Antigua and Barbuda – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Antigua and Barbuda, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Antigua and Barbuda operates under telephone area code 268 within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). While many nations divide their territory into multiple area codes based on region or city, Antigua and Barbuda uses 268 as a single, unified code covering the entire country — a setup that keeps the dialling process simple once you understand how the NANP works.

Within the country, seven-digit local dialling applies. When placing a call to another number on the islands, you simply enter the seven digits without any prefix. So a number printed as 268-460-XXXX would be dialled locally as 460-XXXX.

If you are calling Antigua and Barbuda from outside the NANP — that is, from countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, or the Pacific — you dial your international exit code (typically 00 or +), followed by 1 (the NANP country code), then 268, and the seven-digit local number. The full sequence looks like this: + 1 268 XXX XXXX.

Callers within NANP member countries such as the United States and Canada must use the long-distance trunk prefix 1 ahead of the area code and number — the same procedure used for any domestic US long-distance call. This is an important nuance: because Antigua and Barbuda belongs to the NANP, calling from the US functions like a long-distance domestic call, yet international or unexpected roaming charges may still apply depending on your plan. Anyone travelling from a NANP country should review their calling arrangement before dialling an Antigua and Barbuda number.

To place calls from Antigua and Barbuda to countries outside the NANP, you must dial the international access prefix 011, followed by the relevant country code and national number. For instance, to reach a landline in the United Kingdom, you would dial 011 + 44 + the UK subscriber number.

There are no sub-national area codes within Antigua and Barbuda — 268 applies equally to St. John’s (the capital and most prominent expat hub), English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Falmouth, and every other community on both islands. The 268 prefix is dropped when dialling between numbers within the country, but remains unchanged in all international contexts.

Who are the major landline providers in Antigua and Barbuda, and how can you contact them?

Three companies serve the telecommunications market in Antigua and Barbuda: Flow, Digicel, and APUA, all offering a combination of services including fibre broadband, 4G/LTE mobile, landline, and television packages. For fixed-line services in particular, Flow and APUA are the two leading options, with most residential landline infrastructure historically anchored on their networks.

The foundation of the country’s telecommunications infrastructure rests with the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), a government-owned entity. Its telecoms branch, branded as APUA inet, delivers fixed-line telephone and fibre broadband services. The APUA fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network covers Antigua in its entirety and is being progressively extended to Barbuda. APUA’s offices are located on Factory Road, St. John’s, and you can reach them at (268) 480-7000 or through their official website at apuainet.com.

Flow — previously known as LIME and, before that, Cable & Wireless — is the other principal fixed-line provider. Having operated under the LIME brand until 2015, Flow was subsequently acquired by Liberty Global and now operates as part of the wider Cable & Wireless group. It offers bundled landline, broadband, and television services. Customers can contact Flow at (268) 480-4000, or visit their regional site at discoverflow.co/antigua-barbuda. The company’s main retail outlet on Market Street in St. John’s is the primary in-person contact point.

Pricing and plan structures are subject to change, so always consult the official provider websites for the most current details. As of 2025, APUA was advertising bundled voice and broadband packages, but tariffs should be verified before signing up. Oversight of the sector falls to the Telecommunications Division of the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting, Telecommunications, Science and Technology, which handles licensing and consumer protection matters.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Antigua and Barbuda, and how can you contact them?

Mobile voice and data services across 3G and 4G networks are provided by three operators: APUA’s inet Mobile, Digicel, and Flow (Cable & Wireless). Flow has long been the incumbent, while Digicel entered the Caribbean market between 2001 and 2006 to break the existing monopoly. Today in Antigua and Barbuda, the two compete on roughly equal terms — each commanding around half the market — and it is common for residents to carry a SIM from each.

Digicel Antigua and Barbuda is one of the two dominant network operators. Digicel launched in 2006 specifically to challenge the monopoly then held by LIME (now Flow), and has since built a 4G/LTE network that competes directly with its rival. Both prepaid and postpaid plans are available, along with international roaming packages. You can reach Digicel at (268) 480-2050, browse plans at digicelgroup.com/ag/en, or visit their shop on Market Street in St. John’s.

