15th June 2016

The Antigua and Barbuda Department of Immigration will launch its new Residence Permit Programme, pursuant to the Immigration and Passport Act 2014. The new programme will replace the status of "Temporary Residence" which was previously issued under the Immigration and Passport Act, CAP 208.

The Residence Permit programme comes into effect on the 15th June, 2016 and persons deemed eligible to apply include; 1. Individuals who have been lawfully resident in Antigua and Barbuda for a minimum of four (4) years immediately preceding the date of the application; or 2. Individuals who are married to a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda and are living together as husband and wife for a minimum of one (1) year.

Factors to be considered in assessing the overall suitability of applicants include character, health and criminal history. A period of three years will be granted to successful Applicants. It should be noted that with the Temporary Residence a period of two years was granted.

The Benefits gained from acquiring a Residence Permit includes an Applicant's ability to live, work or study in Antigua and Barbuda; Holders of a Residence Permit will, however, lose their status if they remain outside of Antigua and Barbuda for six months or more, commit a criminal offence in Antigua and Barbuda or anywhere else or if for some reason is deemed persona non grata by Cabinet.

Applications for Residence Permit Status are by appointments only. Prospective Applicants can call the Department of Immigration from Monday 20th June, 2016 for an appointment on 1 268 562 7859.

This new programme follows the period of Amnesty granted by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda from July 2015 - February 2016.

In an effort to become a more efficiently functioning agency, the Department of Immigration will continue to introduce other programmes and initiatives aimed at improving its services to the general public.

Please visit the Immigration website at www.immigration.gov.ag or call 1 268 562 1387 for more information.