Posted: Sunday, September 21, 2025. 5:20 pm CST.
By Aaron Humes: According to a statement from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Friday, representatives from Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines convened on September 18 to finalize plans for the full implementation of free movement for their nationals. This arrangement allows citizens of these four countries to enter, leave, and reside indefinitely in any of the participating Member States, effective from October 1.
The decision aligns with a commitment made at the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in July, aiming to foster greater cooperation and mobility within the region. Under the new policy, nationals will enjoy the freedom to work, study, and access essential services without requiring work or residency permits.
During Thursday’s meeting, officials focused on the administrative logistics necessary for a smooth rollout. They reaffirmed that substantial systems are already established, though public awareness was noted as a priority. To ensure all citizens understand their rights and access to emergency and primary health care, as well as public education opportunities, comprehensive public education campaigns will be launched ahead of the implementation date.
This initiative is part of the Enhanced Cooperation Chapter of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which allows groups of three or more Member States to advance their integration efforts when broader community needs cannot be met on time. Ministerial stakeholders expressed optimism that this arrangement will enhance economic opportunities and strengthen regional bonds.
While this new free movement arrangement specifically applies to Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, other CARICOM member states will retain their existing free movement operational frameworks under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), which includes provisions for skills, services, and business establishment.
As the clock ticks down to October 1, anticipation builds among citizens eager to embrace the benefits of unrestricted movement and the prospect of a more integrated Caribbean society.
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The post Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines prepare for enhanced free movement appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Sunday, September 21, 2025. 5:20 pm CST. By Aaron Humes: According to a statement from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Friday, representatives from Barbados, Belize,
The post Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines prepare for enhanced free movement appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
