Barbados
Barbados
O D K E N H U T C
Exercise normal precautions in Barbados.
Reissued with updates to health information.
Exercise normal precautions in Barbados.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Barbados.
If you decide to travel to Barbados:
- Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Barbados.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
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Quick Facts
PASSPORT VALIDITY:
Must be valid at time of entry
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES:
1 page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:
Not required for stays under 6 months
VACCINATIONS:
None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:
None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:
None
ALL / ALL /
U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
BridgetownACS@state.gov
Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.
U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Barbados. No visa is needed for stays up to 6 months.
NOTE:Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Barbados, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Barbados. This includes travelers arriving by airplane and by private sea-going vessel. Those traveling to Barbados on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document. However, we strongly recommend visitors obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires a cruise passenger to disembark and return by air.
HIV/AIDS:The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Barbados.
Find information ondual nationality,prevention of international child abductionandcustoms regulationson our websites.
Crime:U.S. citizens are not specifically targeted for crime in Barbados. However, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, automobile break-ins; as well as incidents of violent crime, such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes do occasionally occur. As you would in any major metropolitan area of the U.S., use the below personal security measures while traveling:
- Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
- Avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in isolated or poorly lit locations.
- Go out in groups or with a companion and limit nighttime activities to established safe and reputable venues.
- Use only clearly marked taxis and avoid rides with strangers.
- Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
- Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something suspicious or unusual contact local police at #211 to report immediately.
- Use added caution when shopping in crowded areas, especially during the holiday season.
- Use added caution when attending crowded events, such as Crop Over, Kadooment celebrations, music festivals, etc.
- Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues as this could create a potential vulnerability for the use of “date rape” drugs in furtherance of criminal activity.
- Do not be predictable; vary your daily routes and schedules.
- Prostitution and drug use (to include marijuana) is illegal, do not engage in illegal activity.
- Do not wear camouflage as it is illegal to wear in public.
In Barbados exercise extra vigilance at night on party cruises and in the downtown area.
Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. These are illegal in the United States, and you may also be breaking local law.
Firearms:Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Barbados government. Please contact theEmbassy of Barbadoswith questions regarding travel with firearms.
See theDepartment of Stateand theFBIpages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime:Report crimes to the local police at 211 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (246) 227-4000.
The emergency lines in Barbados are: Fire: 311, Police: 211, Ambulance: 511.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage onhelp for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
- help you find appropriate medical care
- assist you in reporting a crime to the police
- contact relatives or friends with your written consent
- explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
- provide a list of local attorneys
- provide our information onvictim’s compensation programs in the United States
- provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
- help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
- replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence:U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance at (246) 227-4000.
Watersports Advisory:Carefully assess the potential risks of recreational water activities and consider your physical capabilities and skills. Never venture out alone, particularly at isolated beaches or far out to sea. Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking and always be mindful of jet ski and boat traffic in the area.
Tourism:The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, hospitals are able provide urgent medical treatment, though very serious injuries often require medical evacuation. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Criminal Penalties:You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
It is illegal, even for children, to wear camouflage clothing or carry items made with camouflage material.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroadand theDepartment of Justicewebsite.
Arrest Notification:If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See ourwebpagefor further information.
Firearms:Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Barbados government. Please contact theEmbassy of Barbadoswith questions regarding travel with firearms.
Faith-Based Travelers:See the following webpages for details:
- Faith-Based Travel Information
- International Religious Freedom Report– see country reports
- Human Rights Report– see country reports
- Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex sexual relations, even when consensual, are criminalized in Barbados. Although this law is rarely enforced, potential penalties include life imprisonment.
SeeourLGBTI Travel Informationpage and section 6 of ourHuman Rights reportfor further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:Access to buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation is extremely difficult for persons with mobility issues. Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections. Pedestrian crossings are also very infrequent and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations.
The Town and Country Planning Department set provisions for all public buildings to include accessibility infrastructure. As a result, many new buildings have ramps, reserved parking, and special sanitary facilities.
Students:See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI travel tips.
Women Travelers:See our travel tips forWomen Travelers.
Medical care is good for the region, but medical transport can take hours to respond, and ambulance attendants are prohibited from applying lifesaving techniques during transport.
We do not pay medical bills.Be aware that U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance:Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. We strongly recommendsupplemental insuranceto cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with thegovernment of Barbadosto ensure the medication is legal in Barbados. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
The following diseases are present:
- Chikungunya
- Dengue
- Zika
Vaccinations:Be up-to-date on allvaccinationsrecommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Main roads are generally safe and well-marked, though they often have potholes. Secondary rural roads tend to be narrow, are sometimes inadequately marked, are potholed and rough, and have frequent blind curves. Use caution on these roads, especially at night. Slow down if you see a stopped vehicle, whether traveling in the same or the opposite direction, as this could mean that pedestrians are crossing. Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning. Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking.
