Are you intrigued by the dazzling beauty that is the country of Barbados? Do you want a break from your repetitive daily life and go to the heavenly Caribbean islands? The good news is that a digital nomad visa allows you to travel freely without having to make life-long commitments.
Remote workers would be thrilled to learn they can enjoy the best of both worlds by acquiring a digital nomad visa. This visa allows you to reside in a country temporarily while working remotely and avoiding any permanent commitment.
Let’s talk in detail about the Barbados Digital Nomad Visa.
Does Barbados have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, Barbados is one of the many countries that offer digital nomad visas to remote workers. Commonly referred to as the “12-month Barbados welcome stamp visa”, this great option was introduced by the Barbados government in 2020. Not only is it a great alternative to permanent visas but it also ranked number 10th in the global index.
While tourist visas are also efficient, this visa is a strategic way to attract digital Nomads and boost the economy while accommodating a niche community.
Who can Apply for the Barbados Digital Nomad Visa?
Some eligibility requirements must be fulfilled in order to apply for a Digital Nomad Visa “Barbados welcome stamp visa”.
Take a look below to see if you stand up to the eligibility criteria:
- Remote workers: your field must allow you to work online.
- Self-employed or freelancers: you must be able to prove that you can work remotely.
- Employed by a foreign company: you must not be employed by a local company or involved in any Barbados business activity.
- Minimum income requirement: you also need to make a certain amount of money on an annual basis to apply for this visa.
How Do You Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Barbados?
You can apply for a Barbados digital nomad visa online. Look at the step-by-step guide below to learn exactly how to apply for Barbados DNV.
- Gather the necessary documents.
Upon going to the official website, you’ll be informed about the necessary documents for this visa. This step requires special attention because the accuracy of your application determines the processing time. In case you aren’t sure about the required documents, keep reading to get a brief overview.
- Fill out the application form.
Now comes one of the most attention-demanding parts of the process. You can easily download the form online. Make sure to be extra careful and double-check all of your information.
- Submit
The next step is to submit your documents and completed application form.
- Wait for feedback
Once you have completed all the steps, you just need to sit tight and wait for the authorities to process your application. You’ll most likely receive feedback within 5 days via email.
- Pay the fee
You need to pay a non-refundable fee of 2000-3000$ once you have received the approval. This fee can be paid online but it must be done within 28 days.
- Enter Barbados
You’ll receive a confirmation email if your application is approved. Following that, you’ll need to collect your visa from the Barbados consulate or embassy and enter Barbados. It is necessary to register your stay within 24 hours of entering the country.
Note: you can also go to a Barbados embassy or consulate and apply for a Digital Nomad Visa visa in person. Rather than going to a website, you’ll complete the above-mentioned steps in person. You’ll also need an entry visa to begin your journey in Barbados.
How Much Does it Cost?
The application fee for a Barbados Digital Nomad Visa “Barbados welcome stamp visa” is estimated to cost around 2000$ for a single applicant. As for families, the amount can range up to 3000$. This amount must be paid within 28 days of approval. Additionally, you’ll also need to pay an amount of 107-211$ for an entry visa.
Barbados Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you fulfil the eligibility criteria mentioned above then you’re free to apply for a Barbados Digital Nomad Visa. However, these are some of the documentation you’ll need.
Applications and Documentations
- Filled out online application form: your online application requires a completed application form with all the relevant and accurate details.
- Valid passport: your passport must have a validity of 6 months. You are also required to add a copy of the bio-data page to your application form.
- Valid health insurance: health/ medical insurance that will remain valid and cover all expenses for the duration of your entire stay.
- Proof of employment: applicants must submit proof that they are currently working for a business based outside of Barbados. This could be proved by the submission of a contract of employment, Payslips, or any other documents.
- Birth certificate
- Entry visa
- Remote job: applicants must be able to prove that if they are not employed by a local company, they are either self-employed or they are working as freelancers. You can prove this by submitting adequate business documentation.
- Clean criminal record: you must be able to prove that you have not been convicted of any crimes in your home country or current country of residence. You can easily get certificates from a local police station.
- Proof of income: You need to submit documents that will prove your financial stability. The minimum annual income requirement for this visa is 50,000$/ annually. You can prove your financial means by submitting Bank statements, Payslips, or even a contract of employment (stating salary).
How Long Does it Take to Get a Barbados Digital Nomad Visa?
