Leslie Massey
Antigua and Barbuda is a tropical paradise in the Caribbean Sea, attracting visitors and expats from all over the world with its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, lush vegetation, and luxurious hotels and accommodations. If you're considering relocating to this idyllic destination, there are several important factors to take into account, from visa requirements to the cost of living. Here's an introduction to help you understand what you need to move to Antigua and Barbuda.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa Types | Tourist Visa on Arrival, NDR Visa, Citizenship by Investment Visa |
| Tourist Visa on Arrival Requirements | Valid for up to 180 days for US citizens |
| NDR Visa Requirements | Must be employed in home country and be able to work remotely |
| Citizenship by Investment Visa Requirements | Donation of at least $100,000 to the National Development Fund or investment of at least $200,000 in real estate |
| Citizenship by Investment Visa Benefits | Visa-free travel to over 150 countries, right to live, work, and study in Antigua and Barbuda |
| Multiple-Entry Visa | May be issued for 12 or 24 months at the discretion of the visa officer |
What You'll Learn
Visas and Immigration
If you intend to move to Antigua and Barbuda, you will need a visa. The easiest way to relocate is through the Citizenship by Investment Visa Program. This program offers investors and their families the opportunity to become citizens of Antigua and Barbuda in exchange for an economic investment. There are four investment routes to the program:
- Make a $230,000 donation to the government or an approved charity
- Buy a $300,000 pre-approved property. The investment must be maintained for at least five years
- Donate $260,000 to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund
- Invest $400,000 to establish a business
Another option is the Antigua Nomad Digital Residence Visa (NDR Visa), which encourages digital nomads and remote workers to relocate to Antigua for one to two years. This visa is not a residency visa but an extended tourist visa that allows you to work remotely. To be eligible, you must be employed in your home country and able to work remotely. You can bring your spouse, and your children can attend local schools.
If you are moving to Antigua and Barbuda as a student, you will need a student residence permit. This is a temporary permit that can be granted for up to three years. To apply, you will need an acceptance letter from the school, proof of residence, a sponsorship letter, and a letter of financial support, among other documents.
If you are moving to Antigua and Barbuda for work, you will need a work permit. This can be obtained by finding employment with a company that is willing to sponsor your visa. You may also be able to apply for a normal residence permit if you have resided in the country for four years without interruption and meet the other requirements.
If you are moving to Antigua and Barbuda as a retiree, there is no specific immigration program, but the Citizenship by Investment Program is a good option. This will allow you to live in the country and enjoy the benefits of citizenship, such as visa-free travel to over 150 countries.
It is important to note that the visa and immigration process can be bureaucratic and may take up to six months. However, with the help of relocation companies and experts, relocating can become an easy and painless process.
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Housing Costs
The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is about 20% cheaper than in the US. This is considered high compared to other Caribbean islands, but this is due to Antigua and Barbuda being a luxury tourist destination.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is $1,000, while outside the city centre, this drops to $700. A three-bedroom apartment in the city centre will cost $1,450, and $1,110 if located outside the city. These prices are significantly lower than in the US, where the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,770, and a three-bedroom is $2,960.
If you are looking to buy property in Antigua and Barbuda, prices range from $255,000 to $12 million. The property market offers a range of modern condos, luxury villas, beachfront properties, and holiday resorts.
For those looking to become permanent residents, there are several visa options available, including the Citizenship by Investment Visa. This requires a minimum investment of $400,000 in real estate, plus processing and due diligence fees.
The cost of utilities is similar to those in Europe and the US. Basic utilities, including garbage collection, will cost around $300 per month. A monthly plan for high-speed broadband is about $70.
Overall, Antigua and Barbuda offer more affordable housing options than the US, making it an attractive choice for those looking to relocate.
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Work and Salary
Antigua and Barbuda is a great place to relocate to, with its 365 beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and adventurous activities. The country offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and a laid-back lifestyle. The cost of living is about 20% lower than in the United States, making it an attractive option for those looking for a change of scenery without compromising on comfort.
The salary range in Antigua and Barbuda varies across different job categories. The average salary is 3,166 East Caribbean dollars per month (approximately $1,170), with a minimum wage of 9 East Caribbean dollars per hour (around $3). The monthly gross salary ranges from 2,335 XCD to 7,285 XCD, including bonuses. Salaries can differ significantly within job positions, with the top-paid positions being in senior management and IT.
For those looking to relocate, there are various visa options available, including the NDR Visa and the Citizenship by Investment Visa. The NDR Visa is ideal for digital nomads and remote workers, allowing them to stay for up to two years. The Citizenship by Investment Visa offers citizenship in exchange for investing in real estate or a business.
To obtain a residence permit in Antigua and Barbuda, you must have a valid work permit and meet specific requirements, including demonstrating your intention to permanently reside in the country. The permit is typically granted for three years and can be extended.
