IB - Guide - Doing Business in Barbados

A Guide to Doing Business in Barbados
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD.................................................................................................................................4
GENERAL INFORMATION......................................................................................................5
HISTORY ...................................................................................................................................... 5
GEOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................ 5
GOVERNMENT .............................................................................................................................. 6
LEGAL SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................ 6
POPULATION ................................................................................................................................ 7
LANGUAGE .................................................................................................................................. 7
ECONOMY .................................................................................................................................... 7
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT ..................................................................................................... 8
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ............................................................................................................. 8
BUSINESS INFRASTRUCTURE ........................................................................................................ 8
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ............................................................................................................... 9
UTILITIES ................................................................................................................................... 10
MONEY AND BANKING............................................................................................................... 10
INTERNATIONAL TIME................................................................................................................ 13
POSTAL SERVICES ...................................................................................................................... 13
NEWSPAPERS ............................................................................................................................. 13
CUSTOMS BROKERS ................................................................................................................... 14
WEIGHTS & MEASURES ............................................................................................................. 14
SETTING UP A BUSINESS ...................................................................................................... 14
INCORPORATING ..................................................................................................................................... 14
REGISTERING AN EXTERNAL COMPANY................................................................................................. 15
ESTABLISHING AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPANY (IBC) ........................................................... 16
ESTABLISHING AN INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY WITH RESTRICTED LIABILITY (ISRL) ............................ 17
ESTABLISHING AN INTERNATIONAL BANK ............................................................................................. 18
ESTABLISHING AN INTERNATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY .................................................................. 19
ESTABLISHING A MANUFACTURING COMPANY................................................................................20
ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................................................ 26
COMMERCIAL ACCOMMODATION .................................................................................................... 26
OFFICE ACCOMMODATION................................................................................................................. 26
FACTORY SPACE .................................................................................................................................. 26
RETAIL ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................................................ 26
PRIVATE RENTAL ................................................................................................................................ 27
ACQUIRING CONSTRUCTION PERMITS .................................................................................................... 28
PERSONAL ACCOMMODATION...........................................................................................................28
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TAXATION ................................................................................................................................. 30
CORPORATE TAX ....................................................................................................................... 30
OTHER TAXES ............................................................................................................................ 30
Value Added Tax (VAT) ....................................................................................................................... 30
Customs Taxes and Duties ..................................................................................................................... 31
Duties on Vehicles................................................................................................................................ .31
Property Tax........................................................................................................................................... 31
PERSONAL TAX .......................................................................................................................... 32
ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................................... 33
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND CONFIDENTIALITY ....................................................................... 33
RENEWAL OF LICENCES ............................................................................................................. 33
International Business Company (IBC) ................................................................................................. 33
International Society with Restricted Liability ...................................................................................... 33
International Banks ................................................................................................................................ 33
Qualifying Insurance Companies and Exempt Insurance Companies ................................................... 33
LABOUR AND LABOUR RELATIONS ................................................................................. 34
LABOUR REGULATIONS ............................................................................................................. 34
INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS ............................................................................................................ 40
TRADE UNIONS .................................................................................................................................... 40
THE SOCIAL PARTNERSHIP......................................................................................................... 40
MEDICAL INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE .................................................................. 41
GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE .................................................................................................... 41
PRIVATE MEDICAL INSURANCE ............................................................................................... 41
EDUCATION .............................................................................................................................. 41
INTERNATIONAL RANKINGS .............................................................................................. 44
ABOUT INVEST BARBADOS ................................................................................................. 45
TYPICAL COSTS IN BARBADOS .......................................................................................... 46
USEFUL CONTACTS ................................................................................................................ 48
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FOREWORD
Undoubtedly any investor will have many questions about regulations, setting up and operating a
business in Barbados. However, starting a business in Barbados is relatively simple.
Committed to this cause the Government of Barbados has progressively refined its legislation to make
possible the easy establishment of international business entities, allowing investors to maximise their
return on investment. This legislation facilitates the creation of a broad range of entities such as
International Banks, International Insurance Companies, International Trusts, Societies with
Restricted Liability and International Business Companies and provides the transparency,
predictability and legal certainty necessary to ensuring the success your business. In enacting this
legislation, the principal regulatory departments are the Central Bank of Barbados, the Office of the
Supervisor of Insurance and the Ministry of International Business and International Transport.
To assist investors in achieving their international business objectives, Barbados also offers a
compelling mix of a strong economy, a low tax environment, skilled and enthusiastic human
resources, and an enabling world-class professional environment inclusive of legal, banking and
accounting services. In addition, the combination of special incentives, a lower cost of doing
business, readily available office and housing accommodation and quicker incorporation all make
Barbados a prime location from which to do business. This strength was recently endorsed by the
OECD‟s Global Forum classification of Barbados in the „white list‟ of countries that have
substantially implemented the internationally agreed tax standards.
However, the Barbados model goes beyond products, infrastructure and transparency standards.
Investors are not left alone as they go about the process of starting up their operations in Barbados.
Invest Barbados (IB), the government‟s agency entrusted with the task of landing foreign investment,
offers a wide range of services and facilities to help foreign investors start or invest in a business in
Barbados. Even if you have conducted business in Barbados previously, IB is the place to begin. In
close cooperation with all government ministries IB provides you with smooth access to
administrative information including laws, standards, regulations, incentives and business conditions
around the nation. The staff and the network of experts in various fields are ready to show you the
way and will guide you through the steps required for setting up your business.
In Barbados we place particular emphasis on providing a personalised service to our clients and very
importantly, providing the pre-investment facilitation and the post investment assistance necessary for
the successful operation of companies in Barbados. Potential investors are encouraged to visit the
island and assess the investment climate. Invest Barbados will be delighted to facilitate a series of
meetings which will provide each investor with a sound understanding of the Barbados business
environment and the emerging investment opportunities.
This publication outlines the procedures for setting up and operating in Barbados. We stand ready to
guide you through the process!
Invest Barbados 4
GENERAL INFORMATION
Official Name: Barbados

. Official Language: English
Gross Domestic Product (GDP): US $3.3 billion (2009)
GDP per capita: US $11,900 (2009)
Inflation Rate: 3.7% (2009)
History
Barbados was under British control from the year 1625 when the first set of British sailors arrived
on the island. Slaves were brought onto the island from Africa to assist with the sugar industry,
which developed into one of the world‟s largest sugar industries and the country‟s main income
earner.
I n subsequent years, Barbados moved toward the formation of an independent society with the
emancipation of slaves in 1834, enfranchisement of women in 1944 and universal adult suffrage
in 1951. The island negotiated its independence at a constitutional conference with the United
Kingdom in June 1966. Barbados gained Independence on November 30, 1966.
Geography
Barbados is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, located at 13 degrees north, and 59
degrees west, between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic
Ocean. Its nearest Caribbean neighbours are St. Vincent and
St. Lucia. Barbados is approximately 1,600 miles south-east of
Miami, Florida.
The island is 166 square miles, and measures 21 miles long by

14 miles wide. The capital, Bridgetown, is located in the
south-west of the island in the parish of St. Michael, which is
the most populated of the eleven parishes.
Barbados is largely made up of coral formation, with a terrain

that is generally flat, except for the Scotland District in the
North-east, where the terrain is hilly and rugged.
Barbados enjoys north-east trade winds all year which help to keep the island cool. The climate is
warm throughout the year, with a dry season typically from December to May, and a rainy season
between June and November. The average daily temperature is 28 degrees Celsius, and seldom
varies by more than 5 degrees in the day or 10 degrees at night.
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The hurricane season normally runs from June to November. Barbados seldom experiences the
direct impact of hurricanes. The last direct hit was from Hurricane Janet in 1955.
Government
Barbados has the third oldest Parliament in the British Commonwealth and is recognised as one of
the most politically stable countries.
The head of state is the Governor General and the leader of government is the Prime Minister.
There are two main political parties - the ruling Democratic Labour Party and the Barbados
Labour Party. Both parties are committed to democracy, the rule of law and a free-market
economy as the basis of political stability, social and economic prosperity.
Legal System
Barbados has a well-developed legal system, derived from the English Common Law and
Statutes. The laws are administered by the Courts of Barbados.
The court of final appeal is the Caribbean Court of Justice.
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Modern Corporate Law is based on the Canada Business

