As of October 1st, Belize has implemented free movement among three other CARICOM states - Barbados, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. This means that residents from these countries will be able to enter, reside, and work indefinitely without the need for a work or residency permit.
And while the public information campaign on this has been woefully inadequate, in the House Meeting today, Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca explained what this will look like for other CARICOM nationals.
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"Belize has prepared carefully for this transition, adopting an administrative approach from commencement to ensure a smooth and secure rollout. This includes a monitoring phase to assess implementation and identify operational gaps. Cabinet approval and submission of a finalized bill to parliament to formalize this arrangement in law which is forthcoming. Implementation systems in place include a new indefinite stay stamp which is in use at all ports of entry, affirming the rights of nationals from these participating member states to live and work in Belize. After registration with social security, nationals will be able facilitate access to essential services such as education, healthcare and social security. Security and health safeguards remain fully intact. Oversight measures ensure that individuals who pose a threat to public safety or who may become a burden on the state may be refused entry or removed in accordance with established procedures. In support of financial inclusion, the Central Bank of Belize has issued guidance to domestic banks to ensure that CARICOM nationals, their spouses and dependents can access financial services once they have received their indefinite stay stamp. Public information materials have also been disseminated through the government press office and social media platforms while a CARICOM complaints mechanism is operational at all ports of entry to safeguard the rights of CARICOM nationals."
