If you’re planning to live, work, or settle in Antigua and Barbuda long‑term, here’s what you need to understand about work permits, resident permits, and pathways to residence and citizenship. This is of particular importance if you are considering company formation in Antigua and Barbuda or looking for a tax-friendly Caribbean citizenship.
Key Takeaways on residency and work visas in Antigua and Barbuda
| Which is the main visa type? | This is known as a resident permit. |
| Work visa sponsorship | Employers must generally show that there are no suitably qualified locals available before hiring someone from abroad. For Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nationals (excluding OECS nationals), there may be special rules: with certain qualifications, you could get a Skilled National Certificate instead of a full work permit. |
| What are the key subcategories for a Temporary Residence Visa? | Work, investor or retiree. |
| Can it be done online? | The eVisa system is only designed for short stays. If you are looking to be in the country long-term you should apply via a consulate or embassy. |
| Eligible nationalities | All nationalities eligible to apply, no restrictions |
| Is there a pathway to permanent residency? | Yes, and citizenship after an extended period of residency. |
Work Permits: Who Needs Them & How to Get Them
- Anyone who is not a national of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and is not already a legal resident needs a work permit to be employed or run a business in Antigua & Barbuda.
- Employers must generally show that there are no suitably qualified locals available before hiring someone from abroad.
- For Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nationals (excluding OECS nationals), there may be special rules: with certain qualifications, you could get a Skilled National Certificate instead of a full work permit.
Nomad / Remote Work Residency
Antigua and Barbuda offers a Nomad Digital Residence Visa (NDR) designed for remote workers who live outside the country but want to work from Antigua & Barbuda temporarily:
- Valid for two years.
- Must be 18 or older, with remote employment (or self‑employment) from abroad; i.e. not employed by a local employer in Antigua & Barbuda.
- Must earn a minimum of USD 50,000 per year.
- Clean criminal record.
- Entry visa requirements must also be met.
Fees:
- Single applicant: ~ USD 1,500
- Couple (applicant +1 dependent): ~ USD 2,000
- Family (applicant + up to 3 dependents): ~ USD 3,000 (plus extra for additional dependents)
Resident Permits (Permanent / Long‑Term Residency)
If you want to become a long‑term resident (not just a temporary worker or nomad), Antigua & Barbuda has provisions for Resident Permits (sometimes called Resident Certificates) under various categories:
| Category | How long you must have lived lawfully in Antigua & Barbuda | Key additional requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Work permit holders | 4 years continuous lawful residence, with valid work permits through that time. | Must still have a valid work permit at time of applying; pay taxes; police & health checks; proof of intention to permanently reside. |
| Those married to a citizen | 1 year of marriage + residence in Antigua & Barbuda | Marriage certificate; proof spouse is citizen; other documents like health & character. |
| Entrepreneurs / investors | 2 years of holding a work permit and operating business / investment | Business registration; financial records; taxes etc. |
| Persons of independent means | 2 years of lawful residence | Proof of financial self‑sufficiency; perhaps property ownership; police & health checks; tax compliance. |
| Students | 1 year of attendance at tertiary education institution | Acceptance letter / school attendance; proof of financial support etc. |
Other general points:
- The residence permit allows accepted dependents to live with the applicant.
- Resident permit holders are entitled to live, work, or study in Antigua & Barbuda, and get protection under its laws.
- But resident permit status does not immediately confer citizenship. Citizenship has additional criteria (often longer periods of residency).
Citizenship by Investment
While more about citizenship than strictly work/residency, this program is relevant if your aim is permanent settlement.
- Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) offers citizenship in exchange for qualifying investment: either a donation, real estate purchase, or approved business investment.
- Applicants must meet due diligence, background checks, and often minimal residency or visit requirements depending on option.
What Documents & Requirements Are Common
To apply for a work permit, resident permit, or digital nomad visa, you’ll typically need:
- Valid passport (with several months validity)
- Police certificate / criminal background check
- Medical / health certificate
- Proof of financial means (salary / savings / income) for independent means or nomad/resident permit.
- Tax records or evidence of tax payments when required (for resident permit via work permit route)
- Proof of employment or business registration if applying as entrepreneur/investor.
- If married, marriage certificate; for dependents, birth certificates etc.
Processing & Duration
- The Nomad Digital Residence Visa application may respond within 24 hours after submission.
- Resident Permit (after 4 years, or 2 years depending on category) can be valid for 1 to 3 years and is renewable.
FAQs on residency visas in Antigua and Barbuda
These are the most common queries we receive from clients interested in visas for Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda’s eVisa systems are mainly for short‑term visitors and tourists, not for work or long‑term residency. For working or settling, you’ll deal with work permits, nomad residence visas, or resident permits.
Most foreign nationals need permission to work. If you’re non‑OECS, and not a legal resident, you’ll need a work permit. The process involves the employer demonstrating that no local worker is available for the position, among other requirements.
You can stay as long as your permit is valid. A work permit is tied to your employment and must be kept valid. A resident permit requires several years of lawful residence—often 4 years under the work permit path—before you can apply.
No. Visa on arrival does not replace the need for a work permit if you plan to work. You must obtain the right permit before or at entry if your status requires that.
You’ll generally need: passport, medical certificate, police / character check, proof of employment or business, proof of finances or tax records, possibly proof of accommodation. If married, marriage certificate and spouse’s citizenship information.
Biz Latin Hub can help you with visas in Antigua and Barbuda
At Biz Latin Hub, our multilingual team of company formation specialists has extensive experience in supporting foreign executives when starting a business in Latin America. We offer a complete set of services for your business needs, such as legal, accounting, and recruitment support.
You can rely on us as your main contact for entering and doing business in any of the 18 markets in Latin America and the Caribbean where we operate.
Contact us now for personalized assistance or a free quote on company formation in Latin America.
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