Antigua and Barbuda is set to overhaul its citizenship-by-investment programme as part of a regional effort to create a common legal framework across the Eastern Caribbean.
A draft agreement signed in July by Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia would introduce stricter rules, including residency requirements, capped passport issuances, and mandatory national orientation courses. Passports may also be issued for an initial five years, with renewals tied to compliance.
Currently, applicants need only meet the minimum investment of $230,000 and pass background checks. But under the new rules, investors could be required to spend at least 30 days in Antigua within five years.
Analysts warn the changes could reshape a programme that has funnelled millions into infrastructure, education and tourism. “Families looking to secure a second citizenship in Antigua should act now before stricter rules take effect,” said Lyle Julien, a consultant with Immigrant Invest.
The reforms still need parliamentary approval, leaving the current system in place until new legislation is passed.