Corporations Act. In Barbados, the most common
business entity is the limited liability company. The
formation and regulation of these entities are governed
by the Companies Act – 1982.
Population
The population was estimated at 274,700 at the end of

2007. It is made up predominantly of people of African
descent and small minorities of British immigrants,
Indian and Middle Eastern descendants.
Language
The official language of the country is English and the

literacy rate is estimated at 98%.
Economy
Historically, the economy was dependent on agriculture -

primarily sugar cane production - with as much as 60%
of GDP attributed to the sugar industry in the mid 1960s.
In recent years, successive governments have developed

a more diversified economy, to facilitate sustainable
development. Today, the four main foreign exchange
earning sectors are tourism, international business
services, manufacturing and agriculture.
The four main sectors contributing to the Gross Domestic

Product (GDP) of the island are finance and business,
government services, wholesale and retail, and tourism.
The other sectors contributing to GDP include general
services, manufacturing, transportation, storage and
communications, construction, electricity, gas and water,
non-sugar agriculture, mining and quarrying, and sugar.
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BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Professional Services
Barbados has a wide range of high quality, professional services which satisfy the needs of
international business companies. Services offered include legal, accounting, wealth management,
banking, management consulting, information technology, marketing and advertising, as well real
estate management.
All the major accounting firms – Deloitte, Ernst & Young, PriceWaterhouseCoopers and KPMG,
have operations on the island and offer the full suite of audit and financial management services.
Business Infrastructure
Airport: The main airport is the Grantley Adams International Airport and is accredited
by the International Civil Aviation Organization. The airport receives a number of daily flights
from major international cities including Miami, New York, Toronto, and London, as well as
neighbouring Caribbean islands. The airport has over 3,047 m of paved runway, and is located on
the south of the island.
Seaport: Barbados has one

of the most modern ports in the
Caribbean. Located in Bridgetown,
the port is equipped with deep water
and shallow draught facilities and
offesr container-handling and
berthing facilities for freighters and
passenger vessels.
Roads: Barbados has a well

developed road system with about
1,475 km of paved roads.
Transportation: Barbados
has a modern bus service, of both
publicly and privately owned buses,
which is noted as one of the best in
the developing world. It is
operational between 5 a.m. and
midnight. Taxis service is available
island wide.
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Telecommunications
Barbados is home to a modern, world class telecommunications infrastructure. International

connectivity is provided with full redundancy via fibre optic systems and the Digital Eastern
Caribbean Microwave System.
Mobile telephone service is available island wide and includes international roaming features.
The installation of a new fixed line usually takes around 15 working days.
Providers of the telecommunication services include:
Cable & Wireless - now operating as LIME, has had a presence in Barbados since 1938 and
remains the main provider of domestic fixed line services. The company also provides:
 International 800 Toll Free Service
 Mobile – GSM/GPRS Services
 Hotspot High speed Internet
 Business Broadband
 Dedicated Internet Access
 National/International Frame Relay
Solutions
 International private leased circuits
 IP Centrex
 Metro Ethernet
 Multi-Protocol Label Switching
TeleBarbados – started operations in Barbados in May 2005 and is owned jointly by Light &
Power Holdings in Barbados and Leucadia National Corporation of the United States. Their
services include:
 Dedicated Internet Access

 Island Wide Area Network
 Digital Voice over Dedicated access lines
 Co-location & Management Hosting
 Commercial Services
 Domestic fixed line service
Digicel – officially launched its services in February 2004 and offers mobile services only.
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Internet Service Providers (ISPs) - There are currently three main ISPs in Barbados –
LIME, Sunbeach and TeleBarbados - providing internet services. These companies also provide
the following value-added services:
 Web design and development

 FTP, web, and e-mail hosting
 Co-location
 Security Services including firewall access control
 Authentication, UPN monitoring and web filtering
 Domain recognition
 Consultancy
Utilities
Electricity - Barbados Light & Power is the sole utility company in Barbados providing
electricity. It began operations on June 11, 1911. Electricity is generated by diesel, steam and gas
turbines. Electricity supply is clean and reliable. Instances of power outages are rare.
The company is actively exploring alternative energy sources it its quest to supply lower
cost electricity.
Water - Barbados' water quality is one of the best in the world. This is achieved because
of the limestone which underlies the coral cap filters the rain water so that when it reaches the
aquifers it is crystal clear and clean. Barbados has instituted many programs to maintain and
manage the high water quality in the country.
Water is treated with chlorine to meet World Health Organization (WHO) and US Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines and standards, prior to distribution.
The supply of water or sewerage services by the Barbados Water Authority is exempt from Value
Added Tax (VAT).
Natural Gas - Barbados produces enough oil to meet 33% of its domestic requirements.
The country began producing natural gas in the 1980s and compared to other developing
countries, has one of the most efficient infrastructures for its delivery.
Money and Banking
Currency - The unit of currency is the Barbados dollar. The parity of the Barbados Dollar
has been fixed since 1975, at BDS$2.00: US$1.00. The Barbados dollar is backed by gold and
foreign assets, which have promoted stability and confidence in the Barbados currency.
Central Bank - the Central Bank of Barbados is the premier financial institution of the
country. It is responsible for the regulation of exchange controls and the supervision of
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commercial banks and other financial entities. Its main role is to formulate monetary and fiscal
policies to assist with the country‟s economic development programme.
Commercial Banks - Barbados‟ commercial banking sector provides a wide range of

modern financial services to domestic and international customers. Local commercial banking
services include chequing and savings accounts, mortgage financing, credit cards, loans, foreign
currency transactions, automated teller machines, safety deposit facilities, registered retirement
savings plans, investment and executor/trustee services.
International companies can establish domestic accounts and the following documents are
required:
 Photo identification
 Either Certificate of Incorporation/Registration/Continuance or Partnership agreement
 Certificate of Good Standing
 Copies of company‟s by-laws
Exchange Control - Barbados‟ exchange control system functions primarily to monitor

foreign exchange transactions. Companies entitled to benefits under legislation for the
International Financial Services Sector are exempted from the provisions of exchange control
regulations.
Financing - International companies are required to finance their investment from external
sources. However, some offshore banks do provide international mortgage financing for the
companies in the offshore sector.
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Invest Barbados 12
Establishing an Offshore Bank Account - The international business customer is serviced

by Offshore Banking units within most commercial banks. In Barbados, these services are
provided by First Caribbean International Bank, Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of Butterfield and
the Bank of Nova Scotia and include services such as investment management, letters of credit for
foreign exchange transactions, banking and fiduciary services.
To establish an offshore account the following documentation is required:
 Professional references
 US declaration
 Company share fact sheet
 Certificate of incorporation
 Certificate of good standing
 Memorandum and articles of
association
 Confirmation of directors
 Evidence of license of activity
 Registration of members
 Passport of each applicant
 Identification card or
International drivers license
 Bank statement or credit card
statement (Visa, MasterCard,
AE Diners) showing the residential address. The date of the statement should be no
more than three (3) months prior to the date of application.
International Time
Barbados is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, and is one hour ahead of US Eastern
Standard Time (EST). Daylight saving time is not observed.
Postal Services
The postal service provides efficient and reliable domestic and international mail services. Local
delivery is provided to all areas of the island. Express postal services are through the post office
and there are a number of private couriers including Federal Express, DHL and UPS.
Newspapers
Two local daily newspapers are available - the Barbados Advocate and the Daily Nation.
International editions of major foreign newspapers are also available on a daily basis.
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Customs Brokers
The most efficient way to clear goods imported into Barbados is to appoint a Customs Broker,
who will lend advice and handle all the necessary documentation.
Weights & Measures
Metric is the official of system of weights and measures. However, in several instances, both the
metric and imperial systems are used. Typically, distances are usually measured in metres or
kilometres, mass in milligrams, grams or kilograms and temperature in degrees Celsius.
Dates are usually written in the format - Month/Day/Year. For example, November 30, 2009.
Business hours are standard across the public/private sectors, except where this is a shift system.
Banks are open to the public from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on
Fridays.
SETTING UP A BUSINESS
Incorporating
The first step in establishing a company in Barbados is the legal registration and incorporation of
that company. It is strongly suggested that legal advice be sought to inform on the legal
implications of company formation and external registration.
The following information will be required in order to complete the incorporation:
1. Proposed names of company - A minimum of two corporate names (in order of

preference);
2. The official address in Barbados where the share registers, minute books and other
statutory information will be kept;
3. The minimum and maximum number of directors (a company can have a minimum of one
director);
4. The full name (including the middle name) and residential address of each of the proposed
directors of the company;
5. Details of the particular business that the company proposes to carry on;
6. The classes of shares (if more than 1) that the company is authorized to issue; and
7. The full name (including the middle name) and residential address of each shareholder of
the company.
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Typical Cost of Incorporation - The government fees associated with incorporating a

company are approximately US $400. The average cost for professional fees associated with
incorporation ranges from US $1,500 – US $2,800 but this will vary depending on the legal
structure of the company.
Registering an External Company
The following information will be required in order to complete the registration of an external
company:
1. Name of the company

