Barbados has officially launched its Barbados Welcome Stamp, a new visa that allows visitors to remain in the island for up to one year and “work remotely.”

 “COVID-19 has changed the global business landscape as a larger number of people continue to work from home. With this new visa, we can provide workers with an opportunity to spend the next 12-months working remotely from paradise, here in Barbados,” said Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley

According to news release from Barbados Tourism Marketing, Barbados has simplified the visa application process for  Welcome Stamp applicants. Visa applications along with the documents listed below must be submitted electronically at www.Barbadoswelcomestamp.bb.

Documents needed include:

• Two passport size photographs
• Bio data page of passport
• Birth certificate (self/spouse/children)
• Proof of relationship to dependents
• Entry visa (where applicable)
• Upon approval, the following non-refundable fees are applicable:
• Individual – Fee of $2,000.00 USD
• Family Bundle – Fee of $3,000.00 USD

Although the visa is valid for one year, participants can reapply for renewal. Applicants will not be liable for Barbados Income Tax.

Due to a global spike in COVID-19 cases,  Barbados has recently announced an update to its entry requirements for travellers from high-risk countries including the United  States and medium-risk countries which includes Canada.

To clear immigration on arrival in Barbados, travellers will be required to present evidence of a negative result of a COVID-19 PCR test and an Embarkation/ Disembarkation card (ED card), which covers personal health questions relating to COVID-19 symptoms.

 At the airport, other general public health protocols remain in place, including wearing face masks en route to Barbados, physical distancing and temperatures checks.

 Air Canada resumed flights to the Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) on July 12 last with two flights per week out of Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Toronto, and is set to expand to three flights per week starting on August 15.

 More information on how to travel to Barbados amid COVID-19 can be found at https://www.visitbarbados.org/covid-19-travel-guidelines-2020.