Over 2 700 approved under Welcome Stamp

The Barbados 12-Month Welcome Stamp Programme has received 4 394 applications, of which 2 743 were approved. Of those received at April 30, 64 per cent were from individuals and 36 per cent from families. A further breakdown of the statistics revealed that 64 per cent of the applicants are male, while 36 per cent are females. Those applying under the programme range from 18 to over 75 years-old. According to the data received, the leading countries whose citizens are seeking entry under the programme are the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Canada, India and Ireland. Those applying under the Welcome Stamp work in various fields, such as Human Services; Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; Education and Training; Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security; Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; and Health Science. The recent statistics were compiled by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.’s research department, with data received from the Barbados Immigration Department. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, back in July 2020, announced the Welcome Stamp Programme, which seeks to assist in diversifying the island’s tourism product, attract a new type of visitor, and generate foreign exchange. The Remote Employment Amendment Bill, 2021, which allowed for the extension of the existing legislation governing the Welcome Stamp, was passed in July 2021. The Remote Employment Act 2020-2023 allows for the Welcome Stamp to be renewed, the fees to be paid, and for the renewal of the stamp for those persons who have been here for a year. Persons interested in applying for the 12-month Welcome Stamp Programme may do so at https://barbadoswelcomestamp.bb/applynow/. (PR/SAT)