2. Jurisdiction within which the company was incorporated
3. Date of its incorporation
4. Manner in which it was incorporated
5. Period, if any, fixed by its corporate instruments for the duration of the company
6. Extent, if any, to which the liability of the shareholders or members of the company is
limited
7. Undertaking that the company will carry on in Barbados
8. Date on which the company intends to commence any of its undertakings in Barbados
9. Authorized, subscribed and paid-up or stated capital of the company, any number of shares
that the company is authorised to issue and their nominal or par value, if any
10. Full address of the registered or head office of the company outside of Barbados
11. Complete address of the principal office of the company in Barbados (no P.O. Box address
is allowed), and
12. Full names, residential addresses and occupations of the directors of the company.
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The following must also be provided to the Registrar:-
1. Statutory declaration by two directors of the company that verifies on behalf of the
company the particulars listed above
2. Certified copy of the corporate instruments of the company;
3. Statutory declaration by an attorney-at-law indicating compliance with section 330(1) of
the Companies Act
4. Power of attorney and a consent to act as attorney, empowering the person named in the
power and resident in Barbados to act as attorney of the company for the purpose of
receiving service of process in all suits and proceedings in Barbados and all lawful
notices.
Typical Cost of Registering an External Company - The government fees associated with
registering an external company are approximately US$1,520. The average cost for professional
fees associated with registering an external company ranges from US$1,500 – US$2,800.
Establishing an International Business Company (IBC)
A company must first be incorporated

or registered in Barbados under the
Companies Act. An application for an
IBC licence may be made to the
Minister of International Business
immediately after incorporation or
registration of the company, after
which the company may commence
business in Barbados. The application
for an IBC licence must include a brief
description of the intended business of
the company, the name and address of
the proposed shareholders and the
percentage of shares to be held.
Certain other due diligence
information must also be supplied
with the application. The application
fee is US$425 and must be submitted
to the International Business Unit
(IBU).
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Establishing an International Society with Restricted Liability (ISRL)
The fee for articles of organisation is approximately US$400. A certificate of organisation is

issued by the Registrar on filing of the organisational documents.
An application for an ISRL licence may be made immediately after filing articles of organisation
and the society can commence business in Barbados after receipt of its ISRL licence. This licence
must be renewed annually.
ISRLs are designed to be used mainly for international transactions and are prohibited from
providing services to persons resident in Barbados.
There are two major differences between an SRL and an IBC or limited liability company formed
under the Barbados Companies Act. One is that an SRL has „limited life‟, that is to say, an SRL
may be automatically dissolved on the occurrence of stipulated events or on the expiration of the
period fixed for the duration of the society. The other is that an SRL has members and not
shareholders, and it must have a minimum of two members (quota holders).
Other Characteristics of an SRL
Limited liability
The rights, powers and privileges of an individual
Stipulation that the transfer of quotas in a society will not confer on the transferee
the right to become a member or participate in the management of the society
without the written consent of all the members
Quotas similar to bearer shares are not permitted
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Primary Benefits
The general benefits of an ISRL are similar to those of an IBC, except that an ISRL‟s tax
and duty exemptions are guaranteed for 30 years.
Additional Benefits
Limited liability
Simplified corporate mobility into and out of Barbados
Simple winding up provisions
Ease of organisation with no minimum capital requirements
Corporate directorship and secretary permitted with certain restrictions
Provision for redeemable quotas and for pre-incorporation contracts
An ISRL may purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire quotas issued by it, subject to
solvency test
Establishing an International Bank
International banks are governed by the International Financial Services Act, Cap 325 and are
authorized under the Act to:
A. receive foreign funds through:

 The acceptance of foreign money deposits payable upon demand or after a fixed
period or after notice
 The sale or placement of foreign bonds, foreign certificates, foreign notes or
other foreign debt obligations or other foreign securities
 Any other similar activity involving foreign money or foreign securities
B. use the foreign funds so acquired, either in whole or in part, for:

 Loans, advances and investments
 The activities of the international bank for its account of or at its risk
 The purchase or placement of foreign bonds, foreign certificates, notes or other
foreign debt obligations or other foreign securities
 Any other similar activity involving foreign money or foreign securities accept in
trust from persons resident outside of Barbados or from prescribed persons
 Amounts of money in foreign currencies or securities or both
 Foreign personal or foreign movable property
 Foreign real or foreign immovable property
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What are the formation requirements?
A prospective applicant must submit a preliminary application to the Central Bank of

Barbados for approval. The application for a licence must include a brief description of the
nature of the international financial service to be provided from Barbados, financial
projections, the names and addresses of the directors, names and addresses of the
shareholders and the number of shares to be held, together with other due diligence
information. After the submission is appraised, consent is obtained from the Minister of
Finance for the incorporation or registration of the company in Barbados. A final
application must be made to the Director of Bank Supervision who, subject to the approval
of the Minister of Finance, may issue a licence to the company to carry on international
financial services.
The company must also have a minimum assigned capital of US$2,000,000 if the bank is
authorized to accept third party deposits or a minimum assigned capital of US$500,000 if
the bank does not accept third party deposits. The minister may at his discretion alter the
above sums.
What are the annual requirements of an IFSC?
A license must be renewed annually by January 1, of each year

Annual audit is required
Annual returns to be filed by January 31, of each year
Annual filing of audited financial statements
Submission of quarterly statements of a licensee‟s assets and liabilities to
the Central Bank
Annual tax returns must be filed with the Department of Inland Revenue
Establishing an International Insurance Company
In Barbados, international insurance companies can take two forms:
Exempt Insurance Companies (EICs) – These entities are registered under the
Exempt Insurance Act 1983 and can be used to insure risks originating outside of
Barbados. They are taxed at a rate of 0% of profits and gains for the first 15
financial years. After the first 15 years an EIC is taxed at a rate of 2% on the first
US$125,000 of taxable income and at a rate of 0% in respect of all other taxable
income in excess of US$125,000.
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Qualified Insurance Companies

(QICs) – This type of insurance
company is registered under the
Insurance Act and may also insure a
certain amount of local risk. A QIC
is taxed at the same rate of corporate
taxation as a local company.
However, the rate of tax may be
effectively reduced to 1.75%. A
rebate of up to 93% of income tax
can be claimed, depending on the
percentage of total premium income
that is earned from foreign insurance
business.
Under the Companies Act, insurance companies can

operate as segregated cells. Under this corporate
structure, the risks and rewards of one cell are kept separate from those of other cells.
Applications to set up an international insurance company must be sent to the office of the
Supervisor of Insurance.
Establishing a Manufacturing Company
Barbados offers an excellent location from which

to manufacture high end products. The island is
ideally suited for niche manufacturing products that
require a world class infrastructure – particularly,
excellent air and seaport facilities - as well as a
highly educated and skilled work force.
Manufacturing enterprises can incorporate as a
regular Barbados company. The corporate tax rate
for manufacturing companies is 15%.
Incentives available to manufacturers include

provisions under the:
The Fiscal Incentives Act

The International Business Companies Act
The Societies with Restricted Liability Act
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In addition, manufacturers may also benefit from:
full exemption from import duties on components, raw materials and production equipment
capital allowances on fixed assets
export allowance on profits generated from outside of CARICOM
factory accommodation in well-planned industrial parks, on rental or lease basis
training grants based on wages paid to employees during the initial operating period
duty-free access to CARICOM countries providing the products satisfy origin criteria
preferential market access of Barbadian produced goods to various countries
Export Allowance - A manufacturer, who exports his products outside of CARICOM, is

entitled to an export allowance. The allowance is given in the form of a credit against corporation
tax, and depends on the ratio of the company‟s export profits to its total profits.
Export Profits as Tax Credit as a % of Tax on Effective Tax Rate for

