The European Union has called on Antigua and Barbuda and other Caribbean nations operating Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes to phase them out by June 2028 or face the potential loss of visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

The request forms part of the EU’s ongoing review of investment migration programmes, with officials expressing concerns about the security and governance implications of citizenship being granted through investment schemes.

The statement notes, the mere operation of a citizenship by investment (CBI) program, “regardless of how well it is managed,” now constitutes “a self-standing ground for suspending visa-free access” to the Schengen Area. In its eighth Visa Suspension Mechanism report in December 2025, the Commission staked out precisely that position. It gives nations a 24 month transtion period.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said Antigua and Barbuda was aware of the EU’s position and noted that the issue affects several countries across the region that operate similar programmes. He emphasized that discussions are continuing at both the national and regional levels.

The government has maintained that the Citizenship by Investment Programme remains an important source of revenue and economic development for the country. Regional leaders are expected to continue engaging with European officials as they seek to address the concerns raised while protecting the interests of participating nations.

Prime Minister Browne stated that the communication did not come as a surprise, noting that his government had anticipated receiving such correspondence.

He further explained that the European Union’s position is not directed exclusively at Antigua and Barbuda but applies to all OECS member states operating Citizenship by Investment programmes. Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia have also reportedly received similar notices from the European Commission.

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