How the Tax System in Antigua and Barbuda Works: A Simplified Explanation

Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island country in the Caribbean, has a tax system that is relatively simple and straightforward. Whether you are a resident, a non-resident, or a legal entity operating in Antigua and Barbuda, you are required by law to pay taxes on your income and assets. However, the tax rates and rules might differ depending on your status and the type of income or assets you have. In this article, we will provide you with a simplified explanation of how the tax system in Antigua and Barbuda works, including the tax rates, compliance requirements, exemptions, incentives, and planning tips.

Antigua and Barbuda's Tax System and Tax Residency

The tax system in Antigua and Barbuda is based on the principle of territoriality, which means that only income and assets generated within the country are subject to taxation.

Since the tax law was passed in 2016, Antigua and Barbuda have become a good place for investors and expats alike. Under this law, people who live in the country and people who do not live in the country do not have to pay personal income tax on income earned inside the country's borders. This has made Antigua and Barbuda more attractive to foreign investors and also made it more likely for highly skilled professionals to move there.  

The country's personal income tax rate of 0% makes it one of the few places in the world where there is no personal income tax. Moreover, there is no tax on wealth, inheritance, or capital gains. This gives individuals and businesses a better tax situation. Putting this tax law into effect has definitely helped the country's economy and made it an even more desirable place to do business and live.

In Antigua and Barbuda, an individual is considered a tax resident if they meet the following criteria:

• Physical Presence Test: You must spend 183 days or more in Antigua and Barbuda during a calendar year. The days do not need to be consecutive, but they must add up to at least 183 days.
• Economic or Permanent Home Test: Alternatively, you may be considered a tax resident if you maintain a permanent home in Antigua and Barbuda and you have a genuine and effective economic connection to the country. This test takes into account factors such as the location of your personal property, family, social ties, and business activities. 

If you meet either of these criteria, you will be deemed a tax resident of Antigua and Barbuda and will be subject to taxation on your worldwide income. This means that income earned both within and outside Antigua and Barbuda will be subject to taxation.

Understanding the Tax Rates in Antigua and Barbuda

The tax rates in Antigua and Barbuda are relatively low compared to other countries in the region. There are some exemptions and deductions that you can claim to reduce your taxable income, such as charitable donations, medical expenses, and pension contributions.

Taxes for Legal Entities

Legal entities, such as companies, are subject to taxation in Antigua and Barbuda. Taxation depends on the company's tax residency status.

A company is considered a tax resident of Antigua and Barbuda if it is incorporated under the laws of the country or if its management and control are exercised within the country. Tax-resident companies are subject to taxation on their worldwide income.

A company that is not incorporated in Antigua and Barbuda and does not have its management and control within the country is considered a non-tax resident company. Non-tax-resident companies are generally subject to taxation only on their income derived from within Antigua and Barbuda.

In relation to taxes for companies, the following tax rates are applicable:

• ‍Corporate Income Tax: Companies incorporated in Antigua and Barbuda are subject to corporate income tax on their worldwide income. The standard corporate tax rate is 25%. However, certain sectors, such as international business companies (IBCs) engaged in offshore activities, may benefit from tax incentives and exemptions.

It is important to note that tax incentives and special rates may apply to certain sectors or industries, such as tourism or manufacturing, to promote economic development and investment in the country. For example, the corporate tax rate for banks is 22.5%, while the rate for oil, telecommunications, and insurance companies is 10%.‍

• ‍Withholding Tax: Antigua and Barbuda imposes withholding tax on certain types of payments made to non-residents. This includes dividends, interest, royalties, and payments for technical services. The withholding tax rate is 25%.  ‍
• Value Added Tax (VAT): Antigua and Barbuda operates a Value Added Tax (VAT) system, which applies to the provision of goods and services. The standard VAT rate is 15%. However, certain goods and services may be exempt or subject to a reduced rate.‍
• Social Security Contributions: Employers in Antigua and Barbuda are required to contribute 6% to the country's social security system on behalf of their employees. These contributions help fund various social benefits.

