Men make up the majority of people applying to Barbados’ 12-month Welcome Stamp Programme.
Approximately 63 per cent of the applicants are men and a similar number are individuals, with only 36 per cent of families relocating.
According to statistics compiled by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and the Immigration Department, at the end of September 30 there were 3 935 applications, 2 493 of which were approved.
The majority of people are applying from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria and India.
Professions range from Information Technology, Health Science, Marketing, Sales and Services, Business Management and Administration to Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications, and Education and Training.
The Welcome Stamp Programme was introduced in July 2020 by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley.
In July 2021, the Senate passed the Remote Employment Amendment Bill, 2021, which allowed for the extension of the existing legislation governing the Welcome Stamp.
The Remote Employment Act 2020-2023 allows for the programme to be renewed, fees to be paid, and for the renewal of the stamp itself for those persons who have been resident in Barbados for a year.
The Welcome Stamp Programme seeks to assist in diversifying the island’s tourism product, attract a new type of visitor, and generate foreign exchange.
People interested in applying for the 12-month Welcome Stamp Programme may do so at https://barbadoswelcomestamp.bb/applynow/. (PR/SAT)