Setting up your life

Non-residents can open accounts. Commonly used banks include Republic Bank, CIBC FirstCaribbean, RBC Royal Bank, Scotiabank and First Citizens. Opening deposits generally range from BBD $100 to $500. Ask for the fee schedule before you choose.

You'll need two forms of photo ID, proof of address such as a utility bill, and a reference letter or recent statement from your home bank. Some banks also ask for proof of income.

Get your bank reference letter before you leave. It's much harder to arrange from abroad.

Barbados drives on the left. Since 15 October 2025, visitors can drive on a valid foreign licence for short stays without a separate permit.

If you're living here (work permit, Welcome Stamp, permanent residency or similar), first get a Trident ID, the national ID card, then exchange your licence at the Barbados Licensing Authority, The Pine, St. Michael. Fees are BBD $50 (1 year), $125 (3 years) or $200 (5 years), cash only.

You'll need your current licence, passport and Trident ID. An International Driving Permit isn't required.

Electricity. Barbados Light & Power is the only supplier. Your landlord should give you a tenant advice form stating when you become responsible. Apply online, by phone on (246) 626-4300, or at their office. The connection fee is BBD $23.50 for a standard home, and anyone who isn't a citizen or permanent resident pays a security deposit.

Water. Supplied by the Barbados Water Authority. For a new connection, apply in person with photo ID and proof you occupy the property. A deposit of around BBD $350 to $400 has been reported, but from an older document, so confirm the current amount.

The two main providers are Flow and Digicel, both offering mobile and home broadband. Check coverage at an address before you sign a lease, especially if you work remotely.

Renters usually need a signed landlord permission letter for broadband, and foreign nationals without permanent residency usually pay a security deposit (around $150 has been reported). Prepaid SIMs are sold at the airport, supermarkets and branded stores: bring your passport.

Keep mobile data as a backup if you work remotely.

Get several quotes. Sea freight takes roughly 2 to 3 weeks from the US East Coast or 4 to 6 weeks from the UK and Europe, plus 3 to 5 working days for customs clearance once your paperwork is in order.

Duty. Household effects you've owned and used for 12 months or more can generally come in duty-free. Newer items attract import duty (roughly 5% to 60% depending on the item), a 1% environmental levy and VAT. Returning nationals have separate concessions (see Residency & visas).

Barbados removed mandatory quarantine in 2015 for pets that meet the requirements. The steps, in order:

1. ISO-standard microchip.
2. Rabies vaccination, given after the microchip.
3. From low-risk countries: wait 35 days after vaccination. From other countries: a FAVN blood test 30 days after vaccination, then wait 90 days after a successful result.
4. Apply for an Import Permit from the Veterinary Services Department (valid for 6 months).
5. Within 7 days of travel: tick and tapeworm treatment (dogs) and an official export health certificate from your vet.

Don't book flights until the paperwork timeline is confirmed.

Options are blue Transport Board buses, yellow private buses, white ZR route vans, taxis, or your own car. Bus fares are a flat BBD $3.50; Transport Board buses take exact cash only.

Petrol was BBD $4.27 a litre from 14 September 2026. Cars and insurance are expensive, so get quotes before you budget. If you won't drive, choose a home near a bus route.

Word of mouth matters most. Ask neighbours, colleagues and community groups for recommendations, agree the price and scope in writing, and avoid paying large sums before work starts.