Personal Income Taxes

Antigua and Barbuda do not impose a personal income tax. In addition, tax residents are not taxed on dividends, royalties, or interest. Only non-tax residents pay a withholding tax of 25%.

VAT

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax that is levied on the supply of goods and services in Antigua and Barbuda. If you operate a business in Antigua and Barbuda, you are required to register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds a certain threshold, which is currently set at EC$300,000. Once registered, you are required to charge a rate of 15% on your goods and services and remit the VAT to the government on a quarterly basis.

The companies that operate restaurants and hotels have to pay 14% VAT. 

If you are a consumer in Antigua and Barbuda, you are required to pay VAT on the goods and services that you purchase, unless they are exempt or zero-rated. Some of the goods and services that are exempt from VAT include basic food items, educational materials, and medical supplies. Zero-rated goods and services include exports, international transport, and certain financial services.

Property Tax

Property tax is a tax that is levied on the market value of real estate owned by individuals and legal entities in Antigua and Barbuda. The tax rate varies depending on the type and location of the property, and it is payable annually to the government. Property tax is assessed by the Valuation Department, which uses a formula based on the market value of the property, the location, and the type of use.

In Antigua and Barbuda, property taxes may apply to buyers, sellers, and owners of real estate. However, please note that tax laws and regulations can change, so it's important to consult with a tax professional or refer to the official tax authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding property taxes in Antigua and Barbuda.

• ‍Buyers: Stamp Duty: When purchasing real estate in Antigua and Barbuda, buyers are typically subject to stamp duty of 2,5%, which is a tax levied on the transfer of property ownership. There is also an insurance fee of 0.2% and a land ownership license fee of 5%.‍
• Sellers: There is no capital gain on the income received from the sale. Sellers are required to pay only a stamp duty of ‍
• Owners: Residents and non-residents are required to pay the same real estate tax rate, ranging from 0.1% to 0.5% of a property's assessed value. Non-residents who own undeveloped land must pay a non-resident undeveloped land tax of between 10% and 20% of the land's value, depending on how long they have owned it.

Taxation of Foreign Income in Antigua and Barbuda

If you are a resident of Antigua and Barbuda, you are required to pay taxes on your worldwide income, including the income generated outside of the country. However, if you are a non-resident, you are only required to pay taxes on the income generated within Antigua and Barbuda. Therefore, if you have foreign income, such as dividends, interest, or capital gains, you are required to declare it in your tax return and pay taxes on it at the applicable rate.

Antigua and Barbuda has signed double tax treaties with several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, to avoid double taxation of income. These tax treaties may provide provisions regarding the taxation of foreign income, including rules for determining residency, the allocation of taxing rights, and relief from double taxation. If you are a resident of one of these countries, you may be entitled to a tax credit or exemption for the taxes paid in Antigua and Barbuda, depending on the provisions of the treaty.

Tax Compliance in Antigua and Barbuda

Tax compliance is an important aspect of the tax system in Antigua and Barbuda, as failure to comply with the tax laws can result in penalties and interest charges. If you are required to file a tax return, you must do so by the deadline, which is usually March 31st of the following year. If you are required to pay taxes, you must do so by the due date, which is usually April 30th of the following year.

If you fail to file the tax return or pay the taxes on time, you may be subject to penalties and interest charges, which can accumulate over time. In addition, the Inland Revenue Department may take legal action to recover the taxes owed, such as garnishing your wages, seizing your assets, or placing a lien on your property.

