Why visit Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua is renowned for its stunning coastline, where rugged shores embrace hundreds of picturesque coves washed by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island’s calm, protected bays have long served as safe harbors for sailors, from Admiral Nelson and historic pirates to modern-day yacht enthusiasts. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Antigua reveals a fascinating blend of British colonial heritage and Caribbean charm. Visitors can explore the vibrant capital of St. John’s, the historic waterfront of English Harbour, and impressive forts that reflect the island’s rich past. At the same time, Antigua captivates with its colorful villages, laid-back island atmosphere, local rum culture, and warm, welcoming residents who greet visitors with genuine hospitality.
Top places to visit in Antigua & Barbuda
Discover the best attractions in Antigua & Barbuda from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
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Antigua and Barbuda Visa Guide
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Antigua and Barbuda Visa Requirements, eVisa Guide & Visa on Arrival Information
Planning a trip to Antigua and Barbuda? Learn everything about visa requirements, eVisa applications, visa on arrival eligibility, required travel documents, and visa-exempt countries before your journey.
How to Obtain an Antigua and Barbuda Visa
Travelers who require a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda can submit their application online through the official eVisa system. Applicants must complete the required forms, upload supporting documents, and pay the applicable visa fees electronically.
General Visa Requirements
Citizens of countries that are exempt from visa requirements may enter Antigua and Barbuda for tourism or business purposes provided they meet the following conditions:
- Stay does not exceed six months.
- Possess a valid onward or return ticket.
- Have confirmed accommodation arrangements.
- Can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
- Hold a valid passport.
Multiple-Entry Visas
Multiple-entry visas are available for eligible applicants and may be granted for 12 months or 24 months.
The duration and approval are determined at the discretion of the visa issuing officer. Applicants seeking multiple entries should select the appropriate option when completing the visa application form.
Antigua and Barbuda Visa Application Process
Cruise Ship Passengers
Cruise ship visitors who normally require a visa may enter Antigua and Barbuda without one if they arrive in the morning and depart on the same day.
Transit Passengers
Travelers in transit who would normally require a visa do not need one if:
- Their onward journey occurs within 24 hours.
- They possess proof of onward travel.
- They remain within the controlled transit area of the airport.
Documents Required for an Antigua and Barbuda eVisa
Valid Passport
- Bio-data page of a valid passport or travel document.
- Passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond arrival.
- Include any valid transit or re-entry permits where applicable.
Passport Photograph
- Recent color passport photo.
- Size: 45mm x 35mm.
- White background only.
- Photo must not be digitally altered.
Travel Itinerary
- Airline ticket.
- Booking confirmation.
- Travel agency reservation details.
Accommodation or Invitation Letter
- Hotel reservation confirmation.
- Letter of invitation from a sponsor or host.
Additional Requirements for Students
- Acceptance letter from an educational institution.
- Accommodation details during studies.
Additional Requirements for Business Travelers
- Employer’s letter stating the purpose of travel.
Proof of Financial Means
- Bank statements covering the previous two months.
Additional Supporting Documents
- Recent police clearance certificate.
- Birth certificate.
- Residency permit or immigration status documents.
Important Scanning Requirements
- All documents must be scanned using a scanner.
- Mobile phone photographs are not accepted.
- Documents must be scanned in full color.
- Only original documents may be scanned.
- Photocopies will not be accepted.
If the eVisa Unit requests additional supporting documents, applicants must submit them within 90 days or risk rejection of the application.
Antigua and Barbuda Visa on Arrival
Visa on arrival may be granted to eligible travelers who normally require a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants may qualify if they hold a valid:
- United States Visa or Permanent Resident Card.
- Canadian Visa or Permanent Resident Card.
- United Kingdom Visa or Resident Card.
- Schengen Visa or Resident Card.
Applicants must also:
- Travel solely for tourism or personal visits.
- Have no residence or employment in Antigua and Barbuda.
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months.
- Possess required re-entry permits.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
- Hold a return or onward ticket.
- Not be declared persona non grata.
- Not appear on any immigration blacklist.
Visa on Arrival Validity
- Valid for a single entry.
- Permits a stay of up to 30 days.
- Subject to immigration conditions upon arrival.
Extension of Visa on Arrival
Tourist visas on arrival are generally non-extendable and non-convertible.
However, extensions may be approved by the Chief Immigration Officer in exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies.
Medical Emergencies
Visitors who become ill and require treatment beyond their approved stay period may be granted an extension.