% of Total Profits Export Profits Manufacturing Enterprises
up to 20 35 9.75
21 – 40 45 8.25
41 – 60 64 5.4
61 – 80 79 3.15
81 and over 93 1.05
The Fiscal Incentives Act and Approval Process - The Fiscal Incentives Act provides
various tax and customs duty exemptions to corporations involved in manufacturing activities
which qualify for these concessions.
The steps involved in securing Approved Enterprise Status are summarised below:-
1. Submit an application on the prescribed form to the Minister responsible for Industry with a
copy to the Chief Executive Officer – Barbados Investment and Development Corporation
(BIDC).
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2. After receiving the application, the Government will advertise in Barbados that the Minister is
being asked to grant Approved Enterprise Status to a company to manufacture a specific
product.
3. The application should be supported by a recent plan (including a market and environmental
survey) together with projected income and expenditure statements for the first three years.
4. The application is processed by the BIDC and a recommendation made to the Minister with
particular emphasis being placed on the following:
Availability of adequate financing
Existence of an accessible market for the company’s products
That the company has access to the necessary technical expertise
Likely foreign exchange earnings
Anticipated employment generation
Likely impact on existing industries
Overall benefit to Barbados
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5. If all necessary information is submitted with the application form, the evaluation process is
completed quickly and the new Approved Enterprise can be operational within approximately
eight weeks.
Approved Enterprises are classified as Group I, II, or III Enterprises, depending on the local value
added or as Enclave Enterprises or Highly Capital Intensive Industries. The classification granted
determines the maximum length of the tax holiday which is as follows:
Group I: Local value added of at least 50%

Group II: Local value added of between 25% and 50%
Group III: Local value added of between 10% and 25%
An Enclave Enterprise is an Approved Enterprise that manufactures exclusively for export outside
of CARICOM.
A Highly Capital Intensive Industry is one with a capital investment of at least US$25 million.
The maximum period of the tax holiday, which begins from the date of the manufacture of the
approved product, is determined by the classification of the enterprise and is as follows:-
Classification of Approved Enterprise Period of Tax Holiday

Group I 15 years
Group II 13 years
Group III 11 years
Enclave Enterprises 15 years
Highly Capital Intensive Industry 15 years
Invest Barbados 23
Invest Barbados 24
The following products are excluded from the definition of Approved products:
Aerated waters Automobile mufflers (not produced as a part Bakery

of an integrated automobile exhaust system) products
Beer Brushes and mops Cardboard

boxes
Cigarettes Clocks Coir products,

mats and
matting
Concrete blocks Concrete pipes Concrete Tiles
Copra Corrugated cardboard containers Drinking

straws
Edible oils and fats from copra Handicraft items Hats and caps
Hollow ware (aluminium) Mattresses Nails

Paper bags Phonograph records Plastic film
Popcorn Printery Rum

Shirts and knitted underwear Stationery (other than continuous business Syrups
forms)
Tissue paper products Tubular furniture (aluminium) Twine

Umbrellas Window frames (aluminium
Invest Barbados 25
ACCOMMODATION
Commercial Accommodation
The Barbados Investment and Development Corporation (BIDC) owns and operates ten (10)
Industrial Parks and provides about 1.6 million sq. ft. for the manufacturing and services sectors.
Units are available in sizes from 1,500 sq. ft. to 40,000 sq. ft. at the following locations:
 HARBOUR -Information Technology Services

 PELICAN - Handicraft and general
 SPRING GARDEN - Furniture
 GRAZETTES - General
 ST. LUCY -General
 PINE - General
 WILDEY - Food processing and General
 NEWTON - Electronics and other
 GRANTLEY ADAMS - General
 SIX ROADS - General
Office Accommodation
The Harbour Industrial Park is earmarked for

Information Technology services, and a fibre
optic ring is strategically positioned within this
estate.
Units are available in sizes ranging from 1,500

sq. ft. at a rate of US$11 - 15 per sq. ft. per year.
This rental rate includes the cost of building
insurance and property taxes.
Factory Space
Factory space is available in the BIDCs nine other industrial parks. Units are provided as a shell
and are available in a minimum size of 1,000 sq. ft. and at a rate of US$4 -7 per sq. ft. per year.
Food processing facilities are available at a rate of US$4.70 per year. The Corporation is moving
towards making all units required for food processing, compliant with Hazard Analysis and
Critical Control Points (HACCP) specifications.
Retail Accommodation
The Pelican Industrial Park caters largely to the handicraft sector, however, some factory space is
also available. Retail units are provided for the indigenous craft sector, and are available in sizes
of 400 – 600 sq. ft. at a rate of US$10 – 13 per annum.
Invest Barbados 26
Investors seeking accommodation in BIDC parks are required to submit an application. Forms
are available at the BIDC‟s head office, any Invest Barbados office or through Barbados
Consulates/High Commissions in New York, Miami, Toronto and London. Applications should
be supported by financial statements for existing companies, while new companies are required to
submit projected financial statements.
The BIDC retains responsibility for maintenance of the unit and insurance of the building. The
tenant is responsible for cleaning the unit.
Rental payments are due from the date of occupancy of the premises, and are payable the first
working day of the month.
Private Rental
The rental of office space in the private sector ranges from about US$22 - $30 per sq. ft. per
annum. Space is available for rent directly from the owner, through reputable property
management companies or real estate agents.
Invest Barbados 27
Acquiring Construction Permits
Application
Applications for construction of a new building must be processed by the Town and Country
Development Planning Office. Two application forms must be submitted to the permitted
development division along with:
 Building Plans – showing position, boundaries and size of lot, the position of the lot
with respect to roads, gutters and the provisions for drainage
 Site Plan – showing the layout and design of the proposed development in relation to
neighbouring buildings as well as the layout of proposed roads or vehicular access
 Floor Plan – showing the arrangement of rooms
 Elevation Plans
 Prescribed application fees
Building Start
After permission has been granted to commence building, the Chief Town Planner must be
notified in writing of the proposed commencement date for building. Proposed works must be set
out for inspection by a Town and Country Planning Officer before commencement of work. The
cost of an inspection is US$75.
Certificate of Compliance
This is issued by the Chief Town Planner and verifies that the development is satisfactorily
completed. The fee for this service is US$75.
Personal Accommodation
The Barbados property market is very attractive and there is a wide selection of property
management companies on the island available to assist with renting or purchasing of an
apartment, house or villa.
Barbados has a number of villas and luxury homes on the market, constructed in historic and
modern styles.
Invest Barbados 28
Invest Barbados 29
TAXATION
Corporate Tax
The Corporate Tax rate is 25%, except where certain entities benefit from special incentives. In
addition, under the Small Business Act, companies can qualify for a 15% corporate tax rate.
Manufacturing companies also pay a tax rate of 15%.
Companies with fiscal period ending any time during:

1. January 1 and September 30 (both dates inclusive) are required to file the corporation tax return
on or before March 15 of the year following. The company shall also pay any part of the tax
estimated in its return that is unpaid, by March 15.
2. October 1 and December 31 (both dates inclusive) are required to file the Corporation Tax
Return on or before June 15 of the year following. The company shall also pay any part of the tax
estimated in its return that is unpaid, by June 15.
Other Taxes
Value Added Tax (VAT) - In 1997 the government introduced the Value Added Tax
(VAT) system. The VAT is levied at a rate of 15%. Exemptions are available to certain legal
structures such as International Business Companies, SRLs, international banks and exempt
insurance companies.
In order to maintain the competitiveness of the tourism industry, accommodation at hotels, inns
and guest houses is taxed at a concessionary rate of 7.5%. In addition, certain essential services
are exempted from VAT, or zero-rated. These include:
Exempted services Zero-rated Goods
Financial services Exports

