Grenada vs Antigua Citizenship - CBI Programme Comparison

Choosing between Grenada vs Antigua citizenship through their Citizenship by Investment programmes can be complex but crucial for investors seeking global mobility and enhanced business opportunities. Both countries provide access to a Caribbean second passport, unlocking visa-free travel to numerous destinations worldwide. The 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.

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.

Why Choose Antigua and Barbuda for CBI? 3 Key Aspects

1. Enhanced Global Mobility: An Antigua and Barbuda passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including prime destinations such as the    United Kingdom, Europe’s Schengen Area, China, India, Russia, and Brazil. This unparalleled travel convenience is a significant advantage for business professionals and frequent travellers seeking seamless access to key global regions.

2. Affordable Investment Options: The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment programme offers a range of investment pathways, including contributions to the National Development Fund, real estate investments in government-approved projects, and business ventures. These options provide flexibility and value for investors looking to meet their financial and citizenship goals. Whether applying as an individual or with family members, the investment structure is designed to suit diverse financial needs while granting the lifelong advantages of Antigua and Barbuda passports and citizenship.

3. Favourable Tax Environment: Antigua and Barbuda’s tax-friendly environment includes no taxes on worldwide income, wealth, or inheritance. The programme offers an exceptional lifestyle for those considering relocation or establishing a second home. 

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship - Country Overview

• Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation located in the Lesser Antilles, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east and the Caribbean Sea to the south and west. Antigua, the larger of the two islands, is known for its 365 beaches - one for each day of the year - and its historic naval heritage, while Barbuda offers a more tranquil escape with its untouched beauty and ecological richness. 
• Antigua and Barbuda's economy is primarily driven by tourism. The islands' culture reflects a rich blend of African, British, and Caribbean influences, showcased in their music, festivals, and cuisine.
• St. John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, is situated on Antigua's northwest coast. The city’s harbour is a key port for cruise ships, making it a lively destination for visitors. Surrounding St. John's are popular beaches, including Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay, known for their lively atmosphere and water sports.
• English Harbour is a historic area famous for Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This restored 18th-century naval base served as a strategic stronghold during British colonial rule and is now a popular yachting hub. Each Sunday, Shirley Heights hosts a lively party featuring Caribbean music, food, and a spectacular sunset.
• Barbuda, located about 40 kilometres north of Antigua, is a serene counterpart to its busier sibling. Renowned for its pink-tinged beaches, including the famous Pink Sand Beach, Barbuda is an ecological haven. The island is home to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, one of the largest in the Western Hemisphere, where visitors can observe thousands of frigate birds in their natural habitat.

Which Programme Is Right for You?

Choosing between Antigua and Grenada for second citizenship depends on your unique circumstances and expectations. The ideal choice will hinge on factors like travel preferences, tax benefits, investment costs, and family considerations. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Dual Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

Both Antigua and Grenada recognize dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your existing nationality while enjoying the benefits of your second passport.

Requirements to Stay in Grenada and Antigua

• Antigua: Requires a one-time 5-day visit within the first five years of obtaining citizenship.
• Grenada: No residency or stay requirement.

Grenada and Antigua Passport Strength

• Grenada: Provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the UK, Europe’s Schengen Area, China, India, Russia, Argentina, and Brazil. Additionally, Grenadian citizen residents benefit from the E-2 Investor Visa treaty with the U.S., enabling them to operate a business and reside there with their family under a renewable 10-year visa.
• Antigua: Offers similar access to over 140 countries, excluding Argentina and the U.S. E-2 treaty benefits.

Grenada and Antigua Tax Advantages

• 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.
• 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.

Check our taxation in Caribbean article for further details.

Real Estate Investment Options Cost in Grenada and Antigua

• Antigua: Minimum real estate investment starts at $325,000 for a single applicant or a family of four.
• Grenada: Minimum investment starts at $270,000 for a single applicant or a family of four.

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

Validity & Renewability of Citizenship in Grenada and Antigua

• Antigua: Lifetime irrevocable citizenship. The initial passport is valid for five years, with subsequent renewals valid for 10 years.
• Grenada: Lifetime irrevocable citizenship. Passports are renewed every 10 years.

Processing Time in Grenada and Antigua

• Antigua: Citizenship is generally processed within 3-4 months, making it slightly faster.
• Grenada: Citizenship processing takes approximately 4-6 months.

Family Eligibility

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

Application Flexibility

Applications for both programs can be completed remotely. Mandatory interviews are conducted online, and the Oath of Allegiance can be taken remotely or in-person in either jurisdiction. 

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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, 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 on Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda CBI Programmes

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.

How long must you wait to obtain citizenship?

• Grenada: Typically, 4–6 months.
• Antigua and Barbuda: Slightly faster, at 3–4 months.

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.

Do I need to learn a language to obtain citizenship?

No, there are no language requirements for either programme.

Is there a minimum stay requirement after obtaining citizenship?

• Grenada: No residency or stay requirements.
• Antigua and Barbuda: A one-time 5-day stay is required within the first five years.

Can I sell the real estate investment after obtaining citizenship?

Yes, in both programmes, real estate investments can be sold after five years.

Can I apply for citizenship by investment for my entire family?

Yes, both programmes allow family inclusivity. Grenada’s programme notably includes unmarried siblings, offering greater flexibility for extended families.

Is citizenship obtained through investment passed on to future generations?

Yes, citizenship from both Grenada and Antigua is lifelong and can be inherited by future generations.

Does Grenada or Antigua provide better global mobility?

Grenada offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including China, Argentina, and India. It also provides U.S. E-2 investor visa eligibility for residents, enabling business and residence opportunities in the U.S. Antigua offers similar access but excludes Argentina and lacks the U.S. E-2 visa treaty benefits.

What are the tax benefits?

• Grenada: No worldwide income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes. Residents enjoy personal income allowances.
• Antigua and Barbuda: No personal income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes for both residents and non-residents.

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.

Which Caribbean countries offer Citizenship by Investment?

Five Caribbean nations currently offer Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. These programmes attract foreign investment to fuel national development, offering second citizenship in exchange for contributions to government funds, real estate investments, or business ventures. In response to growing global demand, these nations have implemented reforms to enhance transparency, security, and due diligence, ensuring their programmes align with global standards.