Flow Antigua and Barbuda is the other major network. A notable technical difference between the two operators is their frequency usage: Flow operates on US-standard bands — 850 MHz for 2G and 3G — while Digicel uses European frequencies — 900 MHz for 2G and 2100 MHz for 3G. For 4G/LTE, Flow broadcasts on 1700 MHz (AWS, band 4), whereas Digicel uses 700 MHz (band 17). Depending on which frequency bands your handset supports, one network may function better than the other with your device (see the practical tips section for more detail). Flow’s customer service line is (268) 480-4000, and their website is discoverflow.co/antigua-barbuda.

APUA inet Mobile is the third and smallest operator in the market. As the mobile arm of the state-owned Antigua Public Utilities Authority, inet Mobile spent years operating only a basic 2G network with no data capability, making it an unattractive choice for most users. In recent years, however, the provider has expanded to offer 3G and 4G/LTE services, bringing it closer to competitive parity. Contact APUA at (268) 480-7000 or visit apuainet.com.

Regarding coverage, 4G LTE signals now reach the majority of both Antigua and Barbuda, including many rural and less-populated zones. That said, Barbuda island does not enjoy the same depth of coverage as Antigua, so anyone planning to live or spend extended time there should review up-to-date coverage maps on each provider’s website. As of mid-2024, no operator had commercially launched 5G service — 4G remains the predominant mobile technology. Confirm current plan pricing and promotions directly with providers, as these details change frequently.

How do I get a landline connected in Antigua and Barbuda?

Arranging a new landline connection in Antigua and Barbuda is a fairly simple affair, handled directly through either Flow or APUA inet. The steps outlined below reflect the standard process; always confirm current requirements and timelines with your chosen provider or the national telecoms regulator before proceeding.

1. Choose your provider. Get in touch with APUA inet (via apuainet.com or tel: 268-480-7000) or Flow (via discoverflow.co/antigua-barbuda or tel: 268-480-4000) to request a new residential connection. Walking into one of their St. John’s stores in person is usually the quickest way to get things moving.
2. Provide proof of identity. A valid passport or national identity document is required. Foreign nationals living in Antigua and Barbuda should bring their passport along with any residency permit or visa documentation they hold.
3. Provide proof of address. A recent utility bill, signed tenancy agreement, or property deed is typically needed to confirm the installation address. Tenants should bring a lease or a letter from their landlord, while property owners should have title documents on hand.
4. Complete the service application form. Both Flow and APUA ask new customers to fill in a service application, which can often be done in-store, online, or over the phone depending on the provider.
5. Pay any connection deposit or installation fee. Upfront costs such as a deposit or installation charge may apply, especially for customers with no prior account history with the provider. Check directly for current figures, as these vary and are subject to change.
6. Arrange the installation appointment. Once your application has been approved, the provider will book a technician to install or activate the line at your property. In most cases, a wait of a few days to a couple of weeks is typical, though lead times can be longer in more remote locations.
7. Confirm your service is active. Once the technician has finished, test the line and verify your billing arrangement. Keep your account number and the provider’s customer service contact details in a safe place for future use.

Tenants should check with their landlord whether the property already has an active landline, as many furnished rentals — particularly in popular expat enclaves like Jolly Harbour and English Harbour — may have an existing connection that simply needs to be transferred to the new occupant’s name rather than set up from scratch.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Antigua and Barbuda?

Picking up a prepaid SIM card in Antigua and Barbuda is a quick and low-barrier process — well-suited to new arrivals, visitors, and those who have not yet established local residency. A SIM from Digicel or Flow costs EC$20, while APUA inet Mobile charges EC$25, all available from their respective stores.

To purchase a SIM card you will need to show photo identification, with a passport being the most universally accepted form. The easiest place to find all three operators is in St. John’s, where Digicel and Flow both have shops on Market Street, located only a block or so apart from each other — straightforward to find once you are in the city centre.

It is worth knowing that SIM cards are not sold at V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) or Barbuda Codrington Airport (BBQ) by the main operators. The exception is a duty-free shop located just past customs in the arrivals area at ANU, which carries APUA inet Mobile SIMs. These cost $30 USD and include only 1 GB of data — a convenient but expensive option. Most expats find it worthwhile to head into St. John’s shortly after arrival to get better value from a Digicel or Flow SIM.

