Considering swapping your usual work view for Caribbean beaches, warm hospitality and vibrant island vibes? Antigua and Barbuda could be the perfect fit.
If the idea of easing into island life – hiking Fig Tree Drive, swimming at Half Moon Bay and ending the day with a rum punch at a beachside shack – sounds like your kind of routine, it makes total sense. The sunshine, the safety and the ease of living in an English-speaking country have made it an ideal destination remote workers. And now, with the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa, it’s even easier to stay longer and work legally.
Want to know how it all works? Let’s walk you through it.
In This Antigua and Barbuda Digital Nomad Visa Guide
What exactly is the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR)?
The Nomad Digital Residence (NDR), launched in 2021, is a long-stay visa aimed at digital nomads, freelancers and remote workers who earn their income from outside of Antigua and Barbuda. It allows you to legally live and work in the country for up to 2 years without having to pay local income tax.
This visa is a win-win. You get to live in a beautiful part of the world, and Antigua & Barbuda welcomes longer-stay visitors who contribute to the local economy without competing for local jobs.
Eligibility for Antigua and Barbuda's digital nomad visa
To be eligible for the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa, you need to be working remotely for a company or running a business based outside Antigua & Barbuda. Your income must come from abroad and not from the local economy.
You also need to show that you earn at least US $50,000 per year, which proves you can support yourself (and any dependents) during your time on the islands. Health insurance that covers your stay is required, and you’ll need to have a clean criminal record as well.
If you’re planning to bring a partner or family along, you can. This is possible as long as you include their details and meet the combined application requirements.
What do you need to apply?
The application process is online and relatively straightforward, but you’ll want to have everything ready before you start. First, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months remaining. You’ll also need to provide proof of your remote work and income. This can include recent payslips, employment contracts or bank statements.
A passport-style photo, health insurance documents and a police background check from your country of residence are also required. In addition, you’ll submit a signed declaration confirming your remote work status and that your income is earned from outside Antigua and Barbuda.
Once you’ve gathered all of that, just complete the online application and pay the relevant fee (which depends on whether you’re applying solo, as a couple or with family).
How to apply for the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR)
The process is entirely online and relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Head to the official website
Start by visiting the government’s official digital nomad portal at nomad.gov.ag, where you’ll begin your application.
2. Complete the online form
You’ll be asked to provide your personal details, proof of remote work, evidence of your income, a clean criminal record, valid health insurance and a few other essentials. Everything’s uploaded digitally.
3. Pay the visa fee
After submitting your application, you’ll pay the visa fee online. It’s US $1,500 for individuals, US $2,000 for couples and US $3,000 for families with up to three dependents. If you’re bringing more than three dependents, each additional one will cost US $650.
4. Wait for approval
You should hear back within 14 business days. If approved, you’ll get an email confirmation and can make your travel plans – no embassy visit needed.
5. Book your flight and start your new chapter
Once approved, you’re all set. Just pack your bags and head to the islands to begin your new work-from-paradise routine.
How long can you stay, and can it be renewed?
The visa is valid for up to 2 years. At this time, there’s no automatic renewal process. However, you can reapply for a new NDR once your current one ends.
Keep in mind: if your remote income or personal circumstances change significantly, that may affect future eligibility.
What about paying taxes in Antigua and Barbuda?
Here’s the good news. Antigua and Barbuda does not tax income earned abroad. As long as your income is generated outside the country, you won’t be liable for local income taxes under the NDR program.
However, depending on your home country’s tax laws, you may still be required to file and possibly pay taxes there. It’s worth speaking to a cross-border tax advisor if you’re unsure.
Do you even need a visa?
If you’re only planning a short stay, maybe not. Citizens of over 140 countries (including the US, UK, Canada and much of the EU) can enter Antigua & Barbuda visa-free for up to 90 days.
But if you’re looking to stay longer and work remotely without stress, the NDR is your best bet for doing it legally and comfortably.
Further assistance
While the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) application is designed to be pretty straightforward, things like proving your income, getting police checks or sorting out international health insurance can feel a bit overwhelming at times.
If you need guidance, the official site at nomad.gov.ag outlines all the steps. That’s where you’ll also submit your application when you’re ready.
