Antigua vs Grenada Citizenship - CBI Programme Comparison

Vago Barseghyan

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July 14, 2025

Both Grenada and Antigua citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes provide an efficient route to a second passport, with a diverse range of benefits. Grenada is renowned for its stunning white sand beaches, lush mountainous landscapes, rainforests and some of the friendliest people in the world. Antigua and Barbuda are also renowned for their pristine beaches. This article compares the key aspects of Grenada vs Antigua citizenship to assist you with making the right decision.

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Choosing between Grenada vs Antigua citizenship through their Citizenship by Investment programmes is not easy. Both countries provide access to a second passport and a comparison of Grenada vs Antigua citizenship highlights differences in investment requirements, programme benefits, and visa-free travel offerings. For busy individuals navigating the world of Caribbean second passports, determining the best CBI programme depends on understanding these key distinctions. We have written this Grenada vs Antigua citizenship comparison article to highlight the similarities and differences and guide you to make an informed decision by analysing their unique attributes and accurate information.

Grenada vs Antigua citizenship - comparison of key CBI aspects

Programme History

Antigua and Barbuda introduced its Citizenship by Investment Programme in 2013 to support economic growth through tourism, infrastructure, and public services.

Grenada relaunched its citizenship programme in 2013 (originally created in 1995), refining its framework to meet rigorous international due diligence and transparency standards.

Dual Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

Both nations fully support dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality while enjoying second citizenship benefits.

Grenada and Antigua Investment Requirements

Grenada:
- Non-refundable Donation: US $235,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) to the National Transformation Fund
- Real Estate Investment: US $270,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) in government-approved developments.
Antigua:
- Non-refundable Contribution: US $230,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) to the National Development Fund.
- Real Estate Investment: US $325,000 (for a single applicant or families up to four) in government-approved property.

For detailed comparisons and to estimate costs for your family, visit the Grenada CBI Pricing page, Antigua and Barbuda CBI country page or use the Passport Cost Calculator.

Family Inclusion

Both programs are family inclusive. Applicants can include spouses, children, parents, grandparents, and siblings, providing a path to citizenship for the entire family.

Grenada: allows inclusion of spouse, children up to age 29, financially dependent adult children, parents/grandparents over 55, and unmarried siblings with no children.

Antigua: permits inclusion of spouse, dependent children under 30, dependent unmarried siblings of the main applicant or spouse, parents and grandparents over 55.

Grenada and Antigua Residency Requirements

Grenada: There are no physical presence or residency requirements, offering complete flexibility.

Antigua: A one-time 5-day visit is required within the first five years after citizenship is granted.

Grenada and Antigua Passport Strength

Grenada: Enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 140 destinations including the UK, EU Schengen states, China, Russia, India, Brazil, and Argentina. Notably, Grenada holds an E-2 Investor Visa treaty with the U.S., enabling citizen residents to live and operate businesses there.
Antigua: Similar visa-free access to over 140 countries; however, it does not offer entry to Argentina or eligibility for the U.S. E-2 visa.

Grenada and Antigua Tax Advantages

Grenada:
- No worldwide income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
- Residents enjoy a personal allowance of XCD 36,000, with incremental income tax rates ranging from 10% to 28%.
- Non-residents are taxed on Grenadian-sourced income only.
- Property tax ranges from 0.2% to 0.5% of property value.
Antigua:
- No worldwide income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax
- No personal income tax for both residents and non-residents.
- Property tax ranges from 0.2% to 0.5% of property value.

Learn more about it in our taxation in Caribbean article.

Validity & Renewability of Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

Grenada: Citizenship is permanent and irrevocable; passports are renewed every 10 years.
Antigua: Citizenship is lifelong; passports are initially valid for 5 years, then renewed for 10-year periods.

Processing Time in Grenada and Antigua

Grenada: Citizenship processing takes approximately 6-8 months.
Antigua: Citizenship is generally processed within 5-6 months.

Application Flexibility

Both programmes allow for remote application submission, online interviews, and the Oath of Allegiance can be taken remotely or in-person in either jurisdiction.

Why Choose Grenada for CBI? 3 Key Aspects

The Grenada Citizenship by Investment programme offers a unique blend of advantages that make it highly attractive for global investors and families. Here are three compelling reasons to consider obtaining a second passport from Grenada:

1. Enhanced Global Mobility: A Grenadian passport opens doors to visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 140 countries worldwide. Key destinations include the United Kingdom, Europe’s Schengen Area, China, India, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, Malaysia, and a vast majority of Central and South America, as well as major African nations.

2. Access to High-Quality Real Estate Projects: One of the most popular pathways to Grenadian citizenship is through investing in high-quality, government-approved real estate projects. Options include luxury resorts, beachfront villas, and eco-friendly developments. These investments not only fulfil CBI requirements but also provide rental income and add a tangible asset to your portfolio while granting you Grenadian citizenship.

