Barbados set to debate new Immigration and Citizenship Acts

Barbados' Parliament is set to debate a new Immigration Act and a new Citizenship Act, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Christopher Sinckler said on Thursday. He told a business conference the legislation would cover businesspeople, investors and Barbadians, particularly those of Barbadian descent in the second and third generations.

Key facts

• Parliament is expected to debate the two bills shortly; no debate date has been announced
• Both bills follow consideration by two joint parliamentary committees and a lengthy public consultation process
• The legislation is intended to cover businesspeople, investors and Barbadians of second and third-generation descent
• Barbados' passport is the highest ranked in the Caribbean, Sinckler said
• Barbados is advancing towards establishing a new overseas mission in India

What is changing?

Sinckler said Parliament would shortly take up new immigration and citizenship legislation after the two joint committees' review and a lengthy public consultation. He set out no detail of the proposed rules, and the source gives no information on requirements, documents, fees, processing times or application routes.

Who could be affected?

He said the legislation would cover businesspeople, investors and Barbadians, especially those of Barbadian descent in the second and third generations. Sinckler linked the bills to international mobility, which he said helps entrepreneurs and professionals reach clients and build commercial relationships.

Passports and travel

Sinckler said Barbados' passport is the highest ranked in the Caribbean. He also urged businesses to look beyond traditional markets such as the United States and Canada to opportunities in Asia, Africa and Latin America, and said Barbados was advancing towards a new overseas mission in India.

Why is this happening?

Sinckler argued that Barbados should convert its diplomatic relationships into investment and business opportunities while removing barriers that could deter investors. He cited difficulties companies face when opening bank accounts locally, saying cumbersome processes and unclear requirements can frustrate legitimate business even where rules are sound.

What this means for travellers

Anyone considering Barbadian citizenship or residence by descent, or entry arrangements as an investor or businessperson, has no new rules to follow yet. The source gives no start date, no fees and no application details, so the practical steps are only likely to become clear once Parliament debates and publishes the bills.

The debate is expected shortly. No calendar date for it, and no effective date for either Act, has been announced.