Complete Guide to Barbados: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
The definitive Complete Guide to Barbados: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts – the most sophisticated and developed island in the eastern Caribbean. Home to the world-famous 12-month Welcome Stamp digital-nomad visa, platinum-coast luxury, zero capital-gains tax, Mount Gay rum, Rihanna’s birthplace, and the only republic that kept Queen Elizabeth as head of state until 2021. This 2025 guide is your ticket to Bajan paradise.
Introduction to Barbados – The Gem of the Caribbean
Barbados (431 km², ~288,000 people) is the easternmost Caribbean island, consistently ranked among the safest, most developed, and happiest nations in the region. Known for flying fish, rum distilleries, UNESCO-listed Bridgetown, and legendary west-coast beaches, it’s also a top-tier jurisdiction for remote workers and investors.
Independence & Republic Day: November 30
Independence from UK 1966; became a republic 2021. Biggest national celebration of the year.
Visa Policy & Welcome Stamp 2025
Visa-free 6–12 months for USA, Canada, UK, EU, most Commonwealth. Barbados Welcome Stamp: USD 2,000 individual / USD 3,000 family – valid 12 months, renewable.
Residency & Citizenship Options
- Welcome Stamp – instant 12-month remote work visa
- Special Entry & Reside Permit (SERP) – high-net-worth
- Citizenship by Investment – USD 250K+ donation or real estate
- Permanent residency via property > USD 300K
Top Places to Visit
- Crane Beach & Bottom Bay – iconic pink-white sand
- Platinum Coast – Sandy Lane, Mullins, Paynes Bay
- Bathsheba – dramatic east-coast surfing
- Harrison’s Cave & Animal Flower Cave
- Mount Gay & Foursquare rum tours
- Oistins Friday-night fish fry
- Bridgetown & Garrison UNESCO site
Tax Advantages
0% capital gains tax, low corporate tax, no wealth or inheritance tax. Non-doms pay tax only on Barbados-sourced income.
How to Buy SIM Card
Flow or Digicel booths at Grantley Adams Airport (BGI) – BBD 30 starter with excellent island-wide 5G.
Current Leadership
President: Dame Sandra Mason (since 2021) Prime Minister: Mia Amor Mottley – landslide re-election 2022.
Aviation
- Direct flights from USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Brazil
- Private jet FBO and helicopter transfers to villas