The country offers a range of job opportunities, with the most common positions being in administration, agriculture, food industry, arts and culture, customer support, education, and tourism. With its growing economy and stable political system, Antigua and Barbuda presents an attractive package for those seeking new work opportunities and a change of scenery.
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Healthcare
The Healthcare System
For healthcare purposes, Antigua and Barbuda is divided into six medical districts, each with a designated district medical officer. The country has a National Drug Formulary as part of its public healthcare system, providing 380 different types of drugs to ensure access to medication for all those with chronic conditions.
There is a network of 26 community health facilities, including one public hospital in Antigua (Mount St. John's Medical Center) and an 8-bed medical facility in Barbuda. In addition, there are two private clinics in Antigua: the Adelin Medical Center and the Holberton Hospital, which was replaced by the Mount St. John's Medical Centre in 2009. The Mount St. John's Medical Centre is a 185-bed teaching hospital with accreditation from the Caribbean Medical Council Association and aims to adhere to US hospital standards.
The healthcare staff at the clinics use a team approach to deliver primary healthcare services to locals and expats. The country also has a number of qualified general practitioners and specialists, as well as well-equipped testing clinics.
Coverage and Expenses
Most healthcare in Antigua is free through the Medical Benefits Scheme, funded by a payroll tax. The scheme covers medication, medical services, and supplies for those diagnosed with chronic non-communicable diseases. However, doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services, and US medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Therefore, it is essential to have proper health coverage and accessible funds to pay for any medical treatment and potential medical evacuation to the United States, which can cost thousands of dollars.
Mental Health
The availability and quality of mental health services can vary widely between countries, and Antigua and Barbuda is no exception. While the government has created special policies and plans in the field of mental health, there is still work to be done to improve access to mental health services and reduce the stigma associated with mental illnesses.
Vaccinations and Health Advice for Expats
Expats travelling to Antigua and Barbuda are advised to bring sufficient supplies of all necessary medications in their original labelled containers. They should also have a dated and signed letter from their primary doctor describing their medical conditions and listing all medications. It is recommended to visit a doctor at least four to six weeks before travelling to confirm any required vaccinations or other preventive measures. Additionally, dengue fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya virus are present in the Caribbean region, so taking precautions against mosquito bites is essential.
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Education
Antigua and Barbuda has a free and compulsory educational system for children between the ages of 5 and 16. This has resulted in a strong literacy rate of 99%. The country is also dedicated to investing in higher education. The University of the West Indies has a campus in Antigua and Barbuda, demonstrating the country's commitment to higher education.
English is the official and working language in Antigua and Barbuda. Government laws and communications are published in English, though the local dialect, Antiguan and Barbudan Creole, is also spoken.
If you are moving to Antigua and Barbuda as a student, you will need to apply for a student permit unless you are a citizen of an OECS (Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) Country with indefinite status. Student permits are usually granted for one year at a time and must be renewed annually. To apply for a student permit, you will need the following documents:
- Application form for the student visa
- Acceptance letter from the Ministry of Education
- Acceptance letter from the educational institution
- Applicant's passport
- Proof of financial support
- Passport belonging to parents or guardians
If you are under 18, only your lawful parent(s) or guardian can submit an application on your behalf. If you are not the parent of the student, you must present a custody order granting you sole care, control, and custody of the minor, along with permission for the minor to remain in Antigua and Barbuda.
As a student, you are not permitted to work while holding a student visa. However, you may engage in unpaid occupations undertaken in connection with your studies. If the intended employment is an internship for more than three months and is an essential part of your course, or if it is related to an approved research or training program, you will need to obtain a work permit.
If you are visiting Antigua and Barbuda on vacation and wish to extend your stay to attend an educational institution, you must apply for a student permit before your non-immigrant status expires.
If you are granted a student resident permit and wish to change your status, you can apply for a normal resident permit if the grounds for your residency change. For example, if you get married or attain the four-year residency requirement while studying in Antigua and Barbuda.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few different visa options for relocating to Antigua and Barbuda. The Citizenship by Investment Visa allows foreigners to qualify for citizenship by investing a certain amount of money into the country. The Nomad Digital Residence Visa is for digital nomads who want to stay for one to two years and are employed in their home country. There is also the option of a Tourist Visa on Arrival, which gives US citizens up to 180 days in the country.
The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is about 20% cheaper than in the US. You can expect to pay around $1,000 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre and around $700 outside the city centre. Utilities cost around the same as in the US. Local food and groceries are cheaper, with rice, vegetables, fruits, and local chicken being notably less expensive.
A Resident Permit can be granted to a person who has lawfully resided in Antigua and Barbuda for four years without interruption and meets the requirements set for the granting of a permit. The permit is typically valid for three years and can be extended for up to three years at a time. To apply for a renewal, you must submit your application to the Immigration Department three months before your current permit expires.
