Prime Minister Gaston Browne has warned that Antigua and Barbuda may be forced to suspend its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) if visa restrictions tied to the programme persist.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the remarks in Parliament on Tuesday, stating that the country faces a critical choice between maintaining visa-free access to the United States and the European Union or continuing the CIP, which remains a significant source of government revenue.
The comments follow a decision by the European Commission giving Antigua until June 1, 2028, to phase out the programme under new visa suspension rules. The United States has also cited the CIP as a factor in restricting certain visa categories for Antiguan passport holders.
Browne said the government is currently consulting stakeholders and expects to reach a consensus within weeks. He indicated that he may introduce a separate parliamentary resolution to formally debate the programme's future.
The Prime Minister also challenged the opposition to offer constructive solutions rather than simply criticize the CIP, signalling that he views the matter as one requiring broad political engagement.
