Warning About Fake Immigration Website
In mid‑March, Barbados authorities issued a clear alert regarding a fraudulent website — barbadostravelform.org — which falsely claimed to process immigration and customs forms for a fee of US $39. According to the Ministry in the Finance and Economic Affairs, Ryan Straughn, this site is not affiliated with any government office. He emphasized that official travel forms are free and hosted exclusively at travelform.gov.bb. Submissions via the fake site do not reach Barbados authorities, nor do any fees contribute to the treasury (reddit.com, nationnews.com).
Bottom line: Use only the official Barbados travel form and ignore any third-party sites requesting payment.
2. Updated Entry Procedures & Fees
- Online Immigration & Customs Form: Mandatory online completion within 72 hours before arrival remains in place, available free-of-charge. However, airport kiosks are now a convenient backup in case of glitches .
- No COVID Restrictions: Since late 2022, all pandemic-era entry requirements—including vaccination proofs and testing—have been entirely removed .
- Departure Tax Structure: Governed by GOV.UK, passengers aged 2+ pay BBD $55, with an additional US $70 for international flights or US $20 for intra‑Caribbean itineraries (gov.uk).
3. New 2025 Travel Policies (Budget‑Driven Changes)
Barbados introduced several notable changes starting July 1, 2025, as part of its 2025 Budget:
- Visitor Driving Permits: The long-standing permit system will be abolished, replaced by a flat BBD $10 daily car rental fee (soccerforall24.com). Reddit users raised concerns about soaring rental costs:
“That’s a pretty large tax increase on visitors. … Imagine how pissed off a customer will be, arriving in Barbados, only to find out the final price has gone up?” (reddit.com)
- Airport Service Charge: Aimed at boosting regional tourism, the charge for CARICOM travelers drops from US $35 to US $20, effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 (soccerforall24.com).
- Environmental Commitment: The revenue from these changes supports tourism infrastructure and sustainability efforts—part of a broader pivot toward eco-conscious tourism .
4. Travel Advisories & Safety Alerts
- US Level 1 Advisory: The U.S. Department of State continues to rate Barbados as Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions, noting no significant risks (travel.state.gov).
- UK Foreign Office: Issued a warning in May 2025 focusing on deceptive coastal currents—especially east‑coast beaches—and advising caution around water sports and unsupervised beaches (travelandtourworld.com).
- Crime & Safety: While violent crime remains rare, tourists are advised to stay cautious—especially at night, avoid flashy valuables, use licensed taxis, and remain alert around ATMs .
Reddit voices echoed that Barbados remains very safe:“Barbados is safe… We walked around at night… zero issues, zero concerns.” (reddit.com)
5. Encouraging Tourist Growth & GCC Market Surge
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) continues aggressive promotion:
- The “Say Hello to Barbados” campaign (May–Oct 2025) offers up to 65% discounts on accommodations, dining, and attractions (nitravelnews.com).
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The island recorded a stunning 31% surge in arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 2024, led by growth from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman (tourism.gov.bb). BTMI CEO Andrea Franklin and Director Kyle Gittens attributed this to targeted marketing in those markets and the appeal of authentic, luxury Caribbean escapes.
Final Takeaways for Travellers
- Use Only Official Immigration Forms: Avoid fraud; the Barbados travel form is always free.
- Plan for New Fees Starting July 2025: Budget for BBD $10 daily car fees, but enjoy reduced airport charges if traveling from CARICOM countries.
- Be Water‑Aware: Currents can be deceptive—swim with caution, watch for flags, and use lifeguard‑protected beaches.
- Overall Safety: Barbados remains a welcoming and safe destination—exercise common‑sense precautions.
- Explore Promotions: The “Say Hello” campaign offers excellent deals through October, ideal for planning a shoulder‑season visit.
