CARICOM Free Movement processes 939 nationals in first year

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reported that 939 nationals have been granted indefinite stay under its Free Movement under Enhanced Cooperation initiative during its first year of operation. The arrangement, which began on October 1, 2025, allows citizens of participating member states to enter, reside, and work without a work permit.

The participating countries include Belize, Barbados, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Barbados has processed the highest number of applications with 918, while Belize has seen 146 beneficiaries, Dominica five, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines seven.

Ambassador Wayne McCook, Assistant Secretary-General of the CARICOM Single Market and Trade, stated that the progress of these four states provides a roadmap for other member states preparing to join the regime. The initiative aims to accelerate participation in the wider CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) by facilitating the movement of labor, skills, and services across the region.