Second citizenship can offer financial security. High-net-worth individuals often seek second citizenship for advantages like global mobility, tax benefits, and access to new markets. Antigua and Barbuda and Vanuatu are two popular destinations for citizenship by investment. Each offers unique benefits, making the decision between them a matter of aligning personal priorities with what each program provides.
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, explains how to obtain Antigua and Barbuda and Vanuatu passport by investment.
What is second citizenship by investment
Citizenship by investment allows you to gain citizenship in return for a financial contribution. Many countries have created programs allowing foreign investors to obtain citizenship by specific investments, such as real estate or contributions to national funds.
Citizenship programs offer the flexibility of a second passport and access to a wide range of benefits. They are particularly attractive to individuals seeking visa-free travel, tax planning opportunities, and more global flexibility.
Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment
Investment options in Antigua and Barbuda CBI program. To obtain citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, applicants must make one of the following investments:
- National Development Fund (NDF) donation: a minimum contribution of $230,000.
- Real estate investment: a minimum of $300,000 in government-approved properties.
- Business investment: a minimum investment of $1.5 million in a business, or a joint investment of $5 million — $400,000 contribution of each investor.
- Donation to a higher education institution: a $260,000 donation, available for families of six or more.
Key benefits of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. Antigua and Barbuda’s passport offers visa-free access to many countries, including the Schengen Area. There is no capital gains or wealth tax, and the country allows dual citizenship. The processing time is relatively fast, taking about 6 months. The main applicant and their family are also eligible for citizenship under the same application.
Vanuatu citizenship by investment
Investment options in Vanuatu. Vanuatu offers citizenship through the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP). The investment options include:
- A contribution of $130,000 to the government fund.
- A partly refundable investment in shares of the CNO Future Fund — $157,000.
Applicants must also demonstrate a clean criminal record and undergo Due Diligence checks to ensure compliance with international standards.
Key benefits of Vanuatu citizenship. Vanuatu’s passport allows visa-free travel to around 100 countries.
The country has no income, wealth, or capital gains tax. The application process is one of the fastest in the world, with citizenship granted in as little as 2 months.
Vanuatu also permits dual citizenship, which provides flexibility for investors.
Antigua and Barbuda vs Vanuatu citizenship: comparison
When comparing Antigua and Barbuda with Vanuatu, several factors come into play. The investment amounts, visa-free travel options, and processing times differ, making it important to evaluate based on personal priorities.
Investment cost. Antigua and Barbuda offers more varied options for investment, starting at $230,000, while Vanuatu has a rate for donations, starting at $130,000.
Visa-free travel. Antigua and Barbuda provides access to many countries, including Schengen Area members. Vanuatu’s passport allows access to around 100 countries.
Processing time. Vanuatu offers one of the fastest processing times of 2 months, while Antigua and Barbuda’s processing takes about 6 months.
Family inclusion. Both programs allow families to be included, but Antigua and Barbuda’s family option is particularly cost-effective for larger families.
Tax benefits. Both countries offer favourable tax conditions, with no personal income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes.
Ultimately, the choice depends on whether fast processing or more robust global mobility is the main priority. Antigua and Barbuda offers broader visa-free travel and varied investment options, while Vanuatu stands out for its quick application process and simplicity.
How to apply for second citizenship by investment
The application process for second citizenship typically involves several steps. While the specifics may vary between Antigua and Barbuda and Vanuatu, the general process includes:
- Choose an authorised agent. Applicants must use a government-approved agent to submit their application.
- Select the investment option. Whether it’s a donation or real estate investment, the applicant selects the investment path that suits their needs.
- Submit required documents. These include proof of funds, passport copies, and police clearance certificates.
- Undergo Due Diligence. Both countries perform background checks to ensure the applicant is eligible.
- Make the investment. Once approved, the investment is completed as per the chosen option.
- Receive citizenship. After final approval, the citizenship certificate and passport are issued.
Conclusion
Choosing between Antigua and Barbuda and Vanuatu depends on your priorities. Antigua and Barbuda offers more global mobility and investment flexibility, while Vanuatu stands out for its fast processing time. Both countries provide tax advantages and the option for family inclusion. To make the right choice, consider your primary goals for second citizenship.
