Antigua and Barbuda Defends Citizenship‑by‑Investment Programme Amid EU Scrutiny

Antigua and Barbuda's government reaffirmed its commitment to the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) in response to criticism from the European Union, which has suggested that Caribbean nations phase out such schemes to retain visa‑free travel to the Schengen Area. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant told a post‑Cabinet briefing that the country's screening process is among the most stringent worldwide, noting that some applications can take up to 24 months due to comprehensive background checks. He emphasized that the programme provides significant economic benefits and safeguards both Antigua’s and partner countries’ security interests. The government plans to present detailed evidence of its robust due‑diligence measures to EU officials and will continue regional dialogue with OECS members while defending its sovereign right to pursue the CIP.

Merchant said, “The government believes that Antigua and Barbuda has one of the most stringent, one of the most highly scrutinized and transparent CIP programmes,” underscoring the nation’s intent to maintain visa‑free access to Europe for its passport holders.