3. Family Inclusion: The programme allows your entire family, including spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and siblings, to apply, ensuring that all loved ones enjoy the benefits of Grenadian citizenship. The passport is valid for life, and Grenadian citizenship can be passed down to future generations, providing long-term benefits to your descendants.

Grenada Citizenship - Overview of Grenada

When considering Grenada vs Antigua citizenship, one of the unique benefits of citizenship in Grenada is that Grenada is the only Caribbean country whose citizen residents are eligible for the E-2 Visa that offers investors the opportunity to settle in the USA. But to be eligible for that, you will have to reside in Grenada for a minimum of 3 years. Below is a short overview of the island.

Grenada, the "Spice Isle," is a major global producer of nutmeg, mace, and organic cocoa, which are integral to some of the finest chocolates. The country also includes the smaller islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique in the Southern Grenadines.

St. George’s, the capital of Grenada, is situated in the southwest of the island and serves as both the administrative centre and major seaport of the country. The town is built around St. George’s Harbour, a natural harbour divided into two key areas: the Carenage to the northeast, close to the town’s core, and the Lagoon to the southeast, where the island’s main port and marina are located.

Just 5 kilometres south of St. George’s lies Grand Anse Beach, Grenada’s most famous and beloved shoreline. Stretching over 3 kilometres, this beach is renowned for its fine, white sand and the gentle waves of the azure Caribbean Sea. Grand Anse is home to several of the island’s premier resorts and luxury hotels, making it a key destination for visitors. Despite its popularity, the beach never feels overly crowded, even as it attracts a mix of tourists, locals, and students from St. George’s University. Grand Anse is a hub of watersports activity, with dive shops providing services such as scuba-diving lessons, boat trips, snorkelling, ocean kayaking, and Hobie Cat rentals.

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Why Choose Antigua and Barbuda for CBI? 3 Aspects

1. Tax Advantages: Antigua and Barbuda is celebrated for its tax-friendly policies, including no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and no wealth tax. These benefits make the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment programme an attractive choice for those seeking to reduce their tax burdens while enjoying the advantages of Caribbean citizenship.

2. Global Mobility: An Antigua and Barbuda passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries worldwide, including major destinations such as the United Kingdom, Europe’s Schengen Area, China, Russia, Brazil, and India. This travel freedom is especially advantageous for those with international business interests or a love for global exploration.

3. Quick Processing Time: The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment programme is typically granted within 4 to 6 months. The process ensures that applicants can quickly acquire their second passport from Antigua and Barbuda. with no physical residency requirements except for a brief 5-day stay in the first five years. Citizenship is valid for life and can be passed down to future generations, ensuring long-term benefits for your family.

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Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship - Country Overview

Antigua and Barbuda, a dual-island nation in the Lesser Antilles, lies between the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east, and the Caribbean Sea to the south and west. Antigua, the larger island, is famed for its remarkable claim of 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, and a rich maritime history. In contrast, Barbuda offers a peaceful retreat, celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Tourism stands as the cornerstone of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy. The islands' cultural identity is shaped by African, British, and broader Caribbean traditions, which are evident in their vibrant music, culinary offerings, and festive celebrations.
St. John's, the nation's capital, is positioned on the northwest shore of Antigua. As a bustling cruise port, the city draws numerous visitors, thanks in part to its proximity to lively beach destinations like Runaway Bay and Dickenson Bay, both well-known for water sports and social energy.
English Harbour, a notable historic site, features Nelson’s Dockyard—an 18th-century naval facility recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a key military outpost during British colonial times, it now serves as a popular destination for yachting enthusiasts. On Sundays, nearby Shirley Heights hosts a festive gathering that includes Caribbean music, local food, and stunning sunset views.
Roughly 40 kilometres north of Antigua lies Barbuda, the quieter of the two islands. Known for its soft pink sands, most notably at Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda also holds environmental significance. It houses the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, among the largest in the Western Hemisphere, offering visitors a chance to witness thousands of frigate birds in their native surroundings.

Final Thoughts: Antigua or Grenada Citizenship?

When weighing Grenada vs Antigua citizenship, Grenada's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme stands out for its exceptional combination of global mobility, U.S. E-2 investor visa eligibility for Grenadian residents, and attractive real estate investment opportunities. With no residency requirements, quick processing times, and opportunities for family inclusion, Grenada offers unmatched benefits in the global CBI landscape.

Antigua and Barbuda CBI, while offering slightly faster processing, lacks some of Grenada’s unique benefits such as E-2 visa eligibility. However, both programmes provide excellent options for travel freedom and are similar in many respects. While the ultimate choice depends on unique situations and circumstances, overall, Grenada is the preferred choice for most families.

