Barbados’ 12-Month Welcome Stamp Programme as of April 30, 2024, has received 5,164 applications, of which 3,058 were approved.
Of the applications received, 65 per cent were from individuals and 35 per cent from families. A further breakdown of the statistics revealed that 64 per cent of the applicants are male, while 36 per cent are females. Those applying under the programme range from ages 18 to over 75.
The United States of America, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Canada, India, and Ireland continue to be the leading countries seeking entry under the programme.
Those applying under the programme have occupations in fields such as Tourism and Hospitality; Distribution; Education and Training; Finance, Government and Public Administration, Public Safety; Logistics; and Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communication.
The recent statistics were compiled by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.’s research department, with data received from the Barbados Immigration Department.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, back in July 2020, announced the Welcome Stamp Programme, which seeks to assist in diversifying the island’s tourism product, attract a new type of visitor, and generate foreign exchange.
In July 2021, the Remote Employment Amendment Bill, 2021, was passed, which allowed for the extension of the existing legislation governing the Welcome Stamp.
The Remote Employment Act 2020-2023 allows for the Welcome Stamp to be renewed, the fees to be paid, and the renewal of the stamp itself for those persons who have been here for a year.
The Cabinet at its meeting of October 26, 2023, approved the recommendation of the renewal of the Welcome Stamp Visa until December 31, 2026.
Persons interested in applying for the 12-month Welcome Stamp Programme may do so at https://barbadoswelcomestamp.bb/applynow/.