Welcome Stamp extended as applications top 5 000

The government has extended its Welcome Stamp Programme until December 31, 2026 as applications to the remote work visa scheme surpass 5 000.

Now in its fourth year, the programme continues to position Barbados as a leading destination for remote workers and digital nomads seeking a Caribbean experience, even as the world recovers from the global pandemic that prompted remote work as a viable lifestyle choice for some professionals and information technology workers.

Statistics released by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. reveal that of 5 164 applications received since its inception in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, 3 058 approvals were granted as of April 30.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who announced the programme in July 2020, said: “This initiative seeks to assist in diversifying our tourism product, attract a new type of visitor, and generate foreign exchange.”

The Welcome Stamp programme has drawn applicants from mostly the United States, United Kingdom, Nigeria, Canada, India, and Ireland. Individuals account for 65 per cent of applications, while families make up the remaining 35 per cent.

A gender breakdown of the applicants shows a significant male majority, with 64 per cent of applications coming from men and 36 per cent from women. The age range of applicants spans from 18 to over 75 years old.

The Welcome Stamp has attracted professionals from various industries, including “Tourism and Hospitality; Distribution; Education and Training; Finance, Government and Public Administration, Public Safety; Logistics; and Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications,” according to the BTMI.

In July 2021, Parliament passed the Remote Employment Amendment Act, which allowed for the extension of the existing legislation governing the Welcome Stamp. The Remote Employment Act 2020-2023 now “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,” a government statement explained.

The decision to extend the programme until the end of 2026 was made during a Cabinet meeting last October.

(BT/BGIS)