As many Montrealers are continuing to ask themselves what work will look like in the coming months, if not year, Barbados offers a pretty tempting solution. On July 19, the small island nation has officially opened its 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp, allowing those who will be working remotely to do so from the Caribbean paradise. "The Barbados Welcome Stamp program is a unique opportunity to not only vacation on our beautiful Caribbean island for an extended period, but for visitors to truly call Barbados home. The beautiful beaches certainly draw you in, but it is the warmth of the Bajan people that will make you want to stay long term," Peter Mayers, Director, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. Canada told MTL Blog. Editor's Choice: These 5 Stores Are Closing Locations In Quebec This Year "For those whose work is location-independent, this is a truly one-of-a-kind chance to make idyllic beaches your 'work from home' backdrop," they continued. I mean, who wouldn't living and working in such a picturesque place that offers a backdrop that we've all been dreaming of for months? Talk about being out-of-office. Rich in history and pride, the Bajan people are some of the friendliest and most inviting people you will ever meet and they're so incredibly proud to welcome you to their home. Between the sea and the island, there's always something magical to look at and always something more to discover. View this post on Instagram Applications are now open for the 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp Visa! The 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp Visa is live and interested persons can now apply at https://www.barbadoswelcomestamp.bb/ for the opportunity to live and work remotely in paradise! #LoveBarbados #VisitBarbados A post shared by Visit Barbados (@visitbarbados) on Jul 20, 2020 at 6:11am PDT Barbados is also the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, with some of the most exquisite food and creations. Plus, it's the birthplace of rum. So yeah, they take it pretty seriously. And if the smell and tastes of the island aren't enough, you'll hear the beat of the music through the air that still remains the heartbeat of the island. Seriously, you'll find a place like this only in Barbados. Plus, it's the same time zone as Montreal, making scheduling Zoom meetings even easier. There are currently two flights a week from Toronto Pearson Airport, which will be expanded to three flights on August 15. To make it easier to make this new dream home a reality, the country has made the visa process much simpler. View this post on Instagram Cheers to the weekend 🥃 Where on island will you be going for that first glass of your favourite Bajan rum punch when you return to Barbados? #LoveBarbados 📸: @prjenadventures A post shared by Visit Barbados (@visitbarbados) on Jun 27, 2020 at 11:45am PDT Along with the application, you'll need to provide the following documents: - Two passport size photographs - Bio data page of passport - Birth certificate (self/spouse/children) - Proof of relationship to dependents - Entry visa (where applicable) - Upon approval, the following non-refundable fees are applicable: Individual – Fee of $2,000.00 USD Family Bundle – Fee of $3,000.00 USD But, of course, the one thing on everyone's mind is the virus. Barbados has actually been praised world-wide for the way that they have handled the pandemic. View this post on Instagram Dreaming of Barbados 💙 What about our island are you looking forward to the most? #LoveBarbados #BarbadosADreamAway 📸: @sweetmelanin2x A post shared by Visit Barbados (@visitbarbados) on Jul 19, 2020 at 12:08pm PDT For a population of more than 280,000 people, Barbados has had just over 100 cases and only seven deaths. You'll have to show documentation of a negative COVID-19 PCR test and an Embarkation/Disembarkation card, with questions in reference to the symptoms. Welcome to your new home! NOW WATCH Here’s What Going To A Movie Theatre Is Like In Montreal Right Now
