In a landmark move for regional integration, four Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States—Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines—will implement full Free Movement of their nationals starting 1 October 2025. This initiative, approved by CARICOM Heads of Government in July 2025, marks a significant step under the Enhanced Cooperation Protocol to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. Nationals from these countries will now enjoy unrestricted rights to reside, work, and remain indefinitely in any of the four nations, with access to emergency and primary healthcare, as well as public primary and secondary education for their children. Previously, movement was limited to temporary stays of up to six months or under the CARICOM skills regime. Extensive preparations have been made to ensure a seamless rollout, including systems for indefinite stay stamps, registration for services, and robust security and health safeguards. A complaints mechanism has also been established to address any issues faced by nationals. While these four nations lead the way, other CARICOM Member States will continue under the existing regime for skilled workers and businesses. CARICOM, established in 1973 and revised in 2001, remains a pioneering example of regional integration, fostering economic, social, and security cooperation among its 15 Member States and six Associate Members.
Full Free Movement takes effect today among Barbados, Belize, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines
