Black Ledger – Country Profile
Explore Strategic Jurisdictions for Tax Optimization, Residency, Banking, Business Formation, Wealth Protection & Quality of Life
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda offers one of the most accessible citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs in the Caribbean, granting a second passport in exchange for a donation or real estate investment. But beyond the passport, it’s also a strategic jurisdiction for tax planning. The country imposes no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance tax, and offers a relatively discreet financial system aligned with international compliance standards. Residency isn’t required for CBI, but physical presence options are available for those seeking substance. English-speaking, politically stable, and geopolitically neutral, Antigua serves both as a plan B citizenship and a potential base for tax-free living—with broad appeal to mobile entrepreneurs and wealth preservation strategies.
Tax System
Foreign Income Treatment
Residency & Citizenship
Available Programs
Investment Requirements
Residency Requirements
Path to Citizenship
Expert Analysis
Antigua & Barbuda offers citizenship by investment starting at $100K (donation) or $200K (real estate), with minimal physical presence requirements (5 days within 5 years). The zero personal tax environment is attractive for planning, though the small island economy and limited infrastructure make permanent residence impractical for most global citizens.
Strategy Considerations
Ideal For
Best Suited For
Tax optimization & wealth preservation
Asset protection & banking privacy
Global business operations
Strategic Implementation
Flag Theory Scores
Real Estate Investment
Strategic Support Costs
Investment Note
Banking & Asset Protection
Banking Score
Banking quality, accessibility, and international integration
Asset Protection Score
Legal frameworks for preserving and protecting wealth
Banking Privacy
High
Key Features
- Protected banking relationship
- Bank secrecy tradition
- Limited domestic information sharing
Non-Resident Account Opening
International Banking Features
CRS reporting active but no FATCA compliance with certain US exemptions
Small banking sector no currency controls but moderate CRS scrutiny
Well known offshore banking hub USD and EUR accounts easily available
Crypto friendly environment possibly exploring CBI options for crypto investors
Private Banking
Asset Protection Structures
Type: Asset Protection Trust
Type: Limited Recognition
Features: Basic Asset Protection
Strategy Insights
Banking Strategy
Banking in Antigua combines Caribbean flexibility with reasonable international connectivity. Account opening typically requires citizenship or business connection to the islands. Services are adequate for wealth preservation and multi-currency holdings, though international transfers face increasing scrutiny and correspondent relationship challenges.
Asset Protection Strategy
Antigua & Barbuda provides strong asset protection through specialized trust legislation and international business company structures. The jurisdiction’s limited recognition of foreign judgments creates effective barriers to creditors, while statutory protections specifically shield against foreign tax and divorce judgments.
Key Statistics & Lifestyle
Lifestyle & Community
Antigua offers a relaxed island lifestyle and warm climate, but limited healthcare, international schooling, and flight connectivity make it less suitable for families or individuals seeking high-end amenities and long-term infrastructure. Best suited for seasonal living or citizenship acquisition rather than year-round residence.
Safety Profile
Stability Factors:
- Tourism Driven Economy
Risk Factors:
- Hurricane Vulnerability
Stable and safe for residents and businesses
Cost of Living
Affordable
Quality of Life
Strengths:
- Luxury Tourism Investment
Weaknesses:
- Airport Development Still Expanding
Business Structures
Business Formation
Available Business Entities
Special Economic Zones
No SEZs
Business Environment
Despite zero corporate tax, Antigua & Barbuda has limited business infrastructure beyond tourism and financial services. Company formation is efficient (2 3 days) but limited local market and high operating costs make substantive business operations challenging. The jurisdiction remains useful primarily for holding structures rather than operational companies.