Traffic Laws:Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Barbados traffic law requires that vehicles involved in an accident remain unmoved until the police arrive.
Public Transportation:Registered taxis and large public buses are generally safe. Private vans and small buses are often crowded and tend to travel at excessive speeds. Avoid private minibuses, known as “Zed buses” because of license plates which begin with the letter Z, as drivers frequently drive erratically.
See ourRoad Safety pagefor more information. Visit the website ofthe Barbados national tourist office.
Aviation Safety Oversight:As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Barbados, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Barbados’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on theFAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel:Mariners planning travel to Barbados should also check forU.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to theU.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and theNGA broadcast warnings.
Fact Sheet
Please see Fact Sheet for this country/area.
FAQs
What travel documents do you need to go to Barbados? ›
U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Barbados. No visa is needed for stays up to 6 months. NOTE: Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to Barbados, as well as proof of anticipated departure from Barbados.
Do I need to wear a mask in Barbados? ›Travel in Barbados
The Government's COVID-19 protocols may be subject to change at short notice and you should therefore review these regularly. In moving around Barbados, although mask wearing is now optional, many still follow social distancing protocols.
Do I need to have the app installed on my smart phone/device? All travellers are required to have BIMSafe installed on their phone. Doing so before you travel, completing the online ED for and uploading your PCR test in advance will expedite your screening on arrival.
How can I travel to Barbados? ›For fully vaccinated travellers
All Covid-19 travel restrictions have now been removed for travellers to Barbados. You are no longer required to: Take any COVID-19 tests – prior to arrival or upon arrival. Quarantine on arrival.
All Barbados visitors must have a passport and valid return or onward ticket in order to be allowed entry to the island. Most countries do not require a visa to visit Barbados, but it is always best to check with the immigration office ahead of time. Barbados has a good public transportation system.
What documents do I need traveling? ›Passport, Travel Visa and National ID Card
Proper identification is the foundation of international travel. As a result, you should ensure to always have an official identification document with you. You can even consider having multiple documents such as your passport, national ID card or driver's licence.
Illegal Activities
The wearing of any form of camouflage is illegal in Barbados.Do not dress in, or carry, items made of camouflage material. Possesion and distribution of illegal drugs/narcotics is strictly prohibited. If convicted of such an offence the crime is punishable by a fine or imprisonment or both.
Avoid wearing any scent or perfume. Keep your swimwear for the beach, beach bars and hotel pools. There are a number of up-market restaurants where the dress code is super smart – so you might like to include a smarter outfit. Do not wear or carry any army/combat type clothing or print, as this is illegal in Barbados.
What can you not bring into Barbados? ›Prices in this guide are quoted in U.S. dollars. Customs -- Most items for personal use (within reason, of course) are allowed into Barbados, except agricultural products and firearms. You can bring in perfume for your use if it's not for sale. You're also allowed a carton of cigarettes and a liter of liquor.
Can I use my mobile data in Barbados? ›Bringing Your Cellphone
If you bring your cell phone on your Barbados vacation, remember to make sure that the roaming feature is activated before you leave. Check with your local cell service provider. Please note that calling and texting from Barbados on your cell using roaming can be quite expensive.
How do I fill out a BIMSafe? ›
On the BIMsafe app homepage (click the house icon bottom left) then click on the box named Travel Form. You are advised to complete the travel form at least 24 hours before your DEPARTURE but not more than 72 hours beforehand. Click on the “Go to Travel Form” heading that is in bold dark blue.
How do I get a travel code for BIMSafe? ›This can be accessed by clicking on the “Online ED” button on the home screen or visiting https://travelform.gov.bb Page 3 3. Once you have your Travel Code, Click “Connect” to enter. If not every person in your party has a device, you can set up multiple people on one device.
What is the best month to go Barbados? ›The best time to visit Barbados is between January and April when rainfall is at its lowest and there is plenty of sunshine with temperatures around 29 °C.
How much is Barbados visa fee? ›Single Entry ------- US$107.00 (Permission to make one (1) entry within a three-month period) Multiple Entry ------ US$211.00.
Should I bring cash to Barbados? ›Almost all the shops and restaurants accept payment by US dollars and they are usually delighted to do so as dollars are in short supply on the islands. Most places also accept credit or debit cards, although there may be a small charge for using credit cards.
Can you wear shorts in Barbados? ›Preparing The Trip: Barbados Dress
Bring light clothes suitable for the tropics - loose tops, shorts & dresses for the ladies, shorts and polos for the guys. Cotton dresses and light jackets for formal wear. Some restaurants do have a dress code plus it's nice to dress up sometimes even when on holiday!