The digital nomad visa application process is not that lengthy. You can complete the entire task within 15-20 minutes and expect it to get evaluated in 48 hours. You’ll hear a response from relevant authorities within 5 business days of submitting your application. After that, you’ll have 28 days to submit the payment.
Benefits of the Barbados Digital Nomad Visa
There are a lot of benefits that come with acquiring a Barbados digital nomad visa. Here are some of them:
High-speed fiber internet
One of the best things about Barbados is its fast internet. Remote workers would be happy to learn that the city experiences high internet speeds. As per estimations, the median download speed is 86.49 Mbps and the average download speed is 93.50 Mbps. Fiber internet is fast and reliable in most parts of the city. Other than that, coworking spaces and coffee shops offer fast and free public wifi. You can take your work with you and meet those deadlines! If you want additional reliability, consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. There are a bunch of good providers in the city who offer affordable and efficient data plans.
Rich culture
Despite being a modern hub, Barbados is still close to culture and traditions. The local culture is a stunning concoction of vibrant atmosphere, laid-back island lifestyle, and Afro-Caribbean heritage. You can also see a strong colonial influence here thanks to the rich history. Other than that, the culture is depicted in art, music, street art, and local celebrations. The Bajan people are welcoming and make you feel right at home.
Plenty to do
One thing about Barbados is that it is a very famous tourist destination. Hence, the city is filled with possibilities and activities. There are numerous indoor and outdoor things that you can do. From exploring the historical sights and learning about the culture to meeting locals and making memories, you’ll never be bored here.
Natural beauty
Barbados is nothing short of a paradise on earth. Nature lovers would be glad to learn that this place is filled with lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and stunning landscapes. There is a wide scope of outdoor activities and nature-related activities in the city. You can even join nature and wildlife tours to explore the natural beauty!
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Barbados?
Generally speaking, Barbados has a strict taxation system. However, it is extremely accommodating to the digital nomad community. Residents are adjusted in tax brackets as per their taxable status and income. As for the people who are not local citizens, they are supposed to pay taxes on money made in Barbados or remittances sent back.
Digital nomads are not required to pay taxes in the country because their income is not generated in the country. However, you’ll be subject to local taxes back in your home country.
Other than that, The income taxes are 12.5% on the first $25,000 of income tax and 28.5% afterward.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Barbados
A Barbados digital nomad visa is designed to remain valid for 12 uninterrupted months. You can enjoy multiple entries (leave and enter the country) as many times as you prefer during this period.
Upon receiving approval and paying a visa fee ($3,000 for a single person and $4,500 for a family), you can renew your visa as many times as you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a digital nomad community in Barbados?
Yes, we are happy to report that Barbados has a thriving digital nomad community scene on the south coast and west coast alike. With growing popularity over the recent years, this place has certainly turned into a digital nomad hotspot of sorts. While they can reside anywhere they prefer, the best places for digital nomads include major cities like Bridgetown (the capital of Barbados).
Can foreigners work remotely in Barbados?
Yes, most certainly. A Digital Nomad Visa allows people from all over the world to live in Barbados and work remotely as per their preference. This visa allows you to reside here and enjoy the beauty without going through tedious procedures.
Can you take your family with you under a Barbados Digital Nomad Visa?
If you plan on taking your family (spouse, children, and dependent) with you then you need to fill out the relevant application form. The costs are different for that as well as some additional requirements like Evidence of relationship to dependents.
How long can you stay in Barbados without a visa?
Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Britain can enter and stay in Barbados for 6 months without a visa! If you qualify, there is a good chance you won’t need a digital nomad visa to begin with.
Can I apply for a Barbados Digital Nomad Visa online?
Yes, most certainly, you can go to an official website and apply for a visa. All you need to do is log in and fill in your details on the visa application form.
Final Thoughts
Barbados is home to some of the most ethereal sights and best places in the world. If you want to pack your bags and move there without making any permanent commitment then this article has got you covered. We start by talking about whether Barbados even has a Digital Nomad Visa and then we dig into a comprehensive history lesson.
Concluding this guide, we can safely say that Barbados is a wonderful digital nomad destination. It is desirable for numerous reasons including but not limited to historical architecture, modern amenities, crystal clear waters, warm weather, pristine beaches, and high-speed internet.
We hope this article provided all the necessary information and cleared any lingering doubts about the digital nomad visa program! If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help!
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