Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island country located in the Eastern Caribbean, known for its reef-lined beaches, rainforests, and resorts. Antigua, the larger of the two main islands, is ringed with coral reefs and known for its many sandy beaches, numbering into the hundreds. The island's English Harbour and the historic Nelson's Dockyard are national parks, which reflect the country's colonial history with the British Navy. St. John's, the capital and largest city, is dominated by the white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral and has a lively commercial center. Barbuda, the smaller island, is known for its secluded beaches and is a haven for wildlife, including the frigate bird colony in the Codrington Lagoon. The local culture is a vibrant mix of West African, British, and Creole influences, reflected in its music, cuisine, and festivals like the annual Carnival. The economy is primarily driven by tourism, but the country also has a growing financial services sector. The islands are occasionally threatened by hurricanes, which can cause significant damage. Despite this, the country's natural beauty and friendly locals make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Caribbean experience.
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Obtaining a residency in Antigua & Barbuda can be a straightforward process, especially for those who can invest in the country or who come from countries that have good standing with Antigua & Barbuda. There are several types of visas and permits available for those looking to gain residency. The Permanent Residence Permit is one option for expats who wish to reside in the country long-term. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves without working locally and must spend a minimum amount of time in the country each year. Another popular route is the Citizenship by Investment Program, which allows individuals to obtain citizenship by investing a significant amount in real estate, business, or a government fund. This program is one of the quickest ways to gain citizenship, and by extension, residency. For digital nomads, the Digital Nomad Residence Certificate is an attractive option. This certificate allows remote workers and their families to live in Antigua & Barbuda for up to two years, provided they meet certain income requirements and have health insurance. The application process for residency visas in Antigua & Barbuda involves submitting various documents, such as proof of income, health insurance, and a police clearance certificate. The difficulty of the process largely depends on the type of visa and the applicant's financial situation. Overall, compared to many other countries, Antigua & Barbuda offers an easier path to residency for those who can afford it.
The system in Antigua & Barbuda consists of both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, including the Mount St. John's Medical Centre, which is the main hospital on the island of Antigua. There are also several health clinics distributed throughout the islands. While the public healthcare system provides essential services, it may sometimes lack the resources and equipment found in more developed countries. Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers more specialized services and generally shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare can vary, with private healthcare typically providing a higher standard of care compared to public services. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they are legal residents or if they contribute to the Medical Benefits Scheme through employment. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to have private health insurance to cover more comprehensive healthcare services and medical emergencies.
The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is considered moderate. While it is lower than some of its Caribbean neighbors, the cost of imported goods and utilities can be relatively high.
Antigua & Barbuda experiences a tropical maritime climate with little seasonal temperature variation. The islands are generally warm and sunny throughout the year, with a wet season from June to November and a drier season from December to May. Hurricanes and tropical storms can affect the islands during the wet season.
The educational system in Antigua and Barbuda is structured similarly to the British model, reflecting the country's history as a former British colony. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The system is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary education begins with kindergarten, followed by six years of elementary education. Students then move on to secondary education, which lasts for five years and culminates in the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations. Successful students may continue to two additional years of advanced secondary education, leading to the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). The government of Antigua and Barbuda prioritizes education, and as such, public schooling is free for citizens, though there are also private schools available. The academic year typically starts in September and ends in July, with breaks in December and April. The quality of education is generally good, with a literacy rate of over 90%. Schools in Antigua and Barbuda focus on preparing students for higher education and the workforce with a curriculum that includes English, mathematics, science, and social studies, as well as opportunities for vocational training. For families moving to Antigua and Barbuda, it's important to note that the primary language of instruction is English, and the education system is well-regarded for its structured approach and comprehensive curriculum
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