PM says free movement not a threat to local jobs and services

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has sought to reassure Barbadians that the full rollout of free movement among Barbados, Dominica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Belize is measured, managed, and in the nation’s best interest, as she outlined the process and protections now in place ahead of the October 1 launch.

Addressing the nation on Tuesday evening, less than 24 hours ahead of the official opening of the country’s gates for the much-debated cross-border mobility, Mottley said the arrangement will allow citizens of the four “pioneering states” to live, work without a permit, and study on an indefinite basis. 

She, however, stressed that strict border controls, vetting systems, and legal obligations still apply, declaring, “We welcome our Caribbean family. We do not welcome criminality. We welcome contribution. We do not welcome abuse of our systems.”

The Prime Minister explained that on arrival, eligible nationals will present their passports, and their entitlement to indefinite stay will be recorded in the immigration system and shared with key agencies. 

Individuals intending to reside and work in Barbados will be directed to register with the Ministry of Labour, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA), and obtain national identification.

Children of those relocating will be placed through the Ministry of Educational Transformation, while access to emergency and primary health care will be extended on the same terms as citizens.

“They can function as residents do — working lawfully, opening a bank account, paying statutory contributions, and doing the ordinary things of daily life with clarity,” Mottley said.