29/09/2025
FOUR CARICOM NATIONS OPEN BORDERS MARKING NEW ERA OF REGIONAL INTEGRATION
September 29, 2025
From October 1, 2025, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will fully implement Free Movement for CARICOM nationals, marking a landmark achievement in the Caribbean’s integration agenda.
The initiative allows nationals of the four states to live, work, and study freely without time limits. Entry procedures will be simplified, with indefinite stay automatically granted at ports of entry.
Governments have finalized registration systems to give migrants access to key services like education and healthcare. These systems also allow state agencies to track population changes and ensure smooth service delivery.
The arrangement includes strict oversight. Security, public health, and financial safeguards are embedded to prevent abuse. IMPACS will manage data sharing and monitoring through the Advanced Passenger Information System, strengthening cross-border coordination.
To ensure fairness, nationals facing difficulties can use the CARICOM-wide complaints mechanism, which promises timely responses and investigations.
Officials say the initiative balances freedom of movement with responsibility, promising wider opportunities for citizens and deeper Caribbean unity.
