“`markdown

Planning a trip to Antigua and Barbuda? Read on to learn everything about who needs a visa, how to apply, and special transit policies you won’t find in other guides.

Antigua and Barbuda welcomes visitors from many countries without a visa—but the rules vary by nationality, length of stay and mode of travel. You’ll also discover how the Electronic Entry Visa works, cruise‐ship transit rules, and options if there’s no consulate near you.

Who Qualifies for Visa-Free Entry?

Antigua and Barbuda maintains a changing list of visa-exempt nations. Before you book, double-check the official visa policy of Antigua and Barbuda to ensure your country is still on the list—additions or removals can happen at any time.

• Citizens of the UK, EU, Canada, United States and many Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states do not need a visa for short visits.
• Nationals of some countries stay visa-free for six months, while others have only one-month allowance.
• Certain Caribbean neighbors enjoy indefinite stay under the CARICOM freedom-of-movement agreement, allowing citizens of member states to remain without a tourist visa.

Stay Durations by Nationality

1. Six-month visa-free entry:
2. United Kingdom
3. Canada
4. United States
5. EU member states
6. One-month visa-free entry:
7. Several African and Asian countries (see the full list in the official visa policy)

Indefinite Stay for Caribbean Citizens

Under the regional visa-waiver program, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent & the Grenadines can remain indefinitely without a tourist visa.

The Electronic Entry Visa (EEV) System

If you’re from a country that needs a visa, the Antigua and Barbuda government now offers an Electronic Entry Visa (EEV) system so you can apply online before departure:

• Eligibility: Check your country’s status on the Antigua and Barbuda eVisa portal.
• Application: Fill out personal details, upload a passport photo and pay the fee securely online.
• Biometric upon arrival: Fingerprints and a digital photo are taken at immigration for final verification.

Visa-on-Arrival and Cruise-Ship Transit

Even if you cannot pre-apply, you can get a visa on arrival—provided you meet a few requirements:

• Fee structure: USD 100 per person (children pay the same)
• Documents needed:
• Onward or return airline ticket
• Proof of accommodation
• Evidence of sufficient funds (minimum USD 150 per day)

Cruise-ship passengers staying less than 24 hours do not require a visa when they arrive by sea, according to the Antigua and Barbuda visa transit information.

Transit for Cruise Passengers

In 2019, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed over 660,000 cruise visitors, many using the free 24-hour transit rule to sample beaches and duty-free shops on a quick stop (One Caribbean statistics).

Applying via UK Diplomatic Missions

No local consulate in your region? You can submit your Antigua and Barbuda visa application through a British diplomatic mission:

1. Contact the nearest UK embassy or high commission.
2. Follow their instructions for forwarding documents.
3. Fees and processing times mirror those of local consulates.

Important Passport and Document Rules

• Full passports only—U.S. passport cards are not accepted for entry, as noted on the U.S. Department of State’s country information page for Antigua and Barbuda.
• Always carry proof of:
• Return or onward travel
• Confirmed lodging
• Enough funds to cover your stay

Keeping Up with Changing Entry Regulations

Immigration rules evolve. A country on today’s visa-free list could require an EEV tomorrow. Check official government channels at least two weeks before travel.

Smooth Sailing Ahead

By understanding the visa-waiver distinctions, using the EEV portal, and obeying document requirements, you’ll glide through Antigua and Barbuda’s immigration with ease. Whether you’re island-hopping via cruise ship or settling in for several months, these tips ensure you spend less time on paperwork and more enjoying the turquoise waters and sun-soaked beaches.
“`