How long do you need in Barbados? It's never enough time to spend in paradise. Barbados in a week is the perfect time to explore the island, enjoy local traditions and have the best time on the beach. The ideal plan is to visit Barbados between 5 and 7 days.
Can I use US dollars in Barbados? ›On your travels around Barbados you will find that US currency is accepted across the island, and most stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. Of course most Barbados hotels and other lodgings also accept these various forms of payment.
What are the three documents required to travel internationally? ›- Passport: Apply several months in advance for a new passport. ...
- Visas: You may need to get a visa before you travel to a foreign destination. ...
- Medications: Some prescription drugs, including narcotics and some U.S. over-the-counter medications, are illegal in other countries.
If you have not been fully vaccinated, you should continue to follow the entry requirements of the country you are travelling to, such as proof of a negative COVID-19 test on arrival. You should carefully research the requirements of your destination country before travelling.
Do I need to show Covid pass to fly? ›
The NHS COVID Pass is a way to show your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination status or test results if you need to when you travel abroad. You do not need to show an NHS COVID Pass for domestic events and venues in England.
How much cash can I take into Barbados? ›Currency restrictions
The import of local currency is unlimited but amounts of over BDS$10,000 must be declared on arrival. The export of local currency is prohibited.
The potable water supply in Barbados is safe and meets the standards of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) drinking water guidelines.
What should I be careful of in Barbados? ›If you're heading to Barbados, the primary things to keep your eye out for are pickpockets in Bridgetown, as well as the areas around Swan and Broad Streets and St Lawrence Gap. Additionally, LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware of the country's existing laws against homosexuality.
What is the best money to take to Barbados? ›The Barbados dollar (BD$) is the local currency in Barbados and is tied in value to the US dollar. It is advisable to exchange currency at the bank, as the most favourable exchange rates may not be obtained elsewhere. Many establishments will accept payments in US Dollars with change being given in local currency.
Can I take my medication to Barbados? ›Pack medication in their original, labelled containers. Carry a copy of the original prescription. Carry an extra supply of medication in case your travel is unexpectedly extended. Pack medicines in your hand luggage rather than your checked luggage.
Are there mosquitoes in Barbados? ›Mosquitoes in Barbados are most active during the day and evenings and as such, the NHS recommends travellers should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times, so travelling with your mosquito protection will be essential.
What Cannot pass through customs? ›Examples of restricted items include firearms, certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, animal by products, and some animals.
Can you take food in your suitcase to Barbados? ›It really depends where you go to shop to find things expensive. You won't have a problem bringing tea, coffee, Cereals and biscuits but you can forget bringing any kind of meat or poultry cos you need to get a licence to bring anything in like that.
Can I take alcohol in my suitcase to Barbados? ›Customs Regulations
Personal Effects: 1 litre of potable spirits or wine. All articles in excess of this exemption are subject to the relevant duty and tax.
Does WhatsApp work in Barbados? ›
Frequently Asked Questions about the Barbados eSIM
The Barbados eSIM only allows you to use mobile data. It does not include a local phone number for mobile calls or messages. You can still make calls using apps like WhatsApp.
Can the iPhone be used in Barbados? Yes, you can connect the iPhone to a Barbadian power outlet.
Does Barbados have free WiFi? ›Most Barbados hotels, apartments and guesthouses provide free WiFi access for their guests. Some also offer computers with internet access for those travelling without their laptop, tablet or phone. You should also check with your local carrier about roaming options and cost.
Is the BIMSafe App necessary? ›It is required for use by all travellers from High- and Medium-Risk countries and has a number of features to improve your travel experience: Up-to-date quick guide for current travel protocols.
How do I fill in immigration form in Barbados? ›Go to https://travelform.gov.bb/home. Review the information on screen, check the box “Complete New Immigration/Customs Form”, and click “Continue”. Advise that you are entering Barbados by sea. The rest of the form will then appear.
Why is Barbados called BIM? ›The National Cultural Foundation of Barbados says that "Bim" was a word commonly used by slaves, and that it derives from the Igbo term bém from bé mụ́ meaning "my home, kindred, kind"; the Igbo phoneme [e] in the Igbo orthography is very close to /ɪ/.
Where do I get my Barbados travel code? ›At the bottom right of BIMsafe homepage, you have a QR code. That is what you show on arrival. That one code covers all travellers in your party for the purpose of the app.
How do I add a traveler to my ArriveCAN? ›- Step 1: Create an account on ArriveCAN. ...
- Step 2: Start your ArriveCAN form. ...
- Step 3: Add traveller information. ...
- Step 4: Understand and acknowledge travel requirements. ...
- Step 5: Fill out the Entry into Canada travel form. ...
- Step 6: Fill out your quarantine plan questionnaire.
