Living and working in Antigua

Overview

The twin island state of Antigua and Barbuda is located in the Eastern Caribbean. The capital of Antigua is St John’s, a developed resort destination. The smaller sister isle is Barbuda, the capital of which is Codrington. They have a combined surface area of 183 square miles and are renowned as a tropical paradise, home of the exclusive K Club, which boasts many world-famous celebrities amongst its clientele. Antigua itself is 14 miles long and 11 miles wide, famously with 365 beaches.

The Island of Antigua enjoys the highest per capita income in the Eastern Caribbean region. Coupled with Antigua's tax-free status, this affords an extremely high standard of living. The main economic activities in Antigua are tourism and manufacturing, although in recent years the offshore financial services sector has been growing in importance.

Climate

Antigua is the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean islands, with temperatures in the mid-20s (75F) in winter and mid-30s (85F) in summer. Humidity is low and annual rainfall averages 45 inches. The hurricane season in Antigua is from June to September.

Currency

The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the legal tender on the Island. US dollars are also freely exchangeable and accepted as a means of payment and sterling can easily be exchanged.

Population

At 68,000, the total population is comparable to that of Bermuda. There are around 1,500 British expats living on Antigua.

History and government

Antigua was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, but it what inhabited by natives before this date. Antigua and Barbuda are independent nations and remains a member of the British Commonwealth. They are also a member of the United Nations, the Caribbean Common Market, the IMF and the World Bank.

Politically, Antigua is a multi-party democratic state with a system of government derived from the British model parliamentary system. The two major political parties in Antigua are both committed to free trade and market liberalisation.

Economy and law

The professional services sector includes companies involved in the disciplines of accounting, legal representation, trusts, banking and management services. Antigua’s political stability, tax-free status, excellent communications and extensive professional services sector mean that the Island remains an attractive offshore location for international business.

The law in Antigua is based on British law and includes modern offshore legislation with strict confidentiality legislation and safeguards to protect the integrity of Island’s reputation. The government of Antigua regulates the offshore banks via the International Business Corporations Authority, which is the sole licensing body for banks, insurance and trust companies.

Opportunities

If you are interested in working in Antigua, please indicate this on your registration so we can follow up on your behalf.

Jobs in Bermuda l Jobs in Cayman l Jobs in BVI l Jobs in Hong Kong l Offshore Jobs