Frequently Asked Questions
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar but the US Dollar is accepted over the counter. Pound Sterling can be changed at the banks and there are cash machines located at various places on the island. Major credit cards are usually accepted.
The departure tax payable by tourists when leaving Antigua is US$ 28.00.
The hurricane season is June to September. Antigua and Barbuda is warm all year round with a soothing south-easterly breeze.
220 / 110 volts AC: 60 cycles. American type 2 pin sockets are prevalent and therefore a suitable adapter may be required.
The duty free allowance is as follows: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco, 1 litre wine or spirits, 170ml (6ozs) perfume. Weapons of war and unprescribed drugs are prohibited.
Visitors to Antigua and Barbuda require a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, confirmation of accommodation throughout the stay and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay. On arrival, the immigration officer must be satisfied that your reason for visiting Antigua and Barbuda is legitimate.
To purchase property in Antigua, non-citizens need to apply for a licence which costs 7% of the purchase price. The following conditions must be fulfilled:
- Police clearance from the country where you previously lived.
- Evidence of sufficient funds.
- For land purchase, compliance with the details of the non-citizen’s licence is required and building work must be completed within 24 months.
- The buyer pays government transfer fees of 2.5%.The majority of property is fee simple or freehold. Leaseholds are rare and usually held by the Crown. Legal costs vary between 1% and 2% depending on property value.
Several major international carriers providing regular and direct flights to key international centres serve Antigua and Barbuda.
High quality telecommunications facilities are widely available including telephone, facsimile, broadband Internet access and other similar services. Electronic fund transfer is easily accomplished, providing same day value, and securities can be placed and executed within 24 hours.
Is there stability and Security available for starting a business in Antigua?
Antigua and Barbuda has a stable democratic government and a strong economy based primarily on tourism. The country enjoys the highest per capita income in the Eastern Caribbean, and the absence of personal income tax results in a higher level of disposable income than most Caribbean countries.
All International Business Corporations are fully exempt from direct taxes in respect of any international trading, investment or commercial activity including corporate and personal income tax, withholding tax and stamp duties.