Insurance services International freight services
Education and training Services to non-residents payable in a
foreign currency
Rent/sale of a dwelling house Selected food items
Sale of real property
Water and sewage services provided by the BWA
Public postal services
Gambling, betting, lotteries, bingo and instant money
tickets
Medical, dental, hospital, nursing, midwifery hospital,
optical, ambulance
Domestic travel by bus, taxi or coach
Invest Barbados 30
Businesses are required to register with the VAT department where sales are at least US$30,000
annually. VAT paid by a registered company can be claimed at the end of the taxable period.
Customs Taxes and Duties - All goods imported into Barbados have to be cleared
through Barbados customs;
The Customs and Excise Department imposes four main import taxes:
- Import Duty
- Environmental Levy
- Value added
- Excise Tax on motor vehicles, alcohol, petroleum or tobacco
All manufacturing entities as well as those companies operating under special legislation are
exempted from import taxes and environment levy on equipment and raw materials required for
the operation of the business.
Duties on Vehicles - Except for a few categories of persons which include returning
Barbadian nationals and members of the agricultural sector, all individuals are required to pay the
relevant import duties, environmental levy, excise taxes and VAT, for vehicles. Companies
operating under special legislation are also required to pay these taxes. The chargeable value of a
vehicle is made up of the cost of the vehicle, plus the import duty and environmental levy. The
taxes comprise the import duty on all vehicles of 45%, and an environmental levy of US$750 per
vehicle, Value Added Tax of 15% and excise tax. Excise tax is paid on the chargeable value as
follows:
Description Excise tax
Where the engine capacity is not more than 1600cc and the chargeable value does 46.95%
not exceed US$22,500
Where the engine capacity is not more than 1600cc and the chargeable value 64.35%
exceeds US$22,500
Where the engine capacity is less than 1800cc and the chargeable value does not 76.34%
exceed US$22,500
Where the engine capacity is not more than 1800cc and the chargeable value 93.73%
exceeds US$22,500
Where the engine capacity is more than 1800cc and the chargeable value exceeds 120%
US$22,500
Property Tax - Property Transfer Tax is payable by the vendor at a rate of 2.5 % of the
sale price.
If there is a building on the land, the exemption threshold before which property transfer tax is
eligible on a property transaction in Barbados is US$75, 000.
Invest Barbados 31
a) Stamp Duty is payable by the vendor at a rate of 1% of the sale price.

b) The sale of real property is exempted from VAT.
c) Property tax is payable according to the following tax structure:
i. Residential rates:
1. 0% on the first US$75,000

2. 0.10% on next USS$125,000
3. 0.45 % on next US$300,000
4. 0.75 % on excess of US$500,000
5. 0.6% on Vacant land
ii. Commercial rates (industrial, villa and hotel):
1. 0.65% on Improved value
d) Attorney’s fees for both the purchaser and the seller are approximately 1.5% to 2% of
the sale price.
e) Real Estate Agent’s commission fees are approximately 5% of the sale price.
f) Both fees listed at (d) and (e) are subject to 15% VAT.
g) Non-residents desirous of purchasing property in Barbados must ensure that funds
for the purchase of real estate are available from external sources.
h) The funds mentioned in (g) above should be registered with the Central Bank of Barbados
Personal Tax - All employees between 16 and pensionable age are required to pay
income tax. Gross Assessable Income up to US$12,500 (BDS $25,000) is not subject to tax,
individuals over 60 years of age receiving pensions are entitled to a deduction of US$20,000
(BDS $40,000). The Income tax rates, based on the PAYE System are:
Up to US$12,500 Exempt
Between US$12,501-24,600 20%

Over US$ 24,600 35%
Specially qualified expatriates in the International Business Sector can qualify for a 35% waiver.
They are subject to be taxed on the remaining 65% of income. Application for this waiver should
be submitted to the Ministry of Finance and Investment, Labour, Civil Service and Energy, for
consideration by the Minister.
Invest Barbados 32
ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS
Financial Statements and Confidentiality
The financial statements of international business and financial services sector companies
which are required to be filed annually with regulatory agencies are not open to inspection
by the public. Annual returns must be filed by January 31 of each year.
Renewal of Licences
International Business Company (IBC)

The annual licence fee is US$425
An IBC licence must be renewed annually on or before the December.31st.
Audit requirement where the gross assets and revenues of the company exceed the
statutory threshold of US$0.5M.
Annual return to be filed by 31st January of each year
International Society with Restricted Liability

An ISRL licence must be renewed annually on or before December 31.
Annual licence fee of US$425.
Audit requirement where the gross assets and revenues of the SRL exceeds the
statutory threshold of US$0.5M
Financial statements are to be filed with the regulatory authorities
Annual return to be filed by January 31 of each year
International Banks
A licence must be renewed annually by January 1, of each year
Annual license fee of US$50,000
Annual audit required
Annual returns to be filed by January 31, of each year, subject to penalties
Annual filing of audited financial statements
Submission of quarterly statements of a licensee‟s assets and liabilities to the Central
Bank
Annual tax returns must be filed with the Department of Inland Revenue
Qualifying Insurance Companies and Exempt Insurance Companies

Annual licence must be renewed by January 31st of each year
Annual licence fee of US$10,000
Annual audit required
Invest Barbados 33
LABOUR AND LABOUR RELATIONS
Barbados has a labour force of

approximately 143,700 people (2007
estimate). Typical business hours are
usually between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. Dress is generally professional
wear
Labour Regulations
Labour regulations in Barbados are

guided by a number of labour laws, as
well as best practices which have been
accepted as standard throughout the
labour market.
Holiday with Pay Act: Employees are entitled to three (3) weeks (15 business days) holiday
with pay after working one (1) year, and four (4) weeks (20 business
days) after five (5) years. Holiday with pay can begin after the
employee has completed a nine (9) month period.
Sick Leave: Employees hired on a permanent contract are allowed six (6) sick
days per year. Sick leave for a period of three or more consecutive
days must be certified by a medical practitioner.
Public holidays Act: Employees are allowed time off with pay for public holidays as
listed below:
Public Holidays
1. New Year‟s Day January 1
2. Errol Barrow Day January 21
3. Good Friday
4. Easter Monday
5. Heroes Day April 28
6. Labour Day May 1
7. Whit Monday
8. Emancipation Day August 1
9. Kadooment Day First Monday in August
10. Independence Day November 30

11. Christmas Day December 25
12. Boxing Day December 26
Invest Barbados 34
Maternity leave: Females employed for a period of twelve (12) months or more are
entitled to twelve (12) weeks maternity leave.
Protection of Wages Act: Under this Act, employee deductions should not exceed more than
1\3 of employee's wages.
National Insurance Scheme:

All employees over 16 and under pensionable age* are required to
pay National Insurance contributions. These contributions are
deducted from the employees‟ wages/salaries, on earnings of up to
Bds$3,900 (US $1,950) per month:
Employee Employer Total

National Insurance 6.75% 6.75% 13.5%
Non-Contributory 2.00 % 2.00% 4.00%
Employment 0.0% 0.75% 0.75%

Injury
Unemployment 0.75 % 0.75% 1.50%
Severance Fund 0.0 % 0.50% 0.50%
Training Levy 0.50 % 0.50% 1.00%
Catastrophe Fund 0.10% 0.0% 0.1%
Total 10.1% 11.25% 21.35%
Source: www.nis.gov.bb
This payment should be made within 15 days after the end of each
month. Failure to make payments within this time frame results in
an interest fine of 1% for each month on the unpaid contribution.
In order to qualify to receive NIS benefits, (including

unemployment), the employee must be registered with the National
Insurance Department for at least one year, and must have
contributed to the Department for at least nine months.
Invest Barbados 35
The NIS is administered by the Government of Barbados. It seeks

to provide for the employee in the event of illness and ensures that
the employee is paid for those days missed due to illness, once a
doctor‟s certificate is produced after two sick days. It also provides
for the employee in the event of employment injury,
unemployment, training and pensions.
* NIS Pensionable Age
January 1, 2006 – December 31, 2009 65 ½ Years
January 1, 2010 – December 31, 2013 66 Years
January 1, 2014 – December 31, 2017 66 ½ Years
January 1, 2018 and After 67 Years
Unemployment benefit: Employees terminated are entitled to 60% of the average weekly
insurable earnings divided by 6. The maximum insurable earnings
for monthly paid employees is US $1,950 and US $450 for persons
paid weekly paid.
Factories Act: This act governs the general health and safety of the worker, and
adopts internationally accepted standards, particularly those of
North America.
Severance pay: Employees are due severance if laid off after being employed for at
least two years as follows. For each complete year of employment,
the employee is compensated:
10 years or less: 2 ½ weeks basic pay
11-20 years: 3 weeks basic pay
21-33 years: 3½ weeks basic pay.
Trade Unions: Employees have the right to join the trade union of their choice.
Work Permits: All non-nationals seeking to work in Barbados are required to

obtain a work permit from the Immigration Department.
Invest Barbados 36
Short-term Work Permits
Short-term work permits are issued for a period of up to six (6)

months, and take about four weeks to process. Applicants are
required to submit:
 C-3 Application
 Four Photographs
 Application fee of US$100
 Police record from homeland
 Police record from Barbados if residing here for more than six
(6) months
 Cover letter from potential employer
Long-term Work Permits
Long-term work permits in the international business sector take

about eight weeks to process and are issued for up to three years.
The following documentation is required:
1. C 1, C2 Application forms duly completed (in duplicate).

