Guide to Residency in Barbados

Obtaining a residency visa in Barbados is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Barbados gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the following instructions are a general guide and the actual process may vary. It is important to consult with the Barbados Immigration Department or a legal professional for the most current and personalized advice. Here is a detailed guide in the requested format:

• Research the types of residency options available
  • Visit the official Barbados Immigration Department website to understand the different types of residency statuses, such as work permits, indefinite leave to stay, or the Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP).
  • Choose the residency category that best fits your situation, whether you are moving for work, retirement, or investment purposes.
• Prepare the necessary documentation
  • Gather personal documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate (if applicable).
  • Obtain a police certificate of character from your country of residence to prove you have no criminal record.
  • Prepare proof of financial means, such as bank statements or income statements, to show you can support yourself while living in Barbados.
  • Get a medical examination report from a licensed physician, including a chest X-ray and lab tests as required by the Barbados Immigration Department.
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Visit the Barbados Revenue Authority website to download the TIN application form or to apply online.
  • Complete the application form with accurate personal and financial information.
  • Submit the form along with any required supporting documents, such as a copy of your passport and proof of address in Barbados.
• Submit your residency application
  • Fill out the residency application form, which can be obtained from the Barbados Immigration Department or downloaded from their website.
  • Attach all the prepared documents, including your TIN, to your application.
  • Pay the applicable application fee, which can vary depending on the type of residency you are applying for.
  • Submit your application in person or by mail to the Barbados Immigration Department.
• Wait for the application to be processed
  • Be prepared to wait for several months as the processing times can vary depending on the complexity of your application and the current workload of the Immigration Department.
  • Keep track of your application status by contacting the Barbados Immigration Department periodically.
• Attend an interview or provide additional information if requested
  • The Immigration Department may request an interview with you to discuss your application in more detail.
  • Be prepared to provide any additional information or documentation that may be required to support your application.
• Receive your residency status
  • If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of approval from the Barbados Immigration Department.
  • Follow any additional instructions provided in the approval letter to finalize your residency status, such as paying a bond or providing additional documents.
• Renew or adjust your residency status as needed
  • Keep track of the expiration date of your residency status and apply for renewal in advance if necessary.
  • If your circumstances change (e.g., employment, marital status), inform the Immigration Department and adjust your residency status accordingly.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Barbados Immigration Department website or contact them directly. It is also advisable to seek assistance from a legal professional who specializes in immigration law in Barbados.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Barbados?

"In order to visit Barbados, visitors must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a fee to the Barbados Immigration Department. Visitors may also be required to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Barbados. In order to obtain residency in Barbados, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, and a fee to the Barbados Immigration Department. Applicants may also be required to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Barbados, as well as evidence of employment or business activities in Barbados. Additionally, applicants may be required to provide a police certificate of good conduct and a medical certificate," commented one member living in Barbados.