How Safe Is Antigua and Barbuda as Your Next Place to Live?

Picture yourself waking up to turquoise Caribbean waters, spending afternoons on pristine beaches, and enjoying a lifestyle where 365 days of sunshine meet world-class yachting culture. Antigua and Barbuda offers precisely this—and through the Antigua and Barbuda passport programme, you can make this dream your reality. But before you invest, you’re likely wondering: how safe is Antigua and Barbuda for you and your family?

This comprehensive guide examines Antigua and Barbuda safety from multiple perspectives—crime rates, living conditions, driving considerations, and water safety—providing essential information you need to make informed decisions about the Antigua and Barbuda passport. Understanding both Antigua and Barbuda safety and programme benefits helps you determine if this Caribbean CBI destination aligns with your security expectations and lifestyle goals.

Overview of Antigua and Barbuda

Located in the Eastern Caribbean between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Antigua and Barbuda comprises two major islands with a rich colonial history. The Arawak and Carib peoples originally inhabited these islands before British colonisation. After gaining independence in 1981, the country has maintained its Commonwealth legal framework while blending African, British, and indigenous cultural influences to create a welcoming environment for international residents.

For visitors, entry requirements remain straightforward. Citizens of EU member states, the UK, the US, and Canada enjoy visa-free access for up to 90 days, though yellow fever vaccination certificates are required if you’re arriving from risk countries. Since launching its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme in 2013, Antigua and Barbuda has successfully diversified its tourism-dependent economy, attracting international investors whilst becoming the Caribbean’s most developed nation (53rd on the Human Development Index). 

Beyond tourism, the country’s famous “365 beaches“—one for each day of the year—have also made it a paradise destination. The best time to visit runs from December to April during the dry season, ideal for sailing—Antigua hosts the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week annually. May-June offers lower prices, but July through November marks the hurricane season.

If you’re keen to get an Antigua and Barbuda passport, knowing these seasonal patterns helps you plan accordingly for year-round living.

Safety and Security in Antigua and Barbuda

Is the Country a Safe Place to Visit and Live?

How safe is Antigua and Barbuda? According to Numbeo’s Safety Index, Antigua and Barbuda scores 48.63 (crime index 51.37), representing moderate safety levels. The US State Department’s “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” classification also makes it one of the Caribbean’s safest destinations.

Violent crime is rare; most incidents involve petty theft or burglary in tourist areas. You should avoid isolated areas after dark, secure valuables, limit the cash you carry, and remain aware of your surroundings. That said, there are safe neighbourhoods with strong police presence, such as: 

• Jolly Harbour
• English Harbour
• St. John’s
• Hawksbill Bay
• Dickenson Bay
• Cedar Valley
• Freetown

Emergency services can be reached by dialling 911 or 999. If you need medical aid, Mount St. John’s Medical Centre provides comprehensive healthcare.

LGBTQ+ residents should note that, whilst no legislation prohibits same-sex relationships, local attitudes lean conservative, so public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention regardless of orientation. Understanding Antigua and Barbuda safety nuances helps you make informed decisions.

Driving in Antigua and Barbuda

If you’re planning to drive, know that traffic moves on the left side, and be wary of potholes and unmarked speed bumps on the roads, particularly in rural areas. For international visitors, you’ll need to obtain temporary local driving permits from rental companies or police stations by presenting your valid licence from your home country.

Seat belts are mandatory, and mobile phone use whilst driving carries heavy fines. Take extra caution when driving at night, as some roads may have poor lighting and wandering animals.

Alternatively, you can take taxis, but note that these use zone-based pricing rather than meters, so always agree on fares in XCD or USD before departure.

Water Safety

Antigua and Barbuda is home to plenty of water activities, but keep in mind that sea conditions can change rapidly, and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags. Never swim alone, and check weather updates and tide reports beforehand. If you’re planning activities such as snorkelling, sailing, or jet skiing, choose trusted tour operators and ensure you wear appropriate safety equipment.

On another note, tap water here is generally safe, though many residents prefer bottled water.

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Programme

For foreigners, the straightest path to citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda is through investment routes under the Citizenship by Investment Programme. These include the National Development Fund ($230,000 for single applicants and families of four), real estate ($300,000 minimum, five-year hold), or the University of the West Indies Fund ($260,000 for families of six with a scholarship).

The Antigua and Barbuda passport grants you visa-free access to 150+ countries, including the UK, the Schengen Area, Hong Kong, and Singapore. You’ll benefit from no personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax, creating favourable conditions for preserving your wealth. There are also double taxation agreements that enhance your tax planning options.

Applications typically take 6-9 months, including due diligence, documentation, and investment source verification. Passports cost $300 per person and are valid for 5 years.

Altogether, if you’re asking how safe is Antigua and Barbuda for your family’s future, the country’s moderate safety levels combined with compelling CBI benefits present attractive relocation prospects.

Secure Your Caribbean Future with Premier Consultancy

With no taxes on personal income, capital gains, or inheritance, and robust infrastructure, Antigua and Barbuda is amongst the Caribbean’s most compelling CBI destinations, especially when coupled with the Antigua and Barbuda passport programme’s multiple investment routes and visa-free access to 150+ countries. 

If you’re ready to begin your Antigua and Barbuda passport journey, seek comprehensive support with Premier Consultancy’s certified immigration consultants for the smoothest outcomes! We specialise in Caribbean CBI programmes, and our services encompass eligibility assessments, documentation preparation, liaison with authorities and due diligence firms, investment analysis, and post-approval passport applications. With two decades of industry experience, we’ve guided hundreds of families through successful applications and Antigua and Barbuda safety concerns, and we’re ready to assist you, too. 

Reach out to our team today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll assess your eligibility, recommend optimal investment routes, and guide you toward securing your family’s Antigua and Barbuda passport and Caribbean citizenship.

References:

1. The Citizenship by Investment Programme. (date n.a.) Citizenship by Investment Unit. Retrieved on November 19, 2025 from https://cip.gov.ag/

2. Things To Do Beaches. (date n.a.). Visit Antigua & Barbuda. Retrieved on November 19, 2025 from https://www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/beaches/

3. Crime in Antigua And Barbuda. Safety in Antigua And Barbuda. (date n.a.). Numbeo. Retrieved on November 19, 2025 from https://www.numbeo.com/crime/country_result.jsp?country=Antigua+And+Barbuda

4. Antigua and Barbuda Travel Advisory. (date n.a.) U.S. Department of State. Retrieved on November 19, 2025 from https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/antigua-and-barbuda-travel-advisory.html