Overview
Antigua and Barbuda is a sovereign island nation in the Caribbean, consisting of two major islands and several smaller ones. The nation gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 and is a member of the Commonwealth. Known for its stunning beaches (famously 365 of them - one for each day of the year), crystal-clear waters, and rich colonial history, the country has become a premier Caribbean destination for tourism and investment.
Quick Facts
- Passport Rank: 25
- Visa-Free Destinations: 153
- Capital: St. John's
- Population: 102,000
- Area: 440 km² (170 sq mi)
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD)
- Official languages: English
- Religions: Christianity (predominantly Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal)

Key Indicators
- GDP (Nominal): $1.94 billion
- Unemployment Rate: 15.2%
- Human Development Index: 0.826
- GDP per Capita: $19,000

Safety & Governance
- Global Peace Index (IEP): Not included in 2024 GPI rankings
- Press Freedom Index (RSF): Not included in 2024 WPFI rankings
- Corruption Perception (TI): Not ranked in 2024 CPI (Alternative: Control of Corruption score 0.33)
- Gini Coefficient (WB): Not included in recent World Bank surveys

Health & Environment
- PM2.5 Air Pollution: 19 µg/m³
- Air Quality Category: Moderate
- ND-GAIN Adaptation Index: 49.1 (61st most vulnerable)
- Life Expectancy: 77 years

The country has established itself as a significant financial services hub and offers one of the Caribbean's most successful Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. Its strategic location, stable political environment, and favorable tax regime make it attractive for high-net-worth individuals and international businesses.
Taxes
Since 2016, Antigua and Barbuda has abolished personal income tax for residents. This groundbreaking policy means that residents pay no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Personal income, dividends, royalties, interest, inheritance, wealth, and capital gains are completely tax-free for residents.
Source: Golden Harbors, Global Citizens Solutions, Greenback Tax Services, and Immigrant Invest (2024-2025).



