Antigua and Barbuda Leads Caribbean Initiative for Stricter Regulation of Citizenship by Investment Programs
Antigua and Barbuda, along with four other Caribbean nations—Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis, and Saint Lucia—are spearheading a proposal for enhanced oversight of their citizenship by investment (CBI) programs.
A draft agreement dated July 1, 2025, aims to establish the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (EC CIRA), which would enforce mandatory residency requirements, annual application limits, and standardized administrative processes for applicants.
One of the key changes proposed is a requirement for new citizens to spend a minimum of 30 days within the territory of their chosen state within the first five years after obtaining citizenship.
This initiative is designed to foster greater integration and civic involvement, with applicants also expected to complete a mandatory integration program covering civic education and cultural orientation.
To curb over-commercialization and maintain the value of citizenship, a quota system will limit the number of citizenship approvals each year for each state, diverging from the current competitive approach among nations.
The EC CIRA would have the authority to monitor compliance, enforce rules, and conduct investigations into the CBI programs, thereby centralizing regulatory powers that were previously managed independently by each state.
Enhanced due diligence measures will also be introduced, requiring thorough background checks and mandatory interviews for applicants, including dependents.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/07/09/antigua-and-barbuda-leads-caribbean-initiative-for-stricter-regulation-of-citizenship-by-investment-programs. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Emergency Response Teams to Stage Mass Casualty Drill at Scotts Hill Ahead of CHOGM
Emergency personnel will simulate a serious vehicle crash to test hospital readiness, while a separate evacuation exercise is planned for the CHOGM opening ceremony venue.
By Cory Wayland
Karim Edwards’ Trial Over Fatal Friars Hill Road Crash Postponed Until December
More than four years after the collision that claimed the life of medical student Kenneth Mathew and left Priyanjana Das with life-altering injuries, the accused driver is still awaiting trial.
By Cory Wayland
Jury Rejects Self-Defence Claim And Finds Kareem Simon Guilty Of Dennis Edwards’ Murder
Jury rejects Simon’s self-defence claim after video footage reveals details of the fatal confrontation on Lower All Saints Road.
By Cory Wayland
Tourism Ministry and ABTA Working with Bert Kirchner on Proposed Louis Tomlinson Campaign
Minister Michael Freeland has held talks on the project, which aims to turn international exposure into visitor interest and bookings.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (7)
Jerome July 9, 2025, 11:56 AM
Rhea July 9, 2025, 11:57 AM
Ahmeh July 9, 2025, 12:15 PM
Amethisyah July 9, 2025, 12:36 PM
Apex Jones July 9, 2025, 9:20 PM
Sheesh July 10, 2025, 2:21 PM
informed Citizen July 10, 2025, 6:08 PM