Four CARICOM States to Launch Full Free Movement by October

In a significant milestone for Caribbean regional integration, four CARICOM member statesBarbados, Belize, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica have confirmed they will implement full free movement of CARICOM nationals by October 1, 2025.

The announcement came from Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, current Chairman of CARICOM, during the closing press briefing of the 49th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Conference of Heads of Government, held in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

“We agreed that the pace and scope of implementation was just too slow, and we will do everything in our power to speed up implementation,” Holness stated, emphasizing the regional leaders’ renewed commitment to deeper collaboration under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

What Is Free Movement?

Free movement within CARICOM refers to the unrestricted right of CARICOM nationals to live, work, and travel within participating member states without the need for work permits or lengthy immigration processes. It is a key feature of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), the regional initiative aimed at creating a single economic space that allows for the seamless movement of goods, services, people, and capital.

Under full free movement, eligible CARICOM nationals can:

• Reside and seek employment in another participating member state
• Carry out entrepreneurial or self-employed activity
• Move with their dependents
• Access certain social services under agreed frameworks

This model mirrors similar principles found in larger regional unions like the European Union, aiming to enhance economic growth, job opportunities, and regional unity.

A Step Toward Deeper Integration

The Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation which supports advanced integration measures has already been signed by all CARICOM member states. However, implementation has been uneven and slow. The commitment by Barbados, Belize, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica to roll out full free movement by October signals a shift in momentum.

Once implemented, nationals from any CARICOM member state will be able to move to these four countries with significantly reduced bureaucratic barriers promoting greater mobility, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation.

What This Means for Caribbean Nationals

For students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the Caribbean, the ability to freely relocate, seek jobs, or start businesses in these countries opens up exciting new possibilities. It could also help address labour shortages, foster innovation, and deepen the sense of Caribbean identity and unity.

More CARICOM countries are expected to follow suit as regional leaders push to fast-track the integration process. With this renewed energy, the dream of a more connected, mobile, and empowered Caribbean community is becoming a tangible reality.