Barbados

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Barbados, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Barbados

Capital

Bridgetown

Main Cities

Bridgetown, Speightstown, Oistins, Holetown

Local Languages

English (official), Bajan Creole

Currency

Barbadian Dollar (BBD)

Climate

Tropical

General Visa Requirements:

Many nationalities, including UK, EU, US, Canada, and Australia passport holders, may enter visa-free for short stays, typically for up to 90 days, although some nationalities may be granted longer stays on arrival. The permitted stay is confirmed by Immigration on entry and stamped in the passport. Work activities are not permitted on visitor status without approval. Stays involving paid work, extended filming, or long stays generally require work authorisation and/or immigration approval.

Required Documents:

Valid passport with the required minimum validity
Completed application forms, where applicable
Proof of accommodation
Proof of onward or return travel
Proof of sufficient financial means
Production support letter or contract for work permissions
Proof of fee payment
Travel medical insurance, recommended

Visa Application Process:

Check your visa requirements via Barbados Immigration or your home country’s Barbados consulate. Applications may be submitted online or through a diplomatic mission. For production-related immigration support, working with a local fixer is recommended.

Processing Time:

Visitor entry is granted on arrival. Work permit processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the role and completeness of the application.

Cost:

Visa-free entry applies for many nationalities. Work permit fees vary by role, duration, and nationality.

Accreditation Requirements:

Foreign cast and crew generally require work permits to undertake paid filming activities in Barbados. Short-term productions often apply for short-term work permits or collective production-based approvals. Applications are normally submitted with the support of a local Barbadian production partner or fixer. Requirements depend on the role, duration, and remuneration involved.

Required Documents:

Production company letter detailing project purpose, duration, and scope.
Full crew list with names, roles, nationalities, and equipment details.
Proof of liability insurance for crew and equipment.
Valid passport copies for all crew members.
Application for short-term work permits when required.

Processing Time:

General film-related accreditation is often described as quick, but more complex productions should allow several weeks.

Cost:

Work permit and accreditation fees are not broadly published, and productions often rely on local service providers to facilitate the process.

Issuing Organization:

The Barbados Film & Television Association (BFTA) works alongside relevant government departments to facilitate filming in Barbados.

Required Documents:

Production title and synopsis
Producer and director details
Proposed filming dates and locations
Cast and crew list
Equipment list
Insurance details
Local production partner or fixer details

Processing Time:

Timelines depend on the locations involved and the level of public authority coordination required. Public spaces, roads, beaches, or filming requiring police coordination need advance notice.

Cost:

Permit fees vary depending on the scope of the production, locations used, and support services required.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Permissions, fees, and timelines for private locations are negotiated directly with private property owners.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Costs vary depending on the property, duration, and production requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Drones are regulated by the Barbados Civil Aviation Department (BCAD). Prior authorisation is required for all commercial drone operations. Additional restrictions apply near airports, urban areas, people, beaches, and other sensitive locations.

Drone Importation Regulations:

No specific import permit is typically required, but drones must be declared on arrival. Customs may request supporting documentation.

Permit Issuance:

The Barbados Civil Aviation Department (BCAD) is the relevant authority for drone operations.

Website: https://www.barbadoscivilaviation.com/

Timing:

Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Productions should generally allow 10 to 20 working days for processing.

Cost:

Fees depend on the scope of the operation and the airspace involved.

Carnet Status:

Barbados accepts ATA Carnets. Temporary import of professional filming equipment can be handled through an ATA Carnet.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet for temporary import
Supporting shipment documentation, where required
Customs documentation for larger shipments, where applicable

Issuing Organization:

Equipment is cleared through Customs at entry and exit points. A local customs broker may be recommended for larger shipments.

Timing:

Clearance is handled on arrival, with timing depending on shipment size and customs workload.

Cost:

Carnet issuance fees apply in the country of origin. Local handling fees may also apply.

General Overview:

Barbados is generally considered safe and production-friendly. Standard precautions are recommended, particularly in busy urban areas and tourist zones.

Security Requirements:

Apply standard urban safety precautions
Use additional care in busy urban areas
Use additional care in tourist zones

Rebates/Incentives:

Barbados does not currently operate a formal cash rebate scheme comparable to some other jurisdictions. However, productions may be able to access duty-free concessions and tax relief on approved imports and services.

Available Support