the UK
- Average processing time of four to five months
Dominica CBI strong points
- Most affordable investment option for a single applicant with total program costs (EDF donation and fees) amounting to less than $210,000
- Dominica passport allows for visa free travel to China
- Long-running and reliable program that has been voted the best CBI program in the world by the CBI Index
- Average processing time of six to nine months
Tax benefits
Both countries have created favorable tax environments that attract foreign investment when looking at Antigua citizenship vs Dominica for tax benefits. Benefits that citizens of both nations can enjoy include no worldwide income tax, wealth tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Antigua and Barbuda edges the tax benefits by imposing zero personal income taxes.
Antigua and Barbuda Dominica Income Tax 0 percent 15 to 35 percent Capital Gains, Inheritance, Wealth Tax Not levied Not levied Property Tax 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent Not levied, except in Roseau and Canefield at 1.27 percent Stamp Duty (Buyer) 2.5 percent 4 percent Stamp Duty (Seller) 7.5 percent 2.5 percent Sales Tas 17 percent 15 percent
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Joe Rice
Head of Caribbean Unit
Antigua and Barbuda vs Dominica Citizenship Pros and Cons
Antigua and Barbuda
Strong points
- Visa free access to the UK and Ireland
- Most affordable program for large families
- Shorter processing time
Weak points
- More expensive for single applicants
- Higher cost of living
- Only five years passport validity
Dominica
Strong points
- Most affordable Caribbean citizenship for single applicants
- Lower cost of living
- Voted the “Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World” for four years in a row by the CBI Index
Weak points
- The program has faced criticism, resulting in restricted visa free travel citizens
- Only 8 approved real estate options versus 33 in Antigua and Barbuda
- Less prominent reputation for international tourism
How to obtain Antigua or Dominica citizenship?
The process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Antigua and Barbuda or Dominica is simple and straightforward. The general steps that you will follow are outlined below:
Step 1: Preliminary due diligence with Global Citizen Solutions
Global Citizen Solutions will conduct a preliminary due diligence check, at no additional cost, to ensure that your application will be successful. We will also walk you through each investment route and help you determine which one is best suited to your needs.
Step 2: Document preparation
Global Citizen Solutions will provide you with the relevant application forms that you must complete in order to submit your application. We will also advise you on the required supporting documents you must collect.
Step 3: Due diligence
Once your application has been submitted, the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) of the relevant country will process it and conduct thorough due diligence checks to ensure that your application meets the necessary requirements.
Step 4: Payment of investment
Successful applicants will receive a letter from the CIU stating that their application has been approved in principle. Once you have received this letter, you will need to pay the required investment and submit proof to the CIU.
Step 5: Receive your passport
Once you have made your investment and paid the necessary fees, you and your family members will be granted citizenship and receive your Caribbean passports.
It is essential to note that the CIU of each country does not accept applications submitted directly by applicants. They will only accept applications submitted by Authorized Agents on behalf of the applicant. It is, therefore, essential that you use an authorized agent such as Global Citizen Solutions to submit your application.
Keep reading
You may be interested in our other Caribbean citizenship comparison articles:
- Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Comparison
- St Kitts vs Dominica Citizenship
- St Lucia vs Dominica Citizenship
- Grenada vs Dominica Citizenship
- Grenada vs St Kitts Citizenship
- Grenada vs St Lucia Citizenship
- St Kitts vs St Lucia Citizenship
- Antigua vs Grenada Citizenship
- Antigua vs St Lucia Citizenship
- Antigua vs St Kitts Citizenship
Why work with Global Citizen Solutions?
- Global approach by local experts. We are corporate members of the Investment Migration Council, with local expertise in all five Caribbean citizenship programs.
- 100 percent approval rate. We have never had a case rejected and will offer you an initial free-of-charge due diligence assessment before signing any contract.
- Independent service and full transparency. We will present to you all the investment options available, and all expenses will be discussed in advance, with no hidden fees.
- An all-encompassing solution. A multidisciplinary team of immigration lawyers, investment specialists, and tax experts will take into consideration all your and your family's mobility, tax, and lifestyle needs.
- Confidential service and secure data management. All private data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
As you can see, both Antigua and Dominica offer exceptional investment programs that allow investors and their families to obtain Caribbean citizenship. When it comes to Antigua vs Dominica citizenship and deciding which program to pick, the ultimate choice will come down to family inclusion, cost, and the benefits you are looking for.
Get in touch with a Caribbean Citizenship by Investment specialist
Frequently Asked Questions about Antigua vs Dominica Citizenship Can I acquire Antigua citizenship?
Yes, you can acquire citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda by making an economic investment in the country. The nation’s citizenship by investment program offers four investment routes by which applicants can obtain economic citizenship: A contribution to a national fund or university fund, a real estate investment, or a business investment. The minimum investment amount starts from $230,000, and applicants must meet the requirements of the program.
Yes, it is possible to acquire Dominica citizenship by investment. The country’s CBI program offers two investment routes: A contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund, or a real estate investment. The minimum investment amount starts from $200,000 and enables investors and their family members to obtain Dominica passports.
Both the Antigua and Dominica CBI programs offer investors the opportunity to obtain a Caribbean passport. With similar benefits, the right program for you will depend on your individual circumstances. Both Caribbean countries offer citizenship with affordable investments. Dominica’s program is most expensive for an individual when comparing the Dominica vs Antigua citizenship cost, with the overall cost amounting to about $210,000, including government fees and due diligence fees. For a family, Antigua and Barbuda’s program is more affordable. A family of four can obtain citizenship for a minimum donation of $230,000 (not including fees) to the National Development Fund, while a family of six can make a minimum donation of $260,000 to the University of the West Indies Fund.
There are five Caribbean countries that offer foreign investors the chance to obtain citizenship through their Caribbean citizenship programs: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia. The investment options for each program differ slightly, but the general requirements for applicants are as follows: Be over 18, have a clean criminal record, and be able to make the minimum investment required.
These programs also offer investors the opportunity to include their family members in their application for citizenship, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of being Caribbean passport holders. These benefits include visa-free access to over 140 countries, a favorable tax environment for individuals and companies, and the ability to live in any CARICOM country.
Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda are two of the best islands in the Caribbean to obtain dual citizenship due to their affordable citizenship programs, political stability, attractive tax advantages, and numerous visa free travel countries.
The Antigua and Barbuda passport is better than Dominica’s as it offers more visa free travel options, including key destinations like the UK, Ireland, and Qatar.