Tax Exemptions and Incentives in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda provides various tax exemptions and incentives to promote economic development, attract investment, and support specific sectors or activities. Here are some common examples:

• ‍Export-oriented Activities: Antigua and Barbuda may offer tax incentives to businesses engaged in export-oriented activities. These incentives can include exemptions or reduced rates on corporate income tax, import duties, or value-added tax (VAT) for the purchase of inputs used in the production of export goods or services.‍
• Tourism Sector: Antigua and Barbuda places significant emphasis on tourism as a key economic sector. Tax incentives may be available to businesses operating in the tourism industry, such as hotels, resorts, or tour operators. These incentives can include exemptions or reduced rates on corporate income tax, import duties, or VAT on specific tourism-related activities or investments.‍
• Manufacturing and Export Processing Zones: Antigua and Barbuda may establish special economic zones or export processing zones to attract manufacturing activities and promote exports. Businesses operating within these zones may benefit from tax incentives such as exemptions or reduced rates on corporate income tax, import duties, or VAT on inputs and equipment used in manufacturing and export activities.‍
• Investment Incentives: Antigua and Barbuda may offer investment incentives to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate economic growth. These incentives can include tax holidays, reduced tax rates, or other tax benefits for eligible investments in specific sectors or designated areas.‍
• Renewable Energy and Green Initiatives: Antigua and Barbuda has shown a commitment to promoting renewable energy and sustainable practices. Tax incentives may be available for investments in renewable energy projects, energy efficiency initiatives, or environmentally friendly technologies.

Tax Planning Tips for Individuals and Businesses in Antigua and Barbuda

Tax planning is an important aspect of managing your finances in Antigua and Barbuda, as it can help you reduce your tax liabilities and maximize your after-tax income. Some of the tax planning tips for individuals and businesses in Antigua and Barbuda include:

• Take advantage of eligible deductions and tax credits to reduce your taxable income.
• Structuring your business operations in a tax-efficient manner, such as using a corporation or a trust to hold your assets or investments.
• Investing in tax-exempt or tax-deferred products, such as retirement savings plans or government bonds.
• Claim the tax exemptions and incentives available for your business or investment, such as import duty exemptions, property tax exemptions, and tax holidays.
• Seeking professional advice from a tax advisor or accountant to ensure compliance with the tax laws and optimize your tax position. 

Citizenship by Investment Program in Antigua and Barbuda

The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program in Antigua and Barbuda is a government initiative that allows eligible individuals and families to obtain citizenship and become tax residents in exchange for making a qualifying investment in the country.

A passport from Antigua and Barbuda does not automatically make its holder a resident for tax purposes. A citizen must spend more than 183 days in the country each year to qualify as a tax resident.

 
Investment Options

• National Development Fund (NDF): Applicants can make a non-refundable contribution of at least $100,000 to the National Development Fund, which is used to support various national development projects, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and tourism.
• Real Estate Investment: Applicants can invest in pre-approved real estate projects, such as luxury hotels, resorts, and residential properties. The minimum investment amount for real estate is $220,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum Age: The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Clean Background: Applicants and their dependents should have no criminal record and provide relevant police clearance certificates.
• Good Health: Applicants and their dependents should undergo a medical examination to demonstrate good health.
• Financial Standing: Applicants should provide evidence of their financial standing and the source of their funds for the investment.

Application Process

• Pre-approval: Applicants submit their application forms and supporting documents and pay the required due diligence fees. The application is reviewed for pre-approval.
• Investment and Documentation: Once pre-approved, the applicant makes the investment in the chosen option and submits the necessary documentation to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
• Due Diligence and Background Checks: The CIU conducts thorough due diligence and background checks on the applicant and their family members.
• Citizenship Approval: If the due diligence process is successful, the applicant receives a letter of approval, and citizenship certificates are issued.

Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

• Tax Advantages: Antigua and Barbuda offers several tax advantages, including no wealth, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
• Dual Citizenship: Antigua and Barbuda allow dual citizenship.
• Visa-Free Travel: Antigua and Barbuda citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to numerous countries, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, and many others.
• Citizenship for Family: The CBI program allows for the inclusion of family members, including spouses, children, dependent parents, and siblings, under certain conditions.
• Business and Investment Opportunities: Citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda provides access to business and investment opportunities in the country and the wider Caribbean region.
• Lifestyle Benefits: Antigua and Barbuda offers a desirable lifestyle, including beautiful beaches, a tropical climate, and a stable political and economic environment.