Guyanese, Barbadians to travel passport-free from July 2026
May 26 2026
Citizens of Barbados and Guyana will soon be able to travel between the two countries using only their national identification cards, following a landmark bilateral agreement set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
The announcement was made jointly by both governments ahead of the nations’ upcoming 60th Independence anniversaries, with officials describing the move as another major push toward deeper Caribbean integration and stronger people-to-people connections within the CARICOM region.
Under the new arrangement, eligible citizens with valid national ID cards will no longer require passports to travel between Guyana and Barbados. The initiative was approved after both Cabinets passed the necessary orders following consultations with regional stakeholders, including CARICOM IMPACS.
Authorities believe the agreement will make regional travel more affordable and accessible while boosting tourism, trade, investment, cultural exchange, and family connections between the two countries.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley described the initiative as a practical example of Caribbean integration directly benefiting ordinary citizens.
“This initiative represents another significant step forward in regional cooperation, south-south collaboration, and people-centred governance,” Mottley said.
“As our two nations mark 60 years of Independence, it is fitting that we take this step together. This is the kind of practical integration that Caribbean people can feel in their daily lives.”
Meanwhile, Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali said the agreement reflects the close relationship shared between the two countries and their collective vision for a more united Caribbean region.
“As Guyana and Barbados celebrate 60 years of Independence, this initiative symbolises not only the enduring friendship between our nations, but also our shared vision for a more connected, accessible, and united Caribbean community,” President Ali stated.
Both governments said further details regarding eligibility requirements and implementation procedures will be released ahead of the July 1 rollout.