For those seeking postpaid (contract) plans, both Digicel and Flow offer them in Antigua and Barbuda. Signing up requires an in-store visit with a valid passport, proof of a local address (such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement), and typically a local bank account or payment card for billing purposes. The documentation requirements are comparatively flexible — unlike some European countries where official residency registration forms are mandatory before any contract can be issued, Antigua and Barbuda generally treats a local address confirmation as sufficient proof of residency. New arrivals without a fixed address may find it more practical to begin on a prepaid plan and upgrade to postpaid once they have settled in.

Prepaid credit can be replenished in amounts ranging from EC$5 to EC$200 at online portals, top-up kiosks, supermarkets, and petrol stations across the island. Regardless of the top-up amount, credit remains valid for 90 days. Online credit card top-ups incur no additional surcharges, and top-up vouchers are widely sold throughout the islands.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Antigua and Barbuda?

Flow and APUA inet both offer several ways to settle landline and postpaid mobile bills, while prepaid customers manage their own credit independently through top-ups. Familiarising yourself with the available payment options helps you avoid late fees or service interruptions.

Payment options for postpaid and landline accounts generally include:

• Online payment: Both operators provide online payment facilities through their respective portals or apps. Flow customers can use the MyFlow app, while APUA inet customers can pay through the online portal at apuainet.com. Credit and debit cards are accepted on both platforms.
• In-person payment: Bills can be settled directly at each provider’s St. John’s store, or at authorised payment agents located around the island. APUA’s Factory Road offices also accept walk-in payments.
• Bank transfer or direct debit: Setting up automated monthly payments from a local bank account is an option with both providers — a convenient arrangement for residents who hold accounts at banks such as Antigua Commercial Bank or CIBC FirstCaribbean.
• Phone payment: Credit or debit card payments made over the telephone may also be accepted; contact your provider’s customer service line to confirm this option is currently available.

Landline and postpaid mobile bills are issued on a monthly basis. In contrast to some larger markets where a grace period of 30 days or more is standard before any disconnection action is taken, it is advisable in Antigua and Barbuda to pay promptly upon receiving your bill to sidestep late charges or account suspension. Specific disconnection policies and penalty fees differ between providers, so make sure to clarify these terms when you first sign up. Prepaid customers face no risk of surprise billing, as usage is always limited by the available credit on the account.

For prepaid top-ups, online credit card payments attract no additional surcharges, and physical top-up vouchers are available at countless retail outlets across the islands. Both the Digicel and Flow stores in St. John’s accept major international credit cards for in-store payments.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Antigua and Barbuda as a newcomer?

Verify your device’s frequency compatibility before arriving. Mobile networks in Antigua and Barbuda use a combination of 2 GSM bands, 1 UMTS band, and 2 LTE bands. Because Flow and Digicel operate on different frequencies — Flow on US-standard 850 MHz for 2G/3G and 1700 MHz for 4G, Digicel on European-standard 900 MHz for 2G, 2100 MHz for 3G, and 700 MHz for 4G — the right provider for you will partly depend on which bands your handset supports. Current flagship smartphones are generally multiband and compatible with both, but older or budget models may be restricted to one set of frequencies. Look up your phone’s technical specifications before settling on a provider.

eSIMs remain a limited but emerging possibility. While eSIM technology is gaining ground globally, options specifically for Antigua and Barbuda are relatively scarce online. Third-party international eSIM providers such as Airalo or Holafly do offer data-only eSIMs that connect to local networks and can serve as a useful stopgap for newly arrived expats, although they do not typically assign a local Antiguan phone number. Neither Flow nor Digicel Antigua currently offers a native eSIM product for retail customers — check their websites for any updates, as the situation may evolve.

International roaming from Antigua and Barbuda is supported by both Digicel and Flow. Digicel offers a “Roam Like You’re Home” plan with a seven-day validity, allowing subscribers to call, text, and use data in the USA, Canada, and other Digicel Caribbean territories at standard domestic rates. Flow provides comparable Caribbean and international roaming packages — consult the Flow website for current pricing and terms before you travel.