Medical Attendant Visa
A companion assisting the ill traveler may also receive authorization to remain.
Visa on Arrival Fee
Eligible travelers requiring a visa must pay US$100 per passenger.
The fee applies to adults and children and may be paid in the equivalent Eastern Caribbean currency upon arrival.
Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
The Tourist Visa on Arrival facility does not apply to holders of diplomatic or official passports.
Antigua and Barbuda eVisa System
The Antigua and Barbuda eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows approved travelers to enter the country without visiting an embassy or consulate.
- Complete the application online.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay fees using Visa or MasterCard.
- Receive approval or denial electronically.
Travelers are encouraged to carry both digital and printed copies of their approved eVisa confirmation.
Countries Exempt from Antigua and Barbuda Visa Requirements
European Visa-Exempt Countries
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
Commonwealth Visa-Exempt Countries
Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, New Zealand, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Zambia and others.
Other Visa-Exempt Countries
Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Georgia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Norway, Peru, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uzbekistan and Venezuela.
Citizens of China and Cuba are exempt from visa requirements for visits of up to 30 days.
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Who Needs a Visa?
Citizens of countries not listed among the visa-exempt nations are generally required to obtain a visa before traveling to Antigua and Barbuda.
Before making travel arrangements, visitors should verify the latest immigration requirements and ensure all documentation is prepared in advance.
What is an eVisa?
An e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into and travel to Antigua and Barbuda.
The e-Visa is an alternative to visas issued by Antigua and Barbuda overseas missions and at the ports of entry in Antigua and Barbuda.
Applicants obtain their visas electronically after entering required information and making payments by a credit or debit card (Mastercard or Visa).
The link to download your e-Visa is given on the final step where you will be informed that your application has been completed successfully. In addition, the same link to download your e-Visa will be emailed to you. Passport control officers at ports of entry can verify your e-Visa on the border system. However, you are advised to keep your e-Visa with you either as a soft copy (tablet PC, smart phone, etc.) or as a hard copy in case of any failure in their system.
As in the case of e-visas, respective Antigua and Barbuda immigration officials at the ports of entry reserve the right to deny entry into Antigua and Barbuda to a holder of an e-Visa without any explanation.
What do I need for an eVisa application?
You need to have a travel document valid for at least 6 months from the date you intend to enter Antigua and Barbuda. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements. You will be informed of these requirements after you select your country of travel document and travel dates.
What are the advantages of an eVisa?
An e-Visa can be obtained easily anywhere with an internet connection and it saves times that you would otherwise spend on visa applications at overseas missions or ports of entry into Antigua and Barbuda (if you were eligible for visa on arrival).
Who is eligible to apply for e-Visa?
Any holder of a travel document that requires a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda. Please see countries that require visa __.
Do I need to enter Antigua and Barbuda on the exact dates as is specified in my application?
No. The validity of your e-Visa begins from the approval or issued date specified in your application. You can enter Antigua and Barbuda on any date within this approved period.
If my travel dates change, can I apply for e-Visa amendment for a change of date?
No. You must obtain another visa
Do I need to obtain a separate e-Visa for persons accompanying me?
Yes. Each traveller must have a separate e-Visa.
Can I get a refund if I do not use my visa?
No. We cannot refund payments for unused e-Visas. The fee is a processing fee.
Can I obtain a multiple entry e-Visa?
Yes. Multiple entry e-visa last for one year.
The information on my e-Visa does not match the information on my travel document, Can I enter Antigua and Barbuda on this e-Visa?
No, your e-Visa is invalid. You must obtain another e-Visa.
I would like to stay in Antigua and Barbuda for a period of time longer than the e-Visa permits. What should I do?
If you wish to stay in Antigua and Barbuda longer than your e-Visa permits, you must apply to the Immigration Department for an extension of your entry permit.
Please note that an e-Visa is granted only for tourism purposes. If you overstay your visa, you might be asked to pay fines, deported or banned future travel to Antigua and Barbuda for a specific period of time.
I have realized that some of the information that I provided in the e-Visa application requires correction. What should I do?
You must create a new e-Visa application.
If my e-Visa application is denied, will my payment be refunded?
No. The e-Visa application fee is a processing fee which is non-refundable.
How long before my travel date should I apply for e-Visa?
You can apply for your e-Visa any time before your travel. However, you are advised to create an e-Visa application at least seven (7) working days before your departure date.
Expedited visa processing is available at an additional cost.