2. Medical form completed by a medical practitioner
3. Four photographs (Passport size)
4. Application fee of US$100
5. Two (2) character references on the applicant
6. A Police Certificate of Character from the applicant‟s place of
residence or a Sworn affidavit
7. Documentary evidence of applicant‟s qualifications (notarised
copies acceptable)
8. A cover letter setting out the nature of the business in which the
applicant will be engaged.
9. (a) In the case where the applicant is hoping to set up a
business here, clear evidence of the quantum of his/her
investment must be produced. (E.g. Bank Transfer Statements).
(b) A copy of the Certificate of Registration/Incorporation of
the Company should also be produced
10. In the case where the applicant was previously here on Work
Permit, an Income Tax Clearance Certificate is necessary.
Invest Barbados 37
CARICOM Nationals CARICOM nationals who are graduates of any recognized

Universities are allowed to work freely in Barbados. However, an
application is required.
Lay-offs/Downsizing Employees must be given at least one (1) pay period notice in
advance, e.g. one (1) week, or month, according to how the
employee is paid. Alternatively the employee can be paid as per
pay period, in lieu of notice.
Dismissal: Employees should be warned in writing prior to being dismissed,

except in cases such as theft.
Itemized pay slips: Deductions made from an employee's salaries/wages must be

itemized.
Shift Systems: Employers operating a shift system, according to the ILO

conventions, must allow employees at least twelve hours between
shifts.
Probation: There is currently no legislation in place governing probation, but

the general practice is to allow three (3) months.
Overtime: Employees are not bound to work overtime, unless specified as a

condition of employment. It is in the employer's interest to make it
known at the interview stage if overtime will be required.
Alternatively employees should be notified 24 hrs in advance of the
employer‟s request for overtime work. Overtime rates are time and
a half for work in excess of 40 hours, and double time for Sundays
and public holidays.
Benefits/incentives Generally, the following are included as benefits/incentives:

and bonuses: medical insurance, travel/entertainment allowance, utilities, and a
company car, depending on the position of the employee. They can
also include shares in the company. Bonuses are issued at the
discretion of the employer. These are usually based on company
profitability, or the company‟s ability to meet its targets.
Minimum Wages: There are no legislated minimum wages, except for shop assistants,
where wages have been legislated at BDS$5.00 (US$2.50) per hour.
They are entitled to payment of time and a half for overtime, and
double time for Sundays and public holidays.
Invest Barbados 38
Invest Barbados 39
Several acts are currently in the process of being legislated / reviewed and include:
Employee Rights Act

Trade Unions Act
Health and Safety Act
Employers are advised to develop

employment contracts, which would
address matters such as termination,
probation and disciplinary measures.
Further information on labour
regulations in Barbados is available at
the website of the Labour Department
at www.labour.gov.bb. The Ministry
of Labour is the government
department responsible for the
policies and regulations pertaining to labour issues in Barbados.
Industrial Relations
Trade Unions - Barbadian employers place strong emphasis on maintaining good

work relations with all their stakeholders, and the constitutional right of Freedom of Association
allows all workers to join a Trade Union of their choice, provided that the trade union
organisation has acquired the stipulated fifty per cent plus one potential membership. Barbados is
a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and as such adheres to the conventions
therein. The largest trade union for private sector employees is the Barbados Workers Union and
the Barbados Employers Confederation, an employers‟ organisation which represents the interests
of employers in Barbados.
The Social Partnership - Further to the trade union movement, the Barbados
government has sought to continuously promote the humanization of the work environment by
creating a network of social partners comprising the Coalition of Trade Unions, the public and
private sectors as well as non-governmental organisations. The agreement between these social
partners, called the Prices and Incomes Protocol, seek to develop a climate that is conducive to
forging industrial relations policies that not only complement the development of the country but
aim at meeting the needs of workers and businesses alike.
Invest Barbados 40
MEDICAL INSURANCE AND HEALTHCARE
Government Health Care
The NIS ensures that employees are paid for periods of absences due to illness. It is
complemented by the government‟s health programme that provides free access to health care
from polyclinics, as well as the lone public hospital. It is supplemented by the Barbados Drug
Service, which allows people over 65 and less than 16 years of age to have access to free
medication. Under the plan, medication is also available free of cost, no matter the age, for
people suffering from certain illnesses such as hypertension and asthma, among others.
Private Medical Insurance
Health insurance is dominated by a cadre of private insurance companies who provide coverage
for dental, vision and medical care. The insurer is reimbursed an average of 60% - 75% of the
cost of medical care and prescriptions, as stipulated by the insurance company. To enhance good
employee relations, some employers provide coverage for employees. The cost is usually shared
between employer and employee, at an agreed rate. However, some employers may contribute
the full cost. Private medical coverage is entirely up to the discretion of the employer. It is not a
legal requirement.
EDUCATION
The labour force in Barbados comprises of about 143,700 people. Barbados can boast of a high
literacy rate of approximately 98%, one of the highest in the world. This can be attributed in
large measure to a committed Government which has stipulated that education is mandatory up to
the age of sixteen, and has continued to subsidise the cost of education at the primary, secondary
and tertiary levels.
Primary- Children generally begin their primary education within one of the 74
government run schools or 30 privately run schools, at the age of four. After having spent an
average of seven years at the institution, children sit the Common Entrance Examination between
the ages of 10-12, in Maths and English to enter any of the island‟s secondary schools.
Secondary - Secondary education is provided for children between the ages of 11-18
years. There are twenty-three Government secondary schools, most of which are co-educational
and ten private secondary schools. Students sit the Caribbean Examination Council examinations
at age 16, the equivalent of the British General Certificate of Education, and are tested in a
number of academic and technical courses. Students can continue on in some schools and sit the
Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Certificate after two years; this is also the equivalent of the
British Advanced Level Certificate.
Invest Barbados 41
Tertiary - Tertiary level education is provided in Barbados at a number of institutions:
University of the West Indies (UWI) - UWI has three campuses around the Caribbean located at
Cave Hill (Barbados); Mona (Jamaica) and St. Augustine (Trinidad). The University produces
high quality graduates that are equipped to meet the challenges in our global environment. The
university currently has an enrolment population of around 7,800 students comprising both
undergraduate and post graduate students and usually has an average of 1,000 students graduating
each year. The University offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas and
certificates in areas such as the humanities, social sciences, science and technology, computer
science, engineering, education, medicine, law and agriculture.
Because of its high educational standards and quality research, the UWI has been able to attract
some of the brightest students from the Caribbean and beyond, and it maintains strong
partnerships with universities in the U.K., U.S.A, and Canada, including Oxford, John Hopkins
and McGill.
Barbados Community College - Established in 1968, by the Government of Barbados,

the Community College has moved from just offering Advanced Level Certificates to now
offering Bachelor Degrees in the areas of Fine Arts and Education. Its Associate Degree
programmes are provided in academic, vocational and technical areas, spanning over eleven
divisions. These divisions include: Fine Arts; Liberal Arts; Technology; Health Sciences and the
Hospitality studies. The college produces around 1,000 graduates yearly.
Barbados Hospitality Institute - Located at the PomMarine Hotel and operated by the
Barbados Community College, this institute provides hands-on training for students in all aspects
of the hospitality industry. This full service hotel and hospitality training facility offers
certificates, diplomas and associate degree level training. The Hospitality institute works with the
island‟s University to provide training for students doing their Bachelor‟s degree in Hotel
Management. The institute is the first such training facility in Barbados and the Eastern
Caribbean. Students graduating with an Associate Degree can continue at the University of the
West Indies, to obtain a Bachelor‟s Degree in two years.
Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic - Named after one of Barbados‟ National Heroes,
the Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic was established in 1969, to provide students with the
necessary technical and vocational training that would equip them with the skills necessary to be
part of a highly trained workforce. The Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic has nine divisions:-
Building; Electrical Engineering; Mechanical Engineering and Printing; Human Ecology;
Business Studies; General Studies; Agriculture; Auto Mechanics and Welding; Distance and
Continuing Education.
Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity - Established in 1972, BIMAP has

set out to meet the needs of managers in both the public and private sectors. Under its training
portfolio, BIMAP offers a number of certificate and diploma courses in the areas of Management,
Information Technology and Accounts. In addition, BIMAP, in collaboration with the UK based,
Invest Barbados 42
University of Surrey offers degree programmes at graduate level. BIMAP also offers courses and
seminars that are tailored to highlight a company‟s special needs.
Erdiston’s Teachers College - This teacher‟s college was opened in 1948 and provides
training for non-graduate and graduate teachers at both Certificate and Diploma level. This
training college places strong emphasis on helping teachers to develop skills of „what‟ „when‟ and
„how‟ to teach a particular subject matter. With teachers now seen as facilitators of learning and
not just imparting knowledge, training is given to teachers on developing skills in managing
individuals and small groups simultaneously.
Other Training and Productivity Initiatives
Medical Transcription Training Centre (MTTC) - The government of Barbados

embarked upon a new initiative and in 2007, established a training facility - the MTTC. This
school will provide a cadre of transcriptionists to service companies setting up. Ultimately this
service will be provided to local medical establishments.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council - The TVET
council was established by the government of Barbados to establish standards and qualifications
for technical and vocational education and training. The council uses a system which closely
follows the model in the U.K. Its focus is to produce a world class workforce, of highly skilled,
innovative, motivated and critical thinking professionals at the tertiary level.
The Productivity Council - The Productivity Council‟s aim is to promote and facilitate
productivity, quality management and competitiveness strategies. It was designed to help
Barbadian and Caribbean businesses develop their competitiveness through the application of
productivity enhancement solutions. The Council uses benchmarking of competitors‟ and industry
leaders‟ performance levels as a best practice solution to a way forward.
Invest Barbados 43
SELECT INTERNATIONAL
2. RANKINGS FOR BARBADOS
# of
Publication Year
Indicator Countries Ranking Area
Published
Surveyed
United Nations
Literacy 177 4th Worldwide Development 2007/2008
Programme Report
Latin America/
1st
Caribbean United Nations
Human Development
Index1
169 3rd Americas Human 2010
Development Report
42nd Worldwide
Latin America/ World Economic
Networked Readiness 1st Forum‟s Global
133 Caribbean 2009/2010
Index th
Information
35 Worldwide Technology Report
Latin America/ Transparency
1st Caribbean International‟s
Transparency 178 2010
17th Corruption
Worldwide Perceptions Index
Latin America/
Global
Availability of Latest 3rd Caribbean
139 Competitiveness 2010/2011
Technologies
th Report
28 Worldwide
Latin America/
Economic Freedom2 179 3rd Caribbean Index of Economic
2010
Freedom
40th Worldwide
3rd Latin America/ Global
Soundness of Banks 139 Caribbean Competitiveness 2010/2011
12th Worldwide Report
Latin America/ Global
Global 3rd
139 Caribbean Competitiveness 2010/2011
Competitiveness
43rd Worldwide Report
Latin Global
FDI and Technology 5th
139 America/Caribbean Competitiveness 2010/2011
Transfer
30th Worldwide Report
Latin
Regulation of 4th Global
Securities 139 America/Caribbean Competitiveness 2010/2011
Exchanges 24th Worldwide Report
1
The Human Development Index (HDI) combines a number of indexes: life expectancy, literacy, educational
attainment, and GDP per capita for countries worldwide. It is a measurement of a country's development
2
This demonstrates the relationship between economic freedom and positive social and economic values
Invest Barbados 44
ABOUT INVEST BARBADOS
Invest Barbados (IB) is an economic development agency of the government of Barbados. IB is

responsible for attracting, winning and sustaining international investment for Barbados. The
corporation is also responsible for unleashing the export potential of the indigenous services
sector and helping to develop and manage the Barbados Business brand.
Vision
“To be recognised as a leading

investment and export promotion
agency by virtue of our success in
producing foreign exchange, jobs
and tax revenue.”
Mission
“To secure sustainable foreign

direct investment and service export
business that result in increased
jobs, technology and skills transfer,
foreign exchange and tax revenues
for Barbados.”
In pursuing our mission we will:

Recruit, train and retain high quality people to execute our mandate
Engage in promotional and sales activity globally
Conduct research to facilitate the development of new products and markets
Manage Barbados‟ investment climate to ensure client satisfaction and future growth
Mandate
To promote Barbados as a desirable investment location, and land Foreign Direct

Investment
To promote the export of services and win export business for service sectors in Barbados
To monitor competitive domiciles, clients and markets for new trends and legislative
changes, and develop new products
To work with other stakeholders to manage and develop the Barbados business brand
Invest Barbados 45
Services
Promoting and landing Foreign Direct Investment

Promoting and winning export deals for indigenous service providers
Providing technical assistance funding support to indigenous service providers
Providing relevant, timely, current, quality information to investors and indigenous
service exporters
Ensuring that the Barbados environment is conducive to foreign direct investment
Developing new investment products
Collaborating with stakeholders to manage the Barbados business brand.
Locations
Headquartered in Bridgetown, Barbados, Invest Barbados has satellite offices located in Toronto,
Canada, London, England, and New York, USA.
TYPICAL COSTS IN BARBADOS
Renting an apartment
An average apartment can be rented for about US$750 - $1,000 depending on the level of luxury
desired. Apartments can be found around the island, but the majority are located along the south
and west coasts of the island.
Getting around
The island is relatively small, and there are no subway stations or railroads. The most popular
mode of travel is by car. There are a number of car dealerships on the island. The average price
for a new sedan is around US$35,000. However, the option to import a car through a broker is
available. Investors also have the option of renting a vehicle, which is generally at a rate of
around US $300 for a weekend. Other methods may be by bus, at a fare of US$0.75 per person, or
taxi which can be as low as US$5-10 depending on the length of the ride.
Nightlife
Bars/Restaurants - There numerous bars and

restaurants around the island, mainly located around the
south and west coasts. Barbados has some of the top
restaurants in the Caribbean and Latin America. Breakfast,
lunch and dinner can be a la carte or buffet style to the more
Invest Barbados 46
casual fast food restaurants. The prices range from US$10 to $250 depending on the luxurious
style of dining.
Nightclubs - For a causal night out, Barbados has a number of nightclubs and party spots
around the island, mainly in the St. Philip, Christ Church and St. Michael areas which play all
types of music. The cost can vary from US$5 to $20 depending on the location.
Attractions
Barbados is truly an island paradise, from its naturally beautiful beaches, parks and
wildlife, to its golf courses. The island offers chances to explore by tour or hike, cruise or private
excursion.
Hotel Accommodation
Typical hotel standard room winter rates

range from around US $214 – 1,000 while off-
peak rates range from around US $175 – 900.
Barbados also offers luxurious five star hotel

accommodation from US $700 – 1,800 during
the winter season, and US $400 – 1,100 during
off-peak season.
Cost of Travel
Airfare - Flights to the US and Canada

usually range from US $600 in the summer and
US $900 during the winter months. Due to the
reduction in the number of tourists travelling,
airlines have significantly lowered their fares to
about US $900 for passengers travelling to
London and winter rates are estimated at US
$1,100.
Grocery Shopping
There are a number of supermarkets available on the island, carrying the major brand
named products from all over the world. A typical grocery bill for a family of four may add up to
around US $325 per week.
Invest Barbados 47
USEFUL CONTACTS
Setting up a Business
Facilitator:
Invest Barbados
Trident Insurance Financial Centre
Hastings, Christ Church
Tel. (246) 626-2000
Fax. (246) 626-2099
Website: www.investbarbados.org
Incorporating:
Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO)

"Clarence Greenidge House"
Keith Bourne Complex
Belmont Road, St. Michael
Tel. (246) 436-4818
Fax. (246) 437-3072
Website: www.caipo.gov.bb
Setting up:
International Business Unit

1st Floor, Warrens Office Complex
Warrens, St. Michael
Tel. (246) 310-2200
Fax. (246) 424-2468
Website: www.barbadosbusiness.gov.bb
Inland Revenue Department

Treasury Building
Bridge Street, Bridgetown
Tel. (246) 430-3101
Fax. (246) 436-3238
Website: www.barbados.gov.bb/ird
National Insurance Department

Frank Walcott Building,
Culloden Road, St. Michael
Tel. (246) 431-7400
Website: www.nis.gov.bb
Invest Barbados 48
Office of the Supervisor of Insurance

Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs
Weymouth Corporate Centre
Roebuck Street
Bridgetown
Tel: (246) 426-3815
Fax: (246) 436-2699
Customs and Excise Department
Warrens Office Complex
Tel. (246) 310-2300
Fax. (246) 430-2370
Website: www.customs.gov.bb
Central Bank of Barbados

Tom Adams Financial Centre
Church Village, Bridgetown
Tel. (246) 436-6870
Fax. (246) 437-3334
Website: www.centralbank.org.bb
Value Added Tax Office

Weymouth Corporate Centre
Roebuck St.
St. Michael
Tel: 246-467-1100
Fax: 246-436-8248
Commercial Accommodation
Barbados Investment and Development Corporation (BIDC)
Pelican House
Princess Alice Highway
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 427-5350
Fax. (246) 426-7802
Website: www.bidc.com
Town & Country Development Planning Office

Block 'C',
The Garrison
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 467-3000
Fax. (246) 430-9392
Website: www.townplanning.gov.bb
Invest Barbados 49
Accounting Firms
Ernst & Young

Worthing
Christ Church
Tel. (246) 430-3900
Fax: (246) 426-9551
Website: www.ey.com
PriceWaterhouseCoopers
The Financial Services Centre
Bishops Court Hill
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 436-7000
Fax. (246) 436-1275
Website: www.pwc.com
Deloitte & Touche

The Phoenix Centre
George Street
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 430-6400
Fax. (246) 430-6451
Website: www.deloitte.com
KPMG
Hastings
Christ Church
Tel: (246) 427-5230
Fax: (246) 427-7123
Website: www.kpmg.bb
Labour and Labour Relations
Ministry of Labour
Warrens Office Complex
Tel. (246) 310-1500
Fax. (246) 424-2589
Website: www.labour.gov.bb
Invest Barbados 50
Medical Insurance and Health Care
Ministry of Health
Jemmotts Lane
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 426-5080
Fax. (246) 426-5570
Website: www.barbados.gov.bb/portfoli_health
Education
Ministry of Education
Elsie Payne Complex
St.Michael
Tel. (246) 430-2700
Website: www.mes.gov.bb
Money and Banking
Central Bank of Barbados
Tom Adams Financial Centre
Church Village, Bridgetown
Tel. (246) 436-6870
Fax. (246) 437-3334
Website: www.centralbank.org.bb
First Caribbean International Bank
Tel. (246) 367-2300
Website: http://www.firstcaribbeanbank.com/
Barbados National Bank

Broad Street, Bridgetown
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 431-5999
Website: www.bnbbarbados.com
Bank of Nova Scotia

St. Michael
Tel. (246) 426-7000
Website: www.barbados.scotiabank.com
Invest Barbados 51
Butterfield Bank
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 429-5734
Website: www.bb.butterfieldgroup.com
Royal Bank of Canada

St. Michael
Tel. (246) 467-4000
Fax. (246) 427-8393
Website: www.royalbank.com/caribbean/barbados
General Information
Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Braemar Court
Deighton Road
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 620-4750
Fax. (246) 620-2907
Website: www.bdscham.com
Barbados Manufacturer’s Association

Building #1
Pelican Industrial Park
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 426-4474
Fax. (246) 436-5182
Website: www.bma.org.bb
Barbados International Business Association

Small Business Centre
Fontabelle, St. Michael
Tel. (246) 434-2422
Fax (246) 434-2423
Website: www.biba.bb
Invest Barbados 52
Embassies
United States of America

Wildey Business Park
Wildey, St. Michael
Tel. (246) 227-4000
Fax. (246) 227-4088
Website: www.barbados.usembassy.gov
Canadian High Commission

Bishop‟s Court Hill
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 429-3550
Fax. (246) 429-3780
Website: www.canadainternational.gc.ca/barbados-barbade
British High Commission

Lower Collymore Rock
St. Michael
Tel. (246) 430-7800
Fax. (246) 430-7826
Website: www.ukinbarbados.fco.gov.uk/en
Utilities
Digicel Barbados
The Courtyard
Hastings
Christ Church
Tel: 246-434-3444
Fax: 246-426-3444
Website: www.digicelbarbados.com
LIME
Windsor Lodge
Government Hill
St. Michael
Tel: 1-800-804-2994
Fax: 246-436-5036
Website: www.time4lime.com
Invest Barbados 53
Telebarbados
CGI Towers
Warrens
St. Michael
Tel: 246-620-1000
Fax: 246-620-1010
Website: www.Telebarbados.com
Barbados Water Authority

Pine East-West Boulevard
The Pine
St. Michael
Tel: (246) 427-3990
Fax: (246) 426-4507
Website: www.bwa.bb
Barbados Light and Power Co. Ltd.

The Garrison
St. Michael
Tel: 246-430-4300
Fax: 246-429-6000
Website: www.blpc.com.bb
Updated November 10, 2010
Invest Barbados 54
Consider setting up a
business in
Barbados……
Open your business in Barbados or expand your operations... Barbados is recognized

around the world for its quality lifestyle - sheer natural beauty, culture and above all
the friendliness of its people. We are also the only independent, Caribbean nation
approved by the OECD. We offer:
Prudent regulatory framework

Extensive tax treaty network
Modern corporate law
A wide variety of business incentive legislation
Competitive cost structure
Quality professional services
Highly skilled human capital
Excellent Quality of life
Daily international flights to the UK, US and Canada
Isn’t it time you explored the possibilities? …… Contact us at:

Toll Free 1 800 841 7860
Barbados 246 626 2000
New York 212 551 4375
Toronto 416 214 9919
London 44 0207 580 6077
Email contact@investbarbados.org
Website www.investbarbados.org

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A Guide to Doing Business in Barbados

Official Name: Barbados

The island is 166 square miles, and measures 21 miles long by

Barbados is largely made up of coral formation, with a terrain

The court of final appeal is the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Modern Corporate Law is based on the Canada Business

The population was estimated at 274,700 at the end of

The official language of the country is English and the

Historically, the economy was dependent on agriculture -

In recent years, successive governments have developed

The four main sectors contributing to the Gross Domestic

Seaport: Barbados has one

Roads: Barbados has a well

Barbados is home to a modern, world class telecommunications infrastructure. International

Providers of the telecommunication services include:

 Dedicated Internet Access

 Web design and development

Money and Banking

Commercial Banks - Barbados‟ commercial banking sector provides a wide range of

Exchange Control - Barbados‟ exchange control system functions primarily to monitor

Establishing an Offshore Bank Account - The international business customer is serviced

To establish an offshore account the following documentation is required:

Weights & Measures

The following information will be required in order to complete the incorporation:

1. Proposed names of company - A minimum of two corporate names (in order of

Typical Cost of Incorporation - The government fees associated with incorporating a

Registering an External Company

1. Name of the company

The following must also be provided to the Registrar:-

Establishing an International Business Company (IBC)

A company must first be incorporated

Establishing an International Society with Restricted Liability (ISRL)

The fee for articles of organisation is approximately US$400. A certificate of organisation is

Other Characteristics of an SRL

Establishing an International Bank

A. receive foreign funds through:

B. use the foreign funds so acquired, either in whole or in part, for:

What are the formation requirements?

A prospective applicant must submit a preliminary application to the Central Bank of

What are the annual requirements of an IFSC?

A license must be renewed annually by January 1, of each year

Establishing an International Insurance Company

In Barbados, international insurance companies can take two forms:

Qualified Insurance Companies

Under the Companies Act, insurance companies can

Establishing a Manufacturing Company

Barbados offers an excellent location from which

Incentives available to manufacturers include

The Fiscal Incentives Act

In addition, manufacturers may also benefit from:

Export Allowance - A manufacturer, who exports his products outside of CARICOM, is

Export Profits as Tax Credit as a % of Tax on Effective Tax Rate for

81 and over 93 1.05

Availability of adequate financing

Existence of an accessible market for the company’s products

That the company has access to the necessary technical expertise

Likely foreign exchange earnings

Anticipated employment generation

Likely impact on existing industries

Overall benefit to Barbados