Number porting — moving your existing Antiguan number from one local carrier to another — is permitted in Antigua and Barbuda as part of the sector’s ongoing liberalisation. Unlike markets such as the UK, where number porting typically completes within a single business day, the process in Antigua and Barbuda may take somewhat longer. Initiate the request through your new provider and ask them to confirm the current expected timeline. Porting a foreign number from an overseas network to an Antiguan provider is not generally possible — a new local number would need to be issued instead.

Signal quality and reliability. 4G LTE coverage extends across the great majority of Antigua and Barbuda, including many rural zones. Typical mobile download speeds fall in the 20–30 Mbps range. Popular expat areas including Jolly Harbour, English Harbour, and St. John’s enjoy reliable 4G service from both Flow and Digicel. Coverage on Barbuda island is thinner by comparison — if you are relocating there, it is worth consulting each provider’s coverage maps and, if possible, asking locals about their experience with signal quality in specific areas.

Carrying two SIM cards is common practice. With Flow and Digicel splitting the market roughly equally, many residents hold one SIM from each operator. Doing so maximises coverage across different parts of the islands and allows you to take advantage of on-net calling rates, which are typically lower when both parties are on the same network.

Be mindful of local phone etiquette. As is the case throughout much of the Caribbean, social norms around mobile phone use in Antigua and Barbuda tend to reflect general courtesy — stepping aside to take calls and avoiding speakerphone in shared or public spaces are both appreciated. WhatsApp is ubiquitous and widely used for everyday communication, including by businesses responding to enquiries. Having a local Antiguan number will make it significantly easier to connect with neighbours, service providers, and the broader community.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Antigua and Barbuda?

No — porting a foreign telephone number onto an Antiguan network is not possible. You will need to obtain a fresh local number from one of the three operators: Flow, Digicel, or APUA inet. Many expats address this by keeping their overseas SIM active in a dual-SIM handset, or by using VoIP applications such as WhatsApp or Google Voice to stay reachable on their original number.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Antigua and Barbuda?

For a prepaid SIM, presenting a passport or other photo ID is the main requirement — a local address is not strictly needed, making it accessible to tourists and brand-new arrivals alike. Postpaid contracts, however, typically require both a local address and supporting documentation such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill to prove residency.

Will my phone from Europe or elsewhere work on Antigua and Barbuda’s networks?

Compatibility depends on the frequency bands your handset supports. Flow uses US-standard frequencies — 850 MHz for 2G and 3G — while Digicel operates on European bands: 900 MHz for 2G and 2100 MHz for 3G. Most modern multiband smartphones will work on either network, but older or lower-specification handsets may only function on one. Check your device’s specifications beforehand, and make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel.

Is 5G available in Antigua and Barbuda?

As of mid-2024, no operator had commercially launched 5G services — the country continues to rely primarily on 4G networks. 4G/LTE coverage is robust across most of the islands, and a transition to 5G is expected in the coming years. Visit individual provider websites for the most up-to-date information on network developments.

Where is the best place to buy a SIM card after arriving in Antigua?

The most convenient and cost-effective location is St. John’s city centre, where both Digicel and Flow have shops on Market Street, within a block of each other. The airport arrivals area does have an APUA inet SIM available from the duty-free shop, but at $30 USD for just 1 GB of data, it is significantly more expensive than what you will find in town.

How do I top up my prepaid mobile in Antigua and Barbuda?

Credit can be added online, at top-up kiosks, supermarkets, and petrol stations throughout the islands. Both Digicel and Flow accept online credit card payments without surcharges, and physical top-up vouchers are sold at numerous retail outlets. Whatever amount you add, the credit remains valid for 90 days.

Who regulates telecommunications in Antigua and Barbuda?

The primary regulatory authority is the Telecommunications Division of the Ministry of Information, Broadcasting, Telecommunications, Science and Technology. Antigua and Barbuda also participates as an observer within the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL), which adds a regional dimension to oversight. For consumer complaints against a telecoms provider, the Ministry’s Telecommunications Division is the appropriate first port of call.

Can I get a postpaid contract in Antigua and Barbuda as a foreign national?

Yes — postpaid plans are generally accessible to foreign nationals who are resident in Antigua and Barbuda. You will normally need a valid passport, evidence of a local address (such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill), and a completed service application. A credit check or refundable security deposit may be required if you do not yet have a billing history with the provider. If you have only recently arrived, starting with a prepaid SIM while you find your feet is a sensible and practical approach.