FAQs

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Who can receive Grenadian or Antiguan citizenship through CBI?

Anyone meeting the programme's eligibility requirements, including passing due diligence checks, can apply. Both programmes accommodate single applicants and families.

Can Grenadian or Antiguan citizens work in the United States?

Grenadian citizen residents can access U.S. opportunities via the E-2 Visa, whereas Antiguan citizens do not qualify for this pathway.

What happens if my application is rejected?

Applicants will not be granted citizenship, and initial fees already made will be non-refundable. The investment is only required after receiving approval in principle for the citizenship application. Grenada’s and Antigua's programmes uphold stringent transparency and fairness. Ensuring you meet the due diligence criteria beforehand is crucial.

Which programme offers better business opportunities?

Both are similar, providing excellent regional opportunities through CARICOM membership, although residents of Grenada can also enjoy U.S. E-2 investor visa eligibility.

How do flight connections compare between these two nations?

Grenada: Offers direct flights to New York, Miami, London, and Toronto, among others.
Antigua: Provides excellent connectivity to the U.S., UK, and Canada, with additional European routes.

What other Caribbean nations provide CBI options?

Dominica, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts & Nevis offer additional options alongside Grenada CBI and Antigua CBI. So, overall five Caribbean nations currently offer Citizenship by Investment.

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Vago Barseghyan

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Vago Barseghyan

Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures year-round, with an average of 27°C (81°F). The islands have a relatively dry season from January to April, with a wetter season from May to November. The islands have robust infrastructure and emergency systems in place to manage such events.

Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, the islands were colonised by the British in the 17th century. The cultural landscape is a blend of African, British, and indigenous influences. This rich history is reflected in local music, dance, and festivals, with calypso, reggae, and steelpan music being particularly popular. Cricket, a legacy of British rule, is the most popular sport, and sailing is also popular, reflecting the islands' strong maritime culture.

Antigua and Barbuda boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, along with coral reefs, lagoons, and lush vegetation. The country’s landscape is primarily flat, with rolling hills and volcanic rock formations. The islands are also home to rich biodiversity, making them a haven for nature lovers.

Antigua and Barbuda have a stable democratic government based on the British parliamentary system. The country is generally regarded as having a manageable level of bureaucracy, with a reasonably straightforward process for interacting with government agencies. Retirees will find that essential services like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining necessary permits are relatively simple, although some processes can be slow due to limited resources. The government has been making strides in digitising services to reduce in-person visits and streamline processes.

Antigua and Barbuda is known for its lively events and festivals, particularly Carnival, one of the year's most anticipated events. Antigua Sailing Week is another major event, attracting sailors and spectators from around the world. These festivals are deeply rooted in the local culture and provide a vibrant social scene for retirees.

Dominica has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly on the windward side of the island. Temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 26°C (79°F), with cooler conditions in themountainous interior. The island’s lush greenery is a result of its abundantrainfall.

Dominica's culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous Kalinago heritage, African traditions, and European colonial influences, particularly French and British. The island was originally settled by the Kalinago people, and their influence is still present today, especially in the Kalinago Territory. African traditions have also left a profound mark, particularly in the island’s music, dance, and festivals. Dominica’s outdoor sports are heavily influenced by its rugged terrain, with hiking and diving being popular among locals and expatriates alike, although there is of course cricket for those with more sedentary dispositions.

Known as the "NatureIsland," Dominica is characterised by its rugged terrain, rainforests ,waterfalls, and geothermal activity. The island is home to the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, as well as numerous rivers and lakes. Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty is a major draw for retirees who appreciate ecotourism and outdoor adventures.

Dominica’s government operates under a parliamentary democracy, with a legal system rooted in English common law. While the country’s bureaucracy is smaller and more accessible, some processes can be slow, particularly in rural areas. However, the government is generally cooperative and accommodating, particularly for expatriates. It’s advisable to have local assistance or a legal advisor to navigate more complex processes, such as property transactions or dealing with land registries.

Dominica hosts several unique cultural events, including the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival. The island’s festivals are deeply connected to its Creole heritage, offering retirees a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and music. Dominica’s Independence celebrations also feature traditional dances, music, and cuisine.

Grenada has a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 28°C (82°F). The dry season runs from January to May, while the wet season is from June to December. Although Grenada is located on the southern edge of the hurricane belt and is less impacted the another Caribbean islands, it is not immune to these storms as has been seen recently with Hurricane Beryl. The island has since improved its hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience and the value of these improvements has led to greater preparedness for such events.

The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples before being colonised by Europeans. Grenadian culture is characterised by a strong sense of community, vibrant music, and dance traditions, such as calypso and soca. French influence on the island is evident in its place names and culinary traditions. Cricket and football are the most popular sports, and sailing and water sports are also widely enjoyed.

Known as the "SpiceIsle," Grenada is famous for its aromatic plantations, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The island’s volcanic origin provides a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. Grenada’s natural beauty is complemented by its extensive marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Grenada also follows a British-style parliamentary democracy. The country’s bureaucracy is relatively user-friendly, with many government processes being straightforward and accessible. Retirees generally find it easy to interact with government departments for routine tasks such as registering a vehicle, renewing licences, or paying taxes.

Grenada’s Spicemas Carnival is the island’s most significant cultural event, celebrated with colourful parades, music, and dance. The island also hosts the Grenada Sailing Festival and the Pure Grenada Music Festival, both of which attract international visitors. These events provide a lively social calendar for retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F) throughout the year. The islands have a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Located within the hurricane belt, Saint Kitts and Nevis is vulnerable to hurricanes, especially between June and November, but the islands have strong building codes and disaster response plans in place to reduce the impact of the senatural events.

The cultural heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis is shaped by its history of indigenous Carib and Arawak inhabitants and European colonisation. Saint Kitts was the first Caribbean island to be colonised by the British, and Nevis has a rich history as a major sugar producer. The islands' cultural roots are a blend of African, British, and French influences, reflected in the local cuisine, music, and festivals. Cricket and football are deeply ingrained in the local culture and, along with sailing and hiking, are integral to the islands' cultural life.

The twin islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are known for their volcanic mountains, rainforests, and beaches. The islands are home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brimstone Hill Fortress and offer stunning views from places like Mount Liamuiga. The islands’ natural beauty is one of their strongest appeals to retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis operates under a stable parliamentary democracy, with governance structures similar to those of other Commonwealth countries. The islands have a relatively low level of bureaucracy, and dealing with the government on a day-to-day basis is generally straightforward. Most routine administrative tasks, such as obtaining permits, paying taxes, or registering property, are manageable, although some processes can take longer than expected due to limited staffing. The government is trying to modernise its operations, including digitising more services, which should help reduce delays and improve overall efficiency.

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis host several vibrant festivals, including Carnival, the Saint Kitts Music Festival, and Culturama, which is unique to Nevis. These events celebrate local culture, music, and heritage, offering retirees plenty of opportunities to engage with the community and enjoy local traditions.

Saint Lucia enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry season extends from December to May, while the wet season is from June to November. Saint Lucia is situated near the edge of the hurricane belt, making it prone to hurricanes and tropical storms but less so than those further north. The government has invested in improving hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience to protect the island from future storms better.

Saint Lucia's culture is a unique blend of African, French, and British influences, reflecting its complex history of colonisation. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib people, before being contested by the French and British for centuries. The French influence is particularly strong in the island's Creole language, cuisine, and Catholic traditions, while British colonial rule has left its mark on the legal system and sports, particularly cricket. The island’s dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor sports like hiking and diving, which are popular among locals and retirees alike.

Saint Lucia is famous for its dramatic Pitons, volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the sea. The island’s landscape includes rainforests, beaches, andSulphur Springs, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano. Saint Lucia’s natural beauty is among the most striking in the Caribbean, attracting retirees who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

Saint Lucia’s government is a parliamentary democracy, and the country has a reputation for a relatively efficient bureaucracy compared to other Caribbean nations. For retirees, dealing with the government is typically hassle-free for most day-to-day tasks like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining residency permits. Saint Lucia has been proactive in improving its e-government services, allowing for easier access to information and quicker processing of certain requests online.

Saint Lucia is famous for its Jazz and Arts Festival, which attracts international artists and music lovers. The island’s Carnival is another major event, featuring parades, music, and dancing. Additionally, the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals celebrate the island’s unique cultural heritage, offering retirees a rich cultural experience.

Antigua vs Grenada Citizenship - CBI Programme Comparison

Grenada vs Antigua citizenship - comparison of key CBI aspects

Programme History

Dual Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

Grenada and Antigua Investment Requirements

Family Inclusion

Grenada and Antigua Residency Requirements

Grenada and Antigua Passport Strength

Grenada and Antigua Tax Advantages

Validity & Renewability of Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

Processing Time in Grenada and Antigua

Application Flexibility

Why Choose Grenada for CBI? 3 Key Aspects

Grenada Citizenship - Overview of Grenada

Why Choose Antigua and Barbuda for CBI? 3 Aspects

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship - Country Overview

Final Thoughts: Antigua or Grenada Citizenship?

FAQs

Who can receive Grenadian or Antiguan citizenship through CBI?

Can Grenadian or Antiguan citizens work in the United States?

What happens if my application is rejected?

Which programme offers better business opportunities?

How do flight connections compare between these two nations?

What other Caribbean nations provide CBI options?

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