Antigua and Barbuda (in Spanish - "ancient" and "bearded") is island state in the West Indies, bordering the west by the Caribbean Sea and the east by the Atlantic Ocean. Antigua is the largest, 280 sq km (108 sq mi), and inhabited island. Barbuda, located 48 km (29 mi) north of Antigua, is the second largest island – 161 sq km (62 sq mi). The small uninhabited island of Redonda about 40 km (25 mi) west of Antigua is also part of the State Antigua and Barbuda. The total length of the coastline is 153 km (95 mi).
Antigua and Barbuda are almost completely surrounded by coral reefs with great underwater world. Reefs are mainly found in nearly pristine condition, and although the depth is small, there are some good sea canyons and wreck sites.
Saint John’s is a capital city and located on Antigua. The only settlement on the island of Barbuda is a town of Codrington. English is the official language of Antigua and Barbuda. The East Caribbean Dollar is islands currency.
Antigua is a beautiful island with a picturesque coastline, many bays and rich vegetation, which has a huge number of modern hotels, Nightclubs, casinos, water sports centers and entertainment complexes.
Offshore zone of Antigua and Barbuda is considered a classic in the conduct of international business. The offshore legislation of Antigua and Barbuda is based on English common law. The most appropriate legal form for the registration of an offshore company is an International Business Corporation (IBC), holding companies, companies engaged in import / export of goods, financial and shipping companies. Offshore corporations are exempt from submitting financial, audit and tax reporting in Antigua and are exempt from paying taxes for 50 years from the date of registration. Registration of offshore corporations in Antigua are made in accordance with "the Law of international business corporations" 1982 with subsequent amendments. This law prohibits disclosing information obtained in the course of business or in the exercise of professional activities.
Citizenship Details.
Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) was established by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in November 2012 and approved by both Houses of Parliament in March 2013. Holders of passports of Antigua and Barbuda have the right to visa-free entry or simplified entrance in more than 130 countries, including all of Western and Eastern Europe, the UK, Canada, Hong Kong and Singapore. Holders of this passport, as well as citizens of other Caribbean countries, need a visa to enter the United States because these countries do not participate in the Visa Waiver program.
Under the CIP, the applicant for citizenship must make a significant contribution to the economy of the country. The main applicant must be over eighteen years of age, meet the requirements of the program and to choose one of three investment options: a donation to the National Development Fund (NDF), the purchase of real estate or business investment.
The National Development Fund created to stimulate economic growth, create new jobs, support for small and medium businesses. The Fund helps local entrepreneurs and startups in attracting investments to improve the welfare of the population.
Features and benefits.
To qualify for citizenship via investing in real estate, the value of the acquired property must be a minimum of USD 200,000 and the development must be approved by the government. You are not allowed to sell on your investment during a 5-year period, but you can receive income from the activities of the project.
Another way to obtain citizenship is to invest in the National Development Fund in the amount of USD 100,000. This option does not provide for the return of dividends from your invested money.
The third option: investment in a business approved by the government, the amount of USD 1,500,000. The option is suitable for those who want to expand the geography of their business.
Applicants will also be required to pay additional government fees, passport application and legal audit fees related to their chosen investments, according to the number of accompanying family members, as well as consulting fees.