- Free Travel Apps for Mingling with the Culture.
- Google Translate. TripAdvisor. Couchsurfing.
- Free Travel Apps for Saving Money.
- Groupon. Hopper. Uber. ...
- Free Travel Apps for Getting Around.
- Rome2rio. MAPS.ME. TripIt.
- How Can Free Travel Apps Help You?
- Mingling with the Culture. Saving Money. Getting Around.
...
What Is The Best Area To Stay In Barbados? A Complete Guide.
- Southern Coast of Barbados. ...
- Western Coast of Barbados. ...
- Eastern Coast of Barbados. ...
- Northern Coast of Barbados.
What is the coldest month in Barbados? ›
- Hottest Month: August (82 F/ 28 C)2
- Coldest Month: February (79 F / 26 C)
- Wettest Month: October, 7.3 inches.
- Windiest Month: June.
- Most Humid Month: November, 83 percent.
- Best Month for Swimming: September (85 F / 29 C)
| Departure airport | Destination airport | Average flight time |
|---|---|---|
| London Gatwick (LGW) | Bridgetown (BGI) | 8h 45m |
| Birmingham (MHX) | Bridgetown (BGI) | 12h 35m |
| Glasgow (GLA) | Bridgetown (BGI) | 14 hours |
| Newcastle (NCL) | Bridgetown (BGI) | 15 hours |
Visitors from Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, the UK and the USA can stay for a maximum of six months in Barbados without a visa. Other EU nationals can stay for up to three months.
Can I use my visa debit card in Barbados? ›You'll find ATMs (cash machines) linked to the Plus or Cirrus systems, so using your Visa or Mastercard card will be easy. There are plenty of cash machines in Bridgetown, and in larger towns around the island.
Is Barbados a Schengen country? ›Additionally, nationals from the following countries are not required to obtain a Short-Stay C (Schengen) Visa to enter the Schengen member states: Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Grenada, ...
Do you leave a tip in Barbados? ›A service charge of between 10 and 15 percent is typically added to your bill at hotels and restaurants. Once this appears on your bill, any additional tipping is at your discretion and should reflect the quality of service you received. The standard rate of tipping in Barbados is approx. 10%.
Do you have to wear facemasks in Barbados? ›Do I need to wear a face mask in Barbados? Face masks are required in some public spaces.
What documents do I need to travel to the Caribbean? ›For visiting the Caribbean islands, a passport is required and it needs to be valid for travel. You may also require a visa for the Caribbean islands, depending upon the country of issue of your passport. You must check to be sure “do I need a visa” to enter my destination country.
Is travel insurance required for Barbados? ›It's imperative to have Travel Insurance that covers you for medical emergencies when you are in Barbados. Medical treatment in Barbados can easily run into the thousands and might even involve being transferred to a different island for certain medical care – you need to know your insurance will cover the bills.
What documents do I need to travel to Barbados from Jamaica? ›All visitors to Barbados must have a passport and valid return ticket to be allowed entry here. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay here. Most countries do not require a visa to visit Barbados, so please check here to see if one is required of your country.
Do you need travel insurance to travel to Barbados? ›
Having travel insurance that covers you for medical emergencies when you're in Barbados is important. Medical assistance abroad can be expensive.
Can you use US dollars in the Caribbean? ›But most widely accepted throughout the Caribbean is the U.S. dollar. It is the legal currency of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, and will be recognized just about anywhere you go.
Which Caribbean islands do not require visa? ›You can travel to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St Eustatius and St Maarten) without a visa if any of the following applies to you.
Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Caribbean? ›US citizens do not need a visa to enter the Caribbean, Canada, or Mexico.
What happens if I go abroad with no travel insurance? ›If you don't have travel insurance you will have to pay out of your own pocket to deal with a problem while you're away. Or you may lose money if you have to cancel a trip and can't get your money back.
How much cash can you take to Barbados? ›Currency restrictions
The import of local currency is unlimited but amounts of over BDS$10,000 must be declared on arrival. The export of local currency is prohibited.
Visas. Visitors from Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, the UK and the USA can stay for a maximum of six months in Barbados without a visa. Other EU nationals can stay for up to three months.
Do you get a stamp in your passport for Barbados? ›On arrival your passport will be stamped with a visitor's stamp stipulating how long you are allowed to stay. Generally this is a minimum of 28 days but varies depending on a number of factors including your country of origin (Barbados has arrangements with various countries concerning length of stay their citizens).
Do you have to pay to leave Barbados? ›Departure Tax:
Departure Tax of BDS $55 (US $ 27.50) applies for all passengers over 2 years old leaving Barbados.
Mosquitoes are resident nuisances on the island of Barbados. Of particular threat to the island is the Aedes aegypti mosquito which is a carrier of dengue and yellow fever.