The Insider's Guide to Buying Property in Antigua
Fringed by outstanding white and pink sand beaches and some of the best sailing waters in the world, Antigua & Barbuda has a relatively small but well-established property market.
If you are currently considering investing in real estate in Antigua & Barbuda but you are wondering “where are the best places to buy property in Antigua & Barbuda?” or “how do I go about owning property in Antigua & Barbuda as a foreign buyer” then this guide is for you.
Our guide takes you through the process of buying property in Antigua & Barbuda from beginning to end, including an introduction to the real estate market, the buying process, and the taxes you will need to be aware of.
Overview - The Antigua Real Estate Market
Famed for its 365 white sand beaches, Antigua & Barbuda is the epitome of the Caribbean dream. Its 95 miles of sun-soaked coastline are surrounded by crystal clear waters offering world-class sailing and deep sea fishing. Besides breathtaking natural beauty, the twin-island nation also offers attractive tax benefits, good international access, and a stable political system.
With such a strong range of benefits on offer, the country has developed a well-established real estate market. Its luxury beachfront homes and condos have attracted high profile celebrities and business leaders from music star Eric Clapton to fashion mogul Giorgio Armani.
The country’s real estate market has been boosted by the opening of a new airport terminal in August 2015 which has made the island more accessible than ever, as well as an influx of investment stimulated by Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment program. The scheme offers qualifying applicants full citizenship of this twin-island nation in exchange for an investment in real estate approved for Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment program or, alternatively, a financial contribution to the nation’s economy.
“95 miles of sun-soaked coastline are surrounded by crystal clear waters offering world-class sailing and deep sea fishing”
Buying Process, Fees & Taxes
- Can foreigners buy property in Antigua?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Antigua and the Government of Antigua welcomes investment from overseas buyers. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Antigua and foreign buyers enjoy the same rights as Antiguan citizens. In order to purchase real estate in Antigua, foreign buyers need to apply for a Non-Citizens Land Holding Licence (NCHL or NCL) for which there is a fee of 5% of the purchase price. Alternatively, purchasing property in an approved real estate project may qualify the buyer for full citizenship of Antigua through the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program.
- Buying process
Buying property in Antigua is a relatively simple process, which typically involves the following steps:
- Begin your property search.
- Find your perfect property and make an offer.
- Apply for a Non-Citizens Landholding License – All foreign buyers acquiring real estate in Antigua must apply for an Alien Landholding License.
- The application cost for an Alien Landholding License is 5% of the property’s value and can take four months to be approved.
- Pay all required taxes.
- Fees & taxes
We would recommend you instruct a reputable lawyer to assist with the purchasing process.
Legal fees typically amount to 1% to 2% of the purchase price.
Latest Real Estate Listings in Antigua & Barbuda
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Residency & Citizenship
- How long can a foreign citizen stay in Antigua?
Citizens of countries including the USA, Canada, UK and the EU are permitted to remain in Antigua for holidays or business for up to 6 months without a visa.
- How do you become a resident of Antigua?
Persons of independent means (e.g. homeowners/retirees) who have resided in Antigua & Barbuda for 2 years and intend to permanently reside in the country may apply for a Resident Permit. A Resident Permit offers the right to live, work and study in Antigua. Successful applicants will receive a Resident Permit Card which may be granted for 1 to 3 years and can be renewed through an application to the Immigration Department.
- How do you become a citizen of Antigua?
Resident Permit holders who have legally resided in Antigua & Barbuda for 7 years are permitted to apply for citizenship.
In addition, Antigua & Barbuda operates a Citizenship by Investment Program which offers qualified investors the opportunity to obtain full citizenship of Antigua & Barbuda in exchange for a significant contribution to the nation’s finances, either through a financial contribution to a government fund or via investment in an approved real estate project.
Read more: Antigua Citizenship by Investment.
Mortgages in Antigua
Looking for financing to fund the purchase of property in the Caribbean?
Contrary to popular misconception, it is possible for foreign nationals looking to invest in Antigua real estate to apply for a mortgage.
Our partner – a very well respected international financial organization – offers mortgages for qualifying non-residents buying, building or improving a second home in Antigua.
For more information, see our page on: Caribbean mortgages.
How to Get There
There are regular direct flights to Antigua’s V.C. Bird Airport from North America and Europe.
American, Continental, Delta and US Airways fly from various American cities and JetBlue recently launched new non-stop flights from New York JFK to Antigua.
Air Canada also operates direct flights from Toronto.
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and BMI operate direct flights from the UK to Antigua.
The island is also served by various regional airlines, including Liat, Caribbean Airlines interCaribbean Airways and Seaborne Airlines.
- Miami to Antigua 3h 20m
- Atlanta to Antigua 4h
- London to Antigua 8h 30m
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