The island of Barbados is to amend its laws to counter an ageing population and low population growth
During an induction ceremony for 64 new Barbadian citizens held in Bridgetown, Edmund Hinkson, Barbados’ minister of home affairs announced the completion of a comprehensive review of the nation’s immigration policies. Hinkson noted that retirement and death rates have reduced the size of the active labour force at a speed faster than births have replenished it, therefore the government is to introduce managed immigration to sustain growth, prosperity, and to guarantee pensions and benefits security to those who have previously contributed and are now retired.
The new legislation will widen the categories of citizenship and permanent residence and will correct inconsistencies between the country’s immigration legislation and its constitution. Hinkson told those assembled that a new immigration bill is expected to be presented to cabinet in January.
It is also proposed that skilled nationals from Caricom countries, their spouses and dependents will be eligible to become permanent residents and then citizens of Barbados after meeting certain residency requirements. Those who are currently resident in Barbados and have been for more than seven years will have this period of time grandfathered in.
