Antigua & Barbuda Property Tax Guide: Transfer Tax ~2.5%, Annual 0.5% 2026
Antigua and Barbuda's property tax system includes a transfer tax of approximately 2.5% on property purchases (paid by buyer) and an annual property tax of 0.5% of the market value. There is no capital gains tax on property sales. Here is how property tax works in 2026.
Property taxation in Antigua and Barbuda is governed by the Property Tax Act and administered by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). Unlike many countries that impose high stamp duties or annual property taxes, Antigua's property tax burden is moderate. The absence of CGT on property sales is a significant advantage for property investors. The annual property tax of 0.5% is based on the property's assessed market value and is due annually. Capital gains on property →
Real-world example: A buyer purchases a beachfront villa valued at XCD 2,000,000. Transfer tax: ~2.5% = XCD 50,000. Annual property tax: 0.5% = XCD 10,000/year. If the villa is sold 5 years later for XCD 2,500,000, the gain of XCD 500,000 is not subject to CGT. In the UK, the same transaction would incur SDLT (stamp duty) of up to 15% on purchase and 18-24% CGT on the gain. In France, notary fees of 7-8% plus annual taxe foncière would apply. Rental income taxation →
Property Transfer Tax (Purchase Tax)
- Rate: Approximately 2.5% of the purchase price (paid by the buyer)
- Basis: Calculated on the higher of the contract price or the assessed market value
- Due: At the time of property registration with the Land Registry
- Exemptions: Certain transfers may qualify for reduced rates (e.g., first-time buyers, certain family transfers)
The transfer tax is a one-time cost at purchase. There is no stamp duty or additional purchase taxes.
Annual Property Tax
- Rate: 0.5% of the property's assessed market value per year
- Basis: Based on the IRD's assessed market value, which may be updated periodically
- Payment: Due annually, typically in quarterly or annual installments
- Coverage: Applies to all real estate — residential, commercial, and land
Annual property tax is relatively low compared to other jurisdictions. The 0.5% rate applies uniformly to all property types.
Registration and Legal Fees
- Legal fees: Typically 1-2% of the purchase price for conveyancing
- Registration fee: Fee for registering the property title with the Land Registry
- Stamp duty: Small stamp duty on legal documents
Buyers should budget approximately 5-7% of the purchase price for total transaction costs (transfer tax, legal fees, registration).
Do foreigners pay the same property tax as residents?
Yes. Antigua and Barbuda applies the same property tax rules to residents and non-residents. There are no additional surcharges on foreign buyers. Foreigners may purchase property in Antigua with the same tax treatment as Antiguan citizens.
Is there a tax on rental income from property?
Yes. Rental income from property is subject to personal income tax at progressive PIT rates (0-12%). Deductions for maintenance, management fees, insurance, and mortgage interest may be available. Detailed rental income guide →