Applying for a job in Barbados requires a certain amount of paperwork. In order to apply for a work permit you will need a form C1, available from the website of the Barbados embassy. If the position you have applied for is to last longer than six months – much of the work on the island is seasonal – you will need form C3 which has to be provided by the prospective employee with the appropriate information on form C2. With the exception of some specific positions foreigners will not be employed where there is a Barbadian who is qualified to do the job.

The C1 form must contain all the usual information about the prospective employee such as their age and work history, as well as where they intend to live. They must provide details on the position they have applied for and also give information on any specific equipment that they will require to do the job. As some expats will be travelling with a family it will also be necessary to provide their details. Copies of birth and marriage certificates will be required and must all be provided in English. A medical certificate must also be supplied to certify that the candidate has good general health.

Working conditions are good and there is a strong tradition of consultation between the employer and the trade unions. There is little or no child labour and the current rate of unemployment is 10%. The minimum wage is BD$5 per hour although most workers earn above this. Wage levels are relatively high and there are regulated employment conditions.

Some of the skills that are currently in demand include accountancy and police officers and working in these industries may make it easier to find employment. Casual work is usually not an option for an expat as most bar, hotel and agricultural jobs are given to locals.

The language in Barbados is English and is the only language spoken so is necessary for all employees. Workers enjoy 11 days of public holiday each year in Barbados.

Maternity leave is 12 weeks at 100% pay but at present there is no paid paternity leave. The current retirement age is 65.5 as this is the earliest you are able to receive a pension, but this age is due to rise to 67 by January 1st 2018. Only permanent citizens of the country are able to claim unemployment benefit from the social security system.