Barbados•North AmericaSpecial Entry and Reside Permit - Category 1 (High Net Worth Investor)
At a Glance
Varies
Not confirmed
Check the official sourceVaries (Renewable for additional 5-year periods, can transition to permanent residency after 5 consecutive years)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for high-net-worth individuals investing at least US$2 million in Barbados with certified net worth exceeding US$5 million, granting indefinite residency and work permit qualification.
The Special Entry and Reside Permit (SERP) Category 1 is a premier residency-by-investment program administered by the Barbados Immigration Department under the Immigration Act, Cap. 190. It was established to attract high-net-worth individuals to the island by offering a clear, long-term legal pathway for residency in exchange for significant capital investment. This program fills the gap for wealthy international investors who require a stable, long-term base for their personal and business activities, providing them with a secure status that can eventually lead to permanent residency and citizenship.
This permit is designed for high-net-worth individuals who can demonstrate a net worth exceeding USD 5 million and are willing to make a qualifying investment of at least USD 2 million in Barbados using foreign-sourced funds. It is particularly suited for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders. A highly distinctive feature of this category is that it is the only SERP classification that includes automatic qualification to apply for a work permit, allowing holders to actively establish, operate, and manage businesses within Barbados, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to combine residency with active local commercial engagement.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be a foreign national.
Minimum investment of US$2,000,000 in Barbados (real estate, property development, manufacturing, tourism, bank deposits, mutual funds, bonds, or other financial instruments).
Investment funds must originate from outside Barbados and be unencumbered.
Certified net worth exceeding US$5,000,000.
Valid health insurance with minimum coverage of US$500,000 per annum (valid in Barbados).
KEY CRITERIA
Investment
2,000,000 USD
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Completed Form B.
Two passport-sized photographs.
Original and copy of birth certificate.
Certified copy of passport bio-data page.
Marriage/Death/Divorce certificates (if applicable).
Police Certificate of Character (from countries resided in for 6+ months in the last 3 years; British applicants use Enhanced Disclosure).
Certified statement of net worth exceeding US$5,000,000.
Proof of investment of US$2,000,000 in Barbados.
Proof of valid health insurance (minimum US$500,000 coverage).
Proof of relationship for dependents.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Indefinite residency for those over 60 years of age.
- Automatic entitlement to apply for a work permit.
- Ability to live and conduct business in Barbados.
- Tax benefits (no capital gains or inheritance tax; foreign currency tax credits available).
- Includes spouse and dependents.
- Path to citizenship after 5 years of lawful residence.
Worth Knowing
- High financial threshold (US$5M net worth, US$2M investment).
- Must declare tax residency to the Barbados Revenue Authority.
- Work permits require additional fees (US$15,000–$20,000 for indefinite or annual fees).
- Dependents over 18 must provide evidence of schooling every 3 years.
Application Process
Choose investment option
Select from real estate, business, bonds, securities, or bank deposit
Prepare application documents
Gather passport, financial documents, property/investment details
Submit application
Submit SERP application to Immigration Department
Complete investment
Finalize investment of minimum USD 300,000
Background verification
Immigration conducts background checks and verification
Receive SERP approval
Granted 5-year residence permit
Application Forms
| SERP Application Form | — |
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