Dominica Joins Barbados, St. Vincent and Belize in Launch of Full Free Movement
On Wednesday, October 1st, Dominica will officially join Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Belize in implementing full free movement for their nationals.
The initiative grants citizens of the four participating states the right to move freely, reside, work and remain indefinitely in each other’s countries without the need for a residency or work permit. In addition, nationals will have access to public primary and secondary education, as well as emergency and primary health care services.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit describes the move as a “win-win” for the region and assured citizens that security and cooperation mechanisms will remain strong.
“Free movement allows us to fill gaps in critical areas, while giving our own citizens greater access to opportunities across the region. It is a win-win for all.
“I know there may be concerns about security or about the impact on jobs. Let me assure you that our systems of cooperation, vetting and regional security will remain strong. We are not lowering our guard. What we are doing is removing unnecessary barriers that have, for too long, held back our collective progress,” he said
The Prime Minister also expressed hope that other CARICOM Member States will soon follow.
“This is a decisive step forward on a matter that has been on the regional agenda for decades. I am hopeful that other CARICOM Member States will soon join us in this historic step, so that we can realize the full promise of a true Caribbean Community,” he stated.
He encouraged Dominican citizens to embrace the change and explore the opportunities it can bring for families and businesses alike.
