Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Using Cryptocurrency

• Posted on Jul 24, 2024
• In Industry News, Antigua & Barbuda, Cryptocurrency

Obtaining Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship Using Cryptocurrency

Antigua and Barbuda stand out as one of the few countries enabling investors to acquire citizenship through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program using cryptocurrency. This unique opportunity caters to crypto enthusiasts seeking a second passport that provides visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the European Union.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Crypto-Friendly CBI Program

As part of Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, cryptocurrency wallets can be considered as legal sources of funds.
This crypto-friendly policy aims to attract wealthy investors who utilize digital assets and help address the “de-risking” issues Caribbean banks have faced in recent years by providing an alternative payment method.
However, investors must first convert their cryptocurrency to fiat currency before investing, as the program does not directly accept crypto payments.
*Note: Prices are set to increase by the end of July 2024.

For more details, read the article: Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs’ Price Hike is Officially in Place.

Antigua and Barbuda CBI Program Cryptocurrency Requirements: What You Need to Know

The program does not directly accept cryptocurrency as payment:

• Investors must first convert their cryptocurrency to fiat currency before making the required investment.
• There may be a processing fee of up to 5% for using cryptocurrency as proof of funds.

The program has strict due diligence requirements on the source and legality of the investor’s funds, including their cryptocurrency assets:

• Investors must provide extensive documentation to prove the legal origin of their crypto assets.
• This includes personal financial statements, brokerage account records, and other supporting documents.

Key Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

• Visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the EU, UK, and Russia.
• No wealth, inheritance, or personal income taxes for citizens.
• Dual citizenship allowed.
• Citizenship for the main applicant, spouse, and dependent children.
• Streamlined application process with no interview or language requirements.
• No residency requirement before or after obtaining citizenship.

The Application Process without using Cryptocurrency

• Preliminary Due Diligence: Undergo a compliance check by the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Unit.
• Choosing an Investment Property: Select an approved real estate project, such as a luxury hotel or resort, with the assistance of a licensed agent like Immigrant Invest.
• Submitting Documents: Provide a comprehensive set of documents, including proof of source of funds through cryptocurrency holdings.
• Due Diligence and Approval: The government conducts thorough checks, typically taking around two weeks. Upon approval, the investment must be made.
• Receiving Passport: Once the investment is confirmed, the Citizenship by Investment Unit issues passports and certificates of naturalization within two weeks.

The Application Process with Cryptocurrency

• Select Your Cryptocurrency: Choose an eligible cryptocurrency for your investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program.
• Convert to Fiat Currency: Transfer the required amount of cryptocurrency to a personal wallet or exchange, then convert it to fiat currency, as the program does not directly accept crypto payments.
• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your citizenship application along with all supporting documents, including proof of the legal source of your investment funds.
• Due Diligence and Approval: Undergo the comprehensive due diligence and application approval process, which involves extensive background checks. This typically takes around six months.
• Receiving Passport: Upon confirmation of your qualifying investment, receive your Antigua and Barbuda citizenship and passport.

Crypto-Friendly Properties in Antigua and Barbuda

Several approved real estate projects accept cryptocurrency investments as part of their CBI program. Popular options include luxury resorts, hotels, and residential developments.
For more information about the available projects, Contact us today.

Preferred Cryptocurrencies

Accepted cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Daily conversion rates from crypto into USD have been established by authorities to minimize exposure to cryptocurrency volatility.

Blockchain Integration

Antigua and Barbuda actively embrace blockchain technology across various sectors of its economy. The Digital Assets Bill 2020 is an example of the government enacting pro-crypto laws, and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) launched the DXCD, a blockchain-based digital currency piloted in Antigua and Barbuda.
By leveraging Antigua and Barbuda’s crypto-friendly CBI program, you can diversify your portfolio and enhance your global mobility. Join the growing number of investors who are securing their future with this innovative opportunity.