Barbados is accepting applications for its new Welcome Stamp program, which gives people the chance to relocate to the island and work from there remotely for a year.
Launched in July, the special visa provides remote workers with an opportunity to transport their home office to live like a Bajan for up to a year.
"Covid-19 has changed the global business landscape as a larger number of people continue to work from home," said prime minister Mia Mottley. "With this new visa, we can provide workers with an opportunity to spend the next 12 months working remotely from paradise, here in Barbados."
Part of the challenge relates to short-term travel. "Rather than coming for the usual week or three weeks or a month, why not plan out your business?," Mottley said. "We have a mechanism that allows people who want to take advantage of being in a different part of the world, of the sun, sea and sand and a stable society, one that functions well.
"Barbados is a perfect place for you to come."
With a wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury, a warm climate, beaches and many activities, "this is an ideal backdrop for a more sustainable work-life balance that many are craving for themselves and their families," she said.
Others have recently advocated the use of long-term visas to attract housebound workers and family that would also help make up some of the revenue lost to governments and locals during the Covid-era tourism downturn.
Barbados has simplified the visa application process to ensure a stress-free experience for 12-month Welcome Stamp applicants, according to Mottley.
Visa applications must be submitted electronically at www.Barbadoswelcomestamp.bb. Upon approval, nonrefundable fees are $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a family. The visa is valid for one year. Participants can reapply for renewal, and applicants will not be liable for Barbados income tax.
"We can easily accommodate visitors working remotely from on island," said Sunil Chatrani, chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., pointing out that the island has fast internet and mobile services and a range of flexible office locations.
"Our country offers excellent health care and a high education standard, which we know is critical for those who want to bring their families to the island for a 12-month period," Chatrani said.
To clear immigration upon arrival in Barbados, all travelers must present proof of a negative Covid test and an Embarkation/Disembarkation card, which covers personal health questions relating to Covid symptoms.
"The sunshine is powerful. The seawater is powerful. They're both therapeutic in ways that are hard to explain," Mottley said. "Why not share it?"