Destination Data Page - Barbados

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General destination data

Destination formal name:
Barbados
Destination short name:
Barbados
GENC 3 Code:
BRB
GENC 2 Code:
BB
Hero destination description:

Review the latest State Department Travel Advisory about Barbados. You can plan for safe travel by following the entry and exit requirements, reviewing local laws, and other travel guidance from the U.S. embassy or consulate.

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Embassy news feed path:
https://bb.usembassy.gov/category/alert/feed/
U.S. destination relations name:
Barbados
U.S. destination relations URL:
https://www.state.gov/countries-areas/barbados/
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About this destination:

Barbados is located in North America in the Northern and Western Hemispheres. It has maritime borders within the Atlantic Ocean. As an island, it shares no land borders with any country. 

Barbados is 1 hour ahead of Washington, D.C. during Eastern Standard Time.

Travel requirements

Tourist visa requirements:
  • No visa is required for visits of 6 months or less.
Vaccinations:
  • No vaccinations are required.
Valid passport requirements:
  • Your passport must be valid at the time of entry.
  • 1 blank page available per entry.
Currency on entry and exit:
  • Entry maximum: None.
  • Exit maximum: None.

U.S. Embassy Information

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  • You must show proof of future plans to leave Barbados. This applies whether you arrive by airplane or by private boat.
  • Carry a passport when traveling to Barbados, even though cruises may allow other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant documents.
  • It is illegal, even for children, to wear camouflage clothing or carry items made with camouflage material.
  • Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior and clear permission from the Barbados government
Embassy contact path:
/content/dam/tsg_aem/content-fragments/embassy-and-consulates/bridgetown-(bgn)
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Map button link:
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Travel guidance for Barbados

Explore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad.

Date issued: July 23, 2026

Select a topic

Entry, exit, and visa requirements 

Helpful resources  

Traveling with children

Always bring a copy of each child’s birth certificate or other evidence of your legal relationship to each child. 

HIV and AIDS restrictions

  • The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Barbados.  

Currency

  • The Barbadian Dollar (BD) is the official currency of Barbados.
  • U.S. dollar is widely accepted as currency across the island. 
  • Credit cards are widely used across Barbados.
  • Barbados has ATMs that accept U.S.-issued bankcards. ATMs may charge high fees

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

  • Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
  • Places of worship
  • Schools 
  • Parks
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Crime

While U.S. citizens may not be specifically targeted for crime in Barbados, crimes of opportunity such as petty larceny, burglary, and automobile break-ins occur. 

Violent crime occasionally occurs. It includes murder, sexual assault, robbery, shootings, and drug related crimes. As you would in any major city, take these personal security precautions while traveling:

  • Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, on beaches, unsecured in hotel rooms, or in rental homes.
  • Avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches, and in remote or poorly lit locations.
  • Go out in groups or with a companion. Limit nighttime activities to established safe and trusted venues.
  • Stick to well-lit and well-traveled routes.
  • Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
  • Use added caution when attending crowded events, such as Crop Over, Kadooment celebrations, music festivals, etc.
  • Do not leave drinks unattended in public venues. This increases the risk that someone may use drugs to facilitate a crime against you.
  • Prostitution and drug use, including marijuana, is illegal. Do not engage in illegal activity.
  • For boaters: Be wary of unfamiliar people or crafts approaching your boat, whether at anchor or at sea.

Scams

  • Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
  • If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Victims of crime

Exercise extra vigilance at night on party cruises and in the downtown area.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 211.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

  • Replace a stolen or lost passport.
  • Help you find medical care.  
  • Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
  • Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
  • Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
  • Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
  • Help you find accommodation and options to travel home

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

  • U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance at 246-227-4000. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

  • Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
  • Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
  • Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
  • Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
  • Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. 

