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Barbados has a strong expatriate community of predominantly British, American and Canadian origin.
With the lowest crime rate in the Caribbean, an English speaking populace, beautiful seascapes and year-long Caribbean sunshine, the appeal of working and living in Barbados is obvious.
The process of finding a job in Barbados is similar to that you would undertake in your home country.
Job postings are often listed in Barbados' two leading newspapers:
» The Nation (www.nationnews.com)
» The Advocate (www.barbadosadvocate.com)
Alternatively, job seekers may refer to the Barbados Labour Market Information System at www.labour.gov.bb or apply directly to one of the Barbados' many Executive Search or Employment Agencies. For a full listing of employment agencies, refer to the Barbados Telephone Directory.
All non-nationals wishing to gain employment in Barbados are required to obtain immigration status prior to commencing work.
There are several types of visas available to non-nationals including:
» Short-term Visa
» Long-term Visa
» Immigrant Visa
» Permanent Resident Visa
Visas may take between 6 - 8 weeks to process. Once approved, non-nationals are entitled to begin working in Barbados and are entitled to the same social security benefits as Barbadian nationals.
For more information regarding social security benefits in Barbados, please refer to the Barbados National Insurance Scheme website at www.nis.gov.bb.
Short-Term Visas are valid for up to 6 months. It is the responsibility of the employer or 'sponsor' to apply for this visa on behalf of the prospective employee.
Typically, short-term visas are provided to companies in need of operation set-up or employee training assistance. The visa application costs BDS $100 (US $50) while approval may cost approximately BDS $60 (US $300).
In order to apply for a short-term work visa, the following documentation is required:
» C-3 immigration department form
» 4 passport sized photos
» Cover letter from potential employer
» A Police Certificate of Character (PCC ) or Sworn Affidavit from country of origin. Please note that if applicant has resided in Barbados for over 6 months, a Barbadian PCC will also be required.
Long-Term Visas are valid for a period of up to 3 years. In order to become eligible for a long-term visa, prospective employers must sufficiently prove that no resident or Barbadian national is capable and willing to fulfill the requirements of the position in question.
The following information must be supplied upon application:
» C1, C2 immigration department forms (in duplicate)
» Medical forms
» 4 passport sized photos
» 2 character references on applicant
» Evidence of applicant qualifications
» Cover letter from potential employer outlining business in question
» A Police Certificate of Character (PCC ) or Sworn Affidavit from country of origin. Please note that if applicant has resided in Barbados for over 6 months, a Barbadian PCC will also be required
Are you an entrepreneur interested in setting up a business in Barbados?
Make sure to have the following information available when applying for your visa through the Immigration Department:
» Proof of investment (bank transfer statements are acceptable)
» Certificate of Registration/ Incorporation (copy)
» Related business licenses
The approval fee for setting up a business in Barbados is between BDS $3,600 - $4,000 (US $1,800 - $2,000). For more information on setting up a business in Barbados, visit one of Barbados 10 overseas missions or consulates (www.foreign.gov.bb) or take advantage of the services provided by Invest Barbados (IB) established by the Government of Barbados in 2007.
IB's head office is located in the national capital of Bridgetown with extension offices in London, Toronto, Miami and New York. For more information, visit Invest Barbados here.
Permanent Resident and Immigrant Status are intended for non-nationals looking to create permanent ties to Barbados.
Applicants for Immigrant Status must show evidence that "by reason of his or her education, occupational qualifications, personal history, employment record, training, skills or other special qualifications has established himself successfully in Barbados in a profession, trade, business or agricultural enterprise."
Otherwise, applicants must provide evidence that they are financially self-sufficient of their needs and those of their dependants in Barbados.
After a period of 5 years, immigrants may apply for Permanent Residency Status.
Spouses of Barbadian citizens (by descent or birth) may also apply for permanent residency.
Applications for immigrant or permanent resident status cost BDS $200 (US $100). Upon approval, applicants must pay an additional fee of BDS $800 (US $400).
Under certain conditions, CARICOM nationals may live and work in Barbados without a work permit or visa. Contact the Chief Immigration Office for more details.
Please be advised that visa requirements and conditions may be subject to change. Before pursuing a job or relocating to Barbados, please contact the Chief Immigration Office at:
Barbados Chief Immigration Officer
Immigration Dept
Careenage House, The Wharf
Bridgetown, Barbados
Tel. (246) 426-1011
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