By Belize Live News Staff: Belize has officially joined three other Caricom nations in advancing regional integration through the full free movement of nationals under the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). Alongside Barbados, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize has implemented this key aspect of full movement ahead of several other member states that continue to lag behind.
Tricia Gideon, CSME Focal Point at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, explained that as of September 30th, each participating state has in place a skills regime, including Belize, governed by law. This regime differs from the traditional work permit system and allows qualified Caricom nationals to move and work freely under 13 approved categories. These include individuals with degrees at the associate level or higher, as well as media workers, teachers, nurses, artisans, agriculture workers, security personnel, domestic workers with a Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CBQ), and artists.
According to Gideon, Caricom nationals who possess a skills certificate issued in their member state may move without restrictions once they hold a Caricom passport. “This regime of full free movement is saying we are done with those categories in regards to Dominica, Barbados, and St. Vincent—anybody from these countries, once they have their Caricom passport, can move,” Gideon noted.
With this step, Belize joins the front line of Caricom nations forging ahead in regional cooperation and economic opportunity.