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

  • Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
  • Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
  • Staff may not be trained or certified. 
  • If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
  • First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
  • U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
  • Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel 

Water activities can be dangerous. Before you swim or participate in any water activity:

  • Know your limits. Assess your physical abilities before getting in the water.
  • Never go alone. Avoid remote beaches and do not swim far out to sea by yourself.
  • Do not drink and swim. If you have been drinking, stay out of water above your waist.
  • Watch for boat and jet ski traffic. Always be aware of watercraft in the area.
  • Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

  • U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
  • If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 
  • Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
  • You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
  • Before you start a business or a profession in Barbados seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
  • Do not enter Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior and clear permission from the Barbados government. Please contact the Embassy of Barbados with questions regarding travel with firearms.
  • Camouflage clothing is illegal in Barbados. Like in some Eastern Caribbean destinations, it is only allowed for military personnel. Customs officials may take camouflage items if found in luggage.

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

  • They may be illegal according to local laws.  
  • Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
  • You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same‑sex sexual relations between adults are legal in Barbados. There are no specific laws banning gay and lesbian services or events.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Barbados prohibits discrimination against people disabilities in employment but it does not extend to other public services. The law is enforced. 

  • The Town and Country Planning Department set provisions for all public buildings to include accessibility infrastructure. As a result, many new buildings have ramps, reserved parking, and special sanitary facilities.
  • Expect accessibility to be limited in access to most buildings, pedestrian paths, and transportation. Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections. 
  • Pedestrian crossings are also very infrequent and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations. 
  • Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Women travelers  

Human rights

  • Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

Emergency phone numbers

  • Dial 511 for ambulance emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services

  • Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may differ from U.S. standards. 
  • Ambulances are prohibited from applying life saving techniques during transport.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. 

  • The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
  • U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
  • Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
  • Medical care is not free in Barbados. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
  • Credit card payment is not always available.
  • Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
  • Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
  • We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical 

If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available throughout Barbados. 

  • Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
  • Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
  • Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. 

  • Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 
  • Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Barbados. 
  • We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
  • Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Barbados. 

Common diseases

The following diseases are present in Barbados:

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

  • Check with the Government of Barbados to ensure the medication is legal in Barbados. 
  • Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
  • Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Barbados to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

  • Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Barbados.  

Water quality and food safety 

  • Tap water is safe to drink and use in cooking. 
  • While generally good, some residents note that tap water quality can vary, with potential for mineral taste or chlorine smells, particularly in certain areas.
  • Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
  • Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
  • Food standards in restaurants, hotels, and at local vendors are generally high.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

Transportation 

Road conditions and safety

Main roads are generally safe and well-marked, though they often have potholes. 

  • Secondary rural roads tend to be narrow, are sometimes inadequately marked, are potholed and rough, and have frequent blind curves. Use caution on these roads, especially at night. 
  • Slow down if you see a stopped vehicle, whether traveling in the same or the opposite direction. This could mean that pedestrians are crossing. 
  • Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning. 
  • Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking.

Traffic laws  

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. driver’s license and a temporary Barbados visitors driving permit (approximately BBD $10) to drive in Barbados.

  • Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. 
  • Barbados traffic law requires that vehicles involved in an accident remain unmoved until the police arrive.

Taxis and ride-shares

  • Registered taxis are generally safe to use.
  • Traditional ride-share apps are not widely available or used in Barbados.

Public and commercial transportation 

Large public buses are generally safe. 

Private vans and small buses are often crowded and tend to travel at excessive speeds. 

Aviation safety oversight 

  • The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Barbados’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Barbados should check the following:  

The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of Barbados. Mariners and passengers in Barbados ports should be careful and use stronger security measures. 

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Hurricanes

Hurricane season in Barbados is from June to November.  

  • Peak activity is usually from August to October. 
  • Barbados lies in the Atlantic hurricane belt and can be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season. 
  •  While the island's eastern location means it experiences fewer direct hits than some Caribbean islands, hurricanes can still bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and storm surge.
Flooding
  • Flooding can happen during the rainy season from June to November.  
  • Heavy rainfall associated with tropical weather systems can cause flash flooding and localized flooding. 
  • This is common in low-lying areas or areas with poor drainage.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

Embassies and consulates

U.S. Embassy Bridgetown

Wildey Business Park
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.

Main telephone:

+246 227-4000

Emergency after-hours:

+246 227-4000

Email:

[email protected]

Fax:

+246-431-0179

Website: https://bb.usembassy.gov/

Online Navigator: U.S